As most people already know, the iconic beer maker, Anheuser-Busch, is facing a proposed buyout by European beer giant, InBev. The impact of this buyout has many speculating what could be in store, not only for the company and it’s thousands of employees, but what it may do to the local and regional economy.
To me, this is where leadership steps up, but unfortunately, our Washington representative, Russ Carnahan, hasn’t done anything to actively engage this issue. Heck, even people who aren’t elected officials have been more engaged in this issue then Carnahan.
The issue came about in May, when AB received the offer letter from InBev. Immediately, local people began voicing their opinions about the issue. People were concerned about losing their jobs and their pensions. Businesses were concerned about the loss of revenue. Everyone was talking about it. Even Senators Kit Bond and Claire MaCaskill got involved. But where’s Russ? It’s his district for God’s sake! These are his people! Where’s their representative?
Finally, he released a statement yesterday, and it had about as much impact as a cloud on a sunny day. He says, quote;
”Collectively we share great concern for the welfare of the St. Louis area, the men and women who have led Anheuser-Busch to iconic prominence, and a questioning public that rightfully wonders what will be next. I have spoken with many colleagues from across the country and Missouri in the last few days who are more than sympathetic to our concern, because they see it as theirs as well”.
Wow.
This is all you have to say to your constituents, who may, or may not lose their jobs? Collectively we? Who the hell is “we”? How about “I”? Why havent’ you offered any solutions to the problem?
I know Carlos Brito met with Senators Bond and MaCaskill, but why weren’t you there? IT’S YOUR DISTRICT!!! Why aren’t you actively engaged in this issue? What are you going to say, when, and if people start losing their jobs? “Sorry, find another one.”
Russ, you’re supposed to be representing the people of the 3rd district. What are you doing?
