For immediate release: September 18, 2012.
Annie Kuster on Mitt Romney’s closed door remarks about 47 percent of Americans
Concord, N.H. – Annie Kuster issued the following statement in response to Mitt Romney’s comments at a closed door fundraiser that nearly half of the American people – 47 percent – view themselves as “victims,” entitled to handouts, and unwilling to take “personal responsibility” for their lives:
“Mitt Romney’s remarks at a closed-door fundraiser further highlight the clear choice in this election. President Obama is working to build an economy that benefits all Americans – regardless of whether they plan to vote for him. Mitt Romney believes his job is “not to worry” about 47 percent of Americans. It’s a troubling and shocking position to take, especially for a man running for President of the United States. As Mitt Romney brazenly writes off half of the people in this country, Congressman Bass needs to make clear whether he supports this view, and explain why he continues to campaign with a presidential candidate who is this out of touch with the American people.”
COULDN’T HAVE SAID IT BETTER ANNIE AND I WHOLEHEARTEDLY AGREE WITH YOU!
After Mr. Romney’s comments about the 47% that he wouldn’t worry about, it seems to me that I am seeing a picture presented of a divide between, not just the two parties, but a view that reflects a picture of two classes. I find this troubling, because the suggestion of classes, broadly, “the haves and the have-nots” suggests that Mr. Romney might view large numbers of our population as fixed in a “have-not” position in life, and having no means by which to change that position. If that is his view, then his vision of progress in this country could be limited for many people simply because there is a presumption that people will not present the will and the “wherewithall” to improve their economic position in life. If any of this is true, then his influence will prove to be negative and divisive point of view, which could further depress the millions of Americans who are encountering great financial challenges at this time. Our citizens need to have all the support and encouragement from their leaders in order to
have the will and tenacity to forge ahead and improve their financial conditions and well being. Our country has battled with the issue of class in the past. Our founding fathers addressed it clearly in their constitution, and they were wise enough to believe that there should be opportunity for every person. Defining opportunity as being limited and not accessible for all people in our nation runs contrary to good sense, and is clearly a subject to address. The big question is, which candidates will step up and lend an ear to those who need help getting back on track. I hope you are that candidate Ms. Kuster. If you are, then I will support you.