I receive Congressman Scott Tipton’s electronic newsletters, a good way for him to reach his constituents. These emails have increased as the November elections draw closer.
Recent reports of Tipton’s have dealt with (1) preventing illicit financing of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, (2) why we need to bring the USS Pueblo home, (3) the farm bill (controversial, still not passed) and (4) selling and leasing public lands. What’s missing from the congressman’s political news update – and what I’d appreciate hearing from him about – are (1) how to reduce the influence of big money in politics; (2) why no infrastructure spending bill was proposed, although promised by President Trump; (3) how to prevent more Russian meddling in U.S. elections; and (4) his view on President Trump’s daily assertion that “the press is the enemy of the people.” Does this include The Durango Herald, the Pueblo Chieftain, Montrose Daily Press, Steamboat Pilot and Grand Junction Daily Sentinel?
I doubt such emails on these topics will be forthcoming from Tipton, a low-profile congressman. There are times when having a backbone means you speak up about critical problems that affect the whole country.
Tipton’s opponent this November is Diane Mitsch Bush, a Western Slope former county commissioner and state House representative. Bush has the fortitude to take a stand on difficult issues, can work with all parties and she would be a reassuringly competent replacement for Tipton.
John H. Culver
Durango