Alan Simpson: “I support the McConnell-Johnston substitute. I think these two fine colleagues have done an excellent job of trying to…”

“I support the McConnell-Johnston substitute. I think these two fine colleagues have done an excellent job of trying to bring reality to what is a difficult situation. There has never been a time in the history of the U.S. Congress that this institution was as popular as those who have served would like it to be. It is not exactly highly revered, nor is the Presidency, nor are local governments. Congress has been the butt of jokes for now a bit over 200 years. We should be used to it by now. But, nevertheless, we are going through another exercise at self-criticism, and we are going to change the rules under which we operate in the hopes of gaining greater respect from the American people. Unfortunately, I just do not think that the mind of man could draft a piece of legislation that would ever obtain that result. In my legislative career of 30 years, in Wyoming in the legislature and here, I have always thought the best way to handle these things was through total disclosure. The issue is 'sunshine laws' and full disclosure. Put it in the record. What did you receive? How much was it worth? I have no problems with full disclosure of such things.”