[Kojaimea]

I could probably rant and rave about the current status of the American political system for a good amount of time, but I find it tiring to do in real life, much less on the Internet. I will simply say that our politicians either need to grow up, put party politics behind them and do what is best for AMERICANS (not themselves) or we need to go back to the old days when being a politician was a privilege and a duty, not a paid job. Perhaps making them go back to their day jobs in addition to serving as a congressman might put them back in touch with their constituents. Or at the very least, only those truly interested in serving would run for office.

But it is hard for politicians, because doing the right thing long term often means suffering short term, such as raising taxes to build more schools. Everyone can see the short term loss and will not be happy about it (Thus they won't lead for very long) but a couple of terms down the line people will praise them because of the new schools being built and the benefits it has to society.

The problem isn't really the politicians, they are only playing the system the best the can, the real problem is actually the system itself.

[ramien123]

Solution. Involve God. Ask if he can fix it.

On second thought, I like what Saved said. The system will eventually sort itself out.

[savesthedazed]

I could probably rant and rave about the current status of the American political system for a good amount of time, but I find it tiring to do in real life, much less on the Internet. I will simply say that our politicians either need to grow up, put party politics behind them and do what is best for AMERICANS (not themselves) or we need to go back to the old days when being a politician was a privilege and a duty, not a paid job. Perhaps making them go back to their day jobs in addition to serving as a congressman might put them back in touch with their constituents. Or at the very least, only those truly interested in serving would run for office.

But it is hard for politicians, because doing the right thing long term often means suffering short term, such as raising taxes to build more schools. Everyone can see the short term loss and will not be happy about it (Thus they won't lead for very long) but a couple of terms down the line people will praise them because of the new schools being built and the benefits it has to society.

The problem isn't really the politicians, they are only playing the system the best the can, the real problem is actually the system itself.

The problem is both, but the politicians themselves wouldn't be so bad if the system wasn't so easy to take advantage of (hence my suggestion about taking away congressional pay). Being a politician is good money, plain and simple. So they'll say whatever they can to get elected and then they'll do whatever they can to benefit themselves.

And you are right about politicians doing the right thing. They often won't do it because the short-term effects will hurt their chances for reelection (which is all a politician truly cares about once they gain office). If you took away the monetary rewards of being a congressman, then you'd be more likely to see them do the right thing. Of course, this is an oversimplification, as the actual reformation of the system would require much more. But, in my opinion, this is likely the root of our country's political problems.

[CirJohn]

On second thought, I like what Saved said. The system will eventually sort itself out.

Tell that to Rome.

[ramien123]

I meant that the system would endure, it survived the Fall of Rome after all. If I implied that the people working/living within the system would be along for the ride, well, that was a mistake.

[catsfuzz]

I could probably rant and rave about the current status of the American political system for a good amount of time, but I find it tiring to do in real life, much less on the Internet. I will simply say that our politicians either need to grow up, put party politics behind them and do what is best for AMERICANS (not themselves) or we need to go back to the old days when being a politician was a privilege and a duty, not a paid job. Perhaps making them go back to their day jobs in addition to serving as a congressman might put them back in touch with their constituents. Or at the very least, only those truly interested in serving would run for office.

Woah, I... I am moved. THANK YOU SAVES!

EDIT: Also, those are some really good points you guys are making. Hey saves, ever consider going into politics?

[savesthedazed]

EDIT: Also, those are some really good points you guys are making. Hey saves, ever consider going into politics?

It's still a rich, man/woman's game and I am a poor college graduate (have I mentioned how we need massive reform on campaign financing?). Also, I refuse to pander to party politics, even if I do side with Democrats more often than Republicans.

[catsfuzz]

EDIT: Also, those are some really good points you guys are making. Hey saves, ever consider going into politics?

It's still a rich, man/woman's game and I am a poor college graduate (have I mentioned how we need massive reform on campaign financing?). Also, I refuse to pander to party politics, even if I do side with Democrats more often than Republicans.

Eh, you're right. I agree that both parties can offer good ideas, but I still call myself a Socially Moderate Economic Liberal, so if you change your mind, you have my vote!

[XxEl_WolfxX]

I'm losing faith in our El Presidente, no matter what happens, the younger generations (us) will end up cleaning this mess up