Open Letter to Congressman Dick Armey

By Author ^ | August 4, 2002 | John J. Abele

[RealGem]

August 4, 2002

Dear Congressman Armey:

About ten days ago I saw you on television evening discussing a variety of subjects with the host. One of the topics was your retirement from the House. This reminded me that I retired (for age) from normal work just as you were elected to your first term.

My retirement allowed me the time to watch a great deal of C-SPAN, and to read the world news from a variety of sources. Inevitably I saw and heard a good deal from and about you. Your achievements are well documented and known to a great many people around the world. Your Doctorate in Economics should have been a great asset to the nation and a great help to you in your government pursuits.

I listened with great care to your opinions. After it was over I mentally reviewed your words, and after some minutes my conclusion was: What did he say?

The economy and the stock markets peaked about eighteen months ago. Did you warn us about that? Did you warn us periodically during this down period that this was in process? Did you ever say that the best place for any savings was not in any security market but under the mattress?

The worst things that you left unsaid during the past eighteen months is that accountants and auditors were telling blatant lies instead of the truth they were legally bound to tell, and that corporate executives were stealing billions. With your education and position, I find it hard to believe that you did not see this. Why didn't you warn the American people?

When I die, it will be mentioned in one line in a newspaper - maybe. When you die, the obituary will require at least a half page. The sheer volume of your accomplishments and achievements will require it

A few people, however, will remember your supreme moment of glory. The day that you interrupted the House proceedings to announce the death of Bob Hope.

[CROSSHIGHWAYMAN]

Armey and Clinton have some similar attributes. One in particular.......a large frame without much substance beneath!

[Mike K]

In his last 2 terms, Armey was a complete disappointment to me. Then when he attempted to coronate his son, I came to realize that they are all alike. Pubs or dems, how can you tell them apart?

There are few exceptions to this rule of politics.

[lonestar]

I have been disappointed with Armey in his past two terms. Who knows that he hasn't just given up. My guess is that after a point in time in D.C., beating your head against the wall becomes old.

When I die I will only have a line or two in the obit column.

That's why I'm making the most of the opinion page while I'm here. It might not accomplish much but it beats the heck out of sitting and doing nothing and blaming others for what they didn't do.

[Abcdefg]

See Ron Paul!

[lonestar]

Ron Paul took a breather. I like Ron Paul. Am familiar with him from waaaay back. But I can't recall anything that he got thru Congress. Hope I'm wrong.

[Abcdefg]

Sometimes it about stopping bad legislation.
Ron is only one out of 435, but he's a good one.

[lonestar]

What has Paul stopped?

The dirtbag Democrat that is my congressman has done more harm than Ron Paul has done good. You might have never heard of him--Jim Turner. "Blue Dog" president; votes with the liberals. Says one thing, does another.

[Abcdefg]

I am allegedly represented by Kay Granger(R).
Before that it was Jim Wright then Pete Geren (D). Pete had a good 50% conservative voting record, Republican Granger has a 35% conservative voting record.

[lonestar]

Jim Wright

I couldn't stand that guy! I don't know anything about Kay Granger.

I had Ron Paul years ago; moved and had Bill Archer.

I live in Dist.2; has been represented by Jack "Clymer" Brooks and Charlie "Good-time Hot-check" Wilson. Now I have Jim "Yellow (Blue) Dog" Turner.

We also have a high illiteracy rate.

[AdA$tra]

You guys sound like a bunch of DU readin', Ma Richards loving liberals to me.

[joesbucks]

I agree with the analysis, but let me add one additional point.......his inability to communicate conservatism in general.

To those who were in his "amen" corner, they had not problem. But to those who found his ideology foreign, that's exactly what they heard......something foreign. Armey knows what needs done.....he simply doesn't have the skill to communicate it beyond those who agree lock step with him.