The Massachusetts House of Representatives voted along party lines to reject a rule that would require equal representation from both parties on the Ethics Committee (35 Yeas, 120 Nays). The rule would have required four members from each party, ensuring that everything is on the up and up. But the Democrats wanted nothing to do with that. They much prefer the current makeup of the committee (Seven Democrats, four Republicans). We hear all these sound bites about bi-partisanship…but it is just noise folks. Equal representation on this Committee (ethics for crying out loud) is the best way to ensure transparency and bi-partisanship…but not here in Massachusetts.

Even the US Congress Ethics Committee has equal representation from both parties. It is clearly abnormal and illogical to have it any other way. We’ve had so many scandals and shenanigans over the years here in Massachusetts. The taxpayers of Massachusetts deserve legislators who maintain the highest ethical standards to ensure public trust, respect and confidence in state government. How did your representative vote? Did she/he represent your position well on this matter? David DeCoste (R-Norwell) voted in favor of it. Thanks David! Remember – Absolute power corrupts absolutely.