[EricH]

Originally Posted by Chris is me

It sounds like you're contradicting yourself. If government isn't the answer, then why do we need to talk to elected leaders? Anyhow I won't feel like debating libertarianism right now, but it's an interesting point.

It's pretty simple. You talk to them to let them know that you don't want them in your business--or that you do.

I also don't want to discuss politics, but Andrew and Steve are correct. You've never heard of "campaign promises"? Those are classic political maneuvers to look good, but may not be followed through on (though it's in a candidate's/politician's best interest to at least try to follow through, due to this little thing called an election).

It's quite possible that something happens somewhere and the followthrough doesn't happen. On the other hand, it's also possible that the followthrough surprises us with its speed of execution.