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Why Politics Matter

Self-interest is never a good quality for an elected official.

I could comment on any number of issues raised by this editorial by two 9/11 Commission members; see Washington dysfunction is damaging national security. Members of Congress are putting party before nation, staying in office and getting re-elected over governing well.

Previously I've shared that I'm running for port commissioner, Port of Tacoma. Yesterday while outdoor belling, I had several conversations with people who reflected the disenchantment of people with politicians in general and Congress in particular. One of my own campaign platforms is that I believe the Port of Tacoma commissioners should have term limits. As one gentleman pointed out, I've heard that from others running for office, then when they get in, their tune changes. 

Here in Pierce County where I live, the Pierce County council members have proposed changing the term limits for their members from the current two terms to three. What that means is that they will serve 12 years versus eight, since incumbents get re-elected at a 95 percent rate in this county. Here you have the local politics and politicians reflecting the priorities of our national governing body. The above will be on the ballot this November. 

Eric Holdeman is a contributing writer for Emergency Management magazine and is the former director of the King County, Wash., Office of Emergency Management.
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