Does Congress Work for the People?

One fundamental question to ask is: who is Congress truly working for? The idea of serving the 'common man' is broad and inclusive, encompassing everyone from CEOs to refuse collectors. Martin Luther King Jr. emphasized the importance of serving others through the 'content of one’s character,' which ultimately brings happiness and meaning to life.

The Quest for Happiness

Humans innately seek happiness and fulfillment. Upon stripping away the noise and distractions, the true sense of happiness comes from selflessly contributing to the betterment of others. This perspective is universal, regardless of one’s social status or profession.

However, some individuals fail to realize that serving oneself does not lead to lasting happiness and often results in the suffering of others. True happiness comes from a genuine commitment to others and the values of service and responsibility.

Motives and Convictions

Servants of the people often act out of deeply held convictions and a sense of conscience. There are others, however, whose motivations may be less praiseworthy. Some may prioritize their own interests, while others may cater to the base desires of their voters. Many work towards the interests of their constituency, which may include particular races, religions, or industries, often at the expense of broader societal needs.

Personal Experience: A Bridge and Its Workers

There was a bridge backgammon and gin rummy club where I once worked. One day, a colleague Susan asked, 'For who do you work?' She replied, 'Jim,' pointing to the club's defrocked vice cop who managed the club for the mob. I corrected her, saying, 'Susan, you work for Jim, but also for Kal, your co-worker Lyn the cook, for Eddie, and me, and for all the other members of the club.' This example illustrates the complexity of who serves whom in a workplace, and the true purpose of public service should be clear and inclusive.

Constituents and Accountability

Representatives of Congress are expected to work for the people in their districts. However, some representatives, like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC), have expanded their focus to serve the country as a whole, sometimes at the expense of their local constituents. It’s crucial for representatives to stay connected with the people they represent and to address their needs.

As AOC and others delve into issues they know little about, they may lose sight of their primary responsibility: representing the interests and needs of their district. It is a reminder that empathy, knowledge, and a sense of duty are essential qualities in public servants.