Hillbilly wisdom;Democrats were traditionally labeled tax and spend. This may have been fake news. Now, tax and spend applies to both parties or both halves of the same party that controls the United States. There is a question whether about two distinct parties. There is little doubt about who benefits the most in the United States. The division between the top and the bottom gets larger each year.

An examination of tariffs is called for. Is a tariff a tax? A revenue? Or something else? Let us assume for a minute that tariffs are taxes and/or revenues. Taxes and revenues are under the jurisdiction of the congress. So! Do we blame Congress for the higher cost of goods? Can the legislative branch give their duties to the executive branch? NO.

Congress cannot give or delegate core legislative powers but can “grant other powers”. Wayman v Southard 1825. This keeps accountability for actions where the founders meant for it to be. Further, placing accountability on the Legislature reduces an authoritarian power grab. This precedent was established early.

These “other powers” have traditionally been in areas of foreign relations and trade. But “the president acts under the authorization of Congress”. Youngstown Sheet and Tube Co v Sawyer 1952. There has been a steady increase in the executive branch’s involvement since that time. This is the way it is. The struggle for the power to control, to determine, to guide, to safeguard independence, to provide services etc is a constant ongoing reality at the highest levels of government. They do it for us (United States).

Congress is so busy. Congress’ 2025 work schedule, The House was in session less than 140 days last year and provides a shiny example the work ethic of the House of Representatives’ members in their service to those they represent. If, indeed, they serve those who elected them? Who else would they serve? Who benefits from the lackadaisical approach to their job. Hell, they don’t even show up. If I may, this type of behavior would get employees fired in the private sector and some government jobs. Maybe they could provide some bullet points as to what they did each week?

Compare this with the Senate who met 180 days. Working five days a week sometimes. Now there is sacrifice and dedication. Slightly less than half the time. I, for one, am impressed.

And let me not miss an opportunity to say Speaker Johnson claims he is in control. What a stand up guy! Assuming his remark to be correct, he is still only a part of the “authorization of Congress”. It takes a majority of votes to give authorization to any legal standing. Yes, this is an off year election- the midterms. Congress, please let your job performance and your actions demonstrate why you should be reelected. Don’t spend time telling the voters how you will represent us and our affairs in Congress. Just do it.