The Issues, No 18 - Setting an Example

I think our elected officials should set an example for the people they represent and for all Americans. I don't think a Congress that accepts campaign contributions (legal bribes) from big business, lobbyists, and other special interest groups is setting a very good example. I don't think a Congress that doesn't act because its members are afraid they will lose votes is setting a good example. I don't think a Congress that can't seem to manage to pass the annual spending bills on time is setting a good example. I don't think a Congress that continues to push the country deeper and deeper into debt is setting a good example. I don't think the nastiness and cruelty that is exhibited in political campaigns is setting a good example. And, I don't think a Congress that constantly plays Democrats vs. Republicans at the expense of getting something done is setting a good example either.

All Americans, including our children, are aware of what our people in Congress are, or are not, doing. I think many of us think that if it's OK for our Congresspeople to do it, it's OK for us to do it too. Maybe that's why personal debt is out of control for many Americans. Maybe that's a contributor as to why the mortgage situation is so bad. And maybe that's why there is so much back stabbing involved in most competitive situations throughout the country today.

I think the people in Congress need to clean up their act by first realizing that the American people, our kids included, are watching them. They need to realize that they set the example for the nation. They need to start treating each other with respect and dignity, regardless of their political affiliation. They need to eliminate the questionable practice of accepting contributions from those who expect something in return. They need to work hard and get their work done on time. And, they need to face difficult issues with what they believe to be the right solution rather than avoiding them because it may cost them votes.

I don't want a Congress that continually gives us what we want. Rather, I want a Congress that gives us what we need and what is best for the country. I expect the people I vote for are going to be wise enough to understand what is best for the country and their constituents and I expect them to act that way as my representatives. And, I expect them to be moral upstanding citizens, and to act like people we want to look up to.