“Kleptocracy.” That’s the word a high-ranking District official used to describe the government. There’s tangible proof that the official’s assessment, however harsh, is more accurate than not. D.C. Council Chairman Kwame Brown snatched taxpayers’ money to style and profile in “fully loaded” sport utility vehicles that may still cost District residents more than $17,000 even though the vehicles have been returned. Mayor Vincent Gray’s staff and campaign transition committee paid themselves exorbitant salaries — then hired their children. The chairman said he didn’t realize the cost of the vehicles. Gray initially said the children of his cronies were qualified and commended those young people for wanting to dedicate themselves to public service.
“There is a culture of excuses in this city,” said the District official. “Excuses are like a narcotic. They are addictive and rob you of your dignity.”
