In an op-ed in last week’s New York Times, Paul Krugman describes the “Me Caveman, you be scared” tactics of the Republican party, and how the GOP wants to make anyone who doesn’t agree with them look weak and not able to lead the country. He quoted Minnesota Representative Michele Bachmann saying that Democrats
want Americans to move to the urban core, live in tenements, take light rail to their government jobs.
Dear Rep. Bachmann,
First I’m an Independent and not a Democrat. Second I’m a middle class white woman who lives in the urban core of Chicago. I do not live in a tenement, but in a condo with a great lake view. I do not have a government job. I am self-employed, and I take Chicago’s L and busses all over the city to research and work. I don’t have a car. I don’t need a car. And I don’t want a car.
I think you need to get out of your cookie-cutter suburban neighborhood (and off Capitol Hill) and take a look at what urban cores actually look like.
Sincerely,
Shawna R. B. Atteberry
P. S. Since you haven’t seem to notice: D. C.’s public transit rocks. I loved taking it when I visited earlier this year.
Hattip to Rachel Frey.
Thank you Rachel and Abby. I was impressed with D.C.’s system, and I haven’t been impressed since I lived in Barcelona.
Fabulous. God forbid anyone decide to live their life somewhere other than a suburban cul-de-sac. Seriously!
Public transportation is probably more efficient in DC than anywhere. I love it and frequently use it whilst visiting friends.
Great letter! Kudos to you!
(and thanks for the hat tip!)