Who are these people?

I'm obviously mistaken if I think they're in office to represent the citizens of the United States of America. Apparently, instead, they represent the Chinese:

"It's important that those who consume the products being made all around the world to the benefit of America -- and it's our own consumption activity that's causing the emission of greenhouse gases, then quite frankly Americans need to pay for that," Commerce Secretary Gary Locke told the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai.

That's United States Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke, folks.

Of course, after Locke shoots off his mouth and forgets for whom he works, the Joe Biden treatment comes into play. Behold, the official disclaimer that makes it all officially okeydokey:

"Secretary Locke has been very clear on emphasizing the importance of fair trade as a part of the United States' relationship with China. He believes U.S. companies should not be disadvantaged by Chinese imports not bound by responsible policies to reduce carbon emissions. China and the US must work together to ensure a level playing field and reduce our carbon footprints. The Secretary's trip to China demonstrated his commitment to fair trade and his belief that both the United States and China can benefit from shared investments and cooperation in clean energy that will lead to commercial and environmental benefits for both countries."

In other words, he didn't say what he said and we say so. Orwell would be freakin' proud.

I swear - sometimes words just fail me when I watch the absolute travesty our government has become. And no, not just since January. But we sure have gone from impulse speed to warp 5 since then.

[Crossposted at QandO]