Editorial: Two terms is enough

Rep. Patrick McHenry may well be the youngest career politician in Washington, D.C.

At age 32, the Cherryville Republican is seeking his third term in the U.S. House of Representatives. While that’s an impressive feat, voters in the GOP primary should think twice before extending McHenry’s contract. Aside from his staunch support of the failed domestic and foreign policies of the Bush administration and his recent missteps while touring American military operations in Iraq, the fact that McHenry lists his occupation as U.S. congressman should cause voters grave and profound concern.

When the framers drew up our Constitution, they certainly didn’t envision someone making a career out of representing the people as McHenry seems intent on doing.

The more time elected officials of both parties spend in Washington, the more they become beholden to special interests and the PAC money that fills their campaign coffers. That’s not what’s best for North Carolina’s 10th Congressional District or America.

In Tuesday’s primary, challenger Lance Sigmon gives Republicans in the 10th District a solid alternative to McHenry and the status quo.

A U.S. Air Force veteran, attorney and father of two, Sigmon has a wealth of real-life experience that could open some eyes in Washington. While the incumbent has spent his career as a politician advancing conservative social causes, Sigmon has spent his adult life serving his country — as an enlisted airman and as a commissioned officer, raising a son and daughter, and he operated a private law practice.

Republican voters in the 10th District, which includes a big chunk of South Iredell, should thank McHenry for his service in Congress and then force him to get a real job. They can do just that by voting for Sigmon.