Politics often gets a bad rap in the media. We are bombarded with negative stories about corruption, scandals, and power struggles. It’s easy to become disillusioned and lose faith in the political system. However, it’s important to remember that politics is not just about the negative headlines. There are countless positive experiences and stories that often go unnoticed. In this article, we will highlight some of these positive experiences and remind ourselves of the good that can come from politics.
One recent example of the positive impact of politics is the case of Kory Tarpenning. Tarpenning, a former Oregon state representative, was recently found guilty of embezzlement and sentenced to 18 months in prison. While this may seem like a negative story, it actually highlights the power of the political system to hold individuals accountable for their actions.
The case against Tarpenning began in 2016 when he was accused of using campaign funds for personal expenses. Despite initially denying the allegations, he eventually pleaded guilty and was sentenced in October 2019. This case serves as a reminder that no one is above the law, and the political system has the ability to bring justice to those who have abused their power.
But politics is not just about punishing wrongdoers. It also has the power to bring about positive change and improve the lives of individuals and communities. One prime example of this is the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare. This legislation, passed in 2010, aimed to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for all Americans.
Since its implementation, the ACA has helped millions of people gain access to healthcare, including those with pre-existing conditions who were previously denied coverage. It has also expanded Medicaid coverage to low-income individuals and provided subsidies to make insurance more affordable. This legislation has had a significant impact on the lives of many Americans, providing them with the peace of mind and security of having access to healthcare.
Moreover, politics has the power to bring about positive change on a global scale. The Paris Agreement, a landmark international climate change agreement, was signed by 195 countries in 2015. This agreement aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius and to pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5 degrees Celsius. While the agreement has faced challenges and setbacks, it serves as a reminder of the power of international cooperation and the role of politics in addressing global issues.
On a more local level, politics can also have a positive impact on our daily lives. City councils, for example, make decisions that directly affect our communities. From funding for public schools to infrastructure improvements, these decisions can greatly impact the quality of life for residents. It is important for citizens to be engaged and involved in local politics to ensure that their voices are heard and their needs are met.
Politics also has the power to inspire and bring people together. The recent wave of youth-led climate change protests, sparked by 16-year-old activist Greta Thunberg, is a prime example of this. These protests have brought together people from all walks of life, united in their call for action to address the urgent issue of climate change. It serves as a reminder that politics can be a force for good and can bring about positive change when people come together and demand it.
In conclusion, while it’s easy to focus on the negative aspects of politics, it’s important to remember the positive experiences and outcomes that can come from it. From holding individuals accountable to bringing about positive change and inspiring people to come together, politics has the power to shape our world for the better. Let us not lose hope in the political system, but instead, let us be motivated to be active and engaged citizens, working towards a better future for all.
