A New Kind of Congress for the Future

A recent CNN poll showed that one half of all Americans believe Congress is corrupt, and a third believes that their own Member of Congress is corrupt.

Reports have called the 109^th Congress the most "Do-Nothing"  Congress since 1948, as the Senate is projected to meet only 129 days in session and the House a measly 99 days.

The GOP has been racked with scandal after scandal, and the Democrats continue to fumble along – yet have not fully taken advantage of the terrible cards the Republicans have been dealt.

With the less than sunny scenario I've just painted of the U.S. government, there is no doubt that something must be done in order to reform what has become a rogue Congress.  Representatives are sent to Washington by American's votes and taxes, and it is time that they remember who they are working for.

The Sunlight Network is one of the few intrepid organizations that has begun to blaze the trail towards a more transparent and accountable government.  The first step in accomplishing this difficult task has come in the form of the Punch Clock Campaign – a campaign which asks that, once elected, congressional candidates post their schedules on-line for their constituents to see on a daily basis. 

The Network is trying to fundamentally change the relationship between the represented and their representatives, and it believes that having Congressmen post their schedules on-line with facilitate such a change.  It will bring openness to a whole new level in government and enable voters to more easily track the work that their lawmakers are doing.  It has the potential to put constituents in the driver's seat for a change, and manage the work that representatives are doing for their benefit.

So far, the Punch Clock Campaign has seen quite a bit of success.  To date, over 40 candidates have signed the Agreement, but there are still many that have yet to sign, and even more that have yet to be contacted.

If you'd like to get involved take a peek at the website .  Help make Congress accountable to the public the way the Constitution intended and start to expect more out of your politicians.