Out with the Neo, In with the Retro

Politicians on both sides of the aisle need to reconnect with the integrity of their beliefs. They have lost their way, and rather than serve their citizens, too often they serve only themselves.
Both parties have fallen down here, so the GOP has an opportunity to show some leadership.   They need to show their stripes as Retrocons, not Neocons.  Whether it is corporate interests pulling the strings on the right, or labor interests pulling the strings on the left, far too many politicians have sold out to their backers. Over time, relationships with special interests deepen, and the outrageous becomes familiar. For this reason, legislators need strict term limits. No person should hold the same office for more than 8 years. Limiting post primary elections to public funding could also dampen the influence of corporate and labor interests. Abuse or improper use of power that was sought by politicians, and granted by citizens, deserves strict and swift justice. A sweetheart home loan, a public job for an old friend, or worse, must all be met with serious and disruptive consequences. Legislators should be held to a higher standard, not a lower standard. Sometimes a carrot is more palatable than a stick however. For this reason I suggest as a first measure that congress open each day with a plain English pledge to the citizens who elected them. I do not presume to write one, but for spirit and intent sake, here is a start:

“My duty is to uphold the Constitution of my State and the Constitution of the United States, to humbly serve those who have elected me, and to not be distracted or beset by any other interests. Serving the citizens and the constitution is my duty, ahead of my personal interests, including the possibility of reelection. I best serve the citizens who elected me by knowing myself, clearly speaking my mind, and serving my conscience. I will only compromise in the spirit of having an open mind, and trying to better serve the citizens and the constitution. I will never compromise my beliefs for political gain or expedience. Should my constituents decide that my beliefs no longer align with their interests or priorities, I will not alter my beliefs, but will fearlessly speak my mind. If subsequently unseated, I will proudly see my office occupied by another”