Let’s start over

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

To the Editor:

For the last few years I have spent very little time on politics. I do watch news shows, try to integrate my daily inputs of current events and make a sincere effort to stay informed. As a result, I am as frustrated as the rest of the nation’s citizens are reported to be. .

So, I have two ideas that I think makes sense and I’m not sure how to get it into the hands of those who could implement them. Here is the simple concept:

• Vote for change in each and every 2012 election. Whether state or national, “throw the bums out”. Elect a whole new slate from both parties. Have the masses and especially the 99 percent, rise up and develop entirely new representative leadership. Take our chances that a new class of politicians, using their instinct, energy and hard work on issues, trumps experience and existing ties to those who buy their friendship and votes.

I realize that some very good, well-meaning public servants will be unemployed and forced to find other lifestyles for at least a while. That is a big price to pay, but worth it if we want to send a message to the populace that democracy still is functional, and that the majority again rules over the special interests. Pitch the lobbyists a curve ball instead of a meatball.

• Additionally, I think a new pledge should be written and placed before every candidate of all parties. It would state that no pledges will be given to individuals, special interests, lobbyists or PACS that would take away the opportunity for the use of native intelligence, fairness, pragmatism, and cooperation. A “NO Pledge Pledge!” Insist that any pledges already signed are hereby null and void! That campaign funds will not be accepted in return for souls sold. OK, we need to work on the verbiage, but you get my drift.

We all understand that there is a need for long overdue changes. Why not start now?

RICHARD KATZENBERG

Amherst