Seeing the World on Tax Dollars

Rep. Robert E. Badham, who has taken the frequent-flier program to new heights, has lost his co-title as the “travelingest” member of the House of Representatives, but not by much.

In the 21-month period from Jan. 1, 1984, to Sept. 30, 1985, Badham made eight trips to 17 foreign countries, second only to the nine trips made by Rep. Stephen Solarz (D-New York), according to Congress Watch. In the previous reporting period Badham was the House’s most roving representative.

Some people, especially Badham, think the extensive globe-trotting is justified. We have to agree with the others, however, who think that Badham should be spending more time tending to the district’s business in Congress and less time spending tax dollars hopping around the globe to such “strategic” spots as Tahiti, Fiji and the Bahamas.