Follow rules even when inconvenient

No earmarks means no earmarks. Transparency means total transparency. And change means real change. Somehow all the promises of Obama while he was a candidate have been compromised.

"No earmarks" has been changed to "some earmarks are good" and I don't have the leadership to challenge the liberal leaders of congress to be responsible and just say "no." Transparency is good when I have something to sign that the liberal media will cover over and over again but not valid when I sign flawed legislation or when it comes to passing massive spending bills that no one in congress or the American people have had a chance to read.

And where is the change? Seems to be business as usual in Washington, D.C. The Democratic congress that we have inherited from the past two years, certainly continues its attitude of partisanship, shows no responsibility in spending and seems oblivious to the wishes of the American people and the president's campaign promises.

It seems Nancy Pelosi thinks the Air Force is her own personal charter airline, but only if she gets the premium aircraft of her choice. And their 8-year habit of blaming Bush is wearing very thin. It is time for the president and the Congress to take some responsibility for their actions. Most of the free fall in the economy, stock market, and unemployment has happened since Obama was elected.

It seems like no one has confidence with what they are doing or that any of their solutions are working. Plus they are doing nothing to instill confidence in the American people that the situation will improve. Perhaps it would help if they started producing what they promised, took responsibility for anything, and focused on solving the economic problem instead of making it worse. I find it disgusting to see my retirement saving evaporating while the president is signing and Congress passing unprecedented massive spending bills like we have a vibrant economy.

Daryl Pratt

Arlington Heights