. . . The End of the Beginning . . .

During the last few weeks, each day we hear of another incumbent politician, Senator or Congressman, who has decided not to run for re-election. For some, it is the obvious choice because of age, affliction, or some other problem. For most, though, it appears to be the realization that the American people are “mad as hell and [they’re] not going to take it anymore.” It is neither Democrats or Republicans who are being targeted, but rather any incumbent. After the house cleaning of 2006, the “Pols” finally know that they are temporary employees that can be fired by their bosses – the voters. Incumbents are an endangered species.

What, though, of the Senator (no names please) who could have won re-election in a walk, yet chose not to run because he is fed up with partisan politics and Congress’ inability to accomplish ANYTHING? What of the eminently qualified individual who chooses not to run because he or she has an irrelevant skeleton in their closet?  We can still be saved, but unless we change quickly; educate our children in Civics, teach the Law in high school, and encourage quality candidates of both parties, this does not bode well for the future of our democracy.

Abraham Lincoln once quipped;

“America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves.”

 

Is this the beginning of the end, or the end of the beginning?