Doesn't this all depend upon your definition of recession?  If the people they TRULY represent are the wealthy and they're back doing fine, aren't you (as a politician representing your constituency) doing your job?  If the schmucks out of work keep electing these people to office, aren't they getting what they deserve?  I've stopped feeling sorry for the unemployed, one of which I am not; I know, I know ... that's today.  What about tomorrow?  I hear you.  

They tried to assimilate me. They failed.