 |
 |
Rep. Jason Murphey
Because of my point of view about the massively inappropriate nature of lobbyist influence over policy makers, I have closely observed the mind set of those who benefit from lobbyist funding. I have come to believe there are a sizable number of elected officials who use a special type of situational ethics logic to excuse their acceptance of this money.
If you have ever attended a political forum where a politician was forced to field questions about the influence of lobbyists, you may have made these same observations. The politicians usually defend the status-quo by talking about the important role the lobbyist play in “educating” policy makers. Rarely will the lawmaker talk about the involvement of the lobbyist’s checkbook in funding his/her campaigns for office, and it is especially interesting to observe the lawmaker’s defense of the very inappropriate practice of accepting personal gifts from the special interests.
In recent days, the US Congress has been debating taking steps that I believe will inappropriately involve the federal government in matters that should be left to the free market. This recent economic turmoil has reminded me of a recently released book (a fascinating read) by hedge fund manager David Einhorn entitled, Fooling Some of the People All of the Time. Read more…
Related:
Competitive Enterprise Institute’s “Bailout Watch” blog
AP: (via Durant Daily Democrat) Oklahomans sound off on bailout plan
1 Comment
1. janie replies at 4th October 2008, 5:54 pm :
Rep. Murphey is so right on! How I wish my Congressman Mary Fallon had the same integrity! Does the statement, “I vote no before I voted yes” have a familar ring to it? Thanks, Mary for selling out your constituency.
Leave a comment