Republicans in past favored inclusion over exclusion which benefitted the country

Editor:

I have long believed that a strong two-party system with both parties presenting platforms that appeal to most voters is essential to our society. A number of people have commented that the Republican Party has become one of exclusion – uninterested in minority issues, fearful of change, favoring the suppression of voting, and worried that a rising tide of immigration will result in endless Democratic Party victories at the local, state and national levels.

It does not have to be this way. Consider the following organizations and actions enacted by a President who believed that the inclusion, not exclusion, of more people in the democratic process was healthy for the country: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Clean Water Act, Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), Consumer Protect Safety Commission, and dramatic increases in Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid benefits. That President was Richard Nixon.

In US history we have had 35 national political parties. The two that have survived generally appealed to wide segments of our society. Those that disappeared narrowed their appeal by catering to an ever smaller group of voters.

Note that the US Census Bureau statistics indicate that by 2060, 50 percent of the total US population will be part of a minority group. I believe both parties should consider the dramatic increase in minority voters an opportunity to broaden their appeal. I also suggest the Republicans take a long look at the Nixon Presidency and consider the opportunities inclusion politics can bring.

Jack Capurso

Ashburn, Va

Albion High School 1960