Libya, Egypt, and the Congress-Lobbyist Complex's Revolving Door

The phrases which come to mind are 'undue influence' and 'conflict of interest'. The writer states that these arrangements, where a Congressman/woman can go almost immediately from public to the private sphere, are currently lawful.

Since there is such a strong incentive for members of the legislative group to do this, it would seem more sensible to make it ten years before they can become lobbyists. I use the term 'undue influence' because my perception, I think like many, is that using your influence when you know how to work the system is reprehensible.

There are some in Congress who apparently look greedily to such a future. I'd love to see lobbyists banned, as there is always money behind them. With money, unfortunately, comes influence.

From Title 28 of the U S Code : "Disqualification of justice, judge, or magistrate judge," provides that a federal judge "shall disqualify himself in any proceeding in which his impartiality might reasonably be questioned."

Why should Congressmen be exempt from these same ethical considerations?

Tim B of WA 9:09PM March 09, 2011