Politicians spending money like water

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

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Opinion

People walk adjacent to the border with Canada at the Peace Arch in Peace Arch Historical State Park, where cars behind wait to enter Canada at the border crossing Monday, Aug. 9, 2021, in Blaine, Wash. Canada lifted its prohibition on Americans crossing the border to shop, vacation or visit, but America kept similar restrictions in place, part of a bumpy return to normalcy from coronavirus travel bans. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
Editorial: U.S. and Canada better neighbors than housemates

President Trump may be serious about annexing Canada, but it’s a deal fraught with complexities for all.

Schwab: If you’re OK with foreign aid cuts, guess who’s next

At some point, if they haven’t already, Trump’s and Musk’s cuts will hit all but a very elite few.

Poor planning behind Snohomish PUD rate increase

It did not take long in 2025 for the Snohomish Public Utility… Continue reading

Trump’s aid cut will cost U.S. influence

The last time the U.S. pulled back its aid to other countries,… Continue reading

Musk’s financial access is a threat to personal data, payments

Recently Elon Musk along with six young men between 19-24 were able… Continue reading

CNA Nina Prigodich, right, goes through restorative exercises with long term care patient Betty Long, 86, at Nightingale's View Ridge Care Center on Friday, Feb. 10, 2023 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Editorial: Boost state Medicaid funding for long-term care

With more in need of skilled nursing and assisted-living services, funding must keep up to retain staff.

bar graph, pie chart and diagrams isolated on white, 3d illustration
Editorial: Don’t let state’s budget numbers intimidate you

With budget discussions starting soon, a new website explains the basics of state’s budget crisis.

Curtains act as doors for a handful of classrooms at Glenwood Elementary on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024 in Lake Stevens, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
Editorial: Schools’ building needs point to election reform

Construction funding requests in Arlington and Lake Stevens show need for a change to bond elections.

Comment: Birthright citizenship has helped make America great

Trump’s attempt to end it, almost certainly unconstitutional, won’t fix the nation’s problems at its borders.

toon
Editorial cartoons for Thursday, Feb. 13

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

State single-payer health care bill offers many advantages

I was excited to read in Will Geschke’s report (“Everett lawmakers back… Continue reading

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.