Swarms of politicians
I believe that a great deal of the problems that we face today in America stem from the concept of "professional politicians." These men and women are getting their livelihood from political office and presumably are loathe to give up the money, power and perks. This concept is a relatively new one, mostly in the last 50 years. Historically people would go to Washington for a couple of terms, often after achieving success at something else, even if only running the family estate. After serving their time in DC, they would return to wherever it was they were coming from in the first place.
Now, it's all different. We have politicians that "conveniently" live in certain areas. I know of at least 4 Senators who have almost no connection with their state other than maintaining a residence of convenience there. Many politicians are groomed, some from birth, to take office and keep it. If dishonest, the gravy spigots turn on immediately; if they have some ethics, they have to wait until they're finally voted out by a disgusted electorate, at which point they can wallow in corporate muck as a directors, high priced lobbyists or political appointees.
We need term limits for all offices and campaign financing should be reexamined with an eye towards making it possible for pharmacists, writers, engineers and nurses to be elected.
Posted on September 13, 2007
