By Regis H. Murphy, Jr.
GKO Contributing Writer
The people of California have made a statement that should be recognized by all elected 'officials' throughout our country, that citizens still have the power via the vote to make or break them! Thank the Lord!
And who better to be the winning example, than a non-career politician, that's a naturalized American citizen and a recognized member of one of our two major parties while his wife is a member of the opposition. What a truly American Story. The winning candidate for governor of one of our biggest and most influential states, publicly voices his position that he owes everything he has, which is quite a bit so we're told, to his being an American in general and a Californian in particular. Sure is refreshing to hear someone, especially an elected official, to be appreciative for living in America!
Not surprisingly, the day after the California recall and election, two senators were on television voicing their negative position on the happenings in California. One said, in general, that she believed "elected officials should not have to look over their shoulders" while in office.
My question is, why not? Does her comment mean that once elected, a politician should disregard the wishes of his or her constituency until next election? And, I'd like to compare that politicians' statement of "looking over one's shoulder" to local p police activities, military operations and doctors, for example. Where did our politicians get the idea that they were not responsible to the people that elected them on a constant basis, and not just during an election?
Could it be that 'we the people' have been silent for too long and have given those politicians the impression that we just didn't much care? The latest election in California should be a 'wake up call' for all of those who whine about our government but do nothing to change it. Vote! You've seen by the example demonstrated out west that common sense can cross over political, racial, and religious lines and effect the outcome of an election for the good of all citizens.
The other 'career' politician interviewed said, "elections are one thing, but keeping promises made during them is another thing altogether." Hello! That's exactly why Davis was recalled. That statement has been common knowledge to most of our citizens since before President Lincoln. Where has she been? Was she awak during history class in high school or college, if she did in fact attend?
When professional athletes, for example, fail to perform, they are replaced. The same holds true for most every profession in one way or another. Why not then in the elected political arena? When a politician fails to do what he promised, put him on waivers and give him a chance to improve his performance. But, if he does not comply with the wishes of the people, replace him. Why not?
Hopefully, the citizens of our whole country will recognize the example the folks in California have shown us by their latest statewide election. 'We The People' still do have credibility when it comes to electing and/or keeping our elected officials on track with the desires of their respective communities.
Maybe, just maybe this is the beginning of a new era in 'honest' politics, if there is such a thing. Perhaps Arnold will show us, as well as the 'career' politicians, a new technique in government. That any citizen who has the good of the people at heart, is willing to work and sacrifice to elect and efficient and honest result can and should be elected. Good luck, Arnold, we're all watching you with the hope that you will succeed.
That's my opinion. What's yours?
Remember; "This Is Still America!"
P.S. You have the right to remain silent… but anything you do, or fail to do, is your own responsibility!
| Editor's Note: The opinions expressed in Romeo 47 are that of the author and not necessarily that of Al Colombo or others who appear in the GKO publication. Direct inquiries regarding it's content to the author. Thank you. |
