We’ve had pork barrel spending before, but never both Houses and the White House and never for so much. Usually some keep their heads and act as a brake – but not this time. They are spending our money like water.
Congress uses the terrorist attacks to hide pork raids. We understand the concern of every member of Congress -many in close contests in 2002 – candidates feel they must publicize support of pork to win. But we can’t afford it with the war on terrorism and the mind-boggling cost of unionized airport security plus having every member of Congress tacking pork to every bill “fighting” terrorism. “We, the people” must demand of Bush and Congress the following:
1. Term limits: I suggest two, six-year terms maximum for the Senate. Four, two-year terms for the House – 20 years max in Congress. We want citizen lawmakers, not entrenched beltline bandits.
2. A balanced budget amendment. Many states have them to curb legislative appetites. Why not a national one, as Bush refused to act as a budgetary restraint?
3. Both of the above actions require an intense campaign on the part of the public. We must get promises on major issues from all candidates before the primaries.
4. A ban on ex-members of Congress or the White House from being employed by a firm seeking government contracts, even secondarily, for five years.
5. Teach Bush how to write the word veto.
Bothell
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