Disturbing is the word I use to describe the sorry state this nation is in. President Barack Obama’s speech Monday night put it in perspective: If Congress doesn’t do something quickly, it will affect everyone negatively.

The Republicans are stubbornly sticking with not taxing the very rich and large corporations. Instead, they prefer taking it out of Medicare and other social programs that would really hurt everyone.

Funny that the Republican rebuttal afterward did not mention anything about Medicare or taxing the very wealthy.

Anyway, what is this lately that whenever the president speaks, the Republicans have a rebuttal afterward? Why are there two sides — one that is trying to improve things (the president) and the other that is trying to preserve the tax breaks for the wealthy (the Republicans)?

No wonder nothing is getting accomplished.

In a company, when a boss speaks to the employees, does anyone ever dispute the boss’ statements in a rebuttal speech? I think anyone who disputed his employer would not remain on the payroll long.

Maybe that is what is needed in our government — get rid of a few Republicans. Then maybe things can get done. Goodbye, John Boehner.

Donald Vaillancourt, Lewiston