Town Square

Post a New Topic

Congress

Original post made by Jag Singh, Duveneck/St. Francis, on Oct 30, 2006

Rolling Stone contributing editor, Matt Taibbi, confirms what most Americans decry, namely the 109th Congress is ¡§the worst ever.¡¨ He describes our lawmakers (or law breakers) as a ¡§stable of thieves, . . . did their best to turn the mighty American empire into a debt-laden, despotic backwater.¡¨ Matt backups up his denunciation of Congress with compelling statistics.
„« The House ¡¥worked¡¦ 218 days, including nine ¡¥short¡¦ eleven minute days. The Senate had three days where they ¡¥worked¡¦ less than 1 minute, qualifying it as the laziest Congress on record.
„« Drastically reduced the number of ¡§open rules¡¨ effectively stifling debate and amendments.
„« Conference committees have been reduced to a total sham. Democrats are invited for a photo-op, then asked to leave after which the Republicans conduct the real meeting at an undisclosed location. Democrats are compelled to waste time knocking on doors to determine the meeting venues. There have been several instances were Republicans have hid behind doors to avoid detection resembling the antics of elementary school children.
„« Denied Democrats advanced notices of meetings to subvert any real debate. At one such meeting, the committee chairman, James Sensenbrenner of Wisconsin, adjourned the meeting abruptly, turned off the microphones and lights leaving the startled Democrats in total darkness.
„« Amendments (earmarks) are tacked on to bills as favors to select members to ensure their reelection prospects and as rewards to corporate donors.

Comments

Don't miss out on the discussion!
Sign up to be notified of new comments on this topic.

Email:


Post a comment

Sorry, but further commenting on this topic has been closed.

Stay informed.

Get the day's top headlines from Palo Alto Online sent to your inbox in the Express newsletter.

Which homes should lose gas service first?
By Sherry Listgarten | 4 comments | 5,197 views

Boichik Bagels is opening its newest – and largest – location in Santa Clara this week
By The Peninsula Foodist | 0 comments | 2,636 views

I Do I Don't: How to build a better marriage Page 15
By Chandrama Anderson | 0 comments | 1,314 views

WATCH OUT – SUGAR AHEAD
By Laura Stec | 14 comments | 1,145 views

 

Palo Alto Weekly Holiday Fund

For the last 30 years, the Palo Alto Weekly Holiday Fund has given away almost $10 million to local nonprofits serving children and families. 100% of the funds go directly to local programs. It’s a great way to ensure your charitable donations are working at home.

DONATE TODAY