I'm just now reading up on it. Newsweek has this article. This line pretty much sums up the mistake many Republicans made:
When the Republicans took over the House in 1994 for the first time in 40 years,
they postured as reformers. But they were soon lapping at the trough just as
greedily as the Democrats, only with better discipline.
The bottom line is accepting favors and luxury gifts from rich lobbyists. An age old story. What is it with these people??? It's like no matter what your intentions, greed gets the best of you in Washington D.C.
Does McCain's reforms look so wacky now? So many Republicans can't stand him for that, but it looks like we can say at least he tried to do something about this insane amount of money and corruption that occurs when one steps into public office in Washington D.C.
I think a lot of it has to do with keeping up with the Jones. The politicians see everyone else living well, and why not??? Free stuff should just not be part of the package. Ever. You are there as a public servant, not a privileged rich boy or girl. Get your job done. Then if you want to make some money AFTER you leave office and fly around the world, then do so. But not while you are on my payroll.
Enough already. Let's clean house. Let's make sure both Republicans and Democrats understand that this is important business, doing the people's work. It is not a country club. I'm ashamed of the Republicans involved.
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