Washington's main priority is protecting and enriching Washington. In my Foundry column this week, I write that one of the central challenges facing conservatives - and really all Americans - is how to disrupt the corrupt nexus of big government politicians and the special interests that enrich them:
Agree or disagree with Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) on policy - and let's be clear, there is a lot to disagree with - the fact that he makes merit-based decisions, often to the frustration of the professional lobbying class in Washington, is a welcome change.
By contrast, another Capitol Hill publication ran a story profiling which lobbyists and special interest groups would thrive if there was a minor shakeup within House Republican leadership. Phrases such as "number of downtown confidants" and "new significance to a number of players on K Street" punctuate the story.
Nothing perpetuates the Washington Ruling Class - and America's dissatisfaction with Washington - more than this corrupt nexus. The collusion between Washington's power players does not breed contempt formed out of some deep-seated jealousy; rather, it stems from the very real sense that Washington's priority is Washington.