By Matthew Hayward In our daily commutes, we often encounter endless red lights, bringing us to a crossroads of practicality and strict adherence to traffic laws. It's a familiar scenario: a red light that tests our patience more than it ensures our safety. This pondering was further sparked by an article in the News Tribune about the complexities of traffic light laws, leading me to contemplate the balance between logical decision-making and lawful obedience. Picture this: you're at a three-way intersection that's missing a crucial element—a turn lane. Here, the traffic lights orchestrate a perplexing situation that defies common sense. You're driving south, intent on continuing straight, but as the northbound traffic receives a green light, you find yourself halted by a red signal that serves no apparent purpose. Despite the clear path ahead, the traffic system doesn't recognize your intention to go straight. It lumps you in with those who might turn, unnecessari...

By Matthew Hayward Madam Speaker, distinguished colleagues, and fellow legislators, I rise before you today on behalf of my constituents who have expressed their concerns regarding the issue of income tax. As their representative, it is my duty to ensure that their perspectives are taken into account and that their deeply held principles are given the consideration they deserve. Some of my constituents hold the belief that an income tax suggests the state has ownership over its citizens and possesses the authority to determine how much of their hard-earned income they are allowed to keep. They argue that this concept bears a concerning resemblance to slavery, as it infringes upon the fundamental right to self-ownership. I understand that this may be a contentious viewpoint. Still, it is crucial that we, as legislators, listen to the concerns of all citizens, regardless of whether or not we personally agree with them. In doing so, we uphold the democratic principles that our great natio...