Published Kearney Hub 2/12/18 as “Dems’ response to address Shooking”
By Carolyn R Scheidies
I chose to listen to President Trump’s State of the Union Address a day after delivery and after hearing both positive and negative comments. I came away with a sense of patriotism, pride in America, and hope.
President Trump was measured, sincere and presidential. He spoke quietly and with self-confidence. What came across was a man who loved his country and wanted not to self-aggrandize himself, but to serve the people of his country. In fact, he emphasized government was there to serve its citizens and not the other way around. He kept bringing the focus back to service and the greatness not of government, but of the average American. He gave example after example of the heroism, courage, and greatness of American citizens–many of whom were in the room.
What shocked me was reading and hearing the liberal response. I wondered what speech they heard? I can only imagine they had no intention of listening to what was actually said or the goals put forth, but only to tear down with artificial criticisms that in no way characterized President Trump or his speech.
I was not a fan of Obama, but I do respect the office of the President of the United States of America. The office should be respected and that means giving respectful attention during such an important speech. I expected the members of my party to show respect when Obama spoke. Other countries watch. Other countries make judgments based on what they perceive as strengths and weakness of the president and how others perceive him. How party members act has consequences for American strength worldwide, far beyond the time in that chamber
That’s one reason I found the behavior of the Democrats during the speech absolutely disgraceful. Their behavior didn’t show only disrespect for the president and those who voted for him, but also for the country they swore to serve.
When the president spoke about respecting our flag, they frowned. They scowled when he talked about tax cuts and benefits to the American people. They frowned when he talked about the robust economy and how this economy has caused record high employment–not only for whites but also for Hispanics and African Americans. (How can anyone disagree with having a job and being able to support your family?)
They actually booed when he said about immigration reform, “It is time to begin moving towards a merit-based immigration system — one that admits people who are skilled, who want to work, who will contribute to our society, and who will love and respect our country.” You have to ask yourself, what sort of people do they want to fill our country–those who are shiftless and hate America?
I found their behavior particularly sad as many of the after criticism seem crafted in an old playbook rather than aimed at this particular address. While there are measured and thoughtful criticisms, most are simply filled with thoughtless and unremitting hate.
Whatever the criticisms or drawbacks, this speech was filled with patriotism, faith, practical solutions to problems–if parties work together, security for our families, and an America that can once again soar and lead America and the nations of the world to greatness. I felt uplifted, motivated and proud to be what I am–an American.