Rebels, take up your quills

Today is Independence Day, when we remember the revolutionary ideas that gave us our nation.

Excessive taxes and duties were levied by the British Parliament on the American colonists to pay down the debt incurred from the French and Indian War. The British subjects who inhabited the colonies demanded representation. Instead, they got more oppression; thus the revolt.

Citizens of Illinois are stuck with the illusion of representation and the certainty of more taxation. Oh, we have elections, but the party in power gets to draw the lines minimizing any opportunity of real choice.

Voters are also faced with the uphill battle against the insiders who benefit directly from their incestuous Springfield relationships. Blocks of votes are secured via quid pro quo. It’s a closed group that benefits from priority and perks.

Creating economic growth, especially with more attractive alternatives in adjacent states, and being fiscally responsible is hard. Raising taxes and fees is considered so much easier. Our lawmakers in Springfield have accepted no responsibility for years and years of poor choices. They have gotten away with it because the game is rigged and insulates them from the wrath of most constituents.

There’s been a sinking feeling of desperation, but voters in November pinned their hopes on a new governor. He is sticking to his promises, and the status quo is screaming.

Let your lawmakers know how you feel, or your silence will be taken as consent. Lawmakers must not be allowed to forget what happened to the last governor. The must see that their place at the trough is not guaranteed.

Celebrate Independence Day by reminding them that revolution can be achieved with a ballot as well as a musket.

This story was originally published July 3, 2015 at 2:00 PM with the headline "Rebels, take up your quills."