Scott’s vote destructive

Because of an outrageous notion that, somehow, Sharia law would infiltrate our shores, the vote by Idaho state Rep. Heather Scott against a bill that would collect child support for Idaho children was unconscionable.

As John Reuter points out in his April 15 Inlander column, the law makes it possible for America’s laws to be enforced on its citizens overseas, and not on Americans by other nations. Also, it is my contention that no treaty passed by Congress would institute religious Sharia law, since it would be unconstitutional.

I have no children of my own, but having taught at one of Idaho’s universities for 34 years, I saw hope arise from the young people in my classes.

The extreme right wing in this country has infected our body politic with fear, paranoia, prejudice and hatred of government. These are not the qualities needed to make healthy, enlightened and reasoned decisions.

What this cruel and thoughtless vote did was to put a large number of Idaho children at risk, and also put the hope for our country at risk. With her destructive vote, Scott has not earned our public trust, and should not earn anyone’s vote in the next election.

Philip Deutchman

Sandpoint