SJ, the system is perfect, although the people running it are not. You are not pleased with our government, but can you name a better government anywhere in the world? There is a reason that people from all over the world want to come here to stay. And there is a reason why those who constantly complain usually don't leave for good. There is a system of cheques and balances built into our government where no one branch can have ultimate power. You are a member of the most important branch of government and that is that of the American people--the voters, the tax payers, and the employers. Instead of getting frustrated, work to fix the problem. We do have power. In fact, I've heard of a young woman from Alaska who joined the P.T.A. to make a difference in the education of her children . . . (And you wonder why "better" candidates don't run for office? Not everyone is up for a public lynching by the media).