This is a day to savor, taking joy in the greatness of what our country can do.
ELEPHANT AND DONKEY PULL TOGETHER! Bipartisan Win on Ohio Issue One
By Don C. Reed
Congratulations to the Republicans, Democrats, and Independents of Ohio for their far-sighted victory on Issue One!
"Today, in voting booths across the state, Ohioans embraced the future," said (Democratic Governor Ted) Strickland..."
—"Voters say yes to Ohio Issues—TV 33 News, 5/04 11:10
Issue One is the continuation of the Third Frontier, which was begun by Republican Governor Bob Taft. It is $700 million in targeted funding, to encourage industries (like biomed) with long-term growth potential, a sustainable tomorrow.
The votes are not completely counted but all indications point to a sweeping victory:
62% in favor, only 38% opposed.
This is a moment to savor, taking pride in the greatness of what our country can do.
The parties of the elephant and donkey pulled together for the good of all... Republicans and Democrats, not fighting, not endlessly at each other’s throat for some temporary political advantage, but genuinely seeking what was right—and making it happen.
Issue One ran a bi-partisan and inclusive campaign, with legislators from right and left working together to find an agreement everyone could live with; they were backed by educators, entrepreneurs, and environmentalists, far-sighted citizens across the state, even outsiders like myself who cheered from long distance.
Everyone deserves applause. I would not dare try to apportion credit, because so many people worked to exhaustion on this magnificent effort:
But one name must be said. America should join in wishing good luck and God speed to Chancellor Eric Fingerhut, chair of the Third Frontier board, as he and the board continue the careful process of developing the future through the targeted grants and loans of Issue One.
The future must be planned, or it will burst upon us like a flood. Issue One is the difference between that destructive deluge-- and the benefits of planned irrigation.
Every state deserves such planning, and this exemplary bipartisan leadership.
Onward, Ohio!