Demagogue

... and you reside in Connecticut's 2nd congressional district, you had better start looking out for yourself. The Republican congressman who represents that district is Rob Simmons. And Simmons isn't too keen on Bush's proposed Social Security reform or, it appears, any kind of reform.

Today's Washington Post offered Simmons' blunt take on Social Security reform:

"Why stir up a political hornet's nest ... when there is no urgency?" said Rep. Rob Simmons (Conn.), who represents a competitive district. "When does the program go belly up? 2042. I will be dead by then."

I have always felt that the word "future" is one of the most abused by political consultants and their clients. This view is only confirmed when a highly paid congressman like Simmons tells us he can't be bothered to worry about consequences that won't actually occur until after his life ends.

Just for the record, I'm annoyed with the way Bush is approaching Social Security reform. Indeed, it's horribly deceptive for the administration to consider funding the conversion costs of its reform proposal "off the books."

Having said that, even I feel that Bush deserves a smidgen of credit for at least raising the issue. Whatever Social Security reform you prefer, Simmons' out-of-sight, out-of-mind attitude is lazy and extremely provincial.

It makes me wonder: why does Simmons bother maintaining this kids' page on his official website? Why is he concerned at all with the kind of adults they'll grow up to be? Won't he be dead by then?