Mixed Bag

One of the major drawbacks of the GOP is their tendency to label those who don't think or believe as they do as "un-American." More than once on the campaign trail, Romney spoke of "taking America back." Take America back from whom? Other Americans who just happened to disagree with his vision for our country? We're not true Americans because we didn't buy into his whitewash?

Narrow-minded lack of inclusion from the right is a huge turnoff. Extreme social positions aren't helpful, either. I understand they are pro-choice, but please don't force those views down my throat, thank you. All they have to do is stay away from abortion clinics and allow others to make their own choices.

When I skim online articles, I often read comments left by other readers. The hateful rhetoric is simply astounding. Seething resentment seems to be the norm, which was in evidence long before the presidential election took place. It's difficult to imagine a sane person shooting off such vitriolic drivel.

As for pundits on television, the over-used phrases during the election season I hope to never hear again are "double-down" or when someone peppers their commentary with "at the end of the day…"

And if it comes down to this, I say good riddance:

• 20 states demand to secede after Obama won election

The various states need at least 25,000 signatures before their petitions can be submitted to the Obama administration for consideration. However, their ludicrous intent simply verifies right-wing irrationality and state of denial.