Don't Question Tom Coburn's Character

Senator Tom Coburn (R-OK) is very conservative; most even rightly refer to him as radical. But on February 25th, he proved to the world (or at least to those paying attention) what I already knew; he is very thoughtful and very good for our country.

During the health care summit, Senator Coburn provided thoughtful, measured and sincere policy differences from President Obama and the Democrats. Early in the summit it became clear that he, the president and a few others came into the summit with the clear intention of talking through policy differences. Other participants, led by Senators Harry Reid (D-NV) and John McCain (R-AZ), clearly had something else in mind.

Although Senator Coburn is an admitted obstructionist, do not question his integrity. He, unlike many elected officials, does not say no simply to make the other party look bad. He sticks to his principles and tries to do what he thinks is right – he will offer his opinion and if his objections are substantial enough (in his mind) and other members don’t agree, he will impede the bill’s progress. He does not care how popular he is or how he is viewed. I wish the same could be said for all of our elected officials.

Senator Coburn, or “Dr. No” as he likes to call himself, does not deny that he has stopped more legislation than most legislators have passed; in fact, he takes pride in it. He believes the less government intervenes, the better.

It is easy for other members – and even huge blocs of the public – to get frustrated at his obstructionist ways and often unwillingness to compromise. Of course I, like many others, get mad when he uses procedural tactics to stop important legislation, but no one should attack his character instead of his positions, even if they disagree with both his positions and inflexibility.

I know many people, particularly on the left, just wish Senator Coburn would go away. But at least he (unlike some other members) is thoughtful and clear about his opposition to legislative progress. I don’t wish we had more senators trying to block legislation, but I do find his honesty and thoughtfulness refreshing.

If you are going to obstruct progress, then be thoughtful in opposition. If you support legislation, then be a passionate advocate. But regardless of your position, do what you believe is good for the country, not just your party; Senator Coburn does.