I have made a fairly conscience decision not to write about politics here. It's not that I don't care; I do, very much so. I just think that there are a lot of people who cover politics and do such a good job of it that I don't think it's necessary for me to join the fray. This morning found me particularly full of pique and I thought I'd copy down my angry journal entry that I scrawled on the train today. Sorry for the extra dose of spleen.
Many mornings find me muttering or yelling things at NPR. It's not Morning Edition that makes me mad, but rather what Steve Inskeep and the lot are reporting. This morning's news has me bristling with anger in a way that hasn't happened in a while. (Since the 2000 election, there are stretches of time where I'm too numb to the goings-on in Washington for much reaction.) This Foley scandal had me shouting in the apartment, in the stairwell and on the steret on the way to the L. Some of Hastert's constituents in Batavia were interviewed saying that they don't think he should be held responsible for not acting on his knowledge of Foley's inappropriate behaviour with minors. I learned it's possible that Hastert has known for at least 2 years about this behaviour. TWO YEARS or MORE?? Hastert says he won't step down from his leadership position because it's "what the opposition wants." NO, you fool. We want someone to actually ACT LIKE A LEADER. We want an example of leadership, which means TAKING RESPONSIBILITY. Why does no one in Washington seem to remember what being a true leader means? It's doesn't mean hiding behind lies or ignoring the press's questions. Cowards. Do we not, as a country, know how leaders are supposed to act anymore? My roommate says that she thinks people are so enured to scandal that we expect cover-ups and don't seem to blame people for covering their asses. I am INFURIATED with the arrogance of politicians who haven't learned that cover-ups never work and the complete apathy of the populace.
To counteract my ire, I listened to some Whiskeytown on my iPod on the way to work. I normally don't listen to music on my commute but read, but I really needed some distraction. I thought Ryan Adams' sorrow tinged alt-country songs would act as a palliative. Plus my friend Jayb had sent me a link to a blog post about Whiskeytown and I knew I had to listen to it this morning. Listen to some clips here.
It's a very scary time in DC right now. I'm glad you wrote out your feelings. You said a lot of things we all feel.
Posted by: Adorable Girlfriend | October 06, 2006 at 01:28 AM
Claire- I think you are right to steer somewhat clear of politics. It's almost too painful to listen to their justifications.
Stick with pie! It's much sweeter!!
Posted by: Jennifer | October 06, 2006 at 09:26 AM