To the Editor

If a President or any other elected government official, subject to our laws, breaks the law or openly violates the Constitution of the United States of America, does it really matter if nothing is done? What good is it to be considered a country of laws, if we do not follow the law? This is not a partisan comment: it is a legal comment. It applies to Democrats, Republicans, and Independents. We are members of certain parties because we support the principles and objectives established by those parties. It is not to say that one or the other is right or wrong. It is to recognize those principles that the majority of voters support through the election process. It is not set up to allow a president to defy the public will by executive order.

I have always thought that the purpose of electing certain officials was because we supported their principles. However, once elected their obligation is to all the people. Is there any question in your mind that a unified country will accomplish more than a divided country? Is there any question that one of the major purposes of an elected official is to unify the country? Yet, division seems to be the purpose of the parties. It will be interesting to see if the Republicans change that philosophy now that they have control of both houses.

Competition has significantly contributed to the advancement of our society. It stimulates our creativeness resulting in advances both politically and technically that have surpassed most all other countries. We live better lives because of it. However, when an official creates a division that causes a significant polarization of the parties, that supports political negativity, and creates a divisive, negative environment, and we all pay the price for that situation.

That leads us to the question of: what obligation does a President have when taking the oath of office? I am always amazed of the foresight of our founding fathers. They had the ability to establish basic human principles that have been significantly applicable throughout the years. These principles are contained in the Constitution and affirmed by those who pledge to uphold them. Then, why do we tolerate those who disregard them? Whether you are Democrat, Republican, or Independent, these principles cannot be disregarded by executive order.

There are those who say that this year’s election turnout was the lowest in history and was the reason for a Republican victory. They say that if more of the voting population had turned out the results would be significantly different, insinuating that the Democrats would have won. My take is theoretically different, in that I believe that the overall Democratic population stayed home because they did not want to have to vote against their party. They, in effect, did vote by staying home.

Adhering to the constitution is the law. If you do not like the law, change it, but do not support those who violate the law for partisan purposes.

Al Roznicki

169 Hanover Road, Newtown                    November 23, 2014