Are political cliques beyond fixable?

Yesterday, I was betrayed by my own party. After reading Angie Welling's open letter to Sen. Mike Lee, I was excited. I was more excited when the Trib picked up the story and interviewed Ms. Welling about her positive stance for the ACA, even though she is Republican.

I assumed this spotlight and letter would receive much backlash, from other Republicans, but only praise from Democrats. Wow, was I wrong. Every comment posted to the story about Ms. Welling was rude, judgmental, and close minded; the very same characteristics Utah Dems claim to loathe about Republicans.

I couldn't wrap my mind around what was happening, a Republican had openly written a letter in favor of Obamacare, exactly what Democrats want, and yet she received nothing but animosity. I have come to the conclusion that Welling was not reviled because of her stance, but because of a label. America has turned into a giant high school where clique A dislikes clique B, even if they have the same opinions, just because of their labels. Welling's attack makes me think that the status of this country is not fixable, because even when parties agree and are being cohesive, nothing but hate is given in reciprocation.

As a Democrat, I apologize to Ms. Welling, and applaud her letter to Mike Lee and hope the criticism she received doesn't make other Republicans apprehensive about endorsing the Affordable Care Act.

Abbey Love

Salt Lake City