The COVID-19 pandemic has put the pro-life, pro-capitalism Republican leadership in a bit of a bind, after all, many of them intervened and held hearings over taking one woman, Terry Schiavo, off life-support. Now, however, with the economy in deeply depressed, and everyone practicing social isolation for safety, the Republicans have made the decision that life is really that precious, especially when compared to the prospect of so much wealth lost by their donors. And so, discussions around the absolute need to re-open America as soon as possible, have been echoed by Trump, Republican leadership, and right-wing news outlets, all of them ready to sacrifice human lives at the alter of capitalism. In some cases, Republican controlled states like Florida and Georgia have even taken action and re-opened public spaces! Do the American people want to be forced back to work, and to re-open the economy? Do they think the lives of the vulnerable are worth the economic prosperity of the elites?
Requiring Americans to stay in their homes except for essential errands
Support: 80%
Requiring bars and restaurants to close
Support: 76%
Requiring Americans to limit gatherings to 10 people or fewer
Support: 82%
As we so often see here at DSOT, the American people have their hearts in the right place and want what's best for not just themselves, but each other. In spite of all the hand wringing and gnashing of teeth, Americans know that it isn't safe yet to go back to our daily lives, and that the timeline for lifting restrictions needs to be determined by medical expertise, not quarterly earnings! One of the few bright spots amidst the chaos is that Americans are once again realizing how important objective subject matter experts are to a well functioning modern society. You can't spin away a virus with a clever ad campaign or by pretending it's not happening. If we can once again put those values, so exemplified by our medical professions and scientists at the center of our discussions, instead of the nakedly partisan power-politics that has been dominating Washington for years we may be able to bring sanity and real representation back to the halls of power.
Together we must demand a society that opens only when it's truly safe, and in the meantime a government takes care of its people, and helps them adapt to such difficult times. Politicians are especially receptive during election years, and while the odds are stacked against us electorally, we have a chance to change those in power come autumn! Regardless of this November's election results, we will need to put pressure on all our representatives through a broad and enduring movement of people, demanding change. Don’t miss this chance to change our country for the better. Join us every Tuesday, in growing solidarity and power until we take back our democracy from amoral special interests, and greedy politicians: Don't Shop on Tuesdays!
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