Mr. Koerner’s frustration resonates deeply. Like him, I have written to my representatives only to receive responses that ignore the questions asked — or no response at all.
Representative Baird’s office, when it does reply, sends generic emails that bear no relation to the issue raised, exactly as Mr. Koerner described.
Senator Jim Banks is no better. In early February I wrote to his office opposing the SAVE Act and asked specific questions about it. On Feb. 12, his office thanked me for writing and outlined what they believe the act accomplishes — a standard form response. I replied within hours, restating my opposition and pressing my specific questions.
The next day, I received the identical email, word for word, with only the date changed. My questions were ignored entirely. I wrote again, demanding answers. On Feb. 24, a third response arrived — the same form email, again.
Three responses. Zero answers.
This is not constituent service. This is the appearance of engagement without any of the substance. When a senator sends the same form letter three times in response to direct, specific questions, he is not representing his constituents — he is dismissing them.
We deserve better. These officials work for us, not for their party leadership. Until they remember that, they should expect to hear from us — loudly and often.
Gary Behling
Crawfordsville
