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Opinion editorials Handling of Pit Appeal Calls for a Time-Out |
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opinion editorialsThis editorial first appeared in the Albuquerque Journal. It was written by editorial page staff and is unsigned as it represents the opinion of the newspaper rather than the writers
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Sunday, July 26, 2009
Rep. Heinrich's Secret
Pssst. Duly elected members of Congress are sent to Washington to represent the public interests. Pass it on. And make sure you tell Rep. Martin Heinrich, a first-term congressman from Albuquerque.
Unlike his colleagues in New Mexico's congressional delegation, Heinrich won't talk about how many people have contacted his office regarding the hot debate over health care or what their concerns are.
Sens. Jeff Bingaman and Tom Udall have. So have Reps. Ben Ray Luján and Harry Teague. But Heinrich will only say via press release that he's met with people to gather input. His office refuses to talk about the level of contact by the people he represents. What's the opposite of illuminating?
It's up to his constituents to judge whether they want Heinrich to be a reliable vote for Pelosi/Waxman on this issue or if they would be happier with a modified version that addresses costs and other issues that have fired up so-called Blue Dog Democrats. There are plenty of arguments on both sides of this issue, and actions ultimately will be judged at the ballot box. That's how Democracy works.
But the refusal of his office to talk about the volume and nature of public feedback is as puzzling as it is amateurish. It should be the obligation of an elected representative to listen to constituents and track their concerns. Opening up the discussion provides insight and accountability.
And that's no secret.
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