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This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

Zombies and Congress

A new election, and once again over 90 percent of our representatives get to keep their jobs. The only requirements for these jobs are, per Article 1 of the U.S. Constitution: for a representative, to be at least 25 years old and a U.S. citizen for at least seven years.

A senator has to be at least 30 years old and a citizen for at least nine years. Both must reside in the states where they are chosen at the time that they are chosen. There are an enormous number of people qualified for these jobs, and at the same time a fierce competition to get them.

The requirements to be an extra in the Syfy series “Z Nation” are to be at least 18 years old and a resident of Washington. There are a lot of people qualified to be an extra on “Z Nation” and a lot of competition for the work. An extra on “Z Nation” is paid minimum wage. Why are our elected representatives paid more than the legal minimum?

Bill McLachlan

Spokane

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