Demoskratos

Do what I say but not as I do!  I believe the term is hypocrite and that is on the respectable side of the description of what transpired.

President Obama on January 21st gave an executive decree to subject lobbyists to stricter guidelines such that small but powerful groups of people will not have any undue influence over the government before the interests of the citizens of the United States.  This was applauded by many including Senator John McCain.  Let’s see the video of President Obama.

January 21, 2008

However, less than 48 hours later, Obama’s administration gave an executive waiver to former defense lobbyist William Lynn who had previously represented Ratheon Corporation based in Massachusetts to become the next Deputy Secretary of Defense.  According to Raytheon SEC filing, Raytheon received $18.3 billion in government related businesses in 2007 and $17.0 billion in 2006.

Now, President Obama did retake the Oath of Office correctly the second time right?  Or, do we need further clarification from President Obama on what he means by “greater transparency”.  Cynic, nah, I’m just a confused taxpayer waiting to lose my job and have my government owned bank foreclose on me so the bank’s CEO can refurnish his office with a solid gold desk.

Given the state of the economy and the alarming rate which Americans are losing jobs and homes, citizens are awaiting with high anticipation for the President Elect Obama and his administration to take office.

Going back to his first press conference after the election, the President Elect has made a broad outline to strengthen the middle class and keep people in their homes.

In the meantime, it appears the entrepreneurial spirit of the American people has taken over and the people have taken matters into their own hands creating an explosion of Obama paraphernalia for sale and services leading up the Inauguration on January 20.

This is a historical moment not just because it is the first African American to take the highest office but it comes at a time when Americans and others around the world are hurting.  So the expectations as well as the excitement levels are high (see photos:  Photo1, Photo2, Photo3).

The media is also paying big bucks to have exclusive rights to broadcast the events and by doing so will not allow all viewers to share the moment.

This writer has attempted to secure tickets to the inauguration event moments immediately following the election but without success.  One needs to be a big Democratic Party donor to receive reserved tickets it seems.

Supposedly, one can get tickets for free from our Congressperson.  When was the last time they returned a call with an answer?

While it is still possible to get airline tickets into Washington DC at a reasonable fare, the local hotels with normal room rates of of under $79 are now charging $400 per night on Expedia.com.

I’m glad some people have that kind of money to be spending to witness a historical event and are helping out the economy by paying for the merchandise and services.

I just hope with all the celebration and the rock star performances from the likes of U2, that someone is thinking about those who are less fortunate, don’t have $10,000 to give in contribution money and are worrying about landing a job that can pay the living expenses.  I’m still waiting anxiously for positive change and I don’t mean pocket change either to trickle down.