Today's Opinions

By LEE H. HAMILTON
A few weeks ago, in his second inaugural speech, President Obama waded into the longest-running argument our history offers.
“Progress does not compel us to settle centuries-long debates about the role of government for all time,” he said, “but it does require us to act in our time.”
He had just laid out a rationale for government action on infrastructure, protecting the security and dignity of people, climate change, inequality, the strength of arms and the rule of law.

There used to be a saying concerning state legislatures to the effect that no man’s life nor property was safe as long as the legislature was in session.

That saying could never have been more appropriate than now, in the state of Tennessee.

Charlie Smith was just caught breaking the law, and Smith’s rant in the Roane County News’ Feb. 1 edition of Our Readers Write was just sour grapes.  

The legal posted speed of 55 mph on Gallaher Road is plenty fast enough, especially at night.

Smith was more than likely going faster than 70 mph, as most police officers are apt to  forgive a few miles and give you a break on a ticket.  

As for being ashamed of Tennessee, Smith should try pulling the same stunt in Mississippi.