Checks and Balances

(on U.S. Senate's 96-3 vote against Russ Feingold's attempt
to stall U.S.A. PATRIOT Act renewal, Feb. 16, 2006)

The "Unitary Executive" has gained
Unchecked prerogative to jail and spy.
This Monarchy, though it is not so named,
Can with impunity coerce and lie.

By Separation of Powers, Congress may
Step in to thwart Ambition's plot,
But 96 senators voted 'nay.'
So Constitutional safeguards turn to rot.

Basted in favors, both parties uphold
The "complex," voting turds to be a rose.
Duopoly of privilege enrolled
An opposition that does not oppose.

Illusion of a contest is maintained
To keep the docile population quiet.
The lobbyist and lawyer are retained
To quell with coinage consciences' disquiet.

Meanwhile, in hallowed chambers, oratory
Is dead, and even it were alive,
The words would fail in futility,
For truth is useless where corruption thrive.

Since Congress failed, the media should restrain
A tyrant's course, but corporations steer
The message, while they loot for private gain,
Enforcing silence and instilling fear.

Next, citizens could look to judges to
Protect their rights where courtiers have tricked
And give the underdog, the little guy, his due.
But bear in mind: these rogues have been handpicked!

February 2006