5.21.2010
One of the major causes of government budget imbalances today is the lack of foresight of politicians 20 and 30 years ago. Typically, the desire to get reelected, to stay in the limelight, overrides concern for the citizens served.
It is unfortunate that most people still do not get this – many say they do but their voting actions state otherwise (I will go with action vs words on this one). However, perhaps the tide is turning just a little – hopefully just a little enough to make enough changes to avoid financial meltdown.
Part of the tide turning is people getting the full scoop from politicians – to hear their own words. Case in point – a recent interview with former California State Assembly Speaker and former Mayor of San Francisco Willie Brown. In this interview, he comes out and says:
“In the world of politics we don’t think in these terms,” Brown said of the political decisions in the Statehouse. “We think very short-range: how can they be helpful in getting us re-elected. Period.”
He goes on to say that former politicians are part to blame for current pension crises nationwide – by kicking the can down the road, we have come to where we are now. He also RIGHTLY blames the voter – if voters didn’t want the can kicked, these politicians wouldn’t be reelected. Brown also says that no one took the time to research the long term ramifications of financial decisions when setting wage and pension benefits for public employees for example – no actuaries were consulted according to Brown.
Brown does not regret his decisions, since he said you can’t look back – but his honest insights (perhaps 20 years too late) are refreshing and provide a lesson to the average citizen.
As an aside, I ate lunch next to Willie Brown the last time I was in San Francisco. We were at separate tables at 5A5 – he appeared to be holding a discussion with some other community leaders about taking action on various projects. He was wearing his famous hat, which he tossed down upon arriving then proceeded to order a screwdriver in a wine glass – the man has style!
