So much for the Democratic process

The title link goes to a story running at SaveTheInternet.com about a disturbing process for passing legislation in the House of Representatives. The real story is running here, and discusses how the new telecommunications bill will be drafted and passed out of public view. Though largely passed in committee, lobbyists who can influence the decisions on this bill.

The text of this article make it very clear that Congress has no interest in letting the public know how this law will be made. There is a very clear reason for this. If you had to get votes in a midterm election, but had to pass a telecommunications reform bill that will, in some way be it good or bad, effect every American, and have deleterious effects on the exercise of hallowed liberties, you wouldn't want the nation looking over your shoulder either. This is especially so considering that the lobbyist will be through ridiculous sums of money around to get their way. Most of this money comes from companies like Verizon and AT&T who stand to get the most out of it. It's sickening to think that this is how law is made, that the political process and all the principles imbued in the Constitution mean next to nothing because of personal bias and deep pockets. While I understand that our government fundamentally operates in a republican manner, the fact that Congress would so brazenly disregard the interests of the people makes me sick. It sounds as though it's time for a Hobbsean revocation of the social contract.

There may be hope though, especially if this is a trend. Even with the rumored return of the broadcast flag, there may as yet be some hope.