State Reps. Eric Synenberg (D-Beachwood) and Terrence Upchurch (D-Cleveland) have taken a strong stance against what they describe as a "deeply offensive, racist" video shared by President Donald J. Trump. As reported by the Ohio House of Representatives' official site, the video contains disturbing imagery portraying former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama in a demeaning manner. The two lawmakers are calling upon the Ohio General Assembly to unite in condemnation of Trump's actions and to join in cosponsoring a resolution against it.
In denouncing the president's actions, Rep. Synenberg states that this kind of behavior is "incompatible with the values of respect, equality, and dignity." Eric Synenberg told the Ohio House of Representatives, gubernatorial news feed, "Regardless of party affiliation, this conduct warrants a clear and unified condemnation from the Ohio General Assembly." The sentiment echoes through political bounds, insisting that political affiliation should stand secondary to upholding the basic tenets of decorum and mutual respect.
Emphasizing the reprehensible nature of such actions, Rep. Upchurch has addressed the video's damaging potential, "This video is demeaning, offensive, and completely unacceptable," remarked Rep. Upchurch. "Actions like this are vile, erode trust in our leaders, and contradict the respect that our communities and our country deserve," he continued, as documented by the Ohio House of Representatives communication. Upchurch's commentary underscores a collective need to adhere to principles of fairness and integrity.
While eroding trust in our leaders, the deadline for co-sponsoring the resolution is approaching for members of the Ohio General Assembly. The final opportunity to display public disapproval and unity against this brand of politics will be Monday, February 9, with its official filing in the House Clerk's office slated for the following week. Rep. Synenberg and Rep. Upchurch's urging is a direct challenge to their colleagues to stand against divisiveness and for the value system that American political life pledges itself to serve. The clear disdain for Trump's action does not only reflect an individual or partisan aversion but seeks to echo the collective voice of a community's moral compass.
