Lack of outrage = loss of freedom

I'm not naive enough to believe this kind of "pay to play" hasn't gone on throughout our nation's history. The differences are that those involved used to be more discrete, and there was a general ignorance on the part of most of the public.

Today, our elected officials flaunt every standard, and avoid even the appearance of propriety. And yet, there is no furor, no demand to step down, no accusation: "have you no dignity, sir?"

Don't think for a second those seeking power don't notice. They will consolidate their hold on extra-constitutional power while America entertains itself with Hollywood schlock and general vapidness. Only when the burden becomes too unbearable will the self-imposed fog lift. But then, it will be too late.

Blagojevich appointed Burris just before being kicked out of office.

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., agreed to seat Burris if he gave a full accounting of his Blagojevich contacts to the Illinois House committee that was considering impeachment.

Burris gave the committee an affidavit denying any discussion with Blagojevich's aides before being offered the seat. But when he testified, Burris acknowledged talking to one of Blagojevich's friends and informal advisers about it.

Burris did not admit talking to anyone else and said he could not recall any other contacts.

Then after he was sworn in, Burris released another affidavit, this time acknowledging he had talked to several Blagojevich advisers about his interest in the seat. Soon after, talking to reporters, he said he had been asked to help raise campaign money for the governor and that he tried to find people willing to donate but failed.

Then he stopped answering questions, letting others speak on his behalf.

Durbin says he isn't surprised a federal judge decided to allow the ethics committee to have wiretap conversations between former Gov. Rod Blagojevich's brother and U.S. Sen. Roland Burris.

So... why does this man have a vote on matters of national policy?