by J.D.Curtsinger

Created on: April 12, 2009   Last Updated: April 14, 2009

Absolutely! We hold police officers to that higher standard. We expect them to uphold the law without being above it. We expect teachers to educate our children without a condescending attitude. We even hold our parents to a higher standard as they guide us through life in our youth. Do we give our elected officials a pass? I think not.

"Do as I say, not as I do" is a pathetic way to conduct oneself. Leading by example is always the best option. If one cannot do so, then move over and let someone else take the reigns. The people we send to Washington to represent us are there to be our voice, to portray our beliefs and convictions; they are speaking on our behalf. Shouldn't we expect top notch behavior out of these individuals?

I find much disappointment in the men and women holding office today. It seems there is no concern for what we the people think or believe. Anything to get elected, and once elected it seems their main concern is to themselves. Back room deals and shenanigans to ensure they are taken care of for life. What about us, do we exist on the crumbs tossed our way? Are we mushrooms? You've heard the saying; "Kept in the dark and fed bullshit"?

There should not exist such a creature as a career politician. An elected official is to be from the people. Someone to serve, to represent, to hold our best interests at heart. After the designated term limits he or she should return back to everyday life, back to the people. Being elected does not vault one into royalty, or deity, or any other such nonsense. On the contrary, it should be an humbling experience.

As a people we should know exactly who it is we are sending in our stead to represent us. We should thoroughly examine their qualifications, their beliefs, their conduct. We need to know these people will fight for our rights, that they will know the details and issues facing the district or state represented. If they fail to do the things they promised, then we should elect another. No excuses. Excuses don't hold water when it comes to our lives and our families. We have allowed this to go on far too long. It is a difficult task, but not an impossible one. We must demand more from the chosen ones.

Yes, hold them to a higher standard because they stood before us and asked us to trust them, to depend upon them, and we did so. Give us the respect we deserve for being intelligent and aware. We the people have the power, and we should allow no one to take it away.

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