It used to be that the further you got away from Washington D.C. the less what goes on there affected you. No more. The federal government's reach into 'Everyday Americans' lives is becoming more profound, more recognizable, and more expensive.
This change has happened because modern technology allows us to see events as they unfold, federal lawmakers are passing bills that will directly affect every American, and has created programs - and infiltrated others - that involve local communities.
Many local community programs use grants from the federal government to operate. While the goals of these programs may be noble, local Tea Party members feel that the federal government should not be involved in local issues.
Local Tea Party organizer, Pocatello resident Chris Stevens, has gotten involved because he feels things have gotten out of control at the federal level.
"The biggest thing that got it going was the banker bailout, the stimulus, and big spending under Obama."
Stevens also feels that the Democrat agenda was like throwing gasoline on the fire that started under Bush.
"Things were already bad and then the Democrats stepped on the gas pedal. They are accelerating and that is what has got people upset."
Locally, the Tea Party gathered on 'Tax Day', the 4th of July, September 12th, and most recently, they held a 'Converge on the Capitol' rally in Boise that pushed for state sovereignty.
Democrats, intent on 'gettin' while the gettin's good', pushed a blitzkrieg-like agenda. Ramrodding that agenda, though, cost Democrats governorships in Virginia and New Jersey and Ted Kennedy's old Senate seat.
"People are starting to wake back up," Stevens said.
Similar to the national political climate, the local Tea Party movement has its share of detractors. The Idaho State Journal's community editor Jodeane Albright has had sharp criticism of the Tea Party movement.
In her blog titled 'What are the Tea Party People For?' Albright asks whether Tea Party members can even spell Medicare. She also goes on to say "Please, Tea Party, put a cork in it. And toss your old tea bags into Boston Harbor. If you even know where that is.
The Tea Party isn't going away anytime soon. Recently, Tea Party leaders from all over the country had a face to face meeting with Michael Steele, the national Republican Party chair. Another group drafted and signed 'The Mount Vernon Statement'.
(It can be be seen here: http://www.themountvernonstatement.com/)
Tired of Washington? Well, just know that what they decide may have a very profound effect on Southeastern Idaho.
Comments
Great article. I agree that Washington's reach is getting too big!
Awesome article Layne! And too true! Lovr ya
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