The growing impeachment fires (the Gonzales "testimony", the contempt citations, Cindy Sheehan's occupation of Rep. Conyers' office) moved me to make a couple of congressional contacts this week. One e-mail was to Conyer's office, the other to my representative, Joe Sestak.
I got a long and detailed e-mail back, which I appreciate. Unfortunately, I don't think much of the content. After laying out the grounds for just how badly this administration has abused the Constitution, Rep. Sestak makes the following incomprehensible statement (below the fold):
The Watergate scandal was a clear, egregious abuse of power that merited congressional action. Nevertheless, in regards to the current Administration, I do not believe the abuses of power match the nature of those during Watergate, and thus do not believe such action is warranted. This nation must work hard to move forward, to progress beyond the faults of the current Administration. Attempting to impeach the president would further stall this progress and besmirch the presidency long after the current Administration leaves office. Resultantly, in the spirit of growth and the preservation of the oval office, I do not support issuing articles of impeachment against the office of the Presidency or Vice Presidency.
He seems to be saying that, despite the fact that Impeachment was the right thing to do during Watergate, somehow the very act of Impeachment would damage the office of the Presidency.
Congressman, with all my heart I disagree. The abuses you laid out in your letter clearly show the damage this administration is doing to our institutions, very much including the Office of the Presidency. Impeachment may be the only way to check that damage. I have serious doubts about what sort of constitutional government we may have after another two years without checks and balances.
This is a plea for others to persuade your representative, if they also are voicing sentiments like this. I'd especially like those in PA-07 who may be a little more eloquent than I am to try to reason with Rep. Sestak. Please be polite and respectful.