Opinion
In simple terms, here’s what Congress should accomplish in the coming year
November 15, 2007
Dear Congress, I’ve been a very good political participant this past year. I’ve followed politics, participated in the political process and even lobbied for more financial aid and better access to our colleges and universities. With the upcoming holiday season quickly approaching, I have a few simple requests that would make me extra happy. I don’t think they’re too much to ask, and if I get some of them, I promise I will be extra good.
Please use common sense
I don’t think this is a big wish, and it won’t cost anything. I just hope when you debate the bills in Washington, you consider everyone—not just your own parties or your personal gains.
Solve our border crisis
Our borders mean our sovereignty as a nation. If we cannot keep people from freely crossing our borders, how can we keep ourselves safe? I know it seems like a daunting task, but I think it will be well worth the work.
Do something about higher education
I won’t be in school next year, so this is more for the future, but higher education has been a steadily decreasing priority for America. A nation of well-educated people who can compete on an international level is not a bad thing, right? Many nations offer subsidized higher education. I’m graduating with $15,000 in debt, so subsidized education doesn’t sound so bad.
Mandate better fuel economy standards
China has better standards than our country. We are making technological breakthroughs every day. Why can’t we mandate vehicles to have at least the same fuel standards as China? Not only would better fuel standards be better for the environment and help our dependence on foreign oil, but it would also open up American vehicles to foreign markets which are closed now because of our poor standards. An American car selling in foreign markets would make automakers happy this holiday season too, wouldn’t it?
Address the crisis in Darfur
Congressmen and women, this is a grave situation. You are calling out a nation’s genocide from a hundred years ago while ignoring one going on now. Give aid, give support, give help; it doesn’t matter what it is.
I know this is a lot to ask for, but as I said, I have been a good boy this year.
I know I can’t probably get a lot of these this year, but do you think if I am an extra good political participant next year you will consider at least some of them?
Thank you,
Joe Eggers
P.S. I will even leave some cookies out for you, especially if you do something about higher education.
Joe Eggers is a fifth year senior from Appleton, Wis. He is a political science and international studies major. He has been involved in several activities on campus, including a stint as last year's Student Senate president.