Limited government. Sounds like a scary right wing shibboleth. After all, what is wrong with programs to protect workers, help the poor, build roads, defend our borders, or (insert favorite program name here)? In the abstract, nothing.
The problem with large government or intrusive government is the power that inevitably devolves to those in positions of authority.
This example benefits a couple Democratic politicians, but understand that this type of abuse cuts both ways. If you give people power they will use it to advance the interests of themselves and their friends. It is completely understandable and predictable. Doesn't make it right.
The story is a bit convoluted but basically a high muckety muck from the Department of Homeland Security used his influence to affect who would receive residency visas. The lucky recipients had strong ties to Harry Reid in one case and Virginia Governor Terry Mcauliffe in another.
http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/dhs-exec-used-clout-to-favor-reid-mcauliffe/article/2561971
There is one solution to the problem of abuse of power. Take away the power. I could write a blog solely devoted to abuse of power by politicians and bureaucrats were I so inclined, but it wouldn't solve anything and it wouldn't tell us anything we don't already know.
If people are given power they will use it. Fact of life. Hardwired into our DNA. This is why the Founders of our country believed in limited government. Not small government because a small government will, over time, become a big government. Limited government. Here's the stuff you have the power to do. This and nothing more. It won't eliminate abuses but it will minimize the areas in which abuses could occur.
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