They had a chance since we told them

Over generalizing is normally not a fair description method for any one group, but the Congress may be one of the exceptions that come along now and then. The Congressional members and their staffs seem utterly aloof to the point of arrogance, responsive to those that enhance their political power and financial future, and assuming of some ruling class mentality. And we have been telling them about this for some time. Even the election of 2006 and the Democratic promises for change seemed like someone was finally listening. Alas, it was business as usual. Say one thing to get elected, and then do what you want to do after the election. After all, the voters will forget. But sometimes we don’t forget. There are pivotal times in history where words mean things and are not forgotten. We are there, today.

Some of our members of Congress are so important they have three or four committees to worry about. There is their own taxpayer funded personal staff, then perhaps a taxpayer funded congressional committee staff, and then a candidate funded election campaign staff. How many think the candidate actually finances their campaigns with their money. I even accepted the need to raise money till I read about $8,000/hour private jets and $400 haircuts. Now the line is blurred. And a few select members even have party staff to worry about. Many of these staffs have missed their chances too when they counsel business as usual. Maybe they are right, but probably not.

The most recent good example of us telling them is that of another bipartisan immigration law. In a great case of we told them, there was a national uprising that demanded control of the borders first, as in restore trust and faith in one of the federal government’s most basic responsibilities. Well, that apparently was not good enough, and most read how smoke and mirrors and obscure parliamentary rules will be used in the near future to try sneak in a Senate bill. Some of us are slow learners, maybe even a bit naïve and idealistic, but most also know when told to shut up and stuff it. The Congressional elections of 2008 can’t come fast enough, now.

That many citizens are doing State workarounds to get around Congress is most admirable. Transparency in spending laws and other initiatives are outstanding. The will of the people will be felt, one way or the other. Electing members of Congress who want a chance and will listen is the voters’ job. There is much work to do.