Here we go again. The richest member of Congress, Darrell Issa from California, is once again rehashing the horrible events in Benghazi. He is determined to make the incident President Obama's "weapons of mass destruction" moment. He can't win, but I suppose it's better than actually doing some work and pass needed legislation. This is just another example of why our government does absolutely nothing worthwhile.
Republicans in the House have attempted and failed to repeal "Obamacare" 33 times. This includes the 111th, 112th, and 113th Congresses. I believe they have better and more important things to do. The worst president in the history of our nation received more support from Democrats than Mr. Obama has ever had. And he placed our military in two unnecessary war zones.
I realize the Tea Party is in control of the former GOP, but we have seen a level of futility that is beyond anyone's imagination.
There is little question that lobbyists favor working with Republicans. There is a valid reason for wanting the party of the wealthy and big business to be in the majority. Unfortunately, lost in the shuffle are the other 310 million-plus citizens who desperately need an effective and concerned government. Add to that 12 million individuals residing in our country who remain in limbo, and we witness the arrogance of a legislative body whose only concern is their personal betterment.
Many mistakes were made in Benghazi. The signs were there that something tragic could take place anywhere in the region. Just as 9/11 could have been prevented, the same can be said for the attack on our embassy. However, rehashing the tragedy, nitpicking e-mails, and giving credence to "he said, she said," is foolhardy and will achieve nothing positive.
Mr. Issa is not only our wealthiest legislator, he has the support of several major corporations. We need to understand why he is so adamant about this issue. As my grandfather said: "Follow the money."
James Turnage
Op-ed
