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http://www.speedtv.com/commentary/25586/


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Here's the problem. Politicians cater to 2 groups of people. The people who get them elected (donors to their campaigns) and the people who elect them (constituents who vote). So, a special interest group will see that NASCAR is better for their group than some other series (face it, NASCAR probably is better for local businesses in terms of economic impact), so they pressure the politician. Then, some little, old lady calls because she heard about the story and says, "I don't want anyone racing on my street, Sonny!" So, he's had a donor and a voter tell him to vote against it. Because he represents them, he votes for the bill banning racing.

Now, you and I both know that no one will be racing on Granny's street. And, we also know that NASCAR plus some other form of racing will be better for the local businesses. However, the politician hasn't thought about it that much (he's got about 1500 other bills to think about in the next month or so). So, the bill gets passed.

Now, what can you do about it? Write the congressman or senator. I know it sounds hokey, but they actually read them. Use a non-location-specific yahoo or hotmail e-mail account so they can't tell you're not in their district. I'm a lobbyist for a hospital her in Louisiana - I regularly write them letters and send them via e-mail. About ha;f the time, I get a response saying, "Thank you for your note. Sen. X reviewed the bill and decided to vote for/against it."