As another "old hand" put it "The idea of the federal government putting databases together gives me pause". Instead of putting the bright light on contractors, the simple expedient of requiring all elected officials to make their contributors real names and amounts public within 24 hours of accepting the contribution would go a very long way to cleaning up the current situation.

If we want real reform, we should demand that all bills be made public 5 to 7 days before any vote can be taken. Congress critters don't read what they vote on, but some citizens might if given the opportunity. At least it would make harder for staffers to sneak in changes and then take nice jobs with whoever the changes benefit.

Bill J