Educating our politicians

We puzzle about why the wishes of so many for limited government and less spending are largely ignored by the few of our representatives. Could it be that they don’t actually represent the interests of the majority of citizens? We know that many small interest groups demanding their wants be satisfied get inordinate attention (and our money). Fortunately, citizens have groups that monitor and inform us about irresponsible political activities and the excessively burdensome cost of governments. In North Carolina, the John Locke Foundation serves us well. But it’s a constant struggle to counteract the vast network working against us for political gain. (link)

Many forces influence our officials; some disguised as “education” groups. Another recent example came in a Wilmington StarNews article. Several New Hanover County commissioners and staff attended a National Association of Counties Legislative Conference in Washington, D. C. with “thousands of politicians.” County Manager Bruce Shell (who actually manages the commissioners) told the reporter, “They’re up there to learn.” The question is to learn what? (link)

The National Association of Counties (NACo) influences legislators in 3000 counties throughout the United States. (link) In addition, states each have their county associations providing “Services,” “Advocacy,” “Research,” “Communications” and “Education.” A cynic might assume that this is all propaganda and indoctrination. These huge organizations in a massive network (there’s even an association of black politicians) certainly have great influence on our elected officials. But do they serve the best interest of We-the-People, or it is self-interest?

For example, the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) website states that its staff “treats all county officials (not the citizens) as dear clients.” This group lobbies our state and federal legislators to “navigate the legislative currents.” It has “legislative goals.” The organization provides “data on county finances,” and files legal briefs to support counties involved in litigation. Its website and many other information techniques promote the NCACC agenda. Weirdly, the NCACC has a “Healthy Living Task Force.” These meddlers “work in step” with the national association “to move Americans toward a healthier, happier lifestyle.” Big Government watches how you choose to live. (link)

The NCACC sponsors dozens of conferences each year with seminars and workshops, including a “Legislative Goals Conference.” And there are “national steering committees” to promote big government projects. Commissioners Barfield and Berger sit on transportation and environment committees, respectively. Does anyone believe that these groups “educate” our representatives about ways to spend less and reduce the size of government? I think not. They clearly indoctrinate to promote bigger government and more spending. (link)