Here we have a classic example of an excellent question (asked by Colbert at about 2:57), along with a complete and total non-answer (at about 3:27). Apparently the Dept of Ag still views the issue of food subsidies as an all-or-nothing proposition. Either we continue subsidizing the unhealthy foods while haranguing people about the bad choices they make, or we end food subsidies altogether. How about a little more nuanced thinking on a topic that's so,
so important? How about a little standing up to the industry goons and changing things on behalf of the people for whom you work instead of making non-arguments in favor of the status quo?
I stopped listening to Vilsack and his ilk long ago. They're all in the pocket of Big Food, and as such, nothing will change unless advocacy groups force it to change. Worthless bureaucrats.
ReplyDeleteI noticed this too and was completely bummed that Colbert let him get away with it.
ReplyDeleteYeah, I just dont think you can expect any change out of people like Vilsack. It's not the kind of thing you can change by working within the system. The system really is broken that badly.
ReplyDeleteAren't you all just full of sunshine and rainbows today?
ReplyDeleteBut making non-arguments in favor of the status-quo is so much easier than actually doing your job!
ReplyDeleteHi Assman. *waves* We really missed you!