A few of our stories and columns are now in front of the paywall. We at The Chief remain committed to independent reporting on labor and civil service. It's been our mission since 1897. You can have a hand in ensuring that our reporting remains relevant in the decades to come. Consider supporting The Chief, which you can do for as little as $3.20 a month.
To the editor:
As predicted, Democrats had a very good election day. The top issues identified in exit polls were corruption and high living costs, which voters told pollsters are interrelated. I agree.
By any measure, the last two years have been the most corrupt in U.S. history. Insider trading, market manipulation, gifts from foreign entities, bloated no-bid construction projects, rigged prediction market bets, cryptocurrency scams, a costly unnecessary war, mineral, mining and redevelopment deals going to politicians’ family members are just a few of the scandalous actions from 2025 and 2026.
To me, the top priority for the incoming (120th) Congress is restoring trust in government by passing an ethics reform package applicable to all three branches of government. For all federal office holders, advisors and volunteers - from the President on down to the lowest intern - a complete ban on (1) stock trading, (2) accepting gifts of any value, (3) prediction market betting and (4) involvement in cryptocurrency transactions.
Those seeking and holding office must release their tax returns, divest themselves from business interests and place their assets in a true blind trust. Additionally, government officials must recuse themselves from decisions involving large donors ($1,000+), personal acquaintances, family members or other close relationships. And an end to no-bid contracts.
The 120th Congress must also increase the minimum wage to $20/hour with automatic, inflation-adjusted annual increases with a paid leave bill that requires employers give every worker, full- or part-time, a minimum of two hours paid leave for every 40 hours worked. The 120th Congress must also restore the ruinous healthcare and food assistance cuts included in the Big Beautiful Bill.
Finally, a tax reform package that addresses wealth inequality and ends corporate welfare/subsidies and loopholes.
Instead of America first, it’s time to put Americans first.
Joseph Cannisi
1 comment on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here
Admin
Only one disagreement. The minimum wage should be at least $30 an hour. Nowadays, $20 an hour is a poverty wage, especially in places like New York City.
7 hours ago Report this