An exasperating interview with Senate leaders
November 4, 2012 4:15 PM
Steve Kroft discusses his impossible interview with Senate leaders who can't reach a compromise.
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Unless we have a Mayor Bloomberg type who arises out of nowhere and has the means to run a long term program financed by his own resources, we have no hope in weak alternatives out there that are well meaning, but no clout!
But again, its the electorate on the middle, where most of us reside, who by our inaction, our throwing up our arms in disgust, but vote anyhow for ..the lesser of two evils, or better yet, for moderates who when they get into office are....cloutless! Its ....the man in the moon, as the MJ song goes, we are to blame for losing sight that in America, citizenship and its responsibilities start with us ,and not just at the ballot box!
Mc Sue, Austin, Tx
Most people I know are embarrassed and disgusted with the actions, or lack, of our legislative representatives. One would think that compromising was akin to catching a deadly virus. I am 60 years old and have voted in every election since I was 18 and pride myself on keeping current, acknowledging views from hopefully all sides. Like many, I remember far better times, as testy as many were, where our leaders were able to have opinions yet the character to respect their colleagues who differed. Able to do what was best, where each side gave something for the betterment of our country and all its people. That isn't possible today no matter the situation, some have even criticized Governor Cristie recognizing President Obama for his support for the hurricane victims.
I reside in Kentucky (a native) and registered Democrat but look to vote for the best person to represent our country, state and city. I don't know much about Senator Reid other than what I have read or observed on TV. I have however observed Senator McConnell since he was County Judge in Jefferson County Kentucky. I have watched him move up the political ladder doing whatever was necessary to achieve his personal goals. That is his right but his personal goals have not often been what was best, at least in my opinion, for our state and country. From what I can tell his sole goal during the past four years was to make President Obama a one-term President, not what was best for the county but his personal agenda to defeat one man and the expense of our country. I am embarrassed to be represented by a self-driven individual whose agenda is so destructive. I can only surmise that Senator McConnell believes that compromising with Harry Reid or anyone not in the Republican Party benefits the President, thus working against his singular agenda to defeat President Obama. Better to compromise the country than with those who differ.
I was encouraged to hear that there are indeed current and former Senators and Representatives whose disgust with the current system was so profound that they spoke up, some even choosing not to run. While encourage by their courage to act, I am disappointed that they are leaving the Senate and House to those who are unwilling to do things differently.
Finally, what ever happened to majority rules? OK, there is the filibuster but why not force the opposing side to do just that - actually filibuster. Doing so would bring to the fore opinions for all to hear. It would also put a crimp in the fundraising efforts since all would be tied up in chambers.
Thanks again for such insightful reporting.
Sincerely, Michael Tracy
Louisville, KY 40204
I think WE the people need to march to congress and do a wall street take over. Make it so uncomfortable for them that if they don't achieve bipartisan legislation that we will force them out.
Cut their pay in half and limit benefits now until they act.
Jay
THANK YOU for at least trying to get these buffoons (sorry I'm hostile) to see the destruction and folly of their actions. Sadly, it appears they obviously, unlike Sen Coburn, would rather SACRIFICE our countries future than work across the aisle!
IF you're not already aware, there's another idea you might use for a program that suggests a 'solution'. Mickey Edwards, a former Represenative from Oklahoma where I live, has a new book called 'The Party versus the People'. I embarrassed to say I have not read it yet and am repeating what I've heard, BUT it's along the lines of your interview Sunday with the Majority and Minority 'Leaders'.
I understand, one of Edwards suggestions is that the 'closed' primaries are reponsible for the extremism of the candidates who typically REFUSE to compromise.
In closing, I hope you'll continue your attempt to FIX our country before it's too late.
Sincerely, Sandy Clemens
Norman, Oklahoma 73072
I'm from Oklahoma and received quite a few emails respnses from Senator Coburn. I concur w/ your