EEK
A universal word suitable for expressing surprise, dismay or horror that is commonly used in cartoons, but is involuntarily emitted by the public when listening to politicians, especially those known to change their stand on issues as the wind blows. Recently, our president announced he would grant temporary reprieve to certain young illegal immigrants. Romney blasted the declaration as electioneering political maneuvering, but refused to say he would repeal the executive order when he became president. That reply deserved a healthy EEK! Following his hard line positions taken during the debates, claiming that the whole illegal population should return to Mexico and get in line with those waiting for legal status. Romney criticized Gov. Rick Perry of Texas for using public funds to educate illegals, another moment when an eek was in order. His blatant overnight change of positions on women’s health benefits and the poor are also examples of his etch-a-sketch opinions that rate eeks. His justifying the vast reduction of police officers, firemen and teachers by local governments as well as the failure of congress to protect the nation’s infrastructure is one huge eek that continues to reverberate in our ears. While both dismaying but not surprising at the same time, is his plan to give even greater tax breaks to the rich, all of which deserve a bifurcated eek, at least. Leaning out the window each morning with a wet finger extended to check the wind direction is not the way to exhibit needed leadership.