It’s time to shut down this Congress

The latest Gallup poll taken last week puts U.S. Congressional approval at 11 percent, which is one point lower than its worst-ever rating. A logical question would seem to be, who are the 11 percent who believe Congress is doing a good job? This means that not only Republicans don't like what's going on in Congress, neither do Democrats and Independents. Our Congress now stands last in a list of some 16 institutions in terms of public confidence.

Its rating is 14 points lower than newspapers, (with the possible exception of this one which has to be substantially higher or we wouldn't be here). By about 2 to 1, Americans are now saying they would prefer to vote for a candidate this year who has never served in Congress. That doesn't bode well for incumbents, especially Democrats who have voted with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid most of the time. "Throw the bums out!" seems to be our nation's battle cry.

Can you imagine any group, organization or business still being around if it had an 11 percent approval rating from its members or customers? What if your wife or husband only did things that you approved of 11 percent of the time? That marriage would be short lived, wouldn't it. How about if your auto repair shop disappointed you 89 percent of the time with poor quality and performance? Would you go back there again? Doubtful, unless you are a glutton for punishment and disappointment. The same goes for banks, grocery stores, restaurants, etc. If you are not satisfied nearly 100 percent, you won't go back.