I awoke this morning to the announcement of the first American death of November 2006. This sent the usual pangs of anger through my body that I feel when I hear such news. 107 dead in October...how many more?
Then I began thinking about Mr. Bush's promise to retain Rumsfeld for the duration of his presidency.
I had to see what my congressman Jim Gerlach thinks....
Well forget about the Exton office...the person answered and when I asked the question after introducing myself: "Does Jim Gerlach agree that Donald Rumsfeld is doing a heck of a job and deserves job security though the remainder of Bush's term?" I heard a sigh. After a few seconds of silence she said she would refer the question to the campaign office. I argued that it is a policy issue and a simple one at that does she have any feeling whatsoever of his position? She refused to answer. I asked if she had an opinion, she refused to answer. She took my name and address and promised it would be forwarded to Washington.
Well, It takes Jim's office three weeks to answer and Election day is next week so I called down to Washington. The staffer was much friendlier and actually searched his website for me and read from it. No pony there. Jim ties Iraq with th GWOT (tm)and there is no leadership from Jim on the issue.
I explaied that Jim has differed with me on many issues most importantly the war in Iraq. I explained that his unwavering support for George Bush may cost him an election. The staffer agreed this was not new news. I thanked her for being courteous and wished them well should they lose the election.
I am opposed to any war for oil. Until the US reached true energy independence, the US will be like a junkie, killing and stealing for it's fix. Until our politicians provide real leadership on that we will keep spiriling down to ruin.
Update: Jim Gerlach called me back! I missed the call, tried calling at 8pm and did not get through! Damn, It would have been a great discussion in light of the Military Times' editorials. I am wondering why he would be worried about little ol' me? I was going to post the .wav file from Vonage, but like my polling skills, can't! In watching the Gerlach, Murphy debates, Jim did come off as a competant professional...too bad me picked the wrong party. Many people around here have a lot of respect for Jim. Mostly due to his days in state government. I do think it is time for this one to come home. Come home, Jim. Thanks for your service.