Unfortunately, Washington isn’t very short on folks who are … what’s the right word? One that comes to mind rhymes with “pony.” Another word whose first two syllables are shared with “hippopotamus” rings true as well. But, we”ll be nice, and just say “disingenuous.”
As you’ve likely heard, there are a few Obama administration nominees who haven’t quite met the president’s very strict rules imposed on previous employment with organizations or groups they will be entrusted with regulating or overseeing. In other words, these nominees were lobbyists or did things closely related to lobbying.
Well guess who’s coming to their defense?
Fred Wertheimer of Democracy 21, the most elitist of all bashers of lobbyists, and Melanie Sloan of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics, another prolific critic of lobbyists. For years, they’ve pretentiously railed against organizations that forthrightly petition their government, as well as public servants who didn’t always make decisions they liked.
Now, however, these two claim it’s just fine for the administration to have waivers for its new tough lobbying and ethics standards. Hmmm. Think they’d have the same attitude if someone from a different political party occupied the White House? Or a public servant with a different ideology made the same honest mistakes as these nominees?
A simple and important rule for you to follow when following Washington: Always question those who are throwing the stones. Particularly if they claim to be your “watchdogs” — using words like “citizens,” “democracy” or “consumers” in their organization’s name.
In truth, they don’t represent you. They represent their own special interest.
February 4, 2009
I thought this blog was supposed to cover beverages…
February 5, 2009
First Bevman, a sincere thanks for reading Sip & Savor and taking the time to comment. You betcha this blog is about covering beverages. And we’ll cover them from all angles: the products, the issues and public policy discussions that affect beverages and our industry, and the role our beverages and industry plays in pop culture, like the Super Bowl. As for this specific post, our industry is often criticized by some activists who have their own “special interests.” We’ll take the opportunity to point that out and call them on any “disingenuous” comments or activities. We want readers to come to Sip & Savor for the full story on an issue. Or as Paul Harvey would say, “The Rest of the Story.” Thanks again for reading.