The Constitution puts faith in the Congress, trusting Congressmen to police themselves. Unfortunately, Congressmen have shown time and time again that that's something they are unwilling or unable to do. The investigation of Mark Foley's pedophilia will not be any different unless the House establishes an independent ethics commission to serve this constitutionally mandated role. Reports that there was a cover-up of Foley's habits are already circulating. To top it off, Dennis Hastert (R- IL) has personally handpicked members of the current Ethics Committee. This committee has not and obviously will not investigate anything thoroughly and seriously. U.S. Senator Barack Obama (D-IL) recognizes this, and is calling for an independent ethics commission.

How come if you looked on the Speaker's web site today you see him bragging about passing the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act, while he himself has spectacularly failed to protect the Pages working in the Capitol Building and under his protection from a Member of Congress under his control? "At home we put children first, and Republicans are doing just that in the House" his web site says, " We have all seen the disturbing headlines about sex offenders and crimes against children. These crimes cannot persist. Protecting our children from internet predators and child exploitation enterprises are just as high a priority as securing our borders from terrorists." The Speaker concludes.