As a former House page (2001-02), it was disheartening to read your editorial calling for the termination of the congressional page program.
Being nominated to serve by Rep. Curt Weldon was one of the greatest honors I could imagine, and the year of working in the House remains the defining experience of my life. I encouraged my sister to following in my footsteps, and she did, receiving a nomination to serve during 2003-04 from Rep. Tom Tancredo. When the time comes in a few years, I will encourage my brother to seek an appointment as well.
As noted in your editorial, the Foley scandal follows the Crane/Studds misdeeds of 1983, making it the first charge of misconduct in 23 years. This suggests that Congress has eliminated abuses almost entirely and is still worthy of the public trust. The program's worth is further demonstrated by the fact that no pages, current or former, have stepped forward to condemn the program or to suggest its end.
If Congress abolishes pages, they will not be brought back. The program may need reform, but a centuries-old tradition of great value should not be eliminated out of hand because it is the easy solution.
