Zack Space has clean jeans and a good attitude, but ...

Zack Space - U.S. Congressman from the 18th District - has been in office since January 4, 2007. If he were like other politicians, we could reasonably expect to hear from him just before the next election.

Because he sent me a nice brochure a few days ago, he's already proved that he's not like other politicians, and I like what he said in that mailing.

"This is your government ... I am here to help you get efficient and respectful treatment ... and to ensure your tax dollars are working for you."

Then this little news release:

"Immediately after being sworn in ... Space made it his first priority to lead the fight to restore transparency and honesty to Congress by undoing the corruptive influence that lobbyists have had over the legislative process.

"Congressman Space's Ethics Pledge - a self-imposed ban on free meals, gifts, and trips from lobbyists - is the centerpiece of a revolutionary rules package that represents the most sweeping Congressional ethics reform legislation in decades."

He said all the right things. But he is not the first to go to Congress with clean jeans and a good attitude. I think Zack's may stick, unlike most of the others. And if it doesn't, I'll let you know.

Meantime, he has lots of fires to put out, and we're talking Middle East.

On February 15th, I wrote Fiddling While Rome Burns in which I quoted an AP-Ipsos poll that showed 65 percent disapproved of President Bush's activities and 58 percent disapproved of the muddling/piddling Congress.

I also said: When we cast our ballots three months ago, U.S. citizen voters unequivocally told Washington that we are displeased with the war, displeased with the President, and displeased with Congress. During those three months, we have seen the war escalate as the President continues on his ego-driven war dance; meanwhile, Congress muddles and piddles.

So here it is, April 6th. Rome is still burning, and Zack needs to get going.