Editorial: Unpardonable cowardice
The freedoms of a democracy which we in America enjoy were not won through political cowardice.
Men like Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, John Hancock and Patrick Henry had the courage to speak their minds and to “stand up and be counted” even though profession of their convictions may have resulted in death.
Similarly, the freedom of a democracy cannot be preserved through political cowardice.
Yet 233 members of the House of Representatives have demonstrated political cowardice in refusing to make known their positions on the question of giving servicemen the right to vote.
In a democratic legislative body, the members may vote as they see fit on any issue. But the citizens to whim they are responsible have an equal right to know how each representative votes on every issue.
Democracy falters when those entrusted with carrying out the grave responsibilities of government don’t have the courage to stand up for their convictions.
It is disturbing to record the tactics of the Republicans on this issue.
One of the vital strengths of a democracy is a strong, aggressive, intelligent, constructive minority – a “loyal opposition.”
By secreting their obstructionism behind an artificial parliamentary rule, the Republicans are attesting to the common charge that they have a peculiar talent for doing the wrong thing.