The Indy Star has a few stories on Indiana Congressional travel where the cost of the trip is picked up by third parties. It’s apparently legal, but raises ethical questions. According to the story, Sen. Bayh is the biggest traveler from the Indiana delegation and the 4th in the Congress. Senator Lugar ranks 14th and, in a distant 3rd, comes Rep. Mark Souder at 153 out of 637. (535 Reps and 100 Senators? Who are numbers 636 and 637?) Families often go along for the ride and the trips are often paid for by groups with interests specific to the Congressperson’s legislative specialty. For example, Rep. Buyer’s trips to Las Vegas telecommunications conferences have been paid for by telecommunications interests.
The stories:
I have to say, this issue does not cause me a great deal of consternation. But I had to mutter a little bit at Rep. Souder’s quote with respect to family joining in on these third party paid trips. Some have suggested that if we’re going to allow these trips at all, they should be strictly business. Souder’s response:
“To do this job well already stresses family time,” said Souder, R-Fort Wayne. “If anything, I think the rules for children should be more generous, not less.”
With all due respect, Mr. Representative, sir, you know what really causes family stress? No healthcare, no jobs, wondering if you’re going to be evicted next week, wondering how your sick mother is going to be cared for, wondering where your next paycheck is coming from, wondering if increased property taxes are going to force you from your home, wondering if the pollution in the air is going to cause you cancer, wondering if your Dad is coming home from Iraq, wondering if America’s staggering deficits will lead to another depression and financial ruin. So, excuse me if I don’t cry you a river when little Timmy doesn’t get to tag along on your next trip to Germany.
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