Life After Congress May 25, 2008
Posted by Resident Egoist in : Interventionism, Law and Government , trackbackMost people in this country lead their daily lives with the illusion that there exists some sort of fundamental difference between our two major political parties; namely the Republicans and the Democrats. Here’s and interesting passage from an article by Congressman Ron Paul that should put an end to the entertainment of this folly - not that I’m naive enough to think that it actually will:
[After leaving office, former members of Congress] find it quite convenient to associate with other former members of the opposing party and start a lobbying firm. What might have appeared to be contentious differences when in office are easily put aside to lobby their respected party members. Essentially no philosophic difference of importance exists — it’s only a matter of degree and favors sought, since both parties must be won over. The differences they might have had while they were voting members of Congress existed only for the purpose of appealing to their different constituencies, not serious differences of opinion as to what the role of government ought to be. This is the reality of bipartisanship. Sadly our system handsomely rewards those who lobby well and in a bipartisan fashion. Congressional service too often is a training ground or a farm system for the ultimate government service: lobbying Congress for the benefit of powerful and wealthy special interests.
This article from the Washington Post, though a bit old, offers greater (financial) perspective on the subject as well. Don’t miss it.
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