Governing Personally And Publically

Posted at 9:43 am on Wednesday, June 1, 2005, in Uncategorized, and tagged bush.

In yesterday’s epic Bush press conference, Bush stated that his stance on possibly vetoing a stem cell research bill out of Congress is based on his principles.

But from that point going forward, I felt it was best to stand on principle — and that is taxpayers’ money to use — for the use — for the use of experimentation that would destroy life is a principle that violates something I — I mean, is a position that violates a principle of mine. And so — and I stand strong on that, to the point where I’ll veto the bill as it now exists.

Source: The White House

Similarly, and ironically in sports news, New Jersey State Assemblyman Craig Stanley is proposing legislation to change the name of the state’s sole professional hockey team, the New Jersey Devils, based on his morals.

“This is an age where symbolism is very important,” said Stanley, a Baptist deacon. “I’ve always cringed when people say they’re going to see the Devils. The merchandise, the paraphernalia is based on the actual demonic devil. Personally, it causes a little bit of an issue with me.“

Source: CBS Sportsline.com

Is it the place of politicians to govern based on such personal beliefs? I understand that we have elected these people (well, sometimes things don’t work out how they are supposed to), however, they are also representatives of the people. And to take such a personal, religious stance and bring it, not only to the public square but to the legislative table, is an egregious slap in the face of the democratic ideals that these politicians lamely state they are working to defend.

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