Ike Eisenhower, generally regarded as one of the best presidents of the last century [many say better than Reagan], served not a single day in Congress. The people were fed up with career politicians, and wanted someone with proven LEADERSHIP ability. Although Allen West will have only 2 years in Congress by 2012, he developed his leadership ability in a military career spanning 22 years of service, including SIX tours of duty in the Middle-East.