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There has been much criticism
over President Obama's time on the golf course. As there was over
Bush's numerous vacations. And of course there was Ike whose
favorite spot was the links at the Greenbrier. I submit everyone has
it wrong. The more time the president (any president) spends away
from his office, the less trouble he causes. H. L. Mencken's
favorite president was Calvin Coolidge because he did nothing.
Thomas Jefferson observed that the most pernicious governments were
those most active. And why not? After all, congress and the
executive exempt themselves from the rules they impose on their
constituents. The most active presidents seem to always get the
country into wars, even if they have to lie to do it. Congress is a
rubberstamp for the executive, though that's not what the founding
fathers intended. The founding fathers--you know guys like
Jefferson, Franklin, Madison, knew that most wars begin in the
executive, so they weakened presidential powers. But the Chief
Executive only had to ask for powers not bestowed by the
constitution and congress scurried to comply.
So when I hear that Obama or any of his administration are away from
their offices, I cheer. And hope they don't return. That way, maybe
our country can still be saved.
(Disclaimer: opinions are my own. Comments or criticism can be
directed to hermanking@cox.net). |
