Here’s an idea: Congresspeople stay in their own states and districts and vote via phone or skype and away from Washington DC lobbyists....what? That’s not the kind of updated ideas you’re looking for?
I really like this. How can you ‘represent’ a state you don't live in?
We had a Libertarian here in Georgia propose exactly that. Every Congressman’s office must be located in the District he/she serves. All votes conducted remotely. All lobbyist buildings on K street would be vacant within 3 months.
Sell D.C. offices to a college or university for offices, classrooms, dorms, etc. Turn the Capitol Building into tour site; charge for the tours to cover costs. All Sens must live in their states, red in districts, and communicate thru modern, low cost tech.
Exactly. There is absolutely no reason for congresspeople to constantly troop off to Washington like it’s 1789 or something. Committee hearings can be done via teleconference, votes, as you say, electronically, and our reps can stay in their home districts, making the lobbyists have to come to them to do the hustle.
Billions of dollars saved. Accountability strengthened. If they all want to get together, they can meet for the State of the Union once a year.
It makes perfect sense. Which is why official Washington would HATE it.