Showing real relevance

The famously inactive Congress has decided to get things moving.

Instead of trying to solve the immigration debate, the budget, growing racial tensions, our deteriorating infrastructure, our own national security and the many long-term problems facing the nation, it has decided to muck around independently in international politics.

In an unprecedented move, the House of Representatives, specifically John Boehner, invited Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to speak. The invitation bypassed the president and may have long-lasting international repercussions. Additionally, Netanyahu was running a domestic campaign for his own re-election. Thus, the House muddled in Israel’s domestic affairs, as well.

Then 47 senators sent a letter to the Iranian government warning it that whatever international agreement may be reached over curtailing Iran’s nuclear program could be derailed as soon as President Obama leaves office. This treaty is being brokered by a number of countries, not just the president.

The impact of this intrusion into international affairs is still unknown.

Both of these actions seem motivated by the long expressed desire to stick it to the president. It is a time honored tradition for the opposition party, but muddling in international affairs independently of the executive branch as brazenly as these is more akin to sticking it to the country.

Some say, these may have been moves to show the relevance of the Congress, but real relevance would better be shown by getting to work on those issues that only Congress can handle.

We have waited long enough.

Gordon Forgey

Publisher