An Open Letter to Tammy Baldwin

Dear Tammy,

I regret (not really) to inform you that you do not represent me.  You will never represent me.  It's not that you don't want to, it's just that you can't.

You see, the time you spent as a Congresswoman in Wisconsin has left a legacy of values.  These are values that do not, cannot, and will not reflect my own, and this holds true for nearly half of all Wisconsin's families.   Your so-called "win" is actually the absolute disenfranchisement of nearly half of Wisconsin's voting citizens.

• You voted for abortion that uses taxpayer money, even if it means a physician use chemicals to do the deed.  You voted against any provisions that may disclose that babies feel pain when they are murdered in the womb.  You do not value life.
• You voted for gay marriage.  You do not value Wisconsin's families, let alone our nation's families.
• You voted to allow minor children to hide an abortion from their parents and obtain them in another state.  You do not value parental authority, and you do not value children.
• You voted for gun control.  You do not value our Constitutional right to protect ourselves.
• You voted for using government funds (my money/our money) for Planned Parenthood - the largest known national abortion provider.  You do not value our finances.
• You voted for the forced provision of contraception and abortion under the Affordable Health Care Act.  You do not value religious liberty. (see above)

One thing you are -- is consistent.  For that, I commend you.  You make it very clear where you stand, what your values are, and who you represent.  It isn't me.  And it isn't nearly 50% of all of my fellow Wisconsinites or their families.

So when you give speeches that say you are representing me, know that I disagree, vehemently.  In fact, I would go so far as to say it is an outright falsehood.

You said, "I didn't run to make history."  I respectfully disagree.

You stated, "..and I am well aware that I will be the first openly gay member..." (3:45)

You did make history - you said so yourself.  Who you have sex with is your platform, and this you cannot deny no matter how many times you may insist it is not.  (Please don't make me list your GLBTQ involvements.)

You said, "Now, I know that many of the people listening to this speech tonight may not have voted for me. but I want you to know that I will stand up for you, and I ask you to work with me..."

My response to your request is one word - no.

You see, Tammy, I won't compromise what I believe in.  I won't allow someone who consistently takes a stand against those very core issues that built this nation to sing me a victory lullaby with promises that they cannot keep.  You are unable to "stand up for me."  You do not believe what I believe.  It's just not possible.  Your vow to do so is a misrepresentation - and a lie.

But thanks for the mention.

Sincerely,

The Other Half
cc:  Mark Pocan