Election Begathon

    The election day begathon has begun, and it's nearly a full year until the next voting day. And that voting day is an interim election year, when control of Congress is up for grabs.

   But that's the point for those now in the minority, and those anxious to keep their control. Moreover, it's complicated by the redrawing of election districts to "conform" to the most recent census count.

   Already, lawsuits are being filed over allegations of gerrymandering to ensure one party maintains control.

   Come down to the essence, and that's the principle of politics these days -- control.

   It's not about doing what's right for the nation, but it's about controlling what government does so those in power can do what is financially beneficial for their backers.

   This week, the nation lost one of its better government officials, and his loss only emphasized how politics has changed. And not for the better.

   Bob Dole, a veteran of World War II, the U.S. Senate and a candidate for vice president, died the day before the 80th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack. He was known not only for his sharp humor, but also for his ability to work with the political opposition to achieve measures that would benefit the people -- all the people of the nation, not just those of a single party.