Political Corruption

Usually I don't watch 60 Minutes, but, last night I did.  It was no real surprise to me that it showed how corrupt many of our politicians are.  I don't even find it shocking that our politicians don't have to play by the same rules as everyone else.  It's no wonder people want to be a politician.  Talk about Greedy.  This is a prime reason why we need to be more aware and active in the political process.  I get tired of hearing the argument that "we can't do anything about it."  That just is not true.

According to this article, based on the show last night:

Washington, D.C. is a town that runs on inside information - but should our elected officials be able to use that information to pad their own pockets? As Steve Kroft reports, members of Congress and their aides have regular access to powerful political intelligence, and many have made well-timed stock market trades in the very industries they regulate. For now, the practice is perfectly legal, but some say it's time for the law to change.

According to this article, it list the 50 richest members of Congress.  I have to wonder about the Senators as well.

Now what can be done about this?  Some Lawmakers are really trying to stop this from happening and have been since 2006.  According to this article:

Two House Democrats are pushing legislation that would prohibit lawmakers and federal employees from profiting from non-public information they obtain in their jobs official positions while requiring greater oversight. 

You can read the entire bill here.

Now for the question, What can I do?  It is real simple.  Contact you members of Congress here, and your Senators here.  Let them know how you feel about passing this bill and let them know that you will be watching.  Let your voice be heard by informing your Politician that you are watching and you will vote them out and get someone who will listen to the people.  We still have a voice in this country and we should be heard.  If we want our country back we must be heard and do not give up or give in.

Wall Street protesters against greed

If you  watch and listen to the protesters on Wall Street and now all across the country, one of their main complaints is how the rich are greedy.  I find that to be hypocritical.  Aren't we all a little greedy?  Some more than others though.

Look at it this way.  We work, earn money and go out and buy things.  The more we buy the more we want.  When the latest gadget comes out, don't we want to go out and buy it whether we need it or not?  That is greed.

Definition of GREED

: a selfish and excessive desire for more of something (as money) than is needed

Many have made their fortunes by playing the stock market.  Well, so can the rest of us.  We can only achieve that by educating ourselves on how the stock market works and what are good investments.  Of course, you have to have money to invest in the stock market.  The best way to do that is work and save some money.

Unlike this person, we can be smarter.

Yes, it would be nice to have all the newest gadgets, but, ask yourself... do you really need it, or would you prefer to save your money and invest wisely?  We have the same opportunity as those who invest and make money via the stock market.  There are other opportunities to make money just like those "greedy" politicians, investors, and corporations.  Just learn how and do it.  That is what makes this country great.

If you think your politician is getting to "greedy"...vote them out!