huffingtonpost by Gerald McEntee: Bush Makes Public Service Recognition Week a Travesty

Bush Makes Public Service Recognition Week a Travesty
Gerald McEntee

05.10.2007

Former Attorney General John Mitchell, whose tainted tenure at the U.S. Justice Department in the Nixon Administration is now being replicated by Alberto Gonzales, once chided the press to "Watch what we do, not what we say." I thought of that the other day when one of the Washington, D.C., newspapers included an insert celebrating Public Service Recognition Week.
There, on page two of the insert, was a perfectly cynical letter from President George W. Bush sending "greetings" during this annual week set aside to honor and thank Americans employed in public service.

"America is a vibrant force for freedom and prosperity, and our public servants are one of our Nation's greatest assets," Bush writes. "I appreciate public servants for your diligence and commitment to service. Your good works reflect the best of our country, and our Nation benefits from your spirit and leadership."

I am sure that every American involved in public service appreciates the president's words. But words on paper are as cheap as talk. We've been watching him for more than six years now. Never has the White House had an occupant more opposed to public service and more intent on destroying the institutions of government that people rely on for security, safety and support. He's filled the federal government with political appointees of low character and even lower competence, driving outstanding career employees away from their jobs. He's placed political hacks into positions where talent and experience are needed. Just think of what impact his appointees had on FEMA and how his contempt for public services, and the workers who provide them, led to a full-fledged disaster in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

FULL story at link.

Gerry is my national union's (AFSCME) President.