Recent Gazette items about Congressman Richard Neal reflect an underlying problem: his unresponsiveness and apparent indifference to his constituents. When citizens feel unheard, they are less inclined to support an incumbent. Repeated requests for a town hall in South Hadley have been unsuccessful. Signing up to receive Rep. Neal’s email has brought no results. Neal appears in honorary roles, such as parades and dedications, but those aren’t opportunities for discussion of issues.
One excuse given is that Neal’s district is too large for him to meet with all his constituents. Yet Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey manage to hold public meetings across the state. Jim McGovern engages often with his voters. Congress has frequent recesses which allow time for work in home districts.
How can a “representative” represent people with whom he doesn’t converse? How can Neal’s constituents discuss with him the many issues facing our country? Why can’t he make time to speak with us? He seems to have plenty of time to wine and dine big-money donors. Are we not as important? By searching the web, we can find Neal’s voting record and ratings by various groups. But without discussion, it is hard to understand his reasoning and his motivation. It would be helpful if he chose to engage in dialogue with us. In the 2018 primary, Neal’s opponent made a good showing as a political newcomer versus a 30-year incumbent. In 2020, Neal will face new challengers.
Let’s hope he will agree to some public debates with them, not just short televised sessions with no audiences. We need to meet him in person. If he can’t make time for face-to-face interactions, then we need more responsive new blood in Congress.
Beverly J. Weeks
South Hadley