Open Government?

Cal Thomas | Syndicated Columnist | Updated: Jan 08, 2010

Open Government?


January 7, 2010

The CEO of C-SPAN, Brian Lamb, sent a letter to the Senate and House leadership requesting that the House and Senate panel working on reconciling the health care bills be open to coverage.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi has effectively denied the request and Majority Leader Harry Reid seemed to suggest that Republicans are irresponsible and so the public shouldn't be allowed to watch.

C-SPAN never comments on what it covers. It simply covers. It is the ultimate "we report, you decide." C-SPAN has a loyal audience that cares deeply about the country and public policy. But arrogant politicians don't want us seeing what they are doing - making deals, twisting arms, trading promises for votes, adding pork.

Health care reform will affect one-sixth of the economy and touch every American. If that isn't important enough to deserve open coverage, what is? C-span isn't partisan, but Pelosi and Reid are.

You might want to express yourself to your elected representative and senators. What are they trying to hide?


Cal Thomas is a nationally syndicated columnist based in Washington, D.C.

Open Government?