The Senior Legislative Chamber

The founder's of our nation were deeply suspicious of the two extremes of populist government. On the one hand they recognized the emotionalism of the masses and the tyranny of a majority. Majority rule of democracy is neither just nor wise. It simply satisfies the simplistic need for a methodology of choosing which is understandable, even if not correct.

On the other hand, the Framers had just overthrown a monarchy and even as they penned the Constitution they were observing the meltdown of French society as the people took to the streets and laid the foundations for the Reign of Terror. No monarchy or aristocracy, hopefully, for their new nation.

So, they designed a republic. As we look at the original Constitution, we might note that only the House of Representatives was popularly elected. The chief executive wasn't. That was the Electoral College's business--and it should be noted that in those days there was no provision for a general election even to provide guidance to the Electors. The judiciary wasn't chosen by the people. Federal justices were chosen by the President and confirmed by the Senate. The one popularly elected branch, the House, wasn't involved there either.

And, we have the Senate. Again, no popular election there. Senators were appointed by the legislatures of the states. This would assure experienced leaders of the legislative process; individuals educated in the law and governance who could communicate in debate to insure that the laws and decisions of this land would be reflective of the conditions. They would explain what the issues were, what the choices might be, and what the solutions were meant to accomplish.

Now, take a look at this:

The Inarticulateness of Fame

Here are some quotes from that interview:

"I'm really coming into this as somebody who isn't, you know, part of the system, who obviously, you know, stands for the values of, you know, the Democratic Party,"

On a competitor for the position:

"You know, I think, you know, we're sort of, uh, sharing some of this experience. And um, as I've said, he was a friend, a family member, and um so, and uh obviously, he's, you know, he's also had an impressive career in public office."

How she deals with another supporter:

"I know how important it is to, you know, to be my own person. And, you know, and that would be obviously true with my relationship with the mayor."

Imagine, for a moment, if this same potential leader of our nation had been subjected to the same scrutiny and parsing of communicative skills as the recent Republican candidate for Vice-President. It makes an occasional "golly" or "gee whiz" seem the highest rhetorical skill. Ummm, you know?