Corruption is an American tragedy

Among many tragedies facing the United States and San Luis Obispo today, there is one I feel the most strongly about: corruption. It is something prevalent in nearly every corner of our society. I no longer believe it is acceptable for us to write off this corruption as simply “how it is.”

Through recent research, it is obvious to me that special interests gain control because our government legally allows nearly unlimited campaign financing. Our elected officials from local to federal levels are promising to pass special legislation to the highest bidder, often ignoring the popular opinion.

When a beautiful country that values freedom, justice and democracy allows such activities to be legal, the outcome is a people who no longer believe the system is working for their interests. Instead of being outraged and demanding an end to corruption, we have been turning our backs on the system and not voting at all. If, instead, we come together, we can end corruption by voting for representatives who aren’t for sale and will instead listen to their constituents.

I’m asking you to post my letter to create more exposure to the serious problem of corruption our society is facing right now.

This story was originally published February 23, 2016 at 9:29 AM with the headline "Corruption is an American tragedy."