Arrow-right Camera

Color Scheme

Subscribe now

This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

Party structure failing

The Spokesman-Review

The president was sure right about Americans becoming cynical with the political process and most congressmen in D.C. (forget state government). It’s in the letters like that from Marianne Torres (Jan. 30) who “will not vote Dem again” until there’s one “who ACTS like a Dem,” and in the hardcore Republicans who don’t like that it’s now easier to get support from the party without swearing an oath to vote only for the Republican agenda.

There are serious divisions within each group and it’s getting worse. You’ve heard this before, but is now the time for a new party? Call it the DemReps or RepDems (division, again?). Maybe “The Statesmen” or “GR” for Grass Roots or even the “GDI” for Gosh Darn Independent. How about the “Win-Win” Party made up of all those Republicans, Democrats and any who are truly willing to work for “the common good”?

Is that possible or are special interests too entrenched? In Washington state, you are required to declare a party affiliation (Democrat or Republican) to vote in a primary election and only on that ballot! If I’m an “Independent,” I don’t even have the basic right to vote. Or am I just being cynical? Sorry.

Doug Kaer

Spokane

Letters Policy

The Spokesman-Review invites original letters on local topics of public interest. Your letter must adhere to the following rules:

  • No more than 250 words
  • We reserve the right to reject letters that are not factually correct, racist or are written with malice.
  • We cannot accept more than one letter a month from the same writer.
  • With each letter, include your daytime phone number and street address.
  • The Spokesman-Review retains the nonexclusive right to archive and re-publish any material submitted for publication.

Unfortunately, we don’t have space to publish all letters received, nor are we able to acknowledge their receipt. (Learn more.)

Submit letters using any of the following:

Our online form
Submit your letter here
Mail
Letters to the Editor
The Spokesman-Review
999 W. Riverside Ave.
Spokane, WA 99201
Fax
(509) 459-5098

Read more about how we crafted our Letters to the Editor policy