Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Evan Bayh Gives Congress a Valentine's Kiss Off

Indiana Senator Evan Bayh has decided not to run for reelection this fall. This puts another Senate seat in jeopardy for the Democrats. But it his reasons for stepping aside that should give the most pause:

"After all of these years, my passion for service to our fellow citizens is undiminished. But my desire to do so by serving in Congress has waned."

"For some time, I've had a growing conviction that Congress is not operating as it should. There is much too much partisanship and not enough progress, too much narrow ideology and not enough practical problem-solving. Even at a time of enormous national challenge, the people's business is not getting done. Examples of this are legion but two recent ones will suffice."

"Two weeks ago, the Senate voted down a bipartisan commission to deal with one of the greatest threats facing our nation: our exploding deficits and debt. The measure would have passed. But seven members who endorsed the idea, actually co-sponsored the legislation, instead voted no for short-term political reasons."

"Just last week, a major piece of legislation to create new jobs -- our nation's top priority today -- fell apart amidst complaints from both the left and the right."

"All of this and much more has led me to believe that there are better ways to serve my fellow citizens, my beloved state and our nation than continued service in Congress.

To put it into words I think most people can understand, I love working for the people of Indiana. I love helping our citizens make the most of their lives. But I do not love Congress."

We share the no love for Congress feeling.

And what will Evan Bayh do now? He says he wants a job:

I am an executive at heart. ... At this time, I simply believe that I can best contribute to society in another way: creating jobs by helping to grow a business, helping guide an institution of higher learning to educate our children, or helping run a worthy charitable or philanthropic endeavor.

Evan Bayh has 11 months of service to finish out his term. It's a tough job market out there. We'll remind him that you can't draw unemployment benefits for a voluntary quit.

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