Today the Grand Rapids Press anounced
Congressman Vern Ehlers said he will try to help lift the ethical cloud that hovers over Republicans in accepting the job as acting chairman of the House Administration Committee.
. . .
At least temporarily, the Grand Rapids Republican replaces U.S. Rep. Robert Ney, R-Ohio, who Sunday vacated the chairmanship until he is cleared of bribery charges or indicted.
"I think it's something I have to do for the Congress," said Ehlers, previously the second-highest ranked lawmaker on the panel.
Is this a good thing or will he get crucified?
I have always considered Vern as an honest man, although I don't agree with many of his positions on critical issues. He comes out of the Dutch community here in Western Michigan and is too pro business. But he is a trained scientist who did not support his party's support of the "intellegent design"
We can only hope that Vern willingness to keep an open mind will keep him from just following the desires of the Speaker and the rest of the Rethugs who have been following DeLay's lead.
I am not holding my breath though, Vern may be tempted by the chance to gain power and the perks that come with it. I hope the Committee will bring out an Ethics Rule that we can show to be actually "business as usual." A true ethics rule will result in the cutting off of the money from the high rollers (people like the DeVoses) and would hamstring the Rethugs hopes of re-election and continued control of the government.