CA: Stark blasts GOP dominance over Congress

Oakland Tribune ^ | 12/5/04 | Barry Shatzman

[NormsRevenge]

FREMONT -- In his first town meeting since being re-elected in November, Democratic Rep. Pete Stark wasted no time in decrying the partisan enviroment that prevails over Congress. Stark said that House Speaker Dennis Hastert has made it clear that Democrats would not be invited to help craft legislation.

"It makes our job one of a constant critic," he said.

About 50 people came to Saturday morning's meeting at the Senior Center, to hear what the Fremont Democrat had to say about the upcoming congressional session. It will be Stark's 17th term in the House, since first being elected in 1972.

Stark said he will continue to push for immediate withdrawal from Iraq, though admitting he doesn't have much support on this issue, even from his fellow Democrats.

"I see us gaining nothing (in Iraq)," he said, pointing out the thousands of American soldiers who lost their lives or have been seriously wounded in the conflict.

He said he also will continue to push for mandatory, two-year national service for all youth turning 18 years old. Stark's vote in October was one of only two House votes in favor of the proposal, saying it would put decision-makers more in touch with the realities of war.

"We should all have some skin in the game. Then you wouldn't have so many votes for war," he said.

Stark also addressed domestic issues, including Social Security privatization, school vouchers and further tax cuts. He said that all would have damaging effects, while providing the least help to those who most need it.

When asked what one could do to make prescription drugs affordable, Stark crisply responded, "Go to Canada."

Stark said buying prescription drugs from Canada could cut the cost in half. He also took a jab at those who cite safety concerns in fighting to keep the importation of Canadian drugs illegal.

"They're talking about safety from Canada? What about Vioxx?," he said, referring to the recently recalled drug made by U.S. manufacturer Merck

[John Lenin]

"It makes our job one of a constant critic,"

No moron, your job is to come up with a better way of governing. If California is your example the RATS are in for a long term in the minority.

[Carry_Okie]

No moron, your job is to come up with a better way of governing. If California is your example the RATS are in for a long term in the minority.

One can only hope. If all these illegals get to vote, collapse is a done deal.