[BobbyStrawberry]

Originally Posted by Casey2296

Well said Bob,

My little rant was not directed at hard working, honest, federal employees nor current and former members of the armed services, many of which have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country including my own family members.

Congress on the other hand, with their stellar 18% approval rating, and elected officials who prioritize their own interests over the good of the country disgust me. Why don't we start at the top and fire every Congress person convicted of a felony and not allow convicted felons to run for one of the highest offices in the country. Let's also go after Congress who profits from pre legislation insider trading for profit. And while we're at it let's make them navigate the wonderful healthcare system we have in this country instead of having their own plan. Or how about the greatest country on earth have a clear, concise, energy plan to provide low cost energy to everyone so folks don't have to decide whether to pay their energy bill or eat. Or dismantle the elitist higher education system so everybody, no matter their socioeconomic position can go to college if they want to.

Let's have Congress, who supposedly work for us, rebuild the rungs on the ladder that they dismantled and allow American Citizens to move from lower class to upper middle class within a generation or two.

I could go on but I'm ranting again and I'd rather talk baseball cards...

IMO the first step toward changing any of the things you mention (all of which I agree with, btw) is to get money out of the electoral process. Currently, money buys influence, so those with the most money (and thanks to Citizens United, this now includes money funneled from overseas) have the most influence. We'd see a non-useless legislative branch if the representatives were there for reasons other than personal enrichment.