Campaigner-In-Chief

Did you see that speech in Virginia with the Democratic caucus? You know where all the dems are getting a spa and manicure at taxpayer expense. We didn't elect a Commander-in-Chief, we elected a Campaigner-in-Chief.


By LAURIE KELLMAN

WASHINGTON (AP) - Members of Congress were quick to shame corporate executives for over-the-top extravagance during the economic crisis, flying private jets and taking luxury junkets. But some lawmakers are strolling fancy resorts spending tens of thousands of taxpayer dollars and mingling with lobbyists.

"We're very mindful" of perceptions, House Democratic Caucus Chairman John Larson told reporters Thursday camped outside of the sprawling Kingsmill Resort & Spa in Williamsburg, Va., where House Democrats spent about $100,000 on their three-day annual retreat. "It's serious and it's from morning till night. We've been dwelling, rightfully, on the economy," said Larson, D-Conn.