How is it that in an atmosphere infused with empty prattle about transforming ethics in Washington—as if Sodom and Gomorrah could change without cataclysmic intervention—nobody says a thing about the procession of politicos who use their office to promote themselves and their products? Pelosi abused her abusive political position to flog a best-selling book about … herself. Republican Tim Pawlenty is after the same unjust deserts.

The main title of the former Minnesota governor’s new book is insufferably titled “Courage to Stand.” Pawlenty, I presume, is referring to his own indomitable grit. In a book studded with references to faith and the Almighty, you’d think there’d be some space for humility.

It goes without saying that the man is positioning himself for 2012.

In any event, politicians—all public servants—should be put on a very tight leash and prohibited from exploiting their already exploitative positions for yet more profit. Then again, you know that I believe government workers should be disqualified from voting. For one thing, they don’t pay taxes, but are paid out of taxes. (Taxpayers pay taxes twice: on their own income and on the income of members of the bureaucracy). For another, they are in the position to vote themselves higher and higher wages.

Which they do.

Why do you think “Oink Sector” salaries are double that of productive-sector wages? Market forces?

No; It’s the vote. The vermin have voted themselves the kind of raises you don’t see in the private economy, where productivity—output per unit of labor—dictates pay.

MORE about the Intrepid One HERE.