I am an inveterate skulker. I haunt these hallowed, pumpkin-colored halls, dropping recommends, tips and occasional comments, but never real diaries. The sequester has changed that, at least for awhile.
I sent this online letter to Senator Coats, cc: Sens. Donnelly and Rand Paul:
"Your colleague, Senator Rand Paul, was quoted in Investors.com as stating, "I believe the sequester is a pittance".
"Senator, my daughter is being furloughed one day a week, a twenty percent cut in her income. My son, with Asperger's Syndrome, will lose some or all of his job-seeking help. The New York Times detailed today the effect of the sequester on the Americans at the bottom end of the economic ladder. Do you share Senator Paul's viewpoint? Do you have any regard whatsoever for your constituents who will be harmed by this travesty?
"I propose that, to maintain your integrity on this issue, you join in the pain this ridiculous excuse for legislation is causing us:
Return 20% of your salary to the U.S. Treasury: write a check.
Return 20% of the campaign contributions you receive to those who sent them. Do not even hint they increase their contribution by 25% before you return 20% of it. Should a contributor elect to do so, return 36% to him/her.
Cut your government-paid travel: sit in the main cabin. Go through TSA security the way the rest of us do, sans shoes, laptop, coat and everything in the pockets. Live among us. Feel like you deserve better? That's the signal you need to extend to the rest of us.
Furlough 20% of your staff, tell them it's just a pittance.
"Senator Paul has convinced me (as if I needed more evidence) that your caucus has slipped its leash and is now wholly dependent on the wealthiest few in this country. On its current trajectory, your caucus will slip into obscurity, as the Whigs did before you. Know that I, not blessed to be so endowed as the corporations that support you, will work to accelerate your caucus' movement into oblivion in the coming months.
"I am copying those whom I have referenced. Because the sequester is harming my family, I am posting my letter publicly, as your caucus' actions have made this personal. In conclusion, Senator, permit me a final question: will the Republican Party wither and die, or will it purge itself of its extremist elements and survive?
"Yours very truly,"
10:48 AM PT: OMG, my comment is getting recommended! Not for me, guys, for all of you who suffer from this total craziness.