“Members of Congress have more leeway than executive branch officials or individuals in publicly held companies, who operate under stricter conflict-of-interest rules that generally prevent them from taking actions that might benefit businesses or institutions where their relatives work. The legislators set and enforce their own rules, giving themselves broad latitude to take steps that can end up directly benefiting their immediate family.” (Washington Post) 

 In other news, sources report an early-morning increase in daylight along eastern portion of horizon.

FEE Timely Classic

“Corruption in Government? Shocking!” by Sheldon Richman

“Nearly one-quarter of attorneys say the number of potential student loan clients has risen 50% to 100%, while 39% of attorneys report increases of 25% to 50%.”

Student debt is rising for obvious reasons: steadily spiraling college costs, financial aid cutbacks at public universities and a stubbornly weak economy that’s making it difficult for graduates to find jobs.” (Los Angeles Times)

People bought the line that owning a house was the key to prosperity, too.

FEE Timely Classic

“Why on Earth Do We Have a Student Loan Crisis?” by George C. Leef

“Thirty-three members of Congress have directed more than $300 million in earmarks and other spending provisions to dozens of public projects that are next to or within about two miles of the lawmakers’ own property, according to a Washington Post investigation.” (Washington Post)

Some are more equal than others.

FEE Timely Classic
“An Aristocracy of Pull?” by Thomas M. Wilson