RE:RE:US Economy Still Red HotJohnny,
I am aware that contractors and employees for the CIA, and presumably other government agencies, have written editorials in mainstream news outlets, like the NY Times, without identifying their past or current affiliation. This gives the reader a mistaken impression these “experts” are independent. The threat to democracy is obvious, when employees of intelligence agencies infiltrate mass media. Washington in general is a corrupt revolving door, where many federal employees can look forward to a cushy, well paid job from the very people they’re supposed to regulate. Public servants should be barred from cashing in on insider connections for a period of at least five years. I blame Congress for failing in their responsibility to provide sufficient oversight.
That’s why I always do my own due diligence, not only with stocks, but also on matters of public policy. I don’t automatically accept the smoothly delivered message from some attractive TV personality, and their carefully selected guests. Every issue must be considered based on it’s own merits. Remain sceptical and always ask the hard questions. That said, we still need the CIA. It’s a dangerous world, and their services are indispensable. They’re not expendable. But the fact that Congress refuses to exercise effective oversight can only weaken democracy. In particular, intelligence agencies (essentially the Secret Police) must not replace elected officials in decision making. They can’t be permitted to determine policy. Congress and the President should not be reduced to mere figureheads.