Yes, Kennedy should get well, just not on the public’s time

To the Editor:
In an era in which sound fiscal decisions and responsible government actions are paramount for our economy’s turnaround, why do we have a congressman who is in rehab?
It would seem to me that the only reasonable answer to this question would be that this is not just your ordinary citizen-turned-politician, but a man whose path was cleared by his last name.
If you haven’t figured it out yet, try reading the small blurbs that are inconspicuously hidden in the newspapers around Rhode Island. In these quick mentions you might find that Rep. Patrick J. Kennedy, our beloved son, is back in rehab, presumably for the same reason he was there only three years ago.
Now let me preface this story with the fact that I am no angel, nor have I never claimed to be. I’m known to have the occasional six-pack on the weekends, or at the beach with some friends. I’m also not the type of person who usually points fingers, or attracts public attention, but this story has irked me more than most.
I think it’s safe to say that Rhode Island has enough problems of its own right now (battling 12 percent unemployment, firefighter protests, a half-billion dollar deficit, to name a few).
But why is it that we continue to tolerate the actions of an eight-term congressman? Why do we put up with the shenanigans of a man who in any other profession would have been fired on the spot, no questions asked?
It is reasonable to assume that all Rhode Islanders deserve a representative in government who can be held accountable for his actions, and act in a professional manner in and out of the media spotlight. It would seem that after this latest stint in rehab, Rep. Kennedy has squandered his last remaining chance at forgiveness. At least from this voter.
When is Rhode Island going to wake up and realize that we have a functioning alcoholic as one of our lifelines to Washington? A person who only three years ago, inebriated from prescription drugs, drove a car into a security barrier on Capitol Hill.
Now don’t get me wrong, would I have come to this same opinion if this was one of my family members, or friends who were battling alcoholism, or depression? No. But this is not just an ordinary family member. This is a public figure who is sworn to uphold the law and represent Rhode Island in the best possible manner. And constantly being in the news both nationally and locally for conduct that is detrimental to the state does not necessarily fulfill that obligation to his constituents. It shows a brazen lack of self-control. And in my opinion, a Rhode Island-induced feeling of entitlement, one that is born of his prominent last name and family legacy, allows Mr. Kennedy to take advantage of the voters of this state’s 1st Congressional District and continue to serve as one of our country’s leaders.
Let us all take a step back from the glamour that once was the Kennedy name, and re-evaluate the attributes we use to judge and elect our congressmen. I think all of Rhode Island deserves a better role model to our children and future politicians.
“Patches” Kennedy has, and continues to, set a bad example for Rhode Islanders all across this great state. His actions, as well as those of others, have earned us a reputation that is less desirable that many would like. I think it’s about time to hold our congressman accountable for his actions, while applauding him for taking the necessary actions to better his life.
Mr. Kennedy, it’s not that we don’t want to see you get healthy. It’s just we don’t want you to be doing it on our dime.
Ron Carlstrom
Lincoln