We at Radio Boston have decided to change our show topic this week. Instead of talking about sustainable agriculture we feel the need to discuss the recent DiMasi indictment, corruption in the Statehouse, and ethics in politics. More important, we want to know YOUR thoughts on the issue.
Along with those colleagues who referred to him as “Coach” in their emails, DiMasi faces seven counts of mail and wire fraud and up to five years for conspiracy. DiMasi has denied acting outside the law.
Even though this news broke yesterday, the topic has been on everyone’s mind for quite some time now. The Rappaport Center for Law and Public Service at Suffolk University Law School conducted a poll with 400 voters back in March 2009. Researchers were interested in voters beliefs on the topic of ethics and corruption in local government.
When asked “do you think bribery and corruption in state government is more comment now than it used to be, less common, or no different from the past?” they responded:
More Common: 32%
Less Common: 15%
Same as Before: 50%
No answer: 4%
What do you think? Is it worse now? Is it the same as in the past? A very interesting part of this show is taking the pulse on the issue. Is the public tired or simply unsurprised?
Yes, I think we’re thoroughly corrupt, right down to our driving habits, which show disregard for many laws. Our lieutenant governor named a friend to a state post. Our governor almost named a political ally to a state post. No wonder people don’t vote. I don’t think we will be able to overcome this huge tide of corruption and greed.
We do hope you’ll come back to the conversation about sustainable agriculture in New England–we’d been looking forward to weighing in! N.E. has a rich history of family farmers who are essential for the health of our food system, our regional and local economies, our communities, our health, and health of our environment. Dairy farmers right now are caught in a system that pays them 1/2 the cost of production, while dairy processors announce record profit at the expense of farmers and consumers. To ensure a safe, local supply of milk and dairy products, we’ve got to take action now!
Yes to term limits! Your guest said he disagreed because
Senators and representitives should be able to have a
career at the State House. The people of Mass. are fed up
with our legislators.
Hey jennifer. We had to bump that show when the DiMasi news broke, but we have it on the schedule for next Friday.