That was the idea behind the administrations plan to have all bills and such posted publicly for at least 48 hours prior to it being sent thru the House & Senate to the President's desk.

We see how well THAT has worked out....

I ask again....

Where is the change??

Michale......

Consider WHY the "Big Lie" tactic works. Just repeating a lie doesn't convince people. Its when RESPECTED individuals, institutions or authorities lie big that people can be convinced, because THOSE people telling some outrageous lie seems unlikely to the uninformed.

But the country currently DOESN'T respect Congress, federal authorities, the media or EITHER Party very much. People are mostly distrustful and skeptical. Trying "The Big Lie" now only makes one look pathological.

Ironically, President Obama is the only one currently in a position to pull a Big Lie off. Those using it against him aren't hurting HIM, they're hurting THEMSELVES.

Eventually they'll figure that out -- maybe... Until then, no need to get upset, just pass the popcorn sit back and enjoy the sheer spectacle of those committing suicide by attacking an out of reach opponent with poisoned, razor edged boomerangs!

 
AND TO ALL -- regarding earmarks...

There is absolutely nothing wrong with earmarks. You CAN'T do away with them. Our representatives are supposed to represent us. They HAVE to be able to "earmark" funds for us.

The problem is the lack of accountability -- WE haven't been holding them accountable.

WE haven't been demanding transparency. WE haven't been punishing fraud and abuse. Trying to address accountability through process reform in and of itself won't have much impact -- You're going to craft a rule that abusers must fall on their sword--? Its OUR job to run them through!

The last eight years were such a disaster that the last two election cycles are the first time a Party has actually been held accountable by the electorate in my lifetime! Now, our new found power may be going to our heads -- I certainly hope so anyway.

The "special interests" have clout because they're dollars influence elections. But WE do the electing. If WE start holding them accountable -- if the politicians are more afraid of US than the special interests... The special interests would have little clout.

Its our money. If we don't want it wasted we can stop them from wasting it -- simple as that.

Would you say the same thing if it was a Republican's "swimming pool" that made it in??

Michale.....

I couldn't tell you what the hotheads on cable are saying about the budget as I don't watch much anymore...except for Fareed Zakaria on CNN every Sunday, without fail. But, it would be a very safe bet that they are saying nothing about it...or something that betrays their stupidity.

True, is just last years budget but it's the principle of the matter that you do such a great job of shining the spotlight on. If it wasn't for you, and precious few others, my faith in the media and blogsphere would be at zero and heading backwards.

That was one fine rant on the budget and earmarks and I guess I can only dream that there are Democrats and even Republicans who are capable of reciting anything that remotely resembles what you have so clearly stated.

Chris, you should be on the Sunday shows - if these people were really interested in providing their collective audience with quality material, you most surely would be!

...Stan

I agree with CW...

Get rid of earmarks completely and create a new system that does not beg for abuse...

I am tired of paying for some Congress Critter's pool or another Congress Critter's special gym..

Michale.....