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Congress — Just When You Thought You've Seen It All...You think I would have learned a long time ago not to be surprised by anything Congress does. It is truly a land of the absurd where common sense is routinely turned on its head. And yet, I couldn’t help but do a double-take when I saw a little nugget of entertainment on the agenda for a vote in the House of Representatives today. Despite an economy in shambles, a military stretched to the breaking point in two wars and seven years of civil liberties abuses that we still do not know the full scope of; Congress has decided that it simply cannot wait another day without passing H. Res. 1255 — a resolution honoring Toby Keith’s commitment to members of the Armed Forces. Perhaps Congress was afraid of getting a boot in the ass if they didn’t act.It is the American way after all (at least according to Mr. Keith). My point isn’t really against Toby Keith or his work, however, but of the priorities of Congress. When are we going to, oh I don’t know, demand they start to address the pressing challenges facing this country? That being said, if I were an all-knowing, esteemed Member of Congress (hey, we all can dream right?), I would propose a resolution honoring Steve Earle for his commitment to peace and social justice (not to mention a great recurring role on The Wire). Here’s to you Steve!
Tags: Civil Liberties News
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Sep 16th, 2008 at 7:17pm
With Congress using the Suspension Calendar and a Unanimous Vote/Voice Vote, they forgot how to debate a topic and come to a resolution that might actually be in the best interest of the people.
Forget that... That's too much work. They'd rather come in, say "yay" and begone. Forget justice. Forget researching a topic before designing a bill. Forget that they are sworn to uphold the Constitution. Forget that they are supposed to be the voice of the people!
They'd rather sit back, drink their coffee, and rake in the money.