by Lefty Libewitz

The Bush administration’s casual brush-off of open hearings on their budget proposal is just the latest example of their irresponsible, behind-closed-doors style of governing.

This troubling trend emerged early in their first term with Vice President Cheney’s energy taskforce, indicating that this administration was not one overly concerned with transparency. Soon after the taskforce debacle, their clandestine manipulation of intelligence embroiled the nation in a senseless war in Iraq.

Apparently not satisfied with jeopardizing the country's energy needs and national security, the administration now extends their reckless secrecy to the entire spectrum of federal spending.

The administration's budget is not one option among many; it is the starting point for all negotiations. Allowing public comment and discussion prior to its release is an unparalleled opportunity to craft a proposal that reflects the values and priorities of all citizens.

This year's budget cuts across all issues and concerns every American. Inflated military spending, irresponsible tax cuts, and the still-slumping economy have pushed the government so far into the red that this year's proposal will likely slash the budgets of our most important services: education, healthcare, and social security. Can we really afford for those critical decisions to be made out of the public eye?

The Bush administration's refusal to discuss openly their priorities for this year's federal budget signals that they have no true commitment to bipartisan cooperation, even in the wake of Republicans' damaging scandals and recent political failures.

Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi has called for bipartisan hearings to air concerns and seek common ground. That the administration is unwilling even to listen to suggestions can no longer surprise us. It simply cements their reputation as a conservative cabal, stubborn to the point of idiocy.