It has become clear that no one in state or national politics cares for those who are self-employed and are slowly being crushed by taxes and a faltering economy.

Our elected leaders were supposed to represent us. Obviously, that isn’t the case.

We are helpless now, with property values reduced so much that it is nearly impossible to sell and move away, and taxes already amounting to more than our profits.

Caught in a lethal economic trap, to whom do we turn?

I’d like to propose an organization of working-class taxpayers. We could pay dues and employ someone to lobby on our behalf. We could guarantee helpful politicians huge voting blocks and big campaign donations. With bribes and luxurious vacations, we could spread the wealth among those who should be protecting our interests.

Ultimately that would be less costly than losing everything to a government that only knows how to create new taxes and increase the old ones.

I’m not saying it’s always corruption. Certainly, some of this is just brutal incompetence. But we need relief.

So, to whom do I send the bribe?

CHARLES R. GREAVES

Warwick