by Hugh Holub

Created on: August 27, 2009   Last Updated: August 29, 2009

Is it possible for politicians to tell the truth?

No, it is not possible for a politician to tell the truth in the United States today.

Why is that?

Because any politician who tells the truth is going to be pilloried by the pundits and panderers of either the left or the right and then tossed out of office. Name one politician who has been re-elected because he or she always told the truth?

People don't want to hear the truth. They don't want to face up to reality. They'd rather get all upset about the threat of illegal aliens or Chinese investments or flag burning then confront the fact that America is in deep trouble.

Tell the truth about one of the reasons health care is getting so expensive. A big chunk of heath care costs comes in the last few months of life when doctors and hospitals bleed patients and their insurance companies to buy a few more days of life on life support. So maybe folks ought to be able to talk to someone about the options. Death panels is the politician's response.

Tell the truth that a government run health insurance program is going to work just like....how about all those car dealers that had to wait painfull for the cluncker reimburements? Think doctors trust the government to pay its bills on time?

Tell the truth that energy is highly subsidized because we don't pay the "replacement" cost for it, or the full environment impact cost. Gasoline really costs $5 a gallon...but tax breaks and other gimmick hides the cost from drivers so we can flee our coastlines in another generation.

Tell the truth about how we can't have it all without paying more taxes. Not in tune with the party and must be replaced.

Tell the truth about crime: maybe we should just give drugs away free to those who want to kill themselves, and at least wipe out the financial incentives for organized criminals to smuggle drugs and take over countries like Mexico. Oh my god, imagine the outcry if a politician said that.

Tell the truth that sure you were sneaking around behind your spouse while at the same time beating up gays for being immoral.

Tell the truth about not paying your taxes for several years.

Tell the truth about having smoke marijuana when you were in college.

Why can't politicians tell the truth? Because you and I the American public crucify anyone who does.

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