Five Common-Sense Steps to Change a Broken Congress
by Rep. John Boehner (R-OH)The American people have had it with “business as usual” in Congress. They are fed up with practices such as tucking special-interest provisions into bills behind closed doors, secretly changing bills without a vote, and passing bills no one has read. This has happened for far too long, but never before has the need for reform been more apparent than in the past year under Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and her Democratic majority.
Americans are demanding change in the way Congress works. Recognizing this, I and other reform-minded congressional Republicans this week will put forth a new transparency initiative – a series of common-sense congressional reforms aimed at bringing some much-needed openness and accountability to the House.
In just 10 months, with help from the Obama White House, Speaker Pelosi’s Congress has taken business-as-usual to a devastating new extreme. The American people have watched Congress rush through a massive “stimulus” spending bill no one read; a massive $410 billion omnibus spending bill loaded with thousands of un-scrutinized earmarks; and a new “cap and trade” national energy tax loaded with special-interest giveaways unveiled at 3:00 am on the morning before a vote.
Now the White House is pushing for a final year-end bill – which will be written in secret by the majority behind closed doors – to replace the current health care system with government-run care, and transform about one-sixth of our nation’s economy. The bill will be hammered out in a private, partisan House-Senate conference committee with no public access or scrutiny, in direct contradiction of President Obama’s pledge that such talks would be televised on C-SPAN.
These are the actions of a Democratic majority that has forgotten it’s the American people who are really in charge. These are actions designed to shut the American people out while politicians go about the business of limiting their freedom. And in an era of 10.2 percent unemployment, mounting debt, seemingly endless bailouts, and rapidly expanding government, these abuses are the last straw for the American people, who’ve clearly had enough.
Republicans have had enough, too. The House GOP congressional transparency initiative includes common-sense changes such as “read the bill” reform that would require all bills to be posted online for a minimum of 72 hours before they are brought to a vote. We also believe:
- Members’ committee votes should be posted online within 48 hours so the American people can see how their representatives voted.
- Committees should be required to post the text of adopted bills online within 24 hours of adoption to end the practice of “phantom amendments” being added to bills secretly after they pass at the committee level.
- Major negotiations on sweeping bills that would dramatically expand the reach of the federal government – such as the current government takeover of health care – should be open to the public and subject to a full and honest debate when bills reach the floor.
- Cameras should be allowed in the secretive House Rules Committee, the panel that decides which bills and amendments come to a vote.
Our transparency initiative calls for immediate implementation of all of these reforms. We’re calling on Speaker Pelosi to bring all of them to an immediate vote. If she won’t do it, a Republican majority will. You can read more about the House GOP congressional transparency initiative online, at http://gopleader.gov/readthebill.
Did Republicans miss an opportunity to enact common-sense changes like these when we were in the majority? Yes — and we won’t make the mistake again. With this initiative, we’re taking some common-sense steps to renew the drive for an open and accountable Congress. We recognize restoring the bonds of trust between the American people and their elected leaders starts with changing Congress itself. We hope Speaker Pelosi will join us, and allow these common-sense reforms to go forward.
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110 Comments
One word: PURGE.
Fine with us, John… How are you going to prove to the American people you are serious and will keep your words of honor ? We await your response….. Conservatives will no longer tolerate meaningless rhetoric from politicians from EITHER side.. We are still waiting…patiently !
The term "common sense" keeps coming up. How common is "sense" anyway? Since the business of congress is rather different than most other organizations, I would not expect them to conduct it exactly as one would any other business. Congress isn't a business and can't be run like one; however, it shouldn't be run like a bad business either.
Sorry John, I know your intentions are probably good, but we're fed up with ALL of you. The Republicans spent like inebriated sailors while the Democrats have spent like they have been on a binder for a week while taking drugs and smoking pot! I don't trust ANY of you anymore. so my solution is to vote ALL of you out and start over again. My thinking is that it can't get any worse with all new people in office and it will probably get better because the new folks will see that if THEY don't do as they are told, they will be out on their butts, too.
Representative Boehner, speaking for myself, you are a part of establishment Washington, so you must excuse me for being a bit dubious about your declaration of conservative purity. I hope that you are sincere, because the political class in Washington has change coming like it or not. We are now threatened by our government, no more false promises Mr. Boehner we are watching, get right, or get gone.
Cowboy ? Do they make such an anticongressional fumigation spray ? Where can we get some ?
Thank you Mr. Boehner for admitting that the Republicans were remiss in allowing this to happen under their watch and your resolve to now correct this problem. I believe the conservatives are now realizing that their seats are indeed in danger of being lost just as the liberals are looking at a big loss due to their Lording over the American citizens. We will be watching if you and your party will practice what you are preaching here and be aware that we will hold you to it.
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Stan,
I tend to agree with you. While I would like to believe and trust Boehner, I can't. He is a career politician, and the burden of proof is on him. WE have seen this charade too many times, when an OPPORTUNISTIC Politician grabs headlines to get out in front of an issue, cloaking himself in feigned indignation. It is too transparent.
These current comments are extremely intriguing. There is a common thread through all of them. There is no PARTY Identification and loyalty. This is as it should be. Both parties have been corrupted to their cores. It is no longer about "party affiliation". Do you think Congress with get it..? I do not think they will so…. OUT WITH ALL OF THEM !
"Did Republicans miss an opportunity to enact common-sense changes like these when we were in the majority? Yes — and we won’t make the mistake again."
As Speaker of the House, if you are able to keep this promise, then you'll have a strong and vibrant base for many years to come.
Yes I am a cynic. So don't hold your breath with Beohner. He is a career politician who has spent years forging "alliances" with Constitutional enemies and subbrogating your fiscally conservative rights. To suggest such an epiphany with him is tantamount to wee weeing in the wind !
I hold you ALL responsible for the destruction of faith and trust by ALL Americans in ALL of government. You ALL push for ALL the new garbage that we have made clear to you ALL that we don't want. Yet you ALL proceed dismissing ALL of us. Therefore, ALL and I mean ALL of you must go. The sooner the better for us ALL.
One minor point of correction, Mr. Boehner. The Health Care bill was not written by the majority, not by the representatives we elected to author legislation, but by a group of special interests and unions with ties to the Soros-funded Tides Foundation.
And your point is…….. (grin) /sarc
One problem: LOBBYISTS.
All people working in the system that will be instructing the newly elected people need to be replaced as well. Look at all the lobbyists that were former representatives. Fumigate them ALL.
You are right.
It is no longer about Party. It is about Honor and Integrity. It is about doing what is right, because it is right. Not because it is convienent. Throw the bastards out. Each and every one of them. They have DESTROYED what was the American Dream. They have Bankrupted what was the wealthiest country in the history of the world. They have sold our childrens, and grandchildrens birthrights, placing them in debt and bondage.
If this was any other civilization, they would be lucky to get out with thier lives.
Whereas I believe in the suggestions here and think they would help, they won't fix the underlying problem.
If you're serious about getting rid of "business as usual" political establishment shenanigans in DC the first point should be…
TERM LIMITS
As it is you have members of the house and senate who have, in some cases, spent more of their lives inside the beltway then outside of it. That is not good if they're supposed to be representing the people in their districts.
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You are DEAD ON right, Cowboy. And the MOST salient point you made was one I have always felt saddened about. And you hit it…. "They have DESTROYED the American Dream". And by doing so our children will never know the hope and dreams in the America we grew up with and loved ! Absolutely PERFECT ! +1000 for you.
Great idea.
Problem is it's only talk. I've heard it before.
Resign.
Reboot Congress. Re-elect nobody.
I agree with Cowboy Logic regarding the behavior of Congress:
"If this was any other civilization, they [Congress] would be lucky to get out with their lives."
Maybe we should put the Congressional leaders on trial AFTER we remove them from office. Their crimes? Corruption, taking bribes, destroying the economy & the dollar, massive national debt, etc.
Like many others commenting here, clean your own house Mr. Minority Leader. I used to consider myself a Republican, but the last couple of elections have shown me that apparently I was mistaken. The Republican party has shown itself to be disingenuous to the voters it claims to represent . While the Republican party has shown itself to be be in tune with the people, the party has co-opted that intuition for the sole purpose of getting re-elected and consolidating federal power.
I speak for myself when I say that…
The republican party has no credibility anymore, and every time I hear a republican (or democrat) politician say "I hear you!", the only thing I hear is lip-service and "vote for me".
the days of blind trust are over, now you have to prove yourselves…
the accounting started along time ago, and you are running in the red.
That is a start John, but the American people are fed up with YOU TOO! We are tired of RINO republicans. We are tired of representatives who will not stand up and get in front of any camera they have to to let us know what is going on. Yes, now you want to do it. But for far too long you all have sat quietly by and not informed the people of the dirty goings on in congress.
It is time for you all to stop covering for Obama, yes you do it too. And start calling him what he is. A Marxist communist bent on the takeover of our country. Get on the floor with cameras present and yell it out! Get on Fox and CNN and where ever you can and tell the people his agenda and what is really going on with these bills!
Why was it not YOU (meaning republicans) telling us all of the waste in the TARP bill and the health care bill. Why did we have to read it for ourselves to find this out?
We are voting out ALL INCUMBENTS John. Democrat and Republican, so don't get too comfortable!
I want a pledge from the GOP itself…. STOP federal spending till a balanced budget is enacted. Adhere to the constitution of the united states and prove that all bills are constitutional. Take ALL unions out of the government. Term limits for all government leaders. NO MORE professional politicians. Bring back an era of individual responsibility and stop with gov welfare programs.
One fact I read about John recently is that he has never added one Ear Mark.
That impressed me, even more than his tan in the middle of winter. I do have to ask, what is with that tan? He is one of the few I would vote for but being in Florida we have slim choices between people that we have never heard of or the usual RINO's that run the state.
I think way to people have forgotten how the system is suppose to work. Let the state governors pick their senators, and the people vote in the House of Reps.
Senators protect the states position, and HR is the voice of the American public.
All bills originate from the house…. the people of the country. Enough of this entitliment mentallity.
Clean the house out. Term limits are not required if everyone is doing a good job. If not, vote them out next election.
Texas MUST remain free from Washington insider politics. I know that Perry has his faults, but we cannot afford the Washington insider, special interest, RINO Hutchison for gov. We have to stay free, and tough, and able to stand on our own if need be. She will just usher the Washington BOW into Texas!
Term limits are fine. However, you need a Congress willing to support the legislation first. There is no way THIS Congress would ever float a bill to remove themselves from power. They are saturated with corruption. A NEW Congress could do this and should be part of the slate of electable considerations when the public votes !
Otherwise it is and will always be DOA !
I hope you realize why we can't seem to trust you Mr. Boehner. Why don't you do something that will gain our trust back. For instance, why don't you give up all of your special interests and lobbyists right now? Show us that you TRULY represent us, the citizens of this Republic, and no one else. Then we might give you the benefit of the doubt. All my Republican Reps in Congress tell me they can't do anything because they are a minority. You all are sounding like you are victims instead of stepping up and doing your jobs for us. You swore an oath to the constitution to protect the people of the USA. Start protecting us, dammit!!!!
Rep. Boehner,
What you are hearing is the distrust all of us feel with "Washington Politics", sir.
I am heartened that you feel these changes would add "transparency" to the process. However, transparency is no longer the issue. It is a canard now. We don't want transparency in the process; we want a new process entirely.
The people have decided new leadership is needed at all levels, and unlike past years, they are prepared to fully back that up with their votes The term, "experienced politician", is now anathema. "Experienced" means, "capable of ripping you off in all sorts of ways" to us…
We are going back to the beginning. We will send citizen legislators to enact the will of the people, and then come home to live under the laws they make. We will try to find a way or ways to limit the exposure to the system that captures so many of you and turns you away from us. We will demand you live in the districts you represent, not just domicile or have residency there. The Congress will again be a part-time job in Washington, and a full-time job in your district. You will live, shop, take out the trash, and eat fast food where your constituents do the same. And this country as a whole will be the better for it…
Many of you will say this is impracticable, there is too much to do, that the buzzwords of "transparency", "hope and change" and "values" require you to be there to implement "the work of the people"…
Then you don't need to be there at all…you can watch someone else with the needed sand do your job…
John, if you want to take back control of the House, don't flower us with political speech. Your language and actions have to be more radical. Lukewarm initiatives and promises of transparency will not be enough to capture the support of the People. We are demanding a radical change in government, like a spending freeze on all non-essential services, massive tax cuts or elimination across the board, criminal investigations into 501 c3 and other lobbying abuses, and the absolute surrender of private sector industries out of the control of government and back into the private sector economy.
Promise us this and we will rise up to support you. But I assure you, promises of procedural rule changes will only result in one large collective yawn. Wake up to the mood in the country John, or we will find others to do the job for us.
I think its clear people are not buying the bull$^%& anymore. Corruption at the highest levels is and will kill are country. Big change is needed…Either step up or move out of the way
I can't help but think while I was watching cspan the other day when the health crap bill was being voted on and when that 218th vote came on the board, how jubilant the liberals were (in my eyes, looking like a bunch of kindergartners), while tens of millions upon tens of millions of Americans didn't want this disaster of a bill passed. This is 100% proof that 98% of these idiots in CONgress are in it for the power, retirement and paybacks from the special interests and lobbyists! Nothing more and especially nothing less!! I just hope we are still a FREE America when the next election cycle comes up. God help us!
You are right.
That shriveled old hag is a threat to Texas.
90% of the house and 90% of the Senate needs to be cleaned out. Sorry Reid, Waxman, and Pelosi you did not make my save list
To summarize the postings.
1. We don't trust our representatives anymore.
2. The government has forgotten who it serves.
3. We want our Constitution back.
4. If we can do it. (and I think we can!) you're all political history!
5. We may argue the fine points, later, but we want all of you gone!
Did I miss anything?
Barak Obama,his czarist administration and the freak show democrats in congress are responsible for taking a bad but fixable economic situation and using it to blaze a path of destruction through this country.
They call themselves progressives which is just a term for socialists,faschists,Marxists and communists.People in this country gave them the power and they're going to wield it until they're thrown out.They've caused a lot of damage to this country to date and will do a lot more in the next year.
They're career politicians,incumbants who could care less about the people who voted for them.Legistating for special interest has been going on in this country for decades in both parties.Although the the level of evil coming from Obama and the Pelosi democrats is amazing.I've been watching this country spiral down for a long time but now finally I hope we hit bottom and are ready to head back up.
The real Pravda{not the American Lame Street Media}in Russia is comparing Obama's economic policies to the policies of the Soviet Union before it's collapse.And I never thought a communist news organization was this capable of seeing reality.
For what it's worth; I'd sure like to trust Boehner, but I can't.
I refuse to drop my guard and trust a man with a fancy $500.00 haircut.
He reminds me of that sleazeball John Edwards, with his Breck Boy Blow Dried look………
Sorry John, but although i agree with the words, I don't like the messenger. Didn't you endorse Dede Scuzzyfava? You see, John, when you have the cover of not being able to actually accomplish anything, you sound fine. But when there's a chance what you say might get implemented, you revert to a typical Washington politician. You got the GOP to vote against the stimulus but only when it was clear it would pass anyway. You couldn't hold them back from voting for TARP because you're all addicted to Wall Street money and pork spending.
We need new people in the leadership roles, not just warm bodies in the ranks that will give the majority back to the spenders who put us in this hole.
Speaking of CON-gress,
the Pink Slip Pile is Five Feet High, and Rising………..
http://www.wnd.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pag...
I fail to see how any of your proposed initiatives would “change a broken Congress.” What good is it for us to know what is being proposed if our opinion on the subject is summarily dismissed anyway? Broadcasting on CSPAN would only allow me to see and hear my freedoms being slaughtered instead of just waiting for the face punch. It’s like in high school where I knew that somebody had it out for me, but I still had to walk the halls in fear, just waiting for the jump. I think that’s how a lot of Americans feel right now.
You buried the answer to the problem right in the title of your article: “blah blah blah CHANGE blah CONGRESS blah blah blah.” A complete swap out, now that’s change I can get behind.
You nailed it dead on. He speaketh with forketh tounge……..
We are at a point where you either choose Liberty or tyranny. Corruption has been going on for a long time on both sides of the isle. I think Americans have always known that, but didn't realize how corrupt and how dangerous is was and has become for a free Republic to survive. I guess we were too busy working, raising our family and paying our taxes like good citizens. Sadly, many Americans are still "dumbed down" and are still believing what the un-ethical lame street media feed them, but millions have awoke and are mad as hell. Who knew Liberties and Freedoms were so despised and the ideal of "We the People" was to be stomped on and called names (racist, teabagger, un-American, Nazi, stupid, knuckle dragging)? The Republicans dropped the ball and now the progressives are kicking us off the cliff. I will continue to fight and voice my opinion and arm myself with knowledge and apologize to my daughter for my previous apathy. That being said, I will add I will never apologize for my country to the rest of the world, but only for the person representing it.
If it's OUT WITH ALL OF THEM then you have no way to hold them accountable since they already have lost our votes. Bet the other side isn't doing this, they are only threatening "vote our way or else" We should keep the ones that vote our way, It doesn't matter if they are PURE it matters if they are scared to death of your vote!!!
Don't throw the baby out with the bath water.. PS I was for what was done in NY 23 district nothing to lose there
Congressman Boehner is my congressman. I know him to be a man of conservative principle who refuses to accept earmarks for our District. I think he's a great Congressman…and I like and respect him. Now, having said all of that, I don't see him providing strong, courageous leadership that inspires those of us who are so frustrated with the arrogance and incompetence of Washington. Where's the fire in the belly, John? Where's the 5 or 6 rallying points for the Republican Party that we can believe and get excited about? Instead, we get a dry laundry list of procedural changes — all valid of course — but not exactly inspirational. Right now, all the inspiration is coming from everyday citizens in tea parties, townhall meetings, letter writing campaigns, etc. Where did our leaders go?
If a compete turn over of Congress will result in them "getting nothing done"…I AM IN FAVOR. Shut the whole mess down for a couple of years and then reconvene to vote out most of the previously passed laws. Not only must Congress be purged, most of the garbage they have imposed on us must also be purged!!!
The Democrates don't get it and the Republicans are clueless. They only give a fig about keeping their butts in the power. The American public is pissed at both the politcal parties. They have sold us out to fatten their wallets. We are looking for representatives that will defend the Constitution and the Nation. We are well past the time that we trust these self annointed idots. Words are cheap, action is not.
Basser
I dont trust any of them. Limit them all to two four year terms period.
Yes. Two terms.
Four years in CON-gress.
Four years in prison.
I am all in favor of any politician who commits to turning over a new leaf in support of the American people even if they have been less than forthcoming in the past. I am not willing to put aside anyone who would be an ally–Boehner included. There is strength in numbers. If any politician wants to help us return this country to what the founding fathers set up, then they are welcome.
But be warned. We are not stupid and you cannot simply pay lip service to us–we will recognize it immediately.
I agree….both sides have gotten the US and the taxpayers in this mess. Too many special interest groups. Too many lobbyists. There should also be term limits. Some of these politicians have been in office too long not to be corrupted by all the lobbyist and their money.
I am sick to death of this man and how he wants everything for himself and screw the rest of us. He doesn't give a damn about the majority of the people. And give me a break. Andy Stern is running the healthcare reform. Just insure the ones who need it and leave the rest of us alone. It isn't going to do any good for any of us now. Call me a pessimist but this is how I feel. We missed the chance earlier with the Bush admin and now we have someone who wants to own us. I am in my 60 and I guess I can forget getting any good healthcare. Look he is already rationing breast exams. What is next. Someone tell me how all of us caring is going to change his mind. They are hiding and doing this so no one will know what is in it and then just pass. The congress and senators don't give a damn. They forget they are working for us and should not even step inside the white house to confer with him. He is only going to bribe them. They take the bribe. They are no better than he is. I hate this crap.
Term Limits!
Google "Freshman 50" if you haven't heard of it yet. Haven't researched it deeply yet, but Brian Miller running in az 8th district 2010 – is founder of the Freshman 50, a PAC that supports term limits – whose goal is to send 50 new reps to Congress in 2010 that support the Freshman 50 platform and mission.
PatriotParty1 posted "It is time for you all to stop covering for Obama, yes you do it too. And start calling him what he is. A Marxist communist bent on the takeover of our country. Get on the floor with cameras present and yell it out! Get on Fox and CNN and where ever you can and tell the people his agenda and what is really going on with these bills!"
EXACTLY! Only a brave and honest expose will redeem the Republican Party.
Hey there Mjolnir – I agree with you. citizen legislators.. part time.. and home again to live under the laws they make. I would add they don't need to be in session for more than 3 months a year anyway. This country has been making laws for 233 years. We don't really need anymore. However if a bill is proposed it should not exceed the amount of page the Constitution, Declaration and Bill of Rights take up. Now because its congress I'll be more specific. This means, all documents using the same size paper, spacing, margins, font type and size.
Yes, let's boot all of them out. Don't care about party.
Yes! We need an administration and congress that would rather do nothing! SWEET!
Oh wait, we had that already. And now this administration and congress are left cleaning it up while a-holes like Boehner continue to whine about process. "That no one read"??? DO YOUR JOB, THEN! Read it! Do SOMETHING POSITIVE instead of whine, whine, whine. These Republicans simply WHINE all the time and then have NOTHING to counter offer. Unbelievable.
I'm beginning to think the late British SF author, Arthur C. Clarke had the right idea: a computer selects our representatives and leaders, and if they perform well, they get out of office early for good behavior!!!
Well said, JohnK144. Being 'dem-lite' is not a winning strategy. 'As republicans, we won't grow the federal government quite as fast as the democrats' is weak. Unacceptable. A lot of Americans are looking for leaders who know how to wield a Constitution worthy, Alaska-sized chain saw to dismantle the beast that is Washington, not just slow its growth. Leaders who have the cojones to slash the spending, eliminate whole departments and agencies, and bind down Big Government with the chains of the Constitution.
Fire them. fire them, fire them, fire them and fire them.
STEP ONE: INVESTIGATE THEM ALL.
STEP TWO: On the spot trials for lawbreakers.
STEP THREE: Executions.
STEP FOUR: New elections with TERM LMIITS!
http://noliberalspin.blogtownhall.com/2009/11/18/...
The Anti Liberal Zone
Sleep comfortably in knowing Nailin Pailin is our future. A devout 57th stater that is only concerned with, “what’s in it for me?” How has this country produced such weak minded hopeless people? Just wow!
yes, you are right.
I concur. We must purge these scoundrels from our ranks and begin anew. Even in their absence, we will suffer for many years because of their past deeds — there is much to change.
I do believe some of the GOP are starting to get it, i do think John is one of the good ones.
Paint me underwhelmed by your rhetoric Congressman. Come back and talk to us when you've acomplished more than posturing.
Almost 20 years in the House and NOW you're upset?
…Next…
Right on, Andrew!!! I am sick of them all. Term limits is one way to go.
I'm actually torn over the idea of re-electing nobody. While I think the vast majority need to go ASAP, there are a rare few (like Sen. Jim DeMint, for example, who I feel has acted honorably and has well represented his constituents and conservatism) that I feel should be supported for doing the *right* thing, instead of caving to the will of special interest groups, either political party, or the press.
John,
I like all these people posting on this article are way way too upset with ALL you in Washington. We don't care about your new initiative if you haven't noticed by the posts here. We do care about our constitution though, we do care about the well being of this country. We do care about our national debt. We do care that our reps don't get in bed with special interests, lobbyists, etc. We do care about our families. We do care about our jobs, or lack thereof. We do care about a lot of things that you people in Washington obviously do not seem to care about. I don't want to here about being the minority. You are each there to represent the people. Not yourselves, not your bank accounts, not your private country club, not your popularity. The only thing we CARE about is OUR COUNTRY!
The funny thing is, is I am a Canadian citizen living in the United States. I have been working on my U.S. citizenship for the past 5 years, and I can't wait to become one. Over the past few years though, I have to say that it seems it isn't really going to be much different living in Canada or the U.S. Canada is a liberal land, and it looks that it is the way the U.S. is moving too. I have lived under universal healthcare, and let me just say this…I am living here!!! If you all love the laws that you pass so much, why don't you all live by them. You guys have one set of rules for us, and another for you all. We are all sick of it, and the only way to solve this problem is to get rid of all you clowns from both parties and go forward with all new. Citizen representatives, people who have never been in politics, that is what we need representing us. Get out of the way John, if this is all you have accomplished representing us this past year, this list of 5 common sense things for you all to do. I could have had my 5 year old come up with this. Give me a break. And you wonder why we are mad a hell! And we are going to take out by using the power of the people!!! The Vote! Good luck and god bless!
Rep Boehner, you still have to explain this one: (From the washington examiner): About Ny-23
"[Conservative] Party bosses in New York have been sold a bill of goods in the form of Doug Hoffman's deceptive smoke-and-mirrors campaign, but fortunately they aren't the ones deciding this election," said Paul Lindsay, a spokesman for the NRCC, which has produced Web ads attacking Hoffman's conservative bona fides. "We will continue to remind New Yorkers that a vote for Hoffman or Bill Owens is a vote for Nancy Pelosi and her far-left, radical agenda."
That's YOUR group that was saying "ignore" conservative candidates like Hoffman…. (of course, before Dumdum Scozzy threw her support behind Owens, and your group threw 900K on her.. OOPS!!! Yeah, that "Big Tent" you've been pushing for…
Or the fact that you guys were supporting "porkulus-backing" Crist in a PRIMARY before you got called on that fact…. "WHOOPS again!"
Yeah, those "CONSERVATIVE" values?
Mr. Boehner, do you realize how badly you have screwed this up? Stop listening to these people when they talk about 'moderates'. They only do so because they want you to lose.You were in power and because you acted like liberals we now have a Marxist president. You want us to trust you again? Why do I feel like Charlie brown about to kick a football?
Boehner's absolutely right about the need for greatly increased transparency in the legislative work of Congress. I'm totally in favor of these reforms.
On the other hand, in the greater scheme of things, these are just preliminary measures, and the real work will begin when we elect legislators who are interested in shrinking government, getting it out of citizens' daily lives and decisions, and undoing already-existing bad legislation rather than creating more bad legislation. The next Congress needs to focus on cleaning up the mess Congress has already left, rescinding bad legislation, and ceasing to saddle future generations with the bills for the pet projects of every congressperson and their brother.
Talk is cheap, and action regarding getting government off our backs rather than dropping government like a ton of bricks on our backs, is what's needed, Congressman Boehner.
The first decision Congress needs to make before even starting to write a bill is this:
"Are we even authorized by the Constitution to do this?"
If it requires doing intellectual gymnastics in order to justify the potential legislation under Article 1 Section 8, stop. It means you shouldn't be touching it, Congress. Stay out.
Then, only then, will the American public start to trust Congress again and we might be able to regain our once great civil society back.
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Lon Walters, marilyn oden. marilyn oden said: Five Common-Sense Steps to Change a Broken Congress http://tinyurl.com/ycvtj3d [...]
I'm excited to see people posting here that they're not happy with either Republicans or Democrats in Congress. The Republican party cannot be given a pass simply because it is less collectivist than the Democrat party. There is massive entitlement spending on both sides. In 2003 Republicans in Congress enacted the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act. This is simply an entitlement program estimated to cost 500 billion + over 10 years.
To join my voice with others here: Being a Republican doesn't get you a pass. Stop this spending! We want our Constitution back!
I see a lot of upset people posting here, including myself. I'm also seeing a lot of people who want Citizen Representatives. I have never been in politics, I've been in the Civil Engineering business for 24 years, that is until Feb. 09. I've been laid off for almost 10 months as I'm writing this. The longest I've ever been laid off is 1 month. During my "vacation", I have been doing my research and getting involved in the political aspects of this country. After seeing what Mr. Hoffman accomplished in NY, I decided that I wanted to run for office. I'm wanting to run against Mel Watt (NC, District 12). The problem I'm having (along with trying to survive this economic mess) is in raising the funds needed to run against him. On average, you need to raise upwards of $300,000 to even get your foot in the door. How can an average Joe like myself do this when almost everyone in Congress or running for Congress is a freaking millionaire that gets a buttload of campaign funds from their buddies in the special interests and lobbyist crowds? How can we citizens even compete with these out of touch politicians with odds not stacked in our favor? Defeating Mel Watt would be a very simple task, as he has watered down the Audit the Fed bill, and has voted for all of this out of control spending while his top donors are the Wall Street bankers.
The only special interest groups and lobbyists for any politician should be the people of this Republic.
We are broke – FLAT BROKE – so we need to roll the 2010 budget back to Clinton's 1995 budget adjusted for inflation and let the Dem's scream.
Funny, they were not screaming during Clinton's spending spree.
Oh the horror of spending only exactly as much – EXACTLY – as we did before?????
Grow a pair, Republicans because its this option or the guillotine after the whole thing collapses.
Or do you think we are going to let you give us 30% inflation and totalitarian rule?
I saw Boehner on TV give his crap sandwich speech. Ok, sounds good.
I was stunned when my extremely conservative congressmen voted for it against most of the Republicans.
When forced on the issue they confessed there was horse trading going on and they needed to flip in their safe seats so a few Dem's could go against and still get it passed.
WTF!!!!!! So this is a game!!!!! An F'n game – let's deliberately destroy the country and enslave the populace and tear up the Constitution!
I also live in N.C. 12th district. Mel Watt must go but this will be a tough one since he represents a gerry-mandered district. If you decide to go up against him, I will contribute to your campaign. Good Luck.
Senator,
If you really want to convince us of your sincerity, STAND UP with others like you and truly denounce the traitors in our system. Tell the people the TRUTH, not what you think we want to hear. Our lives depend on a strong economy and our government has declared war on us. There is no middle ground here, only the TRUTH will save us. My senator, Tom Coburn, will join you. Get out there and tell the truth, starting with your own errors. Although, most of us do not believe that a politician can tell the truth…it's not in their genetics. SPEAK and ACT on TRUTH or get your resume ready.
I know it's will be a tough race, but someone has to stop this madness. Charlotte and the surrounding areas need better representation than we have now.
Thank you for support if I get this train rolling Charles.
Ladies and Gentlemen: there is a point I have not seen addressed on any blog site or aggregator site yet. Why do we not demand that the doctrine of Separation of Powers be exercised? Translation: we have three branches of government. The Executive, the judiciary, and the legislative. Lawyers are officers of the court. They are part of the judiciary. Why are lawyers even permitted to step foot into the halls of Congress, much less serve there? Judiciary personnel writing legislation is the very worst kind of corruption, and both of the name-brand parties are guilty of it.
Stop electing lawyers.
I'm a supporter of Honor In Office:
Take a look at this video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hfhO38CPlAI
This is what happens when reading the bill is not important.
Gross government waste or violations routinely come about when the bills are not read. Witness: Bush Bailout, Stimulus Package, Patriot Act.
I don't care what Party a person belongs to. If a lawmaker is going to vote in favor of the bill, that person has a moral and fiduciary responsibility to read and thoroughly analyze the bill. This applies to any bill, not just the healthcare bill.
Competent deliberation is not possible if no one has read the bill. Read it. Understand it. Have a fine-tuning debate about it. Make the healthcare or any bill as good as it can be.
We've already had enough slipshod laws passed over the last decade. Let's get some good ones passed now.
Jerrol LeBaron
Executive Director
Honor In Office
http://www.HonorInOffice.org
[...] Thursday, November 19th, 2009, by jedwan An interesting and valid list, as I understand the idea of OPEN and HONEST GOVERNMENT. I think that it’s pretty consistent with the President’s Commitment to the most OPEN and TRANSPARENT Government in history. A big change from the Bush secrecy. http://biggovernment.com/2009/11/18/five-common-sense-steps-to-change-a-broken-congress/#more-32826 [...]
I don't know if we can get the bills THAT small; but friend, we don't need legislated monstrosities that consume more than FOUR REAMS of paper, that is for certain!
That PLACE is ACID to the soul…something in Washington takes good people, and within a short time, they become EXACTLY the same monsters they pledged to replace…SO, we have to minimize the exposure to the people we send…and the way to do that is; YOU STAY HOME, until the time comes to do the votes and the State of the Union…
Modern society can do "virtual meetings"; its high time it was a routine part of a legislators' day…
And it sure wouldn't hurt for any lobbying group to have to send out 535 lobbyists across the country for every issue they want to influence…
Example:
We KNOW this health reform bill is a horrid mess…we've SEEN the House version, or at least watched the tables groan under its weight…we've listened to AARP and the AMA scream about the monstrosity, then become placated little kittens with bellies full of milk when the political machine behind this horror feeds them…
"Transparency" doesn't FIX the deaf ears…but I'll bet REMOVING and REPLACING them does…
God, liberals are SO stupid…
Dear Mr. Representative Boehner,
For too long you have ignored us and been one of the guys doing deals just for the sake of doing deals and getting the camera time.
We have had enough. It's a good sign you are here to talk to independent conservatives, and you have been talking a better fight lately.
That said, the GOP leadership has been stunningly incompetent in it's efforts at acting as an "Oppostiion Party".
You need to get serious and realize who your enemies are and the lengths they will go to to enact thier radical agenda.
You OWE it to us to get your act together as a party and defend this country from the cosolidation of the Democrat/Union/Government oligarchy that has taken over.
Please do what is right for the American people and stop the politics as usual and start acting in our collective best interest again.
We will support you only if you are serious and recognize the scope of the job ahead and commit to real change.
That is not the Hope n Change variety…
Are we clear Sir?
Please continue to post at Big Government. We deserve to know the truth about what is happening.
Frances:
Law is not the answer! We have had law until we are blue-state in the face!
What we NEED is INTEGRITY in the offices…men and women that will stand up and say "NO MORE!"
To be frank, I am not even upset when a Waxman or a Rangel is elected by their constituency; that is their right…but when those sleazes talk one game, manipulate another, and live something completely different…
There is only one method that works to stop that sort of behavior…your time is up; go home.
Scott:
You have to see every person in your district you can. Old-folks homes, townhall meetings, any constituent gathering of substance. Buttonhole people coming out of Watt's constituent offices. Ask questions. Find out what they want.
Have five or six very simple and clear positions. Term limits. Frequent in-district office hours where YOU PERSONALLY will see your constituents, not just "open door" garbage. Rollback of useless and unwarranted law, to the best of your ability. A list of every visitor that comes in to see you, and how frequently they are there; ESPECIALLY LOBBYIST GROUPS. Full financial disclosure, and a willingness to stand behind those you support; (this is complicated: if you are 2nd Amendment prone, you'll see the NRA, and they can contribute to you, and you'll publicly and gratefully acknowledge the support. But you won't cleverly accept financing from the Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence, no matter how much. Talk to every precinct committeeman you can reach, and let them know what you stand for; and I mean STAND FOR!
Bet you win…
That was pretty sick, but not as bad as some of the stuff I have seen in congress on CSPAN.
I'll be in touch.
Not only have they destroyed it, but now they claim they want to fix it. THROW THE BUMS OUT!!
Idiot Obama is now talking about a possible double-dip recession. Hear that, Scott?
Mjolnir,
Thanks for all your info, very much appreciated.
Here's what I stand for:
Of course, limited government, and repeal all this out of control spending. Also, I will not have any special interest groups or lobbyists. If a group or organization wants to donate to me, fine, but they will know that I'm not compromising my positions on legislation because of them. They'll know exactly what my stance is, and they will have to abide by it if they want to give my campaign any money. If they don't want to do that, I don't want any financial help from them.
I strongly believe that the private sector can take care of this country's economy better than the Federal government. Get the government policies like Social Security, Medicaid, etc. into the hands of private firms with the addition of strong oversight from Congress.
Get the jobs back to the USA. We need to lower the corporate gains taxes so companies will want to move back here. We need to put people back to work.
I am a strong supporter of the 2nd Amendment. I'm not a gun owner, but I'm glad there are people who are. The Founding Fathers created this Amendment for a reason.
You have to be here legally if you want me to protect your God given rights. If you're here illegally, the government can't protect you. It's as simple as that. If companies still want to hire illegal aliens instead of US citizens, they will go to prison.
Lastly, I will be more than happy to make $170,000 a year to serve this country. The most I ever made in a year was around $70,000, so that tells you a lot. I will not accept any money besides my government salary.
If anyone would like to know more about me, here's my twitter page: http://twitter.com/ScottGrovesNC
I think part of this "crisis" was orchestrated. Particularly the run at the banks last September within 3 hours that turned the election in Obama's favor.
I don't think we need the executions. It appears that Obummer is planning on spending $300 million to house the Islamists in an IL prison once his bootlicker Holder gets the convictions he seems to think are in the bag. Just put the convicted in with the insurgents.
We need a list of all those Congresspeople who voted against receiving the same crappy healthcare they are voting on for us. There was another vote a week ago. Let's get a list together of names, districts, states and photos and start a new blog. VOTE THEM OUT!
Rep. Boehner, there's one thing I wanted Congress to END right away: stop pandering to the Muslim-American movement and cut off all links to Muslim lobbyists and business associates with hidden ties to the Muslim Brotherhood, Hezbollah, and/or the Saudi-funded networks with ties to shady Islamist groups and terrorists. There are too many of them on K Street, Washington, D.C!
America do NOT needed any more Islamopandering politicians in both parties in Congress!
Vote for Medina in the Republican primary. She is more conservative than Mr. Waffler Perry!
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