Where's the Beef?
Republicans and family values

My co-blogger did indeed send me something to munch on with the quote from an article about Alito’s stance on the Family and Medical Leave Act. Namely he thought Congress overstepped its legal boundaries by passing it, so stated in his judicial ruling, which was overturned in a ruling written by that notable bleeding heart liberal, Rehnquist. Awhile back a hamburger ad had a feisty old lady asking, "Where’s the beef?" That is what I would ask the those on the right regarding "family values."

Republicans have proclaimed themselves to be defenders of the family against a concerted liberal agenda to destroy the nuclear family. Apparently, gay marriage is the biggest threat. How can you stay happily married if two consenting adults are doing things privately in their bedroom that you don’t like? I guess it tempts one of the partners of a traditional marriage to have sex with a partner of the same sex, thereby leading to divorce.

What can liberals be thinking to insist that there are greater threats to the preservation of families? Family problems about which government can actually do something include making it possible for parents to be present in the early formative months of their child’s life (or when they are sick) without losing their jobs. I find it ironic that many on the right fervently assert that families should follow the old fashioned model of a male breadwinner and a stay-at-home mother but also insist that poor mothers work--and then don’t supply adequate day care resources. And then blame the mothers for what their neglected children become.

Money to enforce laws against domestic violence and provide counseling are also considered pro-family by the left. So are programs to provide help and provide information to new mothers who don’t want to be as abusive to their children as their parents were to them. Those needing such services are not at fault--they did not choose to be abused by spouses or parents.

Fostering a culture of self-sacrifice would also improve relationships within families. Yet when the American people were eager to know how they could help after 9/11, Bush only encouraged them to go out and spend money. Boy, was that a tough assignment! I guess tax breaks for the wealthy and reduced regulation for business are miraculous balm for whatever ills of our nation’s families. Those two things seem to be this administration's top priorities, while spouting the rhetoric of "values."

I ask again, "Where’s the beef?" as I shout "Show me the money!"