We must stop the nonsense and focus on the real issues

In response to Tony Norman's July 31 column " 'Birther' Control," I offer a very clear statement in the hope of ending this ongoing distraction: President Barack Obama is a natural-born citizen. Sen. John McCain is, too. I recall a similar campaign years back regarding George W. Bush's National Guard papers, as well as Bill Clinton's deferment.

While some would rather distract the American public, I hope we can get back to reality and focus on what's important, such as creating jobs here in southwest Pennsylvania and making health care patient-centered and affordable.

Yet, on Capitol Hill, self-called "reporters" roam around with handheld cameras engaging in sneak attacks not for the purposes of news reporting, but instead to create misleading videos designed with the sole intent of ginning up political folderol. It's this gotcha style of politics that works against focusing on the work we need to accomplish in Washington. These sideshows won't result in one more job created or help a family facing foreclosure or the loss of health-care coverage.

As demonstrated by the 12,000-plus responses from a recent health-care survey I mailed to homes throughout the 18th District, I know what is important and what is political theater. I've spoken to over a thousand more who came out to my Healthcare Town Hall meetings across the 18th District, where we've discussed how to get affordable, accessible, quality health care without a government takeover. This is of paramount concern, and I will continue to work on real solutions for reform.

 

U.S. REP. TIM MURPHY
Upper St. Clair

 

 

The writer is a Republican representing the 18th Congressional District.