DEAR EDITOR:

So, as we head into this never-ending political extravaganza, one reflecting Citizens United, and costing millions — possibly close to a billion dollars all told when it’s over — what has the average citizen paid and gotten in return? Well, nothing really, except for intrusive media mindlessness.

But let’s itemize a few of the upsides to this extravaganza, if any. Once again, none to report.

Now how about the downsides to this preposterous spectacle:

1. Nothing going on in D.C. that benefits American citizens, except for the ultra-wealthy 1%.

2. Congress on its perpetual “recess” and / or its never-ending, pointless indictments / subpoenas.

3. A health system that continues to deteriorate rapidly.

4. Pharmaceutical corporations that continue to gouge citizens.

5. Rampant societal inequalities: economic, educational, employment, financial and racial, that further divide our country.

6. Childhood poverty that is an embarrassment compared with any other industrial society.

7. An educational system that continues to deteriorate due to a lack of funding, and likewise, an international embarrassment.

8. A political party (R) that continues or plans to continue infringing on individual rights: e.g., Project 2025.

9. Religious institutions corrupted by the political (R) establishment.

10. Rampant mental health challenges.

11. A bipartisan solution to the Southern Border crisis torpedoed by “45.”

12. A voting system constantly at risk by political gerrymandering / redistricting.

13. An outdated Electoral College equally at risk of corruption, misuse and much-needed reform.

And on and on …

And lest we forget, YSU President pro-tem’s coronation took place recently. And to remind the reader, Bill Johnson and his sidekick “trustee” chair Mike Peterson have yet to meet with university and Mahoning County constituencies to explain the fraudulent appointment and his three-year million dollar contract, one apparently without a “no confidence” clause. See y’all soon on campus.

P.S. Gen Z’ers and Millennials: Don’t forget to vote. Your generation is most at risk!

TERRY B. CROGAN

Boardman