Politics: A Civil Service

Day 657, 14:08 • Published in USA USA • by Cody Franklin

Good afternoon, America. I'd just like a word with you, if you have the time to spare.

Politics is a sticky business, is it not? Everyone wants to try and change our world, but few actually have the ability to do so; many people enter politics in the hope of realizing their dreams for our world here, and, unfortunately, most people pay more attention to those politics than to the needs of their constituency; they worry more about getting reelected than they do about doing something meaningful during the term that they have been given. It's certainly a sad business to see otherwise good people being eaten up by their infatuation with political office.

Don't get me wrong, because, for the most part, politicians-to-be have their hearts in the right place; however, as the saying goes, "The road to Hell is paved with good intentions." The problem with politics is that people really do see it as a job, and as a career.

What do you suppose is the purpose of politics? I, for one, see it not as a career opportunity, but as a public service; the purpose of having elected politicians is to keep them accountable to the people they represent; that, America, is the foundation of democracy. Something that I see from a large handful of people is the desire to enter politics just for the fun of it; something very common among congressional politicians is an obsession with getting 'lulz'. I ask you, America, can we really trust our country's future to a group of people that legislate for laughs? I think not.

I, personally, cannot presume to be capable of solving all of America's problems, but I can certainly try to keep things running smoothly; I've been deliberating on this for a while, and I have come to the conclusion that, just perhaps, I ought to run for congressional office. With a strong constituency, and an unwavering commitment to American values, I am certain that I will be able to resist the kinds of corruption that have seeped into Congress; let me be the first to say that I am not painting a picture of an entirely corrupted legislative; let me clarify that I know more than a few good politicians who have not been tainted by the kinds of temptations that other politicians have fallen victim to.

During the next congressional elections, I intend to put my name in under the banner of the UIP. However, as much as I may intend to do so, it is not ultimately my decision, America: it is yours.

You know my message. You have heard my opinions. You have read my work. Now, I come not to talk, but to listen; that is the purpose of a politician, is it not? As I've said, the President needs to be able to execute the country's interests, but the Congress needs to maintain close ties with the public at large; therefore, I have taken it upon myself to ask you directly: If I were to run, would you help me to spread our collective values, and to perpetuate goodwill not only nationally, but worldwide?

I ask you this honest question, America: If I ran for office, would you have me as a congressman? Now, I have asked this honestly; I expect you to answer honestly. I certainly don't want you to sugarcoat it for me; our Congress should cater to the needs of the American people; and, if I am not currently needed, I expect to be informed of it; if ever you are able to speak freely, let it be now; whether through PM or through a comment on this very page, just let your voices be heard.

Do not hold back, America, whether out of admiration for what I do, or out of hatred for my cause; because, remember: you may have your own opinions, but truth takes no sides.