Congressional Democrats have performed disgracefully. Rep. Charles Rangel, D-N.Y., is reported to have failed to disclose millions in income, failed the requirement to disclose all of his assets, and failed to pay his taxes. He is the chair of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee.

Rangel is under an ethics committee investigation. Rep. John Carter, R-Texas, moved to remove Rangel from his committee chairmanship. This motion was defeated on a party-line vote. Rep. Michael Michaud voted with the Democrats. Curiously, Rangel has contributed funds to Michaud's political campaigns.

It appears that protecting a disreputable Democrat party member is more important than running Congress honestly and ethically. No wonder people have no faith in Congress.

This lapse into dishonest and unethical activity happens all too frequently, particularly under the Obama administration. The Republicans have had their lapses, too, but most of them did the responsible thing and stepped down. There are probably others people haven't heard about yet from both parties.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi promised "the most ethical Congress ever," but has done little to curb the cheaters.

The Republicans learned their lessons the hard way and are now repentant. Being in the majority, the Democrats arrogantly show no signs of reform, and the media omits or plays down any unfavorable stories.

Taxpaying voters need to wake up. We deserve better.

Jim Walker, Auburn