Conor Friedersdorf at The American Scene has an interesting post up about the Daschle controversy over incorrect federal income tax payments (or lack thereof). In the article he writes:
I can’t say I mind that they’re all more likely to pay what they owe. But what about people less wealthy, or who don’t gear their whole adult life to serving in government? Is scrutiny of past taxes going to dissuade everyone but insiders from going through the confirmation process?
I hope not. I don’t plan on making a career in government, but on the off chance that the charismatic James Polous rises to the presidency as head of the new PomoCon Party, I’d like to preserve my chances of becoming ambassador to Spain.
It’s a good point, and one we should all keep in mind when holding politicians to such high standards.