by Angelique Reder

Created on: December 12, 2008

I am a citizen of Chicago, and all the scandals playing out in the media today about my city, are very discouraging when it comes to local government, but one of the things that discourages me most, and is not being mentioned in the media, and that is how far down the ladder the corruption goes.

In May of 2008 the City of Chicago declared that it was bankrupt, and then in November of 2008 the city gave it's council a raise, and a $1200.00 a month personal expense bonus.

American tax dollars are being used as personal piggy banks for government, and industry alike.

I, Frankly, have had enough.

We not only need more say in how our money is designated, it is time that we create some new laws that pertain to the corruption of our government officials and enforce stricter penalties, and harsher sentences, which must included reparations being paid back to the citizens to which those monies were received from.

Impeachment has become a joke in this country, and we need some real laws put into place to protect the American citizens. From the abuse of our local governing forces.

Not having any real substantial penalties for committing crimes while holding their authority is what bankrupted great cities like Chicago, and this has to change.

Laws must be put into place that make it easier to prosecute, and force out of office corrupt officials, even in drastic cases impose the right to prosecute under the guide lines of treason, due to misuse of authority.

Sabotaging a city for personal gain, as I believe the Governor of Illinois has done, needs far greater penalties, than impeachment allows.

We need laws that say any person convicted of felony can not run for office.

Felons can't vote, but they can run for office? Do you see a problem here. I do. I see a big problem.

Pay to Play Politics has been the American Way since Nixon, and you know what Nixon said, "If the President Does it, it's not illegal", you know the same policy President Bush has held since in office.

Today I was proud of the State Attorney Fitzgerald, and her efforts, and hold sincere hope that she will prosecute to the fullest of her capabilities when it comes to the governor. And, keep on digging out and exposing the corruption that has plagued Chicago and it's good citizens since the birth of the city.

History does show there truly to be little hope that her efforts will be successful, but I am holding strong in my faith, that some day those assigned to authority positions will do their jobs, when it comes to over seeing our governing forces.

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