Grand Junction residents approaching Election Day may find themselves questioning the political process, a sentiment shared by Craig Hall, owner and publisher of The Business Times. Hall, in a recent column, expressed deep skepticism about the current political climate, noting a widespread disillusionment with both major political parties.
Hall observed that while many voters hope for their chosen side to win, he perceives that neither political faction truly serves the public interest. He characterized Republicans as potentially "out of touch" and Democrats as convinced of their rightful place in power. From his perspective, candidates across the spectrum, alongside numerous ballot proposals, make promises that instill false hope in government's ability to solve problems.
According to Hall, a consistent outcome of every election, regardless of who is elected or what measures pass, is the exponential growth of government control and size. This expansion, he argued, leads to increased confiscation of private property through various means, which he believes is never enough to satisfy government's appetite. Despite this perceived pattern, Hall noted that people continue to participate in rallies and vote for what he described as a "leech class" of politicians.
He critiqued the limited and often unsatisfactory choices presented to voters on ballots, suggesting that one political side advocates for policies he views as "anti-freedom" and "anti-constitutional," while the other promotes what he considers "out of touch" candidates. Hall also pointed to the campaign season, including primaries and general elections, as primarily focused on candidates attacking their opponents rather than offering substantive solutions.
Hall further delved into his belief about the core motivations for individuals seeking public office: power, control, and money, often masked by promises of "hope" or "The American Dream." He contended that the traditional "American Dream" — centered on family, home ownership, a car, stable employment, and a secure retirement — has been eroded by governmental policies. He cited examples such as property taxes ensuring property is never fully owned, escalating real estate prices, high car payments, and mandates related to electric vehicles. He also mentioned the minimum wage, expectations for salaries based on degrees, and government-created retirement systems like Social Security and Medicare as contributing to a sense of "hope-lessness."
From Hall’s viewpoint, politicians consistently offer what he calls "snake-oil" solutions, and voters repeatedly support them, akin to expecting a different outcome despite a history of disappointment. He warned that the burden of these governmental actions ultimately falls on the voters, who bear the costs and suffering without adequate recourse.
Hall specifically addressed tax proposals, suggesting that while they may initially target the wealthy, history indicates they eventually shift to burden the "middle class." He noted that politicians are fundamentally interested in citizens' votes and their property, including assets and "unrealized gains," with property taxes serving as an existing example of this. He stated that his personal "side" in politics is not tied to any party but is instead focused on protecting his family, business, and property – both physical and intellectual – from government infringement.
He concluded by asserting that this personal "side" cannot win if the current trajectory of government growth and influence continues. Hall urged voters to consider how their choices might affect fellow citizens, advocating for a voting approach guided by the principle to "first do no harm." He suggested a need to restore government to the role envisioned by the nation's founders.
