The state of Texas has attempted to secede from the union on more than one occasion. These attempts have failed, but they have been successful in creating a pseudo-state of independence with their state legislature over several decades. It is true that the intent of the constitution is to allow individual states to have their own rights and to write their own laws that apply to the citizens of their state. The particular laws of each state are to have the overriding influence as opposed to federal laws in certain circumstances. It is also clear, however, that federal laws are intended to apply to every individual citizen of the United States, regardless of their residence within any state. So, if each state is to have the right to establish its own laws and governance, what is the purpose of the federal government? Let’s take a look.
The general purpose of the federal government is to provide parameters for the American public in terms of what is allowed and what is not allowed. The overall goal for us is to be able to govern ourselves. We are in the process of learning how to conduct ourselves in a respectable manner. This respect involves respect, not only of ourselves but the respect of others with our words, actions, and behavior. It should be obvious to most of us that we’re not quite there yet. This is why the federal government creates laws and boundaries in order to assure that we do not harm others in some way. We must have a way to clearly understand what is acceptable and what is not. These laws are not an attempt to take away our individual rights, but to protect us from the unsavory behavior and actions of others. Although the constitution makes clear that individual states have the right to establish their own laws and govern their people thereby, they must still comply with the overriding statutes put forth by the federal government. It is true that the above laws can and do change depending on which party currently controls the branches of our government. This is particularly the case within the context of every state legislature. When we consider the laws provided at the federal level, we must understand that these laws are intended to apply to the business and corporate world as well, with the establishment of regulations. Corporations do indeed have the right to freely conduct their business objectives in the pursuit of financial success. This right comes to an end if their practices create harmful or negative effects on the general public. This is why federal regulations are created, to protect the citizens of this country.
It is clear that the overall objective of the Republican Party is deregulation at all levels. Basically, what this means is that every individual and company can do whatever they want. It is becoming clearer to many of us the disastrous results of this deregulation. The state of Texas is now experiencing the effects of such policies. When a company is allowed to do whatever they see fit, they will choose profits over quality service and safety 90% of the time without federal regulation. This recent, unfortunate disaster was created by yet another greedy corporation and, more importantly, the Republican legislature of the state of Texas and their policies of deregulation. Once again, the people in charge have chosen money and power over the safety of their fellow human beings. It is critical that the citizens of Texas honestly recognize what has happened and why. With this recognition, it is appropriate for them to place the blame where it is warranted. Will there be accountability? Will the people of Texas adjust their vote accordingly? Not only have you been seriously inconvenienced, but people have died. The other reality is that the citizens of Texas are going to be billed for the negligence, failures, and greed of a multi-billion-dollar utility company. Is this enough experience to make the correct decision? Unfortunately, probably not right away. The reality of republican legislatures is that they get your vote by framing your entire reality around the need for you to have individual rights, especially gun rights, while their real intent is to provide a way for corporations to have the right to acquire obscene amounts of money at the cost of you. This is a painful realization. Will you continue to allow yourselves to be manipulated by the political leaders you have elected? If you vote for political leaders who support corporate regulation, it does not mean your individual rights are in jeopardy. This needs to be properly understood by every individual citizen of this country.
The people of Texas are experiencing the consequences of human selfishness and corporate greed. I have great compassion for all of you because I understand that we are all experiencing the same suffering. The only way to avoid these tragedies is at the ballot box. Our real power lies in our willingness to create change through action.
All my love and support, stay safe and be well