May 22, 2017 2 min read

Congressman Murphy is indeed a “VETERAN” as a Navy Commander in the Reserves, as the author of a veteran mental health care bill and as a veteran advocate of a local military base.

To use “veteran” within the context of an elected official in noted symbolism of “missing” in a milk carton is disingenuous and insulting. To cite 412 Resistance, whose clenched fist logo speaks volumes, and Mondays with Murphy, a progressive, pro-choice advocacy, as examples of a constituency who want to be heard is telling.

We know these two activist groups are not courteous or “just some riled up protestors.” Democracy and free speech are a constitutional right in a civil society in a public forum. Sadly the contemptuous, out of control electorate in organized activist roles have made public discourse an ugly, verbal battleground in what should be a respectful exchange in the arena of ideas.

Pummeled wasn’t the word for your mentioned New Jersey congressman. The scene was a free for all in a disgusting display of public anarchy rather than respect in listening to one another. The issue is civility in the political forum and until it returns, I wouldn’t subject anyone, including Congressman Murphy, to a negative, hostile and non-productive environment.

Ruthann Marraccini Seraly

VENETIA

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