Email to GOP Leadership

GOP House leadership,
After watching the meeting with the president I was prompted to share my
thoughts. It was nice to observe the give and take, something rare between
political adversaries.

Each of you is a representative I would eagerly endorse, for many of the
initiatives you have put forward would strengthen our nation which in turn
would benefit the American people.

But, I do take exception with some of the rhetoric coming from both parties
which was discussed, namely, inside Washington talk of earmarks and
lobbyists.

For years the American people have been led to believe earmarks and
lobbyists are bad for they weaken the legislative process.  (Note: Nothing
weakens the process more than how the current health care bill came into
being)

Historically, politicians have used this "tactic" to divert the American
people's attention from the more important, poisonous legislative process
which has failed. What is needed is meaningful and significant changes
which will ensure our representatives legislate in the people's best interests.

Yet rather than eliminate them entirely, which Congress refuses to do,
BOTH parties prefer to only tweak the rules,  assuring they will be
continued, and used as fodder in future political discussions.

Personally, I believe earmarks and lobbyists are valuable, to the states
and districts that benefit and constituencies wanting to have their views
aired.

What needs to be done is change the legislative process; by restricting the
size of legislation,guaranteeing members and staffs write it, read it, and
present it to the public before voting.

Additionally, legislation must be clear and crisp so the American people
can be assured internal bureaucracies are not empowered to interpret and
enforce new laws and regulations which is a major concern of anyone who
has taken the time to read the health care reform bill.

Lastly, the American people need to see meaningful belt tightening. We
have seen the abuses of the current Congress, and what needs to be done
is to address them. Eliminate the insulting (to taxpayers) manner in which
Congress increases their own salaries, reduce non-essential expenses,
restrict travel, especially abroad, eliminate redundant, overlapping
committees, which also translates to reducing staffs.

Such changes would be a huge, first step for Congress to show the
American people that they get it!


Much success,
Anthony Bruno
107 Landser Ct.
Cary, NC 27519
919 481-4538