AT LAST, A POLITICIAN WHO SPEAKS THE TRUTH!

Recently, Congressman Phil Hare (D) of Illinois was addressing the new health care legislation. When asked about the law’s constitutionality, the representative spoke what was quite refreshing, he spoke the truth. No masks, no evasions, no beating around the bush to avoid the answer. Congressman Hare simply said, "I don't worry about the Constitution on this."

For me however, this raises a question of political reason: did you not, Representative Hare, swear an oath to uphold the Constitution? Article 6 states that congressmen, “shall be bound by Oath or Affirmation, to support this Constitution.” The exact verbiage of your oath of office was: "I, (name of Member), do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign or domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same . . .”

The duty of your office requires you to “worry about the Constitution on this.” In fact, your primary concern when debating any bill should be its constitutionality. So yes, you should “worry,” Mr. Hare. It is your job to “worry,” sir, your sworn obligation. Due process is about upholding the law—and in this case the Constitution—not finding ways around it, bending it, or breaking the rules.

If you do not have enough integrity to uphold your sworn oath, then you have no business being a congressman.