“Corrupt” + “Politicians” = A Perfect Combination

We have reached a certain level of cynicism concerning those who are given the charge of making the laws for our country. When we hear the phrase “corrupt politician,” we often think to ourselves, “Well, that’s redundant!” Many of us have approached the ballot box during an election with the resignation of having to vote for “the lesser of two evils.” Of course, the politicians of late have not been doing much to help improve their image. We have one Congressman who was discovered to be hiding thousands of dollars in his freezer. A Senator was arrested for what he maintained was nothing more than a “wide stance” in an airport bathroom. And, I would remiss if I catalogued the recent poor behavior of our elected officials without mentioning the former governor of Illinois, Rod Blagojevich.

Governor Blagojevich, an esteemed neighbor to my beloved home state of Missouri, was impeached and then removed from office on charges that he tried to sell President Obama’s Senate seat to the highest bidder. Phone conservations in which Blagojevich was heard to be engaging in a “pay to play” scheme concerning the Senate seat as well as other government projects were recorded by federal agents. Although his political career is officially over in the state of Illinois, he still must face federal corruption charges in a trial later this year. While he waits for his day in court, Blagojevich has been making the rounds on the media circuit and pleading his innocence to less-than-convinced crowds.

One of the recurring themes in my novels is the negative influence of power and greed on our political system. From elected officials who look the other way when illegal dealing are taking place to those who take pleasure in belittling those of a supposed lower standing, my books are brutally honest in my take on what happens all too often in our government. I hope you will read Lifetime Loser, Finish Line, and Tuey’s Course. Then, please contact me and let me know what you think of my character portrayals as well as any of your own experiences with less-than-honorable politicians in your area.