Politics need more parties

We imagine that being a politician must be a frustrating occupation. It seems that every proposal put forth, whether in Congress or City Hall, is battled along political party lines. Ideas get stomped by committees, bastardized through backdoor dealings and eventually made part of some watered-down compromise that solves little or nothing.

It's an unfortunate element of human nature that people and politicians choose to oppose those ideas presented by anyone perceived to be of the "other" camp.

If the people of this country are serious about searching for solutions to social and economic ills, they must broaden their political horizons.

No longer can the Republican and Democratic parties be considered our only choices for government office. Although they are perceived to be diametrically opposed, they are in reality two sides of a very narrow political spectrum.

Viewed as liberal against conservative, wasteful spenders in contrast to military proponents, they are actually the status quo of middle Amercia.

A true variety of political thoughts lies beyond the stagnated two-party system U.S. citizens have inflicted upon themselves.

If voters would support specific candidates and proposals they believe in, rather than general party affliations and platforms, we would obtain a truer democratic mix in our governmental bodies.

No longer would Donald Trump's "Art of the Deal" philosophy pass for an appropriate way for government to conduct its business.

Instead, every idea would still have opposition, but perhaps a majority of minority views could find workable political solutions. Governmental bodies could impliment true, beneficial changes.

Then we could have a real party.