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August 10, 2007
Should Congressman Wamp Employ His Spouse in His Campaign Office?
I guess most people do adhere to the adage "pick your battles," because I've certainly seen more complaining about US Rep. Zach Wamp (3rd District, since 1995) from conservative bloggers lately than from any Democrats; but I suppose it's a given that the Hamilton County Democratic chapter would seize upon the news, that Wamp opposes a House bill that would ban members of Congress from employing family in their campaign operations, as an opportunity to rile the folk in their direction.
I am somewhat surprised by my own reaction, but it is that I side with Rep. Wamp in opposing the ban.
But I also oppose, in principle, his decision to place his wife on the campaign payroll. It is in some ways up to the donors, if there were a way to gauge their consensus; but the practice communicates the impression of impropriety, and it should be avoided.
However, I can think of situations where the most logical choice for a candidate's team is a family member. This still would be subject to honest questioning, but some instances probably would hold up as exceptions.
Exceptions to what, if you deny the rule? Can a thing be observed without being codified? I just said that I think it ought not be done. I consider it a factor in my 2008 election decision, as well as something to list about this candidate on his 2008 Tennessee Ticket page (coming soon…ish), so that voters can make decisions that include this information.
I just don't like banning or requiring things unless doing so is absolutely necessary. This one ought to be enforced simply by common sense.
US House Elections | By joe lance | 10:06 AM