First Weasel Word Response

Almost two weeks ago I contacted the entire Kentucky Delegation in Washington D.C. to get their individual positions on H. R. 676 the bill to provide for comprehensive health insurance coverage for all United States residents.

Today I received my first reply. The reply was from Ed Whitfield. The text of the letter is below.

Dear Mr. Long:

Thank you for contacting me regarding H.R. 676, the United States Nation Health Insurance Act. It is good to hear from you and I appreciate the opportunity to address your concerns.

That being said, in the United States House of Representatives we have a long standing tradition know as Congressional Courtesy. This tradition establishes that every elected Member of Congress should have the opportunity to respond to his or her constituents. Following the precedent of Congressional Courtesy, I have forwarded your letter to your Representative Ben Chandler. I hope he is able to address your concerns.

Again, thank you for contacting me.

Sincerely
Ed Whitfield
Member of Congress

This is a typical weasel worded boiler plate response from a Congressman written by a staffer. I expect more to follow.

Congressional Courtesy is In Hill-speak, it dictates that a constituent’s message gets forwarded to their own Member or Senator, though it’s not an official or enforced policy. It is a easy way to dodge questions the member doesn’t want to answer.

I am real happy he appreciated the opportunity to address my concerns. I would have been even happier if he had actually taken a position on National Health Insurance.

So if there is anyone out there that lives in Mr. Whitfield’s district, please ask him this question:

What is your position regarding H.R. 676, the United States Nation Health Insurance Act?

If he answers let me know.