Two pieces in the June 19 paper coincide: The editorial deals with working to heal political polarization, and Jerry Cornfield’s article deals with ethics vs. lobbying. The common solution can only be publicly-funded elections.
Collecting signatures for I-1329 brought me into contact with hundreds of voters loyal to both parties. They often spoke from a different political perspective, but the common thread that brought their support was their disgust for the obvious influence-buying by lobbyists. Lobbying is one thing, buying influence is a crime. Cornfield notes the comment from State Rep. Manweller who said that he can’t be bought for the price of a $12 hamburger. What is his price? What is the price for our other officials?
Regardless of party favor, the voters do not want those whom they elect taking anything of any value from any entity that cannot vote for them. So, to the likes of Rep. Manweller, I say, you weren’t elected to feather your nest, and we especially don’t want you selling your perch to lobbyists so they can poop in ours.
It’s all fun and games until the Tea Party and Occupy find common ground.
Ron Larsen
Everett
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