Symbolism and those who know not of it

Recently, I made a suggestion in another Blog-"Maryland Politics Watch"
I suggested that the elected officials in Montgomery County take a pay cut to show that they were serious about cutting a $400 million deficit.

I know this isn't going to close the gap, and I know that it won't happen- but elected officials always have a source of income- the public treasury--your tax dollars.

When budgets are drawn up and cuts have to be made-- the cuts are usually the ones that need the money the most-- social service programs- among these are food and housing assistance and probably others.

Meanwhile as in the case of the County Council who knew we were facing a deficit- they received a raise.

I worked in the private sector and as a Union member for 32 years- when times were tough- we had to forego raises-
During one spell, many of us oldtimers(those who had been with the company for more than 15 years) were denied a raise for ten years. The Union actually backed this idea and encouraged us to accept such a deal or face dire consequences down the road.

Meanwhile- management and supervision received bonuses and raises.

I believe that public servants are that- servants- they should not be paid huge salaries or receive pensions and benefits- yet many of them do.

I believe that the County Council and the County executive should take a 10% pay cut as a gesture that they are serious about reducing this deficit.

It will not solve the deficit, but it will show solidarity with the workers in Montgomery County who are hurting.
Sometimes symbolism can be very powerful.

When I wrote about this idea in the blog-"Maryland Politics Watch", I was attacked and called a troll.

It appears that whenever certain members of the Progressive wing of the Democrats hear or see something they do not understand- they resort to name calling.

I am a big boy and names do not bother me-- but those who call others such childish names- I have to wonder just who really is the troll.