Should elected officials take vacations? That seems to be a topic of conversation. Recently, I came across this article that shows the vacation days taken by Presidents Bush and Obama during their respective presidencies. Each was criticized for their vacation trips outside of Washington. Criticism of vacations is nothing new. As I was coming of age, I remember many of the same criticisms being leveled at Presidents Carter and Reagan. Sometimes, it can seem a bit unseemly to take time off when our challenges are so many. The Middle East. Afghanistan. Iraq. Here at home there are pressing issues on our southern border and unrest in Ferguson, Missouri. Yet, the burdens of the presidency must be incredible. When Governor George Bush left Texas for D.C., he was still a young man. Eight short years later, he had aged significantly. Presidents probably need breaks. For me, I can’t imagine taking any time off. I try to set aside time on Sundays to hang out with María Elena and Nicolás Miguel, but that doesnt always work out. Former State Representative Buddy West (R-Odessa) once told me If you have a job you love, its never work again. I understand that now. I enjoy this job, the travel around the district and the people. I grew up working - and its what I enjoy doing. I always take five or so days off so that María Elena and I can take Nicolás Miguel on a trip. With Christmas and New Years, Im at about eight days off a year. Thats already six days off a year more than my parents took. Let me know what you think about the vacation days taken by Presidents Bush and Obama. And, let me know your thoughts on elected officials taking time off. Enjoy your weekend.
Posted on: Fri, 15 Aug 2014 21:35:00 +0000
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