Democratic Congresswoman Laura Richardson’s house in Sacramento has become quite a political liability for her. First, she defaulted on the mortgage payments. The bank, Washington Mutual, sold it at an auction. Richardson made a loud and public issue of the sale. Washington Mutual, in a rare action, rescinded the auction sale, paid a tax lien that Richardson owed on it and gave the house back to her.

Now the Code Enforcement Department of Sacramento has declared the vacant house in an upscale neighborhood a “public nuisance.” The city, backed by neighbors’ complaints, says there is a broken gate and windows. The lawn is dead and plants are dying. Debris is scattered around the house. It is thought a homeless man may have been living inside as well. Neighbors call it an “eyesore.”

Richardson, who lives in Southern California in Long Beach, used the house when serving as an Assemblywoman at the state capitol. An ethics group is now asking for an investigation into Richardson’s dealings. Critics claim Washington Mutual arranged for her to get the house back solely because she was a member of Congress.

Although housing prices have slumped dramatically, this seems like an obvious instance where a house is not needed, and it is time to sell it. Of course, Richardson could always rent it out and collect some income to pay the mortgage. However, that would require a solution to the problem. Congress members have a hard time with solutions. This mess helps explain why Congress’ approval ratings are lower than George Bush’s.