My representative here in the Salt Lake City area, Blue Dog Jim Matheson, has refused to hold any town hall meetings (in-person, telephonic or otherwise) during the August recess.
Yes, that is rather frustrating. So much so that I went to his local office and vented a few weeks ago.
I just sent him the following letter, short and to the point, via his contact page on his web site. I told him my money is going to helping those here: http://www.actblue.com/...
My money and time will not be going to him as long as he opposes the public option.
Pissing in the wind, but I don't know what else to do. This is the heart of the wingnut Intermountain West.
Dear Rep. Matheson,
We recently moved back to the Salt Lake area after spending three years in Bend, Oregon. I was the precinct chair for my neighborhood, Precinct 25, where President Obama and Senator Merkley were victorious.
I am unwilling to support any representative that will not vote for a public health care option to provide needed competition to private health insurance companies. Here in Utah two companies, BC/BS and Intermountain, hold over 2/3s market share. And we are better off than most when it comes to competition.
I will not support you with funding as long as you continue to oppose the public option. My funds are instead being sent to those listed here: http://www.actblue.com/...
I also will not help in canvassing, get out the vote or any other efforts, as I did in Oregon.
If you reconsider your position and realize that self-employed entrepreneurs like myself, that people with lifelong health issues such as epilepsy like my wife, and tens of millions of others are simply not served by an industry that puts their profits before our health, then I will reconsider where to spend my time and treasure.
Rerspectfully,
XXX XXX
Feel free to send something similar to your Blue Dog if you are unlucky enough to be represented by one.
And send a few bucks to someone here: http://www.actblue.com/...
When we hit a million bucks, our Blue Dogs may take notice.