Congressional Protection

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Saturday January 08, 2011 · 8:10 PM PST

2011/01/08 · 20:10

The calls to give up violent rhetoric are necessary, if not long overdue. But today's tragedy was entirely preventable for another reason.

Why, after almost two years of hateful language (anti-American, terrorist sympathizer, tyrant, socialist, extremist, racist -- you name the hate, I'll name the date it was uttered); why, after people literally brought guns to political events; after offices were shot up, vandalized, doors broken down, swastikas painted, Congressmen spit on, called the N-word --

Why, why, why hasn't someone stepped up and offered more protection for our Congresspeople? The Secret Service needs to extend 24/7 protection to all Congress members. Americans will pay the extra cost, for the benefit of a safe environment in which constituents can meet their representatives -- without fear.

I'm not calling for draconian measures. I don't want our Congress members to be locked up in D.C. all year. Constituent meetings are important to an open democracy. But we should at least extend some real protection to some of the most important offices in the land.

The sad fact is, this tragedy was preventable in numerous ways. Had we not had such a rancorous political environment -- had the media not given cover and outlet to hate-mongers -- we might not be here today. But if there had been just a few Secret Service agents at today's event, does anyone think the tragedy would have been this large ... if it had happened at all?

Poll
43 votes Show Results
Secret Service protection for all Congress members...?

Yes

No

Maybe

43 votes Vote Now!
Secret Service protection for all Congress members...?

Yes

18 votes

No

21 votes

Maybe

9%

4 votes

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