Lawmakers for hire

Don't you just love the "Washington" crowd? Our lawmakers are paid very well. Their health benefits put ours to shame. Travel, power, notariety, more power, perks up the wazoo, lobbyists clammoring to shower them with gifts and affection. Not to mention the occasional intern; oh yeah, and power! And then there's the retirement benefit, but we'll get to that. It's no wonder they can spend millions trying to get into office.

In exchange for all that, what do they DO? Sure, they make laws, but how many laws do we really need? Think about the last few times you watched the news. How many legislators were shown grandstanding about something, whether it be Iraq, White House policy, supreme court nominations or something else? How often are they given photo opportunities in the name of bi-partisan bickering? How many of them have a voting record higher than 75%? Shouldn't they be voting ALL the time? How can they represent us unless they actually show up and have their vote count? Then again, who do they represent more, us or special interest lobbies? And then there's the list floating around about how many lawmakers are lawbreakers, but they get away with it and we keep inviting them back.

Recently I heard a report about one of our illustrious senators. After he retires, he'll get an "estimated" (because it's supposed to be a secret) $150K annually for the rest of his life, plus health and a 401K. Not only that but he's currently signed up for social security. Ok, lots of employers offer retirement, but with all he's getting now and will get from us, we still get to give him social security and that sweet medical plan while many of us depend entirely on SS and medicare!

Where is Mr. Smith when we need him? Whatever happened to idealism... morality? Where is government of the people, by the people and for the people? Washington is becoming more infected with politicians who suck the blood of America while they follow their own agenda and feed their bloated egos. Shouldn't we do something, or will we continue to follow like mindless sheep? Who are the "public servants" now?

How about a few changes?

• Term Limits- no more career politicians. Works for the presidency!
• With term limits comes no need for a retirement package. We'll save billions!
• Standard medical benefits or medicare.
• No self-voted pay raises for legislators. Flat cost of living or public vote.
• Salary and benefits determined by active service. 60% vote record = 60% pay
• Expulsion for criminal behavior
• Either limit or eliminate lobbying.

In today's government, even the most honest, idealistic new lawmaker is destined to change. How far they fall into the cesspool speaks volumes about their character.

Let's start a new trend. Let's get rid of the sloth machine. Fewer perks. Vote out the dead wood. Encourage legislators to be responsible for their service and behavior. Have them get in, make a difference and then get out. They'll be more effective, the country will be better off and we'll save a whole lot of money.