Yet again we learn of New York politicians — from Joe Bruno to Pedro Espada to Malcolm Smith — accused of manipulating the system to better themselves and disregard the needs of their constituencies.
A simple solution exists: "Voter, heal thyself." We constantly complain about corrupt polticos in New York then clarify our position by saying "but my guy is good."
The voter has all the power to change the system. We need to get rid of the incumbents, enact campaign reform laws limiting the amount of money and then get rid of the policy that allows ex-politicians from becoming lobbyists, soliciting favors from their old cronies.
The money that has changed hands among this rogues' gallery is staggering. And surely there are more instances that we have yet to learn about. All the while, government services for New Yorkers — infrastructure repair, social welfare programs, operation of our state parks and facilities — fall by the wayside as the culture of "I'm taking what's mine" runs rampant.
Jackie Murray
Middleburgh