Rode hard and put up wet . . .

Spotty, just like Katie, has a day in history he wants readers to remember. But not in a good way. Today is the eleventh anniversary of the photo-op signing of the “Contract with America” on the steps of the US Capitol by Congressional Republicans. These were the thrilling days of yesteryear for Sheriff Newton and his faithful deputy Annette Meeks, now of the Center of the American Experiment.

In the rhetorical flourishes that went along with signing this malignant manifesto, the Repubs said they would restore accountability to Congress and end its cycle of scandal and disgrace if they were elected to a majority in the House. That fall, the Republicans got their majority. As Dr. Phil might say, How’s that working’ for ya, America?

Spotty says American has been rode hard and put up wet by the looting, profiteering, and general knavery of the likes of Sheriff Newton, Tom Delay and their corporate buddies in several industries, including financial services (credit cards, especially), pharmaceuticals, energy, and transportation. The recent punitive bankruptcy bill, and the Medicare prescription drug benefit that does more to line the pockets of Big Pharma than it does to provide prescription coverage to seniors, are just a couple examples of how the Republican Congress is more accountable to the citizens and less scandalized and disgraced. Right.

Congress just passed the porkiest transportation bill in its history. It also passed an energy bill giving billions in tax savings to energy companies that are making historic windfall profits at the same time.

There has been a lot written lately about the performance of Congressman Jim Ramstad at the recent town hall meeting in Edina. Those in attendance will remember that the transportation and energy bills were prominent in the things that the Congressman pointed to with pride.

And yes, Jimbo was in attendance that sunny day in September eleven years ago to add his name and solemn pledge to the Contract on America.

Tags: Jim Ramstad Contract with America Sheriff Newton