GOVERNING RESPONSIBILITY

WRITTEN BY: TIMOTHY A. VALENTINE

Arkansas union members rally in support of Wisconsin union members at the Arkansas state Capitol
Little Rock, Ark., Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2011.
(AP Photo/Danny Johnston)

"On some positions, cowardice asks the question, 'Is it expedient?'

And then expedience comes along and asks the question, 'Is it politic?'
Vanity asks the question, 'Is it popular?'
Conscience asks the question, 'Is it right?'
There comes a time when one must take the position that is neither safe nor
politic nor popular, but he must do it because conscience tells him it is right."

- DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

 
GOVERNING RESPONSIBILITY
WRITTEN BY: TIMOTHY A. VALENTINE

The question I would ask Gov. Scott Walker (R-WI) whether you and your fel-
low Republican legislators and establishment itself these questions in retro-
spective of how you address the various issues of governing.
 
How expedient was your reasons to call for a vote within days of the anti-
union legislation being introduced really due to budget concerns or ideology?
 
Although I disagree, I understand the politics behind the fondness many Re-
publicans have towards dismantling unions and/or their rights as it falls inline
with the party's tendencies to favor states-rights over civil and equal rights.
There is no argument needed, because history reveals that for us.
 
But the question is whether this decision was worth the attention or exposure
to the conservative agenda not only in your state, but others who are making
similar consideration with Republican governors?
 
I agree wholeheartedly that states must balance their budgets, but at what
expense to the people of that state? Should it be balanced at the peril of
benefits to their livelihoods or for the benefit of their livelihoods?
 
Governors are like any other leaders of any body, they are to govern for the
people on behalf of the people and in interest of the body they are represent-
ing. Each state has its challenges, but what have you taken into considera-
tion above and/or beyond this issue with unions that will bring forth a balance
budget?