Wednesday, March 09, 2005

Rep. Conyers: U.S. Democracy in trouble

Read here:

In summary, Rep. Conyers expressed concern at what he perceives to be a systematic erosion of due process throughout government. He asserted this departure from the “protection that the government provides people” should be a “wake up call” to those who cherish democracy in the United States...

The second longest ranking member of the House (Conyers was elected first in 1964) says he has great concern for America’s future under a presidency he feels has forgotten everyday Americans.

“We're dealing with a political viewpoint now that is witnessing the steady erosion of the protection that the government provides people in voting, against emergencies, problems in life, unemployment, running out of money, having to go into bankruptcy, or suing in court, where you may be injured far beyond some measly cap of $250,000,” Conyers said.

“It seems like on every front they're trying to frustrate, obfuscate and make it as difficult as possible for citizens to assert their rights,” he added.

Conyers said he believes the American democracy is struggling under the weight of current policies.

“This should be a wake up call to a lot of people who begin to realize that we're moving backwards in terms of democracy,” he said. “We're moving backwards in terms of economic security, we're having many of our rights taken away that we thought we had in the courts. ”


He also weighs in on Graham and Gannon, too. Check it out for yourself; it's a worthwhile read. It's really encouraging to hear at least a few of our elected representatives expressing the same concerns that pound in my fevered brain every single day. Between this and the GAO report, I actually feel a bit of optimism today. Now tomorrow, we'll see.

On a side note: Those who visit this blog, please feel free to leave comments on my posts or my blog and writing in general. I'm always eager to hear what you have to say, even if it's critical.