May 12, 2003

When politicians shouldn't stay bought

Dear Representative:

I fully understand that you really represent the National Rifle Association, not the members of this district, and that without the support of the National Rifle Association, you would not have been elected and certainly will not be re-elected. Nonetheless, it seems a bit of a stretch to vote for HR 1036. This bill, as you know, fully immunizes an entire industry from all liabilities which might be incurred in the use of its product. If you immunize one industry, where does it stop? Shall the auto industry be immunized for product failure? Shall the meat packing industry be immunized for allowing bacteria to contaminate the food we eat? What if I give advice to my clients which turns out to be wrong? Should I not be immunized for calamities resulting from the client taking my advice?

Even if you're bought and paid for by an interest group, you have a responsibility to think about what you do. I recognize that thinking about the long-term implications of your vote may be a new concept; think of it as a learning experience. Who knows, you might even get to like it, and it might start a trend among your fellow legislators.

Sincerely,
Joe Sixpack

Posted by Linkmeister at May 12, 2003 01:18 PM
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