Old Fogey's Quotes for Saturday

"Party loyalty trumped House pages."
Colbert I. King, in WaPo editorial
What's Wrong With Washington: Exhibit A
[Perhaps all politicians are corrupted by power, but the Republicans have taken partisan poison to whole new levels. Legislation has been written to garner contributions without regard for the impact on people or our national economic health. Best example: Medicare drug bill]

"Davis hopes the White House isn't saying they don't understand the need for minimal qualifications, or that they might bypass them. If indeed they are, then we haven't come very far from the days of 'Heck of a job, Brownie. Good luck getting someone confirmed who doesn't meet these standards."
David Marin, spokesman for Rep. Thomas M. Davis III (R-Va.), who chaired a House Katrina investigation, regarding a Bush signing statement to ignore key changes in Congress's overhaul of the Federal Emergency Management Agency -- including a requirement to appoint someone with experience handling disasters as the agency's head.

Bush Balks at Criteria for FEMA Director

[Even in a matter so vital as protecting the American people, this president seems more interested in rewarding party supporters than in seeking competence]

“Foley sent obvious predatory signals, received loud and clear by members of Congressional leadership, who swept them under the rug to protect their political power.”

Democratic House candidate, Patty Wetterling of Minnesota

In House Races, More G.O.P. Seats Seen at Risk

[Since her own son was abducted and never found, she speaks with special moral authority, but any parent has to be horrified]

“I feel like a nomad in the middle of the desert, looking for green pastures.”

Sgt. Cameron Murad, army recruiter seeking persuade native Arabic speakers to enlist and serve with front-line troops in Iraq.

For Recruiter, Saying ‘Go Army’ Is a Hard Job

[I guess it is a little hard to encourage others when one has been called a 'rag-head' by his sargeant. When will Americans learn that you don't win over supporters by denigrating their religion?]

The agency is like a fire department running around with a little fire extinguisher."

Michael Jacobson, director of the Center for Science in the Public Interest, referring tom the underfunding of the FDA.

Drug Research Halted by Budget Shortage

[Yet another item we "can't afford" while spending some 700 billion dollars on Iraq and interest on the national debt (see my previous post)]