This is regarding “Blagojevich voting record falls to 50%; Congressman also missed key committee polls” (Metro, May 27). What’s with this? Has he taken a half-time leave of absence or foregone half-salary to compensate the taxpayers for the time he is spending upon his search for a new job? Has Atty. Gen. Jim Ryan asked that his salary be reduced to compensate the taxpayers for the time he takes away from his full-time public service job as he looks for his next one?
What about all of the others who have done or are doing the same thing?
Just what is the protocol when an officeholder shuns his or her responsibilities to look for a new job? Where is the accountability to the taxpayers? What ethics are applicable in such situations? Have those guys and gals who love to pass all of those state and federal laws passed any that deal with this?
If someone employed in the private sector wanted to run for a political office, he or she would be required to take a leave of absence, to use up vacation days or to campaign only when “off of the clock.” The taxpayers wouldn’t fund the job searches.
How are ordinary folks supposed to compete with the professional pols when the playing field isn’t level?
Oh, now that I’ve re-read it, the answer to my last question is self-evident, isn’t it?
