Evolving Despotism

I am a Vietnam veteran who witnessed as a trauma surgeon the devastation of body, mind, and soul wrought upon our youth in that far away land. I, too, am repelled by the criminal actions which precipitated and accomplished the invasion of our most sacred halls of government.

I will never condone the actions of those who participated.

What about the patriotic, law-abiding, tax-paying Americans attuned to what goes on within those hallowed halls? Are we happy with the product that arises from the actions of our elected senators and representatives? Are we satisfied with their leadership? Must a vote for the bills that arrange for life-saving allotments to our citizens whose welfare has been put in jeopardy by Covid-19 be used as leverage to curry favors and add inappropriate expenses to those bills.

I certainly respect the US Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Branches of Government. I value those sacred, unique documents and institutions. They have served us successfully.

However, I do not respect some we’ve elected to represent us in serving our country and our democracy.

As I see it, no matter the good intentions of the candidate, after expending millions of dollars, the new arrivals to the senate and congress renege on promises to their electorate. They learn to engage in activities to ensure their re-election and deification. These men and women do not primarily serve us. Disappointingly, they mainly serve themselves. Some become institutions that are in power for life; it sounds like evolving despotism.

Their pensions are taxpayer-funded. They also have access to 401 (k)-style plans and the tax-deferred “Thrift Savings Plan.” They benefit from personalized medical insurance. They get away using taxpayer monies for mail, staff, stationery, office rental, and travel.

When visiting St. Petersburg, Russia, I observed the opulence of the Tsars’ palaces. I commented to my wife that I now understood why the citizens revolted.

Must the first actively overt action against this situation be brought about by a gangster inciting other gangsters? There is a message.

Those of us represented by our elected officials must regain a modicum of influence and control.

Going to the voting booth is not working.

We will never see lawmakers impose term limits upon themselves.

With the advent of the cell phone and social media, communication is instantaneous and conducive to instigating large numbers into aberrant behavior. We just witnessed it.

We must avoid our citizens believing that storm clouds of helplessness engulf them. They may begin to feel they have nothing more to lose. There in danger lies.