It’s about Obama

The government shutdown is making me wonder whether this a democracy or a grade-school playground. The Affordable Care Act was passed by both houses of Congress. It even withstood a Supreme Court challenge. If, as the Republicans claim, their constituents do not like Obamacare and want it repealed (or defunded), then the Republicans should have the maturity and the courage to remind those backers that, in democracies, the majority rules whether one likes the outcome or not.

I am no fan of Obamacare, but for Republicans to say that they’ll agree to a short, continuing resolution to fund the government in exchange for defunding the Affordable Care Act or that they’ll consider the same quid pro quo when it comes to extending the debt ceiling is nothing short of blackmail.

Republicans have had ample opportunity this year to introduce new health care legislation or even amendments that would address those portions of the law that they want to change. They have done nothing. Why? Because this isn’t about Obamacare; it’s about Obama.

Caroline Taylor

Pittsboro