It used to be that in order to get rich in America, you had to have an idea, work hard and prosper. That is no longer the case, as we see from the confiscatory policies of government and regulatory agencies; i.e., taxes, fines, fees and regulations make it very difficult for the private citizen person to prosper.

Today if you want to get rich, try this: Go to work for the government or get in bed with one of the officials. Where else can you get a job with no, to little qualifications, vote yourself pay raise after pay raise. work a part-time job and make more than your constituents do working full-time. Get a guaranteed pension and health care that is far better than the private sector.

You can solicit handouts to line your pockets, known as campaign contributions or "speaking fees.”

You can write a meaningless book and get a six-figure advance on sales or "leverage" the sales to constituents.

Let’s not forget to mention playing the stock market with all the inside knowledge you will have.

So I say, it is not what you can do for your country, but what can you do to line your pockets off the taxpayer’s blood, sweat and tears.

Tony Atkins

Wheaton