Trees weren't the only sparse commodity in the city. The grass of the National Mall was gone. It had been paved over with concrete four years ago, another sign of changing times and dwindling natural resources.
He'd been fighting for better water rights for years. There were methods by which the nation could have all the fresh water it needed, but they were blocked by certain individuals afraid to lose what money and power they held.
“I remember the first term I was elected. Remember that? When we arrived here, everything seemed so pristine, so grandiose. I thought DC was the most beautiful city I'd ever seen,” Smith said.
“That was over twenty years ago.”
“We can bring it back, Beth. I know we can.”
Smith felt Beth's hand grab his, and she squeezed. He turned from the window to look at her. She was shaking her head. A shadow of a smile was trying to break through.
“Well, it can't be harder than '03,” Beth said.
The driver rolled down the partition.
“We're here, Congressman,” he said.
Smith reciprocated Beth's squeeze.
“Let's get ready,” Smith said.