A couple of things happen when you first hit Washington as a new elected congressman/woman, or Senator.
First you find out just how futile most of your campaign promises were. You can't change the way the Agencies Buy and Sell their goods. Why? FAR Clauses, Federal Acquisition Regulations. You may be able to amend some of it, but even that is big business, and you are a freshman (senator congress person) you have no clout, no voice, you can't get the votes needed to pass any law.
More..... including some of the funniest comments ever
So your a Freshman, the PAC's have already sized you up, who you are, what you will and will not tolerate, your ethics.
And let the deluge begin, (this is almost funny to watch) the dinners, the parties, the invitations, it is heady. Goes straight to your ego, do not pass go do not collect your $200. You just went form being average OK above average Joe, to Mr and MS popularity. Everyone in the room is complimenting you, congratulating you, feeding you more bullshit than even YOU thought was possible. And they all want your vote, your support, your endorsement. WOW you have POWER!
So how will the tea baggers fair in this world?
Let's review what Sara Palin did.
Sara Stepped out of Local Politics into the National scene, and got totally engulfed in the PAC Flac. She actually has started to believe the BS K Street blows up her skirt. She discovered that the real MONEY for her, was in NOT running. Why? NO Far Clauses, no Election Finance Laws if you are just a mouthpiece. She can take EVERYTHING the lobbyist want to give her. NO strings attached, just a little endorsement here and there. Show up give a speech, charge for it of course. Write a letter of recommendation, or rather sign one that someone else wrote.
And Get rich
in 2008 Palin's net worth was estimated at 1.2 MIllion,
2010 Net worth for Sara: 12 MIllion
Not a bad raise huh. But the real question is, what did she sacrifice of her morals, values and principals to get to the 12 Million.
What would you do for 12 million?
Knowing this do you want to run for Office?
Could you EVER stay true?
Do you understand why so many of them Cheat on wives and lovers?
Washington is a tough town, not because the people are hardened or the work is hard. But because it is almost impossible to keep any semblance of decency and humility while trying to run this country.