In a republic, oversight is the job

We don’t vote on every law or proposal. Ours is not a direct democracy. It is a republic, where we choose representatives to make decisions on our behalf. That distinction is not just technical—it carries with it a deeper responsibility. Those we elect are not merely voices for their district; they are stewards of the public trust. Their job is not simply to vote, but to watch—on behalf of the people, the taxpayers, the voters.

Although Robert Byrd is widely known for an unfortunate association in his youth (followed by a historic evolution on civil rights issues), he was also a scholar of democratic procedure and a mentor to new senators. In his advice to incoming members, Byrd offered this plain instruction: “Do not be a rubber stamp. Question. Debate. Amend. That is your job. Do not vote on bills you have not read.”

He spoke with equal clarity about the consequences of neglecting that duty:

“The people’s liberties strengthen or diminish with the Senate’s vigilance or negligence. If senators allow themselves to be steamrolled by party or White House pressure, the Senate becomes little more than a ceremonial echo chamber.”

Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan, known for his intellect and candor, underscored the same principle with fewer words:

“Secrecy is for losers. For people who don’t know how important the information really is.”

Across the aisle, Newt Gingrich took a different tone but reached a strikingly similar conclusion. His training materials for young leaders were not focused on popularity, but on vigilance and clarity:

“A leader who doesn’t ask the hard questions before the vote is just a follower in disguise.”

Gingrich is also credited with saying, “Government becomes dangerous when it becomes unintelligible. When the people can’t understand what’s being done or why it’s being done, that’s when liberty erodes.”

These voices—from different eras and ideologies—share a common expectation: that those we elect will probe, challenge, and clarify. Their role is not to simply cast votes and move on. The health of the republic depends on that distinction.

There are few traditions that illustrate this responsibility better than Britain’s “Question Time.” Though often raucous in tone, it compels government officials to explain their actions regularly and in public view. The result is not only more transparency but, over time, stronger leaders.

Here at home, we would benefit from the same habit. Too many local officials move through budgets, contracts, and initiatives without asking what needs to be asked.

Oversight is not an accessory to public office. In a republic, it is the job.