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A New Path for America By Congressman Allen Boyd (D-FL)
One of the bedrock principles of our democracy is open and accountable government. Our forefathers intended for the Constitution and our laws to uphold the ideals of a free and open government—one that allows for and promotes the distribution of power and sufficient public discourse and scrutiny. As citizens, we want to know that our hard-earned tax dollars are being spent properly and wisely by elected representatives who are not abusing their power and are held accountable. Unfortunately, many politicians in Washington have taken advantage of the power the public has bestowed on them by favoring political maneuvering over policy discussions and preventing proper public and Congressional oversight. This type of climate is unproductive and unhealthy for our country, and it’s time for America to do better.
Our government works best when it is balanced, and the checks and balances system exists between the three branches of our federal government for this reason. Additionally, our government works best when power is equally distributed among the parties. When one party gains too much power there is an inevitable tendency for misuse of that power. A balanced and representative atmosphere allows the parties to rein each other in and bring their policies and initiatives to the center of the spectrum, where most Americans happen to be. The best pieces of legislation have resulted from this type of effort, where constructive debate and compromises between Republicans and Democrats are possible.
Beyond undermining the constitutional system of checks and balances, abuse of power is a proven formula for a faulty and weak government, as seen by recent scandals and problems within our government’s ranks. Misuse of power and excess secrecy surrounding our government are manifesting through the indictment of a senior Administration official, the indictment of the House Majority Leader, charges of bribery and misconduct among rank and file members of the House and Senate, a deteriorating fiscal house, spending policies run amok, and a war we all hoped and expected would be over by now. Clearly it is time for our country to revisit what we stand for and then stand up for these democratic ideals.
By embracing practices that obstruct oversight and accountability, the current Administration and Congress are preventing the public from properly measuring their performance. Over the last few years, Congress has become a place that routinely stifles free and open debate on the House floor, drafts legislation behind closed doors, and passes legislation that we often can’t afford. Government needs to choose a new path. Our new path should encourage the distribution of power, bipartisan cooperation and accountability so our government and its leaders can be held responsible for the good and the bad.
No doubt our Founding Fathers would be disappointed to see how the government they created is becoming less representative of the democratic principles of openness and accountability. Keeping our leaders’ power in check and allowing for appropriate oversight are crucial for our government to truly represent the will of the people and enact positive change in the lives of its citizens. As members of a democratic society, we deserve no less. Simply put—America can do better.
Sincerely,
F. Allen Boyd, Jr.
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