Shuster has been caught again
As the sun has thawed the fields and barnyards in the the Ninth Congressional District, the earthy smell of spring has been accompanied by another – the stench of political corruption.
Our congressman, Bill Shuster, has been caught again. Observers report Shuster and top airline lobbyists were lounging poolside at a Miami hotel the week after the House’s transportation committee, which Shuster chairs, approved a bill to overhaul the Federal Aviation Administration in ways favorable to the airline industry.
This is only the latest example of Shuster’s questionable associations, and more evidence of conflicts of interest. After filing to divorce his wife of 27 years in 2014, he admitted to a “private and personal relationship” with a senior airline industry lobbyist.
Conservative voters have tolerated enough of this behavior, which damages public trust. It typifies all that is wrong in Washington, D.C. Is Shuster so intoxicated with the power he wields, and so contemptuous of his constituents, that he really doesn’t care about his behavior? Our public servants should champion the highest standards in every aspect of their lives, rather than see how much they can get away with.
Thank God we have a far better choice this year for our congressional representation. I intend to vote for Art Halvorson, a man of strong faith, unquestionable integrity, a 29-year record of honorable military service, and someone who better represents the values of the Ninth District. I pray many do likewise.
Fred C. Bryan
Manns Choice