Legislators could protect Ohio drivers, but don't
The death of six people at the hands of a trucking company in 2023 is an outrage that should have never been possible. A friend of mine was killed half a dozen years ago in a similar highway happening (not an accident, given the gross negligence of the trucking companies and drivers).
These deaths were caused by a failure to use technologies that are readily available (truck automated warning and stopping systems) and driver management systems (real-time operation reporting and in-cab cameras). All this is compounded by failure to maintain equipment. In the years since my friend's death, there has been plenty of time for Ohio to require such equipment, but no such action has been taken -- not even considered. Lack of care by the Ohio legislature is directly responsible for these six deaths.
During the Ohio legislature's consideration of the most recent gas tax increase several years ago, the legislature moved in the opposite direction, reducing the proposed increase, which was largely based on reducing fatalities. It allowed legislators to publicize their tax-cutting bona fides.
The message to Ohio drivers being plagued by 40-ton trucks: drop dead.
After the Covid pandemic and four years of hard work, sacrifice and early bipartisan cooperation, you will be handed a fantastic stock market; the best anyone has ever seen. Inflation due to Covid has also gone from over 8% down to the current normal, slightly over 2% without a recession -- due to the patience and intelligence of the Federal Reserve leadership.
Unsafe and crumbling infrastructure is also being repaired, while creating thousands of jobs in many sectors including renewable energy. High-tech computer chips will soon be made in the USA, adding even more jobs.
The hope of all Americans is that you continue the progress and use your collective power to create and foster new technologies for the future.
With this head start, measured reform at the border could be more realistically achieved. The United States needs more workers, and immigrants have clearly shown to be some of the hardest working people in our country. This is mostly due to them arriving with nothing but the strong drive to support their families for a better life.
Dismantling and ending programs that are clearly working would do nothing but negatively affect everyone's quality of life.
Our hope is that you will become our "Grinch," with your heart growing three sizes so you realize the true meaning of great leadership and you can be remembered for a good four-year term.
So, we have reelected Donald Trump as president. He is a man who loves to shock people, and I admit I was totally shocked at the insurrection that took place on Jan. 6, 2021. He is a criminal, and after Jan. 6, he can no longer shock me.
I find him immature, insecure, predictable, unstable and really very, very boring. So, I am prepared to spend the next four years bored to tears by his childish antics.