We live at a time, apparently, when hypocrisy from politicians is no longer evidence of a significant moral failing but instead is both commonplace and trivial.

We, the People of these United States of America, need to demand better. If we are to be a great Nation, we have to act like one. So get up! Stand up! Stand up for your rights!

To be, or not to be: that is the question:
Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,
Or to take arms against a sea of troubles,
And by opposing end them?

Sheesh already! These men are RICH! They have the money to spend, and if they want to spend their money on $400 haircuts or $300 beauty treatments instead of $25 at the local barber shop, I don't see where that makes a whole lot of difference in their ability to lead. Nor do I see hypocrisy in having the ability to spend that kind of money anyway they desire.

It's funny that you don't hear that Edwards has given $300,000 out of his own pocket to ensure that students at a high school in a poorer area of North Carolina would be able to continue their education and go on to college. No you don't hear that from the media, nor do you hear about Edwards' efforts to help rebuild the city of New Orleans, while the governmental organizations that have been given that task are too busy twiddling their thumbs. And I'm sure that Romney has been generous with his wealth as well. Having money isn't hypocritical, spending it isn't hypocritical, not living up to ones values is.

Bumpa,

In support of your comments about some wealthy individuals being responsible with their money, you may wish to take a look at this organization. I'm not personally of the level of wealth to join. But, it's interesting that such an organization even exists.

http://www.responsiblewealth.org/

Wow, the parent organization of Responsible Wealth has this misison statement:
"UFE [United for a Fair Economy] raises awareness that concentrated wealth and power undermine the economy, corrupt democracy, deepen the racial divide, and tear communities apart."
I wonder if it's a bitter pill to swallow for our wealthy friends to sign on?
Or maybe it's just nice to pretend that a little philanthropy can cure plutocratic guilt.

Rich people running for president spend money to look presentable and presidential...check this article from Dec. of 2002 from Buzzflash.com Bush's Suits Cost $2,000 to $14,000 and they are talking about the cost of Kerry's haircuts...-- IRONIC don't you think? Besides, don't we all spend too much on something -- fishing, golf, whatever....

December 6, 2002 CONTRIBUTOR ARCHIVES
-------------------------------------------------------------
BUZZFLASH

Bush's Suits Cost $2,000 to $14,000

Here's some trivia for you I saw on the internet. While the press focuses on how much Sen. Kerry's haircuts cost, check out how much President Bush's suits cost. Certainly, if Kerry's haircuts are a story, doesn't this deserve a mention if it's true?

Highlights:

- "But Bush's past style lapses are forgivable because, since his inauguration he's been wearing some of the best tailored garments -- Oxxford suits."

- "This guiding principle ensures Oxxford continues to create top-notch garments for a price --$2,000 to $14,000 --that loyal customers are willing to pay."

- "Mr. Bush was so pleased with the fit of his tuxedo, suit, and topcoat and trousers that he immediately ordered six more garments."

* * *

I never saw Bush in an expensive suit, always blue jeans, like a country bumpkin. I know his wife really dressed like a housewife, but as first lady, she dresses better. Who cares. Look at all the politiicans. Only Dennis Kucinich keeps it real.