To the editor:

Dolph Simons’ Aug. 15 Saturday Column clearly exposes reasons our country has problems. The divide between “haves” (Republicans) and “have-nots” (Democrats) couldn’t be clearer.

The Republican Party is shrinking. Their solutions to problems are exactly what caused a near economic collapse and millions of “have-nots” denied affordable health care.

Republicans were invited to participate in “change.” They chose to block solutions with “no” attitudes. Republicans had eight years to improve our country. They chose the status quo. Bipartisanship doesn’t work when the only compromise is “do it our way.” It’s time to move on without the “no’s” and get on with improving our country. Republicans will be “shut out” because they choose not to be positive participants in change. Major changes are necessary to prevent another economic collapse and to offer adequate health care to everyone — not just the wealthy.

Yes, we need to regulate compensation for top executives. The Republican idea of private business is out of control. Costs aren’t contained or lowered with insurance companies and top executives operating without limits. It’s not government takeover; it’s “parental control” when “juvenile” is either incapable or unwilling to exercise self-control.

How often does Obama need to tell Republicans government doesn’t want to run banks, auto industries or hospitals before they “get it”? Self-control would have kept government out of business. It’s very clear that’s not their intention. Let the public be damned — create as much profit as you can get away with.