Do people automatically lower their ethical standards when they run for public office so they can get elected?

Question

It seems this 'great democracy' has become more of a oligarchy with the rich having all the money AND political power. Do people who seek public office basically have to be the puppets of big lobbying groups and corporate donors? Why don't people care that those they elect (from both parties) seem only concerned with enriching themselves and holding on to their power with little or no concern as to their constituents' best interests?

Answer 1

You ask a really great question--one that I think about a lot.

Our system is set up that most folks elected to office have to have to have at least one of two precious commodities--time and money.

Now there are many folks who are elected at the local levels and they give generously of their time. Many of these don't have huge bank accounts. They make the best decisions they can--yet they have to balance competing interests. Usually someone is going to be mad or angry at them because not everyone is going to agree on any given issue 100 percent.

At the state and local levels it takes a lot more time and lots more money to get elected in the first place. Most people, because they have to be at their jobs to keep food on the table and pay the bills, are unable to step forward for these offices. If one has lots of money in the family or from business, it is easier to step forward to run for office.

And once one of these folks get elected, I think the "friends they hang out with" change and often their perspectives change as well. Ego and pride sometimes enters in and they want to keep their elected postion. And, of course, they have to make many decisions.Sometimes in order to get the thing they believe
is needed for their community, they have to compromise on something else.

The best voters can do is be involved in the election process and let elected officials know where we stand on issues. And, if you have the chance, help someone you know run for office. Or better, run for an office yourself. Our government truly is only as excellent as the people we elect!

Answer 2

Every government in the world is like that to a greater or lesser degree. Give the people bread and circuses. Ever read any of Terry Goodkinds books? Wizards 1st rule.

Answer 3

Take a look at those who run for office, it's usually people that desire power. As history has pointed out, those who desire power are usually unscrupulous in the methods they use to obtain it. Hence, I wouldn't say that those who run for public office lower their ethical standards, as those standards are already pretty low to begin with.

Answer 4

I read once that the ones who should be running Government - would not touch it. They know better.

Hence we are left with these cockroaches,

Mind you, I really think there are a few great Politicians out there. Their names escape me lately.

Tell me, who cannot be corrupted? NOBODY.

So, the answer to the question would have to be - They might start off with the best intentions, but none of them is a blooming lotus in the muddy pool.

They have to get Dirty to get in, and once you're dirty thats it!

Answer 5

I had an excellent kind of appreciate for him till he folded decrease than tension from Bush. I nonetheless do appreciate him, yet with the intention to steer the country you ought to have the skill to stand up to peer tension. i think of he made the splendid decision by ability of having out of politics. If he became working interior the forthcoming election, with all the different alternatives, i might vote for him.

Answer 6

I feel you are so right on, and we do care. Its just trying to choose from the ones that have more of our moral and political views. And hope they accomplish what we voted them in for. Which does not happen very often.

Answer 7

This only proves the statement: money rules the MATERIAL world. Look for a better Ruler for yourself (namely, your soul) - only God can be!