OPINION:
The drama created by the federal budget impasse is counterproductive and demonstrates how the wrong people are being threatened when such disagreements occur.
Congress is responsible for producing a budget that can be signed into law by the president. If an employee at any job fails to do his job, is a surrogate sought out to punish the employee in order to get the desired result? No. The employee is responsible for compliance. If that cannot be accomplished, the employee is ultimately fired.
The same approach needs to be enacted regarding the federal budget. Congress and President Obama should not be rewarded with media attention and political points for not doing their job. Congress should not be allowed to end a session without an approved budget or continuing resolution. Pay and benefits for all members of Congress, staff and political appointees should be suspended until a bill is passed. And, most importantly, all media should remain neutral, taking away the ability for politicians to reap points with their constituents.
It is reprehensible that the people of the United States - and especially federal workers - should continue to be used as pawns. It is time that those responsible are held accountable for their inaction. The incentives need to be changed so that the American citizens are not made to suffer for government failure.
ALAN B. CARR
New Market, Md.
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