Murphy opponents prefer ridicule over reason
On Thursday, you published the story, “Group expresses discontent with Congressman Murphy at South Hills town hall.” I trust your article is a fair description of the event, since I did not attend. Citizens certainly have a right to disagree with elected officials and make their opinions known. However, have you noticed lately people across the nation are choosing to express themselves in ways that are not productive but actually destructive?
Ranting and chanting has taken over from dialogue and discussion. Activists choose to be disagreeable when disagreeing. One quote in the article said Murphy is “lacking courage and conviction.” By what standard? Opponents prefer ridicule over reason, such as dressing up as “Tim Murphy in drag.” Really? And this accomplished just what exactly?
This is unfortunate, as the result is no one wants to listen even if they by chance have a sound thought. But maybe that is their point. They don’t want to solve a community problem but displace a community representative.
The article said someone will oppose Murphy in the next election. As more of these types of gatherings occur, it becomes obvious that this is less about governing and more about emotions and manipulation. Why would anyone, elected or not, want to put up with this? What type of message does this send to our children? We can do better.
Lucy Shoupp
Venetia