Dear Editor,

Over the course of the past few years, it has become increasingly apparent that the Republican Party and its platform are incompatible with the American people as a whole, and with an America that strives for progress in the 21st century.

Just this past month at the Republican National Convention, Republicans revised their party platform and adopted the most right-wing agenda it has ever had in its history.

While a considerable amount of Americans are calling for greater access to health care, comprehensive immigration reform that provides a pathway toward citizenship, women and LGBT equality, student loan reform and economic relief, the Republican Party on the other hand seems to be going in the complete opposite direction.

On health care, the Republicans have stated that they stand firmly against, and would repeal the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. This in effect, would turn back the clock to a time when children would be kicked off their parents insurance plans, as they become young adults. It would also bring back a time when insurance companies would deny patients with pre-existing conditions, along with a wide range of other issues involving coverage.

The GOP also has distanced itself from immigrants, particularly Latinos, by championing English to become the national language, and supporting policies such as self-deportation and voter suppression laws, and opposing the DREAM Act.

They have, as well, added into their platform their complete opposition to a womans right to choose an abortion, even in cases of rape and incest.

Also, they have reaffirmed their stance on marriage as being between only one man and one woman, while at the same time denying same-sex couples marriage equality and benefits.

Finally, the GOP wants to end federal student loan programs, which college students deeply rely on to receive an education. In its place, the government would channel money to banks so that they could administer private loans to the students. All of this and more would be an enormous step backward for the country, and it would have negative repercussions on many different aspects of our society. America cannot afford such extremism. The American people must do all they can to ensure that the progress that has been made in the recent years will be preserved and enhanced.

Sincerely,

Zachary R. James

Class of 2014