Letter: Supports Bruch in race

Dear Editor,

A while ago, this paper stopped printing the state news page. We’re told we can find it all on the Internet. While I remain concerned for those without Internet skills and/or access, and the lack of in-depth reporting by our papers, I did some research on our representatives.

Our reps turn up from time to time, and their Web sites and mailers have glowing reports of their work in Madison. Specifics are rarely included. And because our television comes almost entirely from Minnesota, we really are in the dark on their doings in Madison.

Take Republican Kitty Rhoades, for example. She proudly reports she co-authored an autism insurance bill this year.

Sounds great, but I discovered this Republican bill, backed by the insurance companies, would provide just short-term coverage for a small percentage of kids. Further, it was opposed by the Autism Society of Wisconsin, made up of families, professionals and supporters of people with autism.

Ms. Rhoades voted against the version that would have finally addressed this problem by mandating coverage for autistic children. This was the bill supported by the Autism Society and the families.

I’m supporting Sarah Bruch for Assembly for many, many reasons. I know her family, and I am continually moved by their incredible contributions and devotion to family, community, education and faith. That this exceptional young woman, with family of her own, has stepped up to run for office has touched me deeply. I think she has found her calling, and I know will represent us with great energy, integrity, intelligence, courage and passion.

Sarah says she’ll put her votes on her Web site. Score one for us! Here’s a person who believes in open government and genuine accountability to her constituents instead of providing partial truths and spinning that operate to keep us in the dark at home and in the voting booth.

Tags: opinion, hudson, letter, bruch, rhoades, autism