I stand amazed at Democrats in the first hours of power
By: relawson
Published On: 1/5/2007 10:38:01 PM
(Nancy Pelosi joined by Republican leadership)
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I had high hopes with the new Congress, but of course had my doubts.
I must now admit that I stand amazed at what this government, under Democratic leadership, has accomplished in a matter of hours. The question I have is CAN THEY KEEP IT UP?
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My hope is that after comprehensive reforms to ethics laws are passed, which by the way Republicans should be ashamed for not passing long ago, the Congress moves on to other crucial issues. I think that in the first 100 hours they should use their newly found powers to make sure that this Congress is in the hands of the American people. Only after that can we expect the will of the people to be done in Washington.
I am giving Democrats an A+ for their splendid efforts this week. If they keep this up, and continue to represent the people, I promise you that this party will win more seats in 2008 and ultimately the White House.
I believe that Democrats need to go even further in ethics and lobbying reforms. Not to protect them from Republicans, but from themselves. The reason is simple: In 1994 Republicans swept into power because the people didn't trust our government. Republicans have since become the problem. Absolute power creates absolute corruption - so limiting their own powers will prevent corruption and in the process preserve power.
I can promise each of you that if the Democrats of tomorrow become like the Republicans of today, I will oppose them just as strongly as I oppose the Republicans now. Democratic leadership can act now to prevent history from repeating itself. Fortunately, it looks as if they are acting responsibly - which is so refreshing.
Comments
Now (Gordie - 1/6/2007 8:22:38 AM)
that this first week is over, it has been great watching the D's in action. Some of the leaders are doing a great job in responding to some spin. So far they have laid out a great ethics(from what I heard)package. Going thru the last 3 days, it reminded me just how hard we have to work in the future; first with keeping D's in power, then making sure they stay on the right track.
These reforms are only good for 2 years, so staying on the ball will be our job.
Times Person of the Year; is a great honor that was bestrowed upon this entire body, the internet blogs. May the power in this universe, that I call GOD, guide us with a high morals, grace, and conviction.
The proof of the pudding... (Silver Fox - 1/6/2007 9:20:41 AM)
The grandma in charge of coining pithy sayings got it right when she said pointedly, "The proof of the pudding is in the eating." It's a good beginning and getting the 100 hours agenda passed in the House will be an excellent start. Of course, navigating those bills through the Senate is going to be trickier with our pitifully thin majority there, but all are good things that need to be enacted so I hope moderate Republicans can get on board. The real test is going to be, what happens after the 100 hours? We've got a war going on in Iraq (and don't forget those troops over in Afghanistan please) which has such long term consequences to our Treasury and national debt that I get a hollow feeling every time I think about it. We've got global warming, we've got a national health care crisis, we've got to get behind remewable energy development, bio, solar, wind...you name it. We've had a "Do Nothing" Congress which abrogated its responsibilities. I want this Democratically led Congress to "Do" a whole lot of things and I'll be watching, with hope, but a certain amount of cynicism too.
I Pray (Gordie - 1/7/2007 1:29:51 AM)
my impression is correct. The feelings are that half the Senate is behind the Democrats, House Agenda. The only one I am not sure of is Joe Lieberman.
The big question is what will Bush do. Is he going to Veto just for pay back over not backing his Surge "Escalation" of the War?
looks good to me (TurnVirginiaBlue - 1/6/2007 5:57:31 PM)
While I have my specific agenda, they are passing things so much in favor by most Americans to me that's a very good thing. I hope they continue to listen to the polls and actually represent constituents.
I noticed in the MSM they seemed pretty dismal and critical already, even D pundits and I was like, "gee wiz" they are getting something done, give 'em a break, this is all good.