The Op-Ed in yesterday's New York Times, "Why I am Leaving Goldman Sachs" by Greg Smith, confirms what most of think about the titans of the financial industry--they are only looking out for themselves. 

Unfortunately, the same can be said about the men and women in Congress.  All the evidence points to the fact that most of them are more interested in getting re-elected or leaving with a higher salary than with serving the interests of the nation. 

In fact, replace "firm" with Congress and "make enough money" with raise enough money from this part of the Op-Ed and Mr. Smith nails the truth about Capitol Hill:

Leadership used to be about ideas, setting an example and doing the right thing. Today, if you make enough money for the firm (and are not currently an ax murderer) you will be promoted into a position of influence.

That is why I will am talking with as many folks in the 5th District as I can about the need for a non-compete clause signed by me and every member of my staff.  The clause would apply for 5 years and effectively close the revolving door between Capitol Hill and high-paying lobbying jobs.  Every candidate should be asked if they will make the same commitment. 

The voters have the power to change who Congress works to benefit.  The recent law banning insider trading came about because 60 Minutes focused a bright light on Congress, just as Mr. Smith is doing with Goldman Sachs. 

The multi-millionaires at Goldman may not change because of Mr. Smith.  The citizens cannot allow members of Congress the same luxury. 

It will take a lot of effort to get the cancerous influence of money out of elections and shut the revolving door--there is no time to waste.  This election we all need to leave the old way of doing the public's business.