Restore the Public Trust

The problem with the American political system today may not be that it is so corrupt, but that it is so corrupting. Powerful, intelligent and trusted political figures who should know better are on the take. Whether they are on the take legally or illegally does not make much difference. Nor, for that matter, is it important whether they got just a little benefit, like the free use of an aging auto, or a real deal such as a choice investment in some hot stock. A deal is a deal. The public trust cannot just be upheld on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Anyone reading the news from Washington, Sacramento and Los Angeles the past week would reach the rational conclusion that the American political system is riddled with corruption. The Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives was on the verge of being toppled. One of his top assistants reportedly was under Justice Department scrutiny. A California state senator was indicted. The financial affairs of the mayor of Los Angeles, one of the nation’s most admired and trusted political figures, were under investigation. These all happened to be Democrats, but during the past eight years, Republicans throughout the national Administration were constantly defending themselves against alleged conflicts of interest.

Only the naive would be startled by the fact that some politicians are greedy and willing to be bought. Political corruption is as old as political history. But perhaps the dividing line is too blurred these days. Reform laws seek to correct past abuses, only to introduce loopholes that attract new abuses. Narrow readings of ethics statutes invite contorted financial dealings. The cost of campaigns forces politicians to constantly beg for money. Congressman justify getting big payments for little speeches by claiming they don’t get paid enough to live the way a congressman is supposed to live.

The solution is not to painstakingly craft new ethics statutes with more new loopholes and conflicting legal interpretations. The solution is to remove temptation altogether by banning all outside income and paying public officials a salary that allows them to maintain a reasonable standard of living--a salary that will attract qualified candidates. Adopt a system of public financing of campaigns so that officials do not prostitute themselves through fund-raising, but one that also gives challengers a reasonable shot at unseating incumbents. Make it absolutely clear what is allowed and what is not allowed. Make the punishment simple, swift and severe.

If the people want a restored public trust, they must be willing to pay for it.