Editorial Points: Don’t Approve Of Government? Look In The Mirror

The next time you look in the mirror you’ll recognize someone who can make things better in government, with help from others like you, of course.
In Washington, Montpelier or the town you live in, isn’t it past time to just listen to or take part in private conversations about what local, state and national governments should be doing, but that’s as far as you are willing to go – just talk about it? This country is in serious trouble. Every citizen should be offering constructive ideas and criticisms to their elected officials. We are, after all, a democracy.
The current climate of unwillingness to compromise in order to solve serious problems in Washington is a good example. A recent CBS poll indicates that only 9 percent of Americans think Congress is doing a good job. Ten years ago it was 64 percent. Don’t blame only the politicians for this —  look in the mirror.
Congress is paralyzed when it comes to dealing with the national debt. Almost predictably, the Joint Super Committee created to find ways to reduce the nation’s crippling debt couldn’t reach a compromise, so senators and congressmen just shrugged their shoulders and headed home for the Thanksgiving break to celebrate the holiday and hustle votes for next November’s elections. Chances are, few constituents voiced any concern publically that perhaps staying in Washington and forging a solution to the nation’s financial troubles would be better for the country. But, that would require real leadership and dedication, right?
What would have happened when Tropical Storm Irene devastated this region if elected officials and the hundreds of volunteers put their needs first and those of local residents, businesses and visitors last? We faced a crisis (as does our nation) and saw the very best of Vermont spring into action and remain there. So, why can’t Washington do similarly? Our national needs are at least as serious.
Personal involvement is what is needed to solve most problems. Just talking about needs and opportunities is a good beginning, but actually doing something about them makes the entire difference. We have to wonder, how many Vermonters take the time to call, write, email or visit their U.S. Senators or Congressman to express concerns or suggest ideas for solving Vermont’s and America’s problems?
Personally we’ve had our chances to try and influence the actions of elected officials — especially members of the Vermont congressional delegation. We’ve done poorly. By the very nature of things the Standard routinely gets newsletters, press releases and other messages from members of this group. Leahy, Sanders and Welch all seek to keep us informed, hoping we’ll pass the information on to our readers. Sometimes we do and sometimes we don’t, depending on timing, space availability and the message of the moment. But, do we respond directly to the sender – our chance to connect and voice our views or make suggestions? Very rarely. Not good!
We even get visits from them at the Standard. But, do we seize the opportunity to offer opinions on legislation affecting Vermonters? Very rarely. In September, U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy visited our flood-destroyed site on Route 4. It was a perfect chance to speak directly with one of the most senior and influential members of the U.S Senate.
But, did we buttonhole the Senator to express concerns about America’s problems, perhaps even make some humble suggestions which might possibly help? No, we spoke only of ourselves, the difficulties caused by the flood. If we truly believe, and we do, that citizen involvement in government is essential for success, we really blew it!
Then, there is Vermont’s only Congressman and next-door neighbor in Hartland, Peter Welch. Welch refers to the Standard as his “hometown paper.” We feel connected. Even though he is in the minority party in the House of Representatives, Welch is considered one of that body’s rising stars, skilled at achieving compromise and consensus on both sides of the isle. But do we try to capitalize on that to get our thoughts heard by members of that body? Hardly ever, so shame on us. We should practice what we preach — look in the mirror.
In contrast, not long ago we were having coffee in the Barnard General Store and in walked Senator Bernie Sanders, on his way to an appearance at the Vermont Law School. We invited him to join us and shortly a small crowd of locals gathered and an impromptu town hall meeting ensued. Lots of subjects were brought up to one of the U.S. Senates most provocative members. Bernie listened. People felt involved. Good for those Barnard residents who took the time to share their thoughts! Somehow, we believe, what they offered will make a difference in Washington.
So, the next time you think about what’s wrong and what’s needed in Washington, Vermont or your hometown, remember whose face you see in the mirror. Leaving solutions to our problems to the other guy just isn’t working. Personal involvement, no matter how simple, by all of us, is essential if we are to bring America back from the brink.
Phil Camp