[TLBSHOW]

Any thoughts on this major major problem we face with the Senate?

[TLBSHOW]

your thoughts on this?

[KC Burke]

I don't think the comments by Gerry over-rule the words and procedures of the Constitution and the Senate itself. Therefore calls to have the Senate represent Commercial or Moneyed interests are out of place.

I would be happy with old State appointment. That alone would be enough to lift the pliebisitory nature of the Senators. What we need is the deliberative representation that allows independence and cool heads in that body. Right now, they are more driven by political whim and popular mood than the House...a real reversal. That situation then extends to keeping their seat by voting benefits for those wanting government to take and take.

[LS]

This isn't going to be a "major problem" for long. Any number of things are going to release this logjam: 1) when war starts, and the public focuses on the safety of our country and our troops, ANYONE obstructing ANYTHING will suffer the voters' wrath. Some may face recalls. 2) Some Dems will break rank, if for no other reason than their own "pork barrel" stuff will be squelched. 3) The GOP can, and will, play increasingly hard ball. Don't be surprised if Rush's suggestion to stymie all contact with Linda Daschle's lobbying firms doesn't appear. 4) IF the Dems get too uppity, Bush will make recess appointments like you wouldn't believe. 5) I'm convinced the economy will quickly come back when the war is over, and when that happens, Bush's popularity will again be at 80+ percent, and THIS TIME, I don't think he will hesitate to use the bully pulpit on these matters, tying the judges to national security.

[swheats]

Our system of government, I believe, is still strong.

These individuals are broken and need to be removed. Election 2004 hopefully will be the answer to removing a large number of them.

Harry Reid
Tom Daschle
John Corzine
Tim Johnson
Patrick Leahy
Charles Schumer
Barbara Boxer
Robert Byrd
Hillary Clinton
Russ Feingold
Patrick Leahy
Patty Murry
Sarbanes
Richard Durbin

So that it's bipartisan I'll add

Arlan "Scottish Rule" Spectre
Jim "jumping" Jeffords

They are petty, unforgiving, bitter individuals who can't see past their own personal issues to govern on behalf of America.