Legislating on the cheap

When the lights go out at night on Capitol Hill, it doesn't mean there's no one home. In one of the funnier stories to come out of the 2008 Congressional races, Politico documents the story of Congressman-elect Jason Chaffetz, who was elected this month from Utah's 3rd district.

It seems the newly-elected member has decided to forego renting a flat in Washington and is choosing instead to join the silent, but growing, ranks of members who sleep in their Congressional offices. With access to showers, 24-hour security, drycleaning facilities and a gym, Mr Chaffetz says his biggest concern is that his wife "is just worried that it is going to stink."

He's even brought his own cot, wrapped thoughtfully in plastic bags and duct-tape for the flight to Washington. Compared to the cost of a Washington flat, the $44.89 he paid for the metal-framed bedding seems like a steal.

Comments

[bindersbee]

I was a volunteer on Mr. Chaffetz campaign. A volunteer, in part, because he also ran his campaign with no paid staff. He spent $600,000 LESS than the incumbent in the primary race and still beat him by 20 points. It's an unheard of feat. Chaffetz is smart (it's much harder to get volunteers to work effectively than paid staff) AND cheap.

I spent a year volunteering for him and never so much as got a free cookie. He neither bought nor accepted 'free lunches' from anyone.

Can he maintain this in Washington DC? I believe he has a better chance at withstanding the corrosive powers than most 'good' people who are elected. He's certainly off to a good start.