History tends to repeat itself, even if we are sometimes slow to recognize those repetitions. The indictment of Tom DeLay in many ways echoes the scandal that surrounded Democratic Congressman Dan Rostenkowski over a decade ago. Soon after Rostenkowski’s fall, the Republicans took control of Congress. I don’t think the current ethics impairments of assorted Republicans are enough to tip the scales of power in favor of the Democrats, but it’s a start. I think people want reform. I think people want a government that is efficient, transparent, and that rewards merit instead of cronyism. But Democrats need to make reform part of a larger message that concretely addresses the everyday concerns of people. Recently, I watched a friend struggle to navigate the bureaucracy of a large HMO as he attempted to get health insurance for his kids. It’s these frustrations that Democrats not only need to speak to, but to which they can offer concrete solutions. And Democrats need to convince people that they are up to the task of leading this country.
