Return to Article: Slip-Sliding Away

By Charlie Cook National Journal December 18, 2007
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    I have worked for the FAA for over twenty-five years and I recall coming to DC on a one year "Promotion Detail" in 2002-2003. During 2002 there was a Continuing Resolution along with a pay freeze restricting all of us here on details to our original salaries. Okay we completed our assignments and went on about the task at hand.

    Later, when some of us bid on upper level positions we were told we lacked the experience and that our details or experience in Headquarters to upper level positions could not be considered because "you weren't actually paid as a 14 while on assignment so it can't be counted". Sure we had the responsibilities but they were right we were paid our regular base salaries so it did not meet the criteria considered in a bid, or so many of us were told.

    The next wonderful thing the FAA did for many of us from Flight Service was to RIF us months and in some cases weeks before we were eligible to retire. Of course Congress stepped in and took some of the edge off this for a few folks but many were left out in the cold after 20+ years of service.

    What bright, energetic, young person would follow into federal service for this risk. At one time the lower pay was off-set by a somewhat more stable employment potential as long as you were competent. Now that is no longer the case, so why would you!

    Mark C Posted January 3, 2008 8:56 AM
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    A third party will just help the corporate powers in the major parties. If the Green Party would join with the Dems it would give the Dems the backbone they need to restore Constitutional integrity, civil liberties, make the media truly fair and balanced and restore our credibility in the world.

    Sylvia B Posted December 18, 2007 11:39 PM
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    We don't need a fair fight, how 'bout some decent people for a change?

    KMP Posted December 18, 2007 6:53 PM
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    I think it is high time for a third party the Dems and Repubs are always saying they can do better than the previous group. Look at how the Dems promised this was going to be the best session ever...everything would be done timely and the people would get good leaders...hah...have not seen it happen. I think both parties make promises just to get the bucks and could care less about this country and how it is run...

    JWilliams Posted December 18, 2007 4:20 PM
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    I think it's odd to moan over this being a fair fight or not. The situation is what the situation is and give the pendulum nature of things, if it's fair when the pendulum is swung to your side, it's fair when it's the other way as well.

    Don't cry for millionaires on either side of the aisle. Most of them have had the advantages from the day they were born.

    ML Harris Posted December 18, 2007 10:32 AM

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Slip-Sliding Away
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