I kind of thought that and, it again brings up something that really bugs me. Why do politicians need "special" lounges? Are they that afraid of mingling with "real people" (such as the public that actually elected them? GRRRRR

This was my first time at DCA, and I have to say that, as a taxpayer, I find the mere existence of the airport, let alone the extravagant decoration offensive.

of course, I believe that all federal elected officials should be required to use Greyhound for primary transportation, live in the government-built housing estates in SE, and be paid whatever the prevailing minimum wage is for the district. Oh, and they should be required to fly only on T fares, decline any upgrades, and turn all earned miles back to the airlines for use in charity flights.

Before any government employees jump on me, note that I was only referring to elected officials. Government employees (and military) are a completely different matter. They, of course, should be paid a liveable wage, be allowed to join frequent flyer programs, avail themselves of any perks the programs offer, and keep their miles and, when traveling OCONUS, should be permitted to travel in Business class at all times. It's only pond scum like Mitch McConnel, Harry Reid and their "colleagues" who need to be reminded of who they serve.