[jroseattle]

This notion that "outsiders" are what it takes to reform government is a popular campaign theme, but has never succeeded. The basis for justification is essentially one of "the system has made others corrupt, but not me" -- it's a play on principles rising above the temptation for personal gain in order to achieve reform. Aside from being untrue, we've actually seen how this plays out.

Many of the far-right members in the House of Representatives that identify with the Tea Party are also highly principled. Listen to their campaigns and you'll hear how they'll "fix Washington" and such. One may or may not agree with those principles, but many of those members are steadfast in their beliefs, and govern based on those beliefs.

And what has been accomplished? To quote Admiral Stockdale - Gridlock!

Reform will never happen with a single leader. It will take the right people in all levels of government to make it happen.