What would we do here in the Horse Capitol of the World without Senator Chris Dodd (D-CT)'s bill to spend $800,000 of our own money to convince us to wear helmets when riding a horse?
Now that Senator Dodd is running for President, maybe he will initiate something really substantial like a "Honk For Peace" campaign.
Oh, that's already taken.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
"Just Joking" Democrats
Alleged petty thief Michael Downs is using the "I was just joking" defense to escape prosecution for his recent crimes.
Democrat strategists who pretend beyond all reason that raising the minimum wage and putting everyone on Medicaid would be terrific economic policy might want to use Mr. Downs' apologia for this one.
Meanwhile, Hillary Clinton hopes you don't remember that her husband's "worst economy in fifty years" campaign slogan was complete bunk.
Democrat strategists who pretend beyond all reason that raising the minimum wage and putting everyone on Medicaid would be terrific economic policy might want to use Mr. Downs' apologia for this one.
Meanwhile, Hillary Clinton hopes you don't remember that her husband's "worst economy in fifty years" campaign slogan was complete bunk.
Monday, July 24, 2006
Frankfort Bans Smoking
The city council in Frankfort tonight voted to ban smoking.
It is just a matter of time now before we ban smoking statewide. The public policy machinations to eradicate tobacco use completely in Kentucky are inevitable and will be very interesting to watch.
Who will finally drop the hammer on criminalizing tobacco?
It is just a matter of time now before we ban smoking statewide. The public policy machinations to eradicate tobacco use completely in Kentucky are inevitable and will be very interesting to watch.
Who will finally drop the hammer on criminalizing tobacco?
Another 'Draft For Governor' Site Coming?
Has anyone noticed LG Steve Pence is helping with a lot of legislative fundraisers this summer?
Ruminating In Red States
Sen. John Kerry was in South Carolina pitching his plan to put middle-class children on Medicaid and raising money for Democrat candidates.
Please, Senator Kerry, come to Kentucky and give us a Hillary Clinton.
Please, Senator Kerry, come to Kentucky and give us a Hillary Clinton.
Sunday, July 23, 2006
Hawpe In, The Water Is Fine!
Louisville CJ columnist David Hawpe wades into the school voucher debate this morning and manages not to get his feet wet.
I challenge you to read his column and tell me one thing it adds to the discussion.
We get that Hawpe doesn't like people who want to democratize competition between public and private schools. The closest he gets to a point, though, is when he mentions a report cited in the Wall Street Journal that determined public schools do just as well as private schools if you adjust for race, socioeconomics, and other factors.
But if you adjust for looks, personality, and other factors I would be Brad Pitt -- starring in movies and "dating" Angelina Jolie.
In many public schools, interested parents, secure homes, and happy, motivated, focused kids equal success. Additional resources go to serve disabled and troubled students. The problem is with the large majority who don't fit in these extremes. Smart, happy comfortable kids make up for the statistical problem of middling students who would likely do better with more resources directed their way. But we can't just keep statistically correcting for the core group that is the future of America. Not while generations of driven kids in other less affluent countries keep eating our lunches.
The problem here is a political one and contains the best argument for giving parents the option to leave their neighborhood school, take their tax dollars, and seek a better educational fit elsewhere. Kentucky's school systems are burdened by layers of administrative pork-laden union-protected central office jobs that would have to go if our public schools had to compete -- rather than lobby -- for their position in the marketplace.
KEA types respond to the above logic with personal attacks. Getting past that point is a major key to improving our public education system.
In fact, if we could have a reasonable conversation about how we spend our money on public education, the need to call for vouchers would very likely sink to the bottom of the pool.
I challenge you to read his column and tell me one thing it adds to the discussion.
We get that Hawpe doesn't like people who want to democratize competition between public and private schools. The closest he gets to a point, though, is when he mentions a report cited in the Wall Street Journal that determined public schools do just as well as private schools if you adjust for race, socioeconomics, and other factors.
But if you adjust for looks, personality, and other factors I would be Brad Pitt -- starring in movies and "dating" Angelina Jolie.
In many public schools, interested parents, secure homes, and happy, motivated, focused kids equal success. Additional resources go to serve disabled and troubled students. The problem is with the large majority who don't fit in these extremes. Smart, happy comfortable kids make up for the statistical problem of middling students who would likely do better with more resources directed their way. But we can't just keep statistically correcting for the core group that is the future of America. Not while generations of driven kids in other less affluent countries keep eating our lunches.
The problem here is a political one and contains the best argument for giving parents the option to leave their neighborhood school, take their tax dollars, and seek a better educational fit elsewhere. Kentucky's school systems are burdened by layers of administrative pork-laden union-protected central office jobs that would have to go if our public schools had to compete -- rather than lobby -- for their position in the marketplace.
KEA types respond to the above logic with personal attacks. Getting past that point is a major key to improving our public education system.
In fact, if we could have a reasonable conversation about how we spend our money on public education, the need to call for vouchers would very likely sink to the bottom of the pool.
Upcoming GOP Primary Event
No not THAT primary, just the 2008 Presidential primary.
Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney is scheduled for an exclusive get-together at The Jefferson Club in Louisville on Monday, July 31.
Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney is scheduled for an exclusive get-together at The Jefferson Club in Louisville on Monday, July 31.
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Little Birdy Report
Spotted in Lexington talking turkey today: Rep. Lonnie Napier and a former Fletcher fundraiser.
Finally, A Democrat Upset With Taxes
I don't even know what to say about this one.
Howard Dean is really a piece of work. I guess a push for gay conjugal visits is next on the agenda.
Howard Dean is really a piece of work. I guess a push for gay conjugal visits is next on the agenda.
Friday, July 21, 2006
Best Headline Of The Day
Ross Mann of Conservative Vanguard weighs in on the Kentucky Democrats' financial mismanagement with this gem:
Should've Brought Hillary In Four Times
Should've Brought Hillary In Four Times
Domestic Partner Showdown Monday
Expect to see a huge food fight Monday afternoon at the Capitol Annex in Frankfort.
Senator Dick Roeding will be giving an update on the E-Health Network Board to the Joint Interim Committee on Health & Welfare at 1 pm.
Liberals want Roeding to resign for his opposition to risking state tax dollars on the University of Louisville's political activism.
Senator Dick Roeding will be giving an update on the E-Health Network Board to the Joint Interim Committee on Health & Welfare at 1 pm.
Liberals want Roeding to resign for his opposition to risking state tax dollars on the University of Louisville's political activism.
2008 GOP POTUS Straw Poll
Even if you are undecided about who you think should be the Republican nominee for President in 2008, you should take this poll. Pick all the candidates you find acceptable and unacceptable.
Who do you like and why?
Who do you like and why?
Thursday, July 20, 2006
FairTax Update
Next week U.S. House leaders will see a major move Capitol Hill for the FairTax.
Democrats are invited to this bipartisan affair, but those who are trapped by Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid can't come out and play.
Democrats are invited to this bipartisan affair, but those who are trapped by Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid can't come out and play.
Hal Rogers Site Not Dead
Yes, it looks like the media reports that the draft Hal Rogers site had been pulled down were not correct.
Just got an email from the person who put the site up:
"Who am I? Let's just say that I'm a Republican betrayed by Fletcher and have seen all the double-dealing going on with Patton Democrats. But, more importantly, I am a firm believer in Hal Rogers' ability to be Governor and to do the right thing."
Just got an email from the person who put the site up:
"Who am I? Let's just say that I'm a Republican betrayed by Fletcher and have seen all the double-dealing going on with Patton Democrats. But, more importantly, I am a firm believer in Hal Rogers' ability to be Governor and to do the right thing."
Unbridled Casino Subsidy
How far do we really want to go to prop up Kentucky's horse industry? KEEP says if we don't open up casinos at the horse tracks, West Virginia might take the industry from us.
I don't get it. What am I missing? Experience indicates that for every dollar casinos bring into state coffers, three must be spent on expanded social services. That seems like a very high price to pay. Do we really have to go down this road to save the horse industry in Kentucky?
I say we call their bluff.
I don't get it. What am I missing? Experience indicates that for every dollar casinos bring into state coffers, three must be spent on expanded social services. That seems like a very high price to pay. Do we really have to go down this road to save the horse industry in Kentucky?
I say we call their bluff.
Rebecca Jackson For Governor Site Up
Okay, I just made up that headline. Mrs. Jackson, who came in second in the 2003 GOP primary has said repeatedly in recent months she is not running for Governor. The former Jefferson County Judge Executive will tell anyone who asks she is happy running the WHAS Crusade For Children.
I thought about Rebecca, though, after reading GOP activist Ted Jackson's CJ column/therapy session for Republicans looking for another 2007 standard-bearer. Ted invokes Ronald Reagan as the patron saint of those who would dump Fletcher now because of The Gipper's 1976 primary opposition to President Gerald Ford. The analogy doesn't fit, though, because Reagan was a candidate, not an activist. Until a better candidate with a better plan for the future comes along, declares a candidacy, and starts running for real, Kentucky has no 1976 Reagan.
UPDATE: The Lexington Herald Leader's Commentary Editor, Rita Gatton, confirmed that she mistakenly replaced Gerald Ford's name with Richard Nixon's in Ted Jackson's essay. She said a correction will run tomorrow.
I thought about Rebecca, though, after reading GOP activist Ted Jackson's CJ column/therapy session for Republicans looking for another 2007 standard-bearer. Ted invokes Ronald Reagan as the patron saint of those who would dump Fletcher now because of The Gipper's 1976 primary opposition to President Gerald Ford. The analogy doesn't fit, though, because Reagan was a candidate, not an activist. Until a better candidate with a better plan for the future comes along, declares a candidacy, and starts running for real, Kentucky has no 1976 Reagan.
UPDATE: The Lexington Herald Leader's Commentary Editor, Rita Gatton, confirmed that she mistakenly replaced Gerald Ford's name with Richard Nixon's in Ted Jackson's essay. She said a correction will run tomorrow.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
A Democrat Fair Taxer In Georgia
Rep. Cynthia McKinney (D-Georgia) brought Cindy Sheehan in for her victory party in yesterday's Congressional primary. A surprising anti-crazy woman vote turned out and messed up the party, though. McKinney must now face Hank Johnson in an August 8 runoff. The district is very heavily Democrat, so the winner of the runoff is very likely going to be in Congress in January.
The increasing possibility of the runoff winner being Democrat Hank Johnson is interesting in that he supports the FairTax. Nancy Pelosi is refusing to let her Democrats in the House sign on to the FairTax bill, but I'm guessing too many Georgians understand the bill for him to be bullied.
The increasing possibility of the runoff winner being Democrat Hank Johnson is interesting in that he supports the FairTax. Nancy Pelosi is refusing to let her Democrats in the House sign on to the FairTax bill, but I'm guessing too many Georgians understand the bill for him to be bullied.
Bush Veto On "Science" Pork
I haven't heard one good explanation for why we should spend taxpayer money on fetal stem cell research. Dropping billions of government dollars on the the possibility that someday, some evidence may materialize that justifies the hype surrounding destroying embryos for science just doesn't add up.
If legitimate private sector research bears fruit, maybe we have a different discussion. (Yes, private sector research continues apace while liberals scream that people are dying because Bush hates science.) So far, the most successful fetal stem cell research has been proven fraudulent.
The only successes in stem cell research so far have not involved killing anyone. Adult stem cell research is much more promising and worthy of support.
I know Democrats and socially liberal Republicans view fetal stem cells as the answer to their abortion problems. Presidential hopefuls Bill Frist and John McCain has been sucked into this tempting vortex.
Conservatives would do well to talk about this issue in terms of pork spending for questionable research. That is what it is. In fact, I'm a little surprised no one has mentioned the similarities between this and the humans-cause-global- warming craze seeking to extract billions of dollars from Americans in the Kyoto Accord.
If legitimate private sector research bears fruit, maybe we have a different discussion. (Yes, private sector research continues apace while liberals scream that people are dying because Bush hates science.) So far, the most successful fetal stem cell research has been proven fraudulent.
The only successes in stem cell research so far have not involved killing anyone. Adult stem cell research is much more promising and worthy of support.
I know Democrats and socially liberal Republicans view fetal stem cells as the answer to their abortion problems. Presidential hopefuls Bill Frist and John McCain has been sucked into this tempting vortex.
Conservatives would do well to talk about this issue in terms of pork spending for questionable research. That is what it is. In fact, I'm a little surprised no one has mentioned the similarities between this and the humans-cause-global- warming craze seeking to extract billions of dollars from Americans in the Kyoto Accord.
School Choice, Now
Republicans propose $100 million to help low income kids escape failing schools; liberal big education establishment types say this:
“The buzzword in education today is accountability, yet school vouchers divert scarce public school dollars to unaccountable private schools,” Weaver said. “Private school students are not required to take federally mandated tests, private school teachers do not have to meet ‘highly qualified’ standards and private schools do not have to show Adequate Yearly Progress. Public schools can, and should, be held accountable, but lawmakers need to provide the resources to get the job done.”
That's National Education Association President Reg Weaver who now thinks that what private schools need is accountability. And, of course, he still thinks the only thing public schools need to improve is more taxpayer money.
“The buzzword in education today is accountability, yet school vouchers divert scarce public school dollars to unaccountable private schools,” Weaver said. “Private school students are not required to take federally mandated tests, private school teachers do not have to meet ‘highly qualified’ standards and private schools do not have to show Adequate Yearly Progress. Public schools can, and should, be held accountable, but lawmakers need to provide the resources to get the job done.”
That's National Education Association President Reg Weaver who now thinks that what private schools need is accountability. And, of course, he still thinks the only thing public schools need to improve is more taxpayer money.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Pimping Al Gore's Hazardous CO2
I can't imagine anything more dreadful than sitting down and watching Al Gore talk about how hot it is outside.
Does it ever occur to these people that even with the hottest ten years ever recorded coming in the last fourteen years, you are still only talking about a blink of an eye in historical terms. Recorded history on temperatures barely goes back a century. Not much sense in getting suicidal over a blip on the radar screen.
Favorite lefty blogger Mark Nickolas loves this Al Gore stuff. I see some folks have already gone on Bluegrass Report to straighten out some of the sillyness, but go on over and chime in if you get a chance. I would but Mark has violated my First Amendment rights and blocked me from his site.
Does it ever occur to these people that even with the hottest ten years ever recorded coming in the last fourteen years, you are still only talking about a blink of an eye in historical terms. Recorded history on temperatures barely goes back a century. Not much sense in getting suicidal over a blip on the radar screen.
Favorite lefty blogger Mark Nickolas loves this Al Gore stuff. I see some folks have already gone on Bluegrass Report to straighten out some of the sillyness, but go on over and chime in if you get a chance. I would but Mark has violated my First Amendment rights and blocked me from his site.
Louisville Mayor Sides With Fletcher
I know, it was just on the Louisville Arena deal, but this is the type of thing that, I think, makes the smart money hesitant to get too far away from the Governor.
Just last week, Rep. Ben Chandler said the highest priority for him in considering a run is his ability to spend time with his family. That is over for a year if he runs. That is over for five years if he wins.
I understand all the facts that line up against Ernie's re-election now. I buy several of them. The internal battle within RPK will come to a head soon. I'm just suggesting that it is too early to write off the possibility of a political comeback by Ernie Fletcher.
Just last week, Rep. Ben Chandler said the highest priority for him in considering a run is his ability to spend time with his family. That is over for a year if he runs. That is over for five years if he wins.
I understand all the facts that line up against Ernie's re-election now. I buy several of them. The internal battle within RPK will come to a head soon. I'm just suggesting that it is too early to write off the possibility of a political comeback by Ernie Fletcher.
State Partner Benefits Too Expensive
The Burgoo item on today's Lexington Herald-Leader editorial page tries to turn the U of L domestic partner controversy away from the main point.
The main point is that this stunt is going to cost taxpayers money all in the name of helping people, gay or straight, pretend to be married. Dick Roeding didn't help keep the focus on the money -- where it belongs -- with his "wrong kind of people" comment.
Kentucky Republicans who are made uncomfortable by being asked to weigh in on Roeding's words should help people realize what this mess is really all about.
The main point is that this stunt is going to cost taxpayers money all in the name of helping people, gay or straight, pretend to be married. Dick Roeding didn't help keep the focus on the money -- where it belongs -- with his "wrong kind of people" comment.
Kentucky Republicans who are made uncomfortable by being asked to weigh in on Roeding's words should help people realize what this mess is really all about.
Monday, July 17, 2006
Another GOP Candidate On The Way?
A developing rumor has Billy Harper of Paducah mulling a run for Governor. I haven't spoken to him, but comments from others fit into three categories:
1- "No comment."
2- "I'm concentrating on the 2006 races."
3- "I haven't thought about it."
1- "No comment."
2- "I'm concentrating on the 2006 races."
3- "I haven't thought about it."
CJ Gives Stupid Dem Stunt A Pass
Question: If a Republican former state senator -- working in an official capacity -- told a stupid lie that presented a danger to public health in Kentucky's largest city, don't you think the state's largest newspaper would throw a fit?
Of course they would.
But when Democrat David Karem, executive director of Waterfront Development Corp. and a former senator from Louisville, prints up signs that some fountain water containing dangerous quantities of fecal matter and bacteria contained "high levels of hydrogen" it's all just a well-intended joke.
I can see how this would be funny to ten-year-olds. What are these people thinking?
Of course they would.
But when Democrat David Karem, executive director of Waterfront Development Corp. and a former senator from Louisville, prints up signs that some fountain water containing dangerous quantities of fecal matter and bacteria contained "high levels of hydrogen" it's all just a well-intended joke.
I can see how this would be funny to ten-year-olds. What are these people thinking?
Hal Rogers Draft Site Goes Up
Another day brings another website urging a Republican to run for Governor of Kentucky against Ernie Fletcher.
The site's authorship is a secret, but its target couldn't be much more high profile. U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers (R-Somerset) is easily the most popular Republican in the state. Here is a link to the site.
Last week, two websites urging state Rep. Lonnie Napier (R-Lancaster) to run made a big splash. This one will as well. The likelihood that Rogers will want to stay in Congress probably means we aren't finished watching Republican draft sites go up.
The site's authorship is a secret, but its target couldn't be much more high profile. U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers (R-Somerset) is easily the most popular Republican in the state. Here is a link to the site.
Last week, two websites urging state Rep. Lonnie Napier (R-Lancaster) to run made a big splash. This one will as well. The likelihood that Rogers will want to stay in Congress probably means we aren't finished watching Republican draft sites go up.
Sunday, July 16, 2006
U of L Changes Story On Cost Of Benefits
The University of Louisville's official release on their decision to offer domestic partner benefits contradicts the financial impact estimate from their own Faculty and Staff for Human Rights' November 16, 2005 recommendation for the policy.
The only possible conclusion to draw from the discrepancy is the University of Louisville wants to sneak domestic partner benefits past the unsuspecting taxpayer by denying the obvious existence of substantial costs to be borne by its implementation.
U of L Provost Shirley Willihnganz repeats the canard that only by covering healthcare for unmarried significant others will the university "compete more effectively." This is so ridiculous it shouldn't even have to be addressed.
But one thing does. Here is what Willihnganz said Thursday:
Initial research on the financial impact of offering health insurance to domestic partners has shown that the university’s costs are not likely to go up.
“We may actually end up saving money, since employees will pay a premium to cover their dependent partner,” Willihnganz said.
That is a little different than the estimate from last November's official recommendation:
At U of L, the possible fiscal impact on insurance costs based on current costs is about $200,000 for same sex domestic partners, and $600,000 for both same-sex and opposite sex domestic partners.
These amounts probably assume no fraud, so the total cost is likely much higher. Signing on as domestic partners means just stating they have been "in their relationship" for six months.
Is it any surprise that the cheering going on right now (here, here, here, here, here, and here) failed to mention this little nugget?
The only possible conclusion to draw from the discrepancy is the University of Louisville wants to sneak domestic partner benefits past the unsuspecting taxpayer by denying the obvious existence of substantial costs to be borne by its implementation.
U of L Provost Shirley Willihnganz repeats the canard that only by covering healthcare for unmarried significant others will the university "compete more effectively." This is so ridiculous it shouldn't even have to be addressed.
But one thing does. Here is what Willihnganz said Thursday:
Initial research on the financial impact of offering health insurance to domestic partners has shown that the university’s costs are not likely to go up.
“We may actually end up saving money, since employees will pay a premium to cover their dependent partner,” Willihnganz said.
That is a little different than the estimate from last November's official recommendation:
At U of L, the possible fiscal impact on insurance costs based on current costs is about $200,000 for same sex domestic partners, and $600,000 for both same-sex and opposite sex domestic partners.
These amounts probably assume no fraud, so the total cost is likely much higher. Signing on as domestic partners means just stating they have been "in their relationship" for six months.
Is it any surprise that the cheering going on right now (here, here, here, here, here, and here) failed to mention this little nugget?
Who's Afraid Of School Choice?
Public school officials like those at the National Education Association (NEA) go crazy when parents start talking about helping poor students escape failing public schools. What's funny is they get even crazier when they are called on the carpet for their misuse of taxpayer funds to promote left-wing causes.
Just a week ago, the NEA held their national convention. The American Family Association learned of proposed resolutions by the teachers union in support of gay marriage.
Setting aside that particular issue for a minute, why is a teacher group discussing things like this when they are supposed to be working for students? These are the people who don't want you asking questions about spending your tax dollars more efficiently in the education of your children.
The fact is the NEA has gotten so comfortable and intellectually lazy they even bragged on their website about passing resolutions to "address diversity, discrimination and civil unions." And NEA President Reg Weaver complained about an attack on "marriage rights."
In the same breath, he accused the AFA liars of making the whole thing up.
You don't have to be a "religious conservative" to see the duplicity in this.
Your tax dollars support the NEA in this. And even if you agree with them on their political agenda, can you admit that spending time and money debating resolutions on diversity and civil unions does nothing to improve public education?
The folks at the NEA also spend an inordinate amount of time scaring people about how horrible it would be if we stopped supporting them in the pursuit of their political agenda. If we did that, we might take a look at how to improve the management of our monopoly government schools.
It might help if you read a little article from the Kentucky Alliance For School Choice.
What the thieves at the NEA don't want you to know is that school choice is proven to make public schools better, not destroy them. The only losers under school choice are the education bureaucrats who like to sit around at summer conferences promoting agenda items totally unrelated to the education of our children.
The KASC has a petition to help focus legislators on improving our public schools, not just the social lives of our education officials. Please sign it.
Just a week ago, the NEA held their national convention. The American Family Association learned of proposed resolutions by the teachers union in support of gay marriage.
Setting aside that particular issue for a minute, why is a teacher group discussing things like this when they are supposed to be working for students? These are the people who don't want you asking questions about spending your tax dollars more efficiently in the education of your children.
The fact is the NEA has gotten so comfortable and intellectually lazy they even bragged on their website about passing resolutions to "address diversity, discrimination and civil unions." And NEA President Reg Weaver complained about an attack on "marriage rights."
In the same breath, he accused the AFA liars of making the whole thing up.
You don't have to be a "religious conservative" to see the duplicity in this.
Your tax dollars support the NEA in this. And even if you agree with them on their political agenda, can you admit that spending time and money debating resolutions on diversity and civil unions does nothing to improve public education?
The folks at the NEA also spend an inordinate amount of time scaring people about how horrible it would be if we stopped supporting them in the pursuit of their political agenda. If we did that, we might take a look at how to improve the management of our monopoly government schools.
It might help if you read a little article from the Kentucky Alliance For School Choice.
What the thieves at the NEA don't want you to know is that school choice is proven to make public schools better, not destroy them. The only losers under school choice are the education bureaucrats who like to sit around at summer conferences promoting agenda items totally unrelated to the education of our children.
The KASC has a petition to help focus legislators on improving our public schools, not just the social lives of our education officials. Please sign it.
Saturday, July 15, 2006
UK's Jay Blanton To Taxpayers: Screw You!
I completely reject the idea that Kentucky's public universities somehow can't compete unless Kentucky taxpayers provide expensive health insurance benefits to the boyfriends and girlfriends of their employees.
UK spokesman Jay Blanton, though, wants the bennies and doesn't care what you think about it.
Blanton told the Lexington Herald-Leader "We certainly respect the opinions of legislators very much, but I don't think there are political considerations with respect to this decision," Blanton said.
In other words, he just wants your money and for you to keep your stupid opinions to yourself.
Last week, the University of Louisville decided to extend domestic partner benefits to all their employees. What's next, universal pet health insurance?
UK spokesman Jay Blanton, though, wants the bennies and doesn't care what you think about it.
Blanton told the Lexington Herald-Leader "We certainly respect the opinions of legislators very much, but I don't think there are political considerations with respect to this decision," Blanton said.
In other words, he just wants your money and for you to keep your stupid opinions to yourself.
Last week, the University of Louisville decided to extend domestic partner benefits to all their employees. What's next, universal pet health insurance?
Friday, July 14, 2006
Napier Versus Fletcher Update
Governor Fletcher addressed about 200 Madison county Republicans tonight, reminding audience members of his administration's achievements. At one point in his discussion of improvements to legislative districts, Fletcher took a good-natured swipe at Rep. Lonnie Napier. He said "Lonnie didn't come home empty handed this time."
When asked if he was going to oppose Fletcher next year, Napier repeated his statement that "People are talking and I am listening."
That was as close as we got to fireworks. Ernie and Lonnie were both definitely in campaign mode, though. There can be little doubt now that we are headed for a GOP primary for Governor Fletcher.
My guess at this point is Lonnie Napier is in the race for governor, something I didn't think was the case before tonight. I think the unintended consequence of his candidacy, though, is that others will be emboldened to jump in as well.
A crowded primary benefits the governor greatly, by giving him a good reason to get out and make his case but diluting the effect of primary opposition on his road to the nomination.
When asked if he was going to oppose Fletcher next year, Napier repeated his statement that "People are talking and I am listening."
That was as close as we got to fireworks. Ernie and Lonnie were both definitely in campaign mode, though. There can be little doubt now that we are headed for a GOP primary for Governor Fletcher.
My guess at this point is Lonnie Napier is in the race for governor, something I didn't think was the case before tonight. I think the unintended consequence of his candidacy, though, is that others will be emboldened to jump in as well.
A crowded primary benefits the governor greatly, by giving him a good reason to get out and make his case but diluting the effect of primary opposition on his road to the nomination.
KY GOP Big Spenders Beware
The Club For Growth Kentucky is on the way. Their mission is to defeat wasteful politicians. While we wait their official start-up, here is a sign of things to come.
Dems Count On Wage Tax Increase
Even if you really believe legislatively raising the minimum wage will ease the plight of millions of struggling American families, you have to admit that it is a targeted tax increase on business owners.
Okay, call it a fee increase. Or maybe a mandated benefit increase. (I guess we could start calling it an unfunded mandate. Where is the money going to come from, right?) The point here is Democrats invoke the old Communist rationale that they are using government coercion to transfer money from those who have to those who need.
Either way you slice it, the fact that it is the last idea Washington Democrats have with four months till the election bodes well for Republicans. The GOP doesn't deserve their good fortune, but a troubled America would clearly fare much worse with more of these Democrats in office.
Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said of the tax increase "it appeals to certain groups of people who don’t usually turn out to vote.” Who is he talking about, sixteen year old kids and illegal aliens?
Okay, call it a fee increase. Or maybe a mandated benefit increase. (I guess we could start calling it an unfunded mandate. Where is the money going to come from, right?) The point here is Democrats invoke the old Communist rationale that they are using government coercion to transfer money from those who have to those who need.
Either way you slice it, the fact that it is the last idea Washington Democrats have with four months till the election bodes well for Republicans. The GOP doesn't deserve their good fortune, but a troubled America would clearly fare much worse with more of these Democrats in office.
Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said of the tax increase "it appeals to certain groups of people who don’t usually turn out to vote.” Who is he talking about, sixteen year old kids and illegal aliens?
New Frankfort Budget Trouble
Kentucky's last two budgets have been good budgets except for the tax increases and spending increases.
TODAY'S UPDATE: And except for all the unconstitutional parts.
TODAY'S UPDATE: And except for all the unconstitutional parts.
Memo To Fletcher: Tax Cuts Work
Yes, I've said it here before. But I don't run Kentucky's only manufacturing trade association.
Governor Fletcher said yesterday on WVLK in Lexington we may be looking at additional tax relief in the 2007 General Assembly. Since we all pay business income taxes, scrapping the AMC would be a fine place to start.
Governor Fletcher said yesterday on WVLK in Lexington we may be looking at additional tax relief in the 2007 General Assembly. Since we all pay business income taxes, scrapping the AMC would be a fine place to start.
Democrats? What Democrats?
I have for you this morning just another isolated incident of liberal media bias.
Seems this AP story about allegations of vote buying in Bath County, KY couldn't manage to say which political party the involved people belong to.
Can there be any doubt if it was Republicans they would have mentioned that fact and described at least two other scandals involving Republicans to provide a little "perspective" to the story?
Seems this AP story about allegations of vote buying in Bath County, KY couldn't manage to say which political party the involved people belong to.
Can there be any doubt if it was Republicans they would have mentioned that fact and described at least two other scandals involving Republicans to provide a little "perspective" to the story?
Thursday, July 13, 2006
U of L Goes For "Domestic Partners"
The University of Louisville Board of Trustees voted Thursday afternoon 14-1 to extend "domestic partner" benefits to the school's employees.
This makes the school the first in the state to jump on this train.
In this time of budget constraints for Kentucky's families, spending tax dollars so some people can "play house" just doesn't seem fair or smart.
This makes the school the first in the state to jump on this train.
In this time of budget constraints for Kentucky's families, spending tax dollars so some people can "play house" just doesn't seem fair or smart.
Dems Can't Close The Deal
Republicans in Congress have, for the most part, earned their lumps this year. But the fact remains Democrat opponents have utterly failed to make the case that they would be any kind of improvement. In fact, their tax-raising, socialized medicine, homosexual marriage, war surrendering positions have lead directly to this.
A look around the Bluegrass shows the same thing happening here.
A look around the Bluegrass shows the same thing happening here.
Fletcher, Napier To Attend Richmond Event
A Madison county GOP event Friday night will feature both Governor Ernie Fletcher and the subject of a draft effort to oppose him in a primary next year.
Rep. Lonnie Napier (R-Lancaster) represents part of Madison county and confirmed his appearance at the event weeks ago. Governor Fletcher's office confirmed his appearance today.
The Richmond Register picked up the story of the draft effort today.
Rep. Lonnie Napier (R-Lancaster) represents part of Madison county and confirmed his appearance at the event weeks ago. Governor Fletcher's office confirmed his appearance today.
The Richmond Register picked up the story of the draft effort today.
Stop Liberal Threats Against Churches
This one will get them worked up. Rep. Stan Lee would make an excellent Attorney General for Kentucky.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
A Conservative's Disappointment
If there was any doubt that Jim Newberry will win the Lexington mayoral race, it was put to rest today when Bill Farmer announced his support for Teresa Isaac.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Ernie Kicks Butts
Has anyone else noticed Governor Fletcher's public relations results have been much better since Brett Hall went back to New Jersey?
You many not like the announcement today that Fletcher ordered a smoking ban starting August 1 in Executive branch buildings. But the decision and the announcement were handled in a manner Kentuckians like to see from their Governor.
You many not like the announcement today that Fletcher ordered a smoking ban starting August 1 in Executive branch buildings. But the decision and the announcement were handled in a manner Kentuckians like to see from their Governor.
Enabling Voter Fraud In Georgia
Kentuckians are used to showing identification when voting, even if they don't know it. Poll workers are required to ask for ID unless one of them can claim to personally know the voter in question.
Meanwhile, Georgia Democrats are battling a state law that would require voters to show proof of their identity in order to vote. It should come as no surprise they consider the law "racist."
Hillary Clinton is going to need every dead man's vote in Kentucky in '08. This may be a way for Kentucky Dems to pull it off.
Meanwhile, Georgia Democrats are battling a state law that would require voters to show proof of their identity in order to vote. It should come as no surprise they consider the law "racist."
Hillary Clinton is going to need every dead man's vote in Kentucky in '08. This may be a way for Kentucky Dems to pull it off.
Monday, July 10, 2006
Hey, My Blog Was Singled Out Too!!
By now you may know Mark Nickolas of liberal Bluegrass Report has sued the state for prohibiting state workers from reading his site on state computers. His backers claim he was singled out for persecution.
I was singled out, uh, also. In fact, several others were singled out as well. So I ask you, how many people get to be "singled out" before it doesn't count as singling out anymore? And how many of us have to have our rights infringed upon before we realize not having our pearls of wisdom read immediately by people who are working is not much of a civil rights issue except to liberal advocacy groups who think free speech includes hard-core porn?
I was singled out, uh, also. In fact, several others were singled out as well. So I ask you, how many people get to be "singled out" before it doesn't count as singling out anymore? And how many of us have to have our rights infringed upon before we realize not having our pearls of wisdom read immediately by people who are working is not much of a civil rights issue except to liberal advocacy groups who think free speech includes hard-core porn?
Time For A Kentucky Tax Cut
Kentucky's "tax relief" special session of the legislature last month was really just a reduction of a tax increase. With today's news of a $136.5 million surplus in state coffers, now is the time to start talking about real tax cuts.
If we did that, we would be following the example of states like Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Mexico, and Arizona who have finally figured out that lowering taxes increases revenues by unleashing business activity.
UPDATE: Liberal blogger Mark Nickolas arrives on the scene to declare the $2 billion of bonded borrowing in the just-passed budget somehow responsible for the current budget surplus. Economic Illiteracy is NOT a family value, Mark.
If we did that, we would be following the example of states like Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Mexico, and Arizona who have finally figured out that lowering taxes increases revenues by unleashing business activity.
UPDATE: Liberal blogger Mark Nickolas arrives on the scene to declare the $2 billion of bonded borrowing in the just-passed budget somehow responsible for the current budget surplus. Economic Illiteracy is NOT a family value, Mark.
Who Is KY's Lieberman 2007?
I have to laugh at the liberal outrage over Governor Fletcher's suggestion that we rethink electing bozos like Greg Stumbo and Jonathan Miller to constitutional offices.
If nothing else, he got Miller lathered up. That's always funny.
"It's so blatantly partisan and such blatant retribution," Miller said, blatantly.
Like every other news story coming out of Frankfort these days, this one turns up the anxiety a notch or two over which Democrat will get to take on Fletcher -- or a possible GOP upgrade --next year.
This of course brings up the question: in a crowded field, which Democrat gets to play the liberal bloggers' Joe Lieberman, a sometime reasonable politician who is getting killed online for not being liberal enough on the War on Terror?
Steve Henry put his name in the running for that distinction by taking a swipe at liberal fave Rep. Ben Chandler. Henry told the Courier-Journal Chandler is "a lot of flavor, no substance."
Tweaking the liberal "netroots" will be Kentucky Democrats' best shot at separating themselves from the national party that continues to cause them all manner of indigestion.
The increasing influence of bloggers on Kentucky's left-wing sets up a trap for any reasonable Democrat who might want to run for Governor.
If nothing else, he got Miller lathered up. That's always funny.
"It's so blatantly partisan and such blatant retribution," Miller said, blatantly.
Like every other news story coming out of Frankfort these days, this one turns up the anxiety a notch or two over which Democrat will get to take on Fletcher -- or a possible GOP upgrade --next year.
This of course brings up the question: in a crowded field, which Democrat gets to play the liberal bloggers' Joe Lieberman, a sometime reasonable politician who is getting killed online for not being liberal enough on the War on Terror?
Steve Henry put his name in the running for that distinction by taking a swipe at liberal fave Rep. Ben Chandler. Henry told the Courier-Journal Chandler is "a lot of flavor, no substance."
Tweaking the liberal "netroots" will be Kentucky Democrats' best shot at separating themselves from the national party that continues to cause them all manner of indigestion.
The increasing influence of bloggers on Kentucky's left-wing sets up a trap for any reasonable Democrat who might want to run for Governor.
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Don't Write Fletcher Obit Just Yet
After Louisville's GOP chairman got "Meteor Destroys Earth, Film At 11" news coverage for dressing down Governor Fletcher last week, we might expect others to jump on that bandwagon. They would do well to reconsider.
While as a fiscal conservative I have had my own frustrations with this Administration, it is clear that Ernie has a pretty clear path to re-election.
Despite the media coverage of Greg Stumbo's court mandated day off on the merit hiring case, the real story is the strength of the case for dismissing the whole sorry thing.
This will be devastating for Fletcher's GOP detractors and there is little they can do to repair or prevent that damage. They find themselves merely confirming the old adage that you can't beat somebody with nobody. Fletcher opponents don't have a candidate and one is unlikely to materialize. This set of circumstances may be more luck than anything else, but the undeniable fact is that Fletcher's detractors are about to find themselves on the wrong side of history.
Also, Democrats don't have a candidate for 2007.
While as a fiscal conservative I have had my own frustrations with this Administration, it is clear that Ernie has a pretty clear path to re-election.
Despite the media coverage of Greg Stumbo's court mandated day off on the merit hiring case, the real story is the strength of the case for dismissing the whole sorry thing.
This will be devastating for Fletcher's GOP detractors and there is little they can do to repair or prevent that damage. They find themselves merely confirming the old adage that you can't beat somebody with nobody. Fletcher opponents don't have a candidate and one is unlikely to materialize. This set of circumstances may be more luck than anything else, but the undeniable fact is that Fletcher's detractors are about to find themselves on the wrong side of history.
Also, Democrats don't have a candidate for 2007.
Long-Dead Pope Endorses John Yarmuth!
Congressional candidate John Yarmuth's endorsement page on his website contains few surprises for the most part. Left-wing politicians endorse Yarmuth; we already knew that. So it was unexpected to see, near the bottom of the page, the name of one non-leftist.
Apparently John Yarmuth wants voters to believe Pope Paul VI supports him in his bid to make San Francisco's own Nancy Pelosi the Speaker of the House.
Apparently John Yarmuth wants voters to believe Pope Paul VI supports him in his bid to make San Francisco's own Nancy Pelosi the Speaker of the House.
Saturday, July 08, 2006
KEEP Corzine Taxers in Jersey
The irony of Kentucky's Gaming & Revenue Plan's PAC questionnaire hitting candidates' mailboxes this week is inescapable.
At the same time that Big Gambling's big lie -- that casinos' flood of revenue to state coffers make tax increases unnecessary -- was being ripped to shreds in New Jersey, KEEP PAC was asking 2006 candidates to help promote their charade in Kentucky.
Also inescapable is the conclusion that if the equine industry is in such bad shape that it can't survive without casinos (and all their hidden costs), perhaps it isn't worth saving.
The truth is the industry can perhaps be saved with better marketing. Casino gambling just isn't the way to get it done.
At the same time that Big Gambling's big lie -- that casinos' flood of revenue to state coffers make tax increases unnecessary -- was being ripped to shreds in New Jersey, KEEP PAC was asking 2006 candidates to help promote their charade in Kentucky.
Also inescapable is the conclusion that if the equine industry is in such bad shape that it can't survive without casinos (and all their hidden costs), perhaps it isn't worth saving.
The truth is the industry can perhaps be saved with better marketing. Casino gambling just isn't the way to get it done.
Talking Fetus Shows Panic in KY2
Decimated campaigns often get funny when they start reading the handwriting on the wall. Case in point: a supporter of Rep. Ron Lewis' hapless opponent has resorted to heckling Lewis with this talking fetus.
Someone must have read him the latest poll showing Ron Lewis ahead by 18 points.
Friday, July 07, 2006
Jack Richardson IV Gets Headlines
Jefferson County GOP Chairman Jack Richardson IV has had his comments about Governor Fletcher reported widely.
Less so his involvement in a shady pyramid scheme. Might be worth a look to see what else he has been up to.
Less so his involvement in a shady pyramid scheme. Might be worth a look to see what else he has been up to.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Tom Barlow Does The New Jersey
Tom Barlow used to represent Kentucky's 1st district in Congress. He was elected in 2002 and served one term.
What, you may ask, is his proudest moment from his term?
Why, raising taxes of course!
From Barlow's campaign website: "His key vote for the 1993 economic package put the federal government on a path to monetary surplus and financial security."
That means that of all the things he could have done in Washington, his favorite was when he voted for the largest tax increase in our nation's history.
What, you may ask, is his proudest moment from his term?
Why, raising taxes of course!
From Barlow's campaign website: "His key vote for the 1993 economic package put the federal government on a path to monetary surplus and financial security."
That means that of all the things he could have done in Washington, his favorite was when he voted for the largest tax increase in our nation's history.
New Jersey Gamblers, Spenders, Taxers
New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine announced today that the legislature in his state has agreed to go along with his 1% sales tax increase.
Good thing they have casinos in their state, so they don't need to raise taxes, don't you think?
Good thing they have casinos in their state, so they don't need to raise taxes, don't you think?
Loser Pays In Kentucky!
A fine illustration of the value of a "Loser Pays" statute is happening in Frankfort right now.
Using an obscure Kentucky law, a Pike county woman has filed a petition to impeach Attorney General Greg Stumbo. If she succeeds, Stumbo will be removed from office. Though many of us would not have any complaint about that, it isn't going to happen. The interesting thing about this story is that the law has apparently been on the books for a long time, but probably has never been used. That has to be attributable to the fact that unsuccessful petitioners under the statute are responsible for all legal expenses.
Now if we only made filers of frivolous medical lawsuits face the same risk as would-be citizen impeachers, we would really be doing some good.
Using an obscure Kentucky law, a Pike county woman has filed a petition to impeach Attorney General Greg Stumbo. If she succeeds, Stumbo will be removed from office. Though many of us would not have any complaint about that, it isn't going to happen. The interesting thing about this story is that the law has apparently been on the books for a long time, but probably has never been used. That has to be attributable to the fact that unsuccessful petitioners under the statute are responsible for all legal expenses.
Now if we only made filers of frivolous medical lawsuits face the same risk as would-be citizen impeachers, we would really be doing some good.
FairTax Ground Zero: Tennessee
With all three Republican hopefuls speaking positively about the FairTax, Tennessee could be the tax reform hotspot in the region this fall.
Harry Reid won't let his guys and gals do anything but lie about the FairTax, so this should be fun. FairTaxer's were 8-0 in 2004.
Harry Reid won't let his guys and gals do anything but lie about the FairTax, so this should be fun. FairTaxer's were 8-0 in 2004.
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Quote Of The Week
Atlantic City casinos have been shut down since this morning in the New Jersey state budget meltdown. Meanwhile, some people in Kentucky think all we need here to end our government financing woes is expanded gambling.
So it should be instructive to some that Reuters interviewed some bonehead from Philadelphia who summed up in one sentence why casinos won't get it done for the Bluegrass state.
"I'm down about 1,200 bucks, now they're going to be closed for good so I'm not sure what I'm going to do," he said.
Who could possibly think more gambling losses would be a good idea?
Oh, how about Senator Ed Worley (D-Caesars)?
"To maintain state government at the level we're spending, the answer is expanded gaming," Worley told the Blood Horse magazine.
So it should be instructive to some that Reuters interviewed some bonehead from Philadelphia who summed up in one sentence why casinos won't get it done for the Bluegrass state.
"I'm down about 1,200 bucks, now they're going to be closed for good so I'm not sure what I'm going to do," he said.
Who could possibly think more gambling losses would be a good idea?
Oh, how about Senator Ed Worley (D-Caesars)?
"To maintain state government at the level we're spending, the answer is expanded gaming," Worley told the Blood Horse magazine.
Casino State Tax Fight Rolls On
New Jersey Democrats' money grab continues to provide a stark warning for Kentucky. Now, the battle moves to sales tax hike versus income tax hike.
Nevertheless, we keep hearing from casino supporters that if we just open casinos in Kentucky we won't have to raise taxes.
"Unquestionably there is $450 million lying on the table. This (casino gambling) is an option the people of Kentucky ought to have as opposed to having their taxes raised," Sen. Ed Worley (D-Richmond) said.
Well, it looks like desperate New Jersey Democrats are planning to double down. They are proposing to raise income taxes, rather than implement Governor Corzine's sales tax increase. Meanwhile casinos, the would-be salvation for that state's big spenders, battle to stay open.
Nevertheless, we keep hearing from casino supporters that if we just open casinos in Kentucky we won't have to raise taxes.
"Unquestionably there is $450 million lying on the table. This (casino gambling) is an option the people of Kentucky ought to have as opposed to having their taxes raised," Sen. Ed Worley (D-Richmond) said.
Well, it looks like desperate New Jersey Democrats are planning to double down. They are proposing to raise income taxes, rather than implement Governor Corzine's sales tax increase. Meanwhile casinos, the would-be salvation for that state's big spenders, battle to stay open.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Media Appearance Wednesday
I'll be on WLAP 630 AM in Lexington Wednesday morning at 10AM talking about the FairTax. Call in then with questions at (859) 280-2287 or toll-free (800) 606-4263.
Monday, July 03, 2006
July Is Ed Worley Trash And Cash Month
Twin scandals are about to shake up Sen. Ed Worley -- and soon. Stay tuned for details.
Kentucky Watches New Jersey Crash
As more evidence mounts that Rep. Ben Chandler plans to run for Governor in 2007, any glimpse into what that might mean for Kentucky could be enlightening.
For today's insight, we turn to Jon Corzine's New Jersey.
Corzine, a former U.S. Senator and currently Democrat governor of New Jersey, has caused a partial but growing shutdown of state government while he tries to force through a large tax increase on the people of his state.
Chandler, who favors expanded gambling and -- after refusing to swear off tax increases in '03, switching gears and promising not to raise taxes in '04, and then flip-flopping again and voting for tax increases since then -- has a problem telling the truth on taxes, might be a Jon Corzine kind of Governor.
The funny thing is that the New Jersey government shutdown will likely result in the shutdown of the state's twelve casinos.
And I thought casinos were supposed to be the Holy Grail for big government spenders, making tax increases unnecessary.
This is with a Democrat-controlled legislature. How bad would the train wreck be in Kentucky under similar circumstances?
For today's insight, we turn to Jon Corzine's New Jersey.
Corzine, a former U.S. Senator and currently Democrat governor of New Jersey, has caused a partial but growing shutdown of state government while he tries to force through a large tax increase on the people of his state.
Chandler, who favors expanded gambling and -- after refusing to swear off tax increases in '03, switching gears and promising not to raise taxes in '04, and then flip-flopping again and voting for tax increases since then -- has a problem telling the truth on taxes, might be a Jon Corzine kind of Governor.
The funny thing is that the New Jersey government shutdown will likely result in the shutdown of the state's twelve casinos.
And I thought casinos were supposed to be the Holy Grail for big government spenders, making tax increases unnecessary.
This is with a Democrat-controlled legislature. How bad would the train wreck be in Kentucky under similar circumstances?
Calderon Wins In Mexico!
This is very good news. Al Gore's lawyers on probably on the next plane down to start the protest for leftist Andrés Manuel López Obrador, but Felipe Calderon has won a close one. This should help slow the tide of Mexican pioneers fleeing their nation's chaos.
Sunday, July 02, 2006
Viva La Revolucion!
The most important election in America Sunday was in Mexico.
I'm up at the last minute, hoping for a result that is not going to come. If the leftist candidate wins, the flow of illegals coming into our country will explode.
Reports from Mexico are that the close election results may not become available for a few days. In other words, let the cheating begin!
I'm up at the last minute, hoping for a result that is not going to come. If the leftist candidate wins, the flow of illegals coming into our country will explode.
Reports from Mexico are that the close election results may not become available for a few days. In other words, let the cheating begin!
Fletcher Strikes Back
This is a good one. While the national media has picked up on the hysteria of Governor Fletcher riding to work in a car, the Administration announced transportation projects Friday.
To top it off, he announced a "walk to school" initiative. I like to see the Governor answering gratuitous whining from opponents with meaningful policy. Nice job.
To top it off, he announced a "walk to school" initiative. I like to see the Governor answering gratuitous whining from opponents with meaningful policy. Nice job.
The Terrorists' Right To Know
Larry Dale Keeling jumps on Jim Bunning this morning in the Lexington Herald-Leader for rebuking the treasonous New York Times.
Pat Buchanan, on the other hand, suggests putting the Times editors in jail.
Incidentally, Buchanan is representative of a chunk of the electorate who has expressed extreme displeasure with the President, but wouldn't vote for someone more liberal. That is why Karl Rove isn't slashing his wrists over Bush's 40% approval rating.
Pat Buchanan, on the other hand, suggests putting the Times editors in jail.
Incidentally, Buchanan is representative of a chunk of the electorate who has expressed extreme displeasure with the President, but wouldn't vote for someone more liberal. That is why Karl Rove isn't slashing his wrists over Bush's 40% approval rating.
Saturday, July 01, 2006
Frankfort, Put Committee Votes Online
KentuckyVotes.org's Caleb Brown is on KY Newsmakers this morning pushing for the General Assembly to put committee votes on the internet.
There is no reason for lawmakers to resist this. Still, they resist.
There is no reason for lawmakers to resist this. Still, they resist.
Friday, June 30, 2006
Return Of The Open-MInded Liberal Blogger
After a long hiatus, the folks at BluegrassRoots.org are back to posting their stuff on the net.
They allow anonymous posts and they don't block comments expressing ideas they fear.
Check them out here.
They allow anonymous posts and they don't block comments expressing ideas they fear.
Check them out here.
John Yarmuth's Culture of The Kook Left
As I write this, 3rd district congressional candidate John Yarmuth hasn't gotten the word that he has been voted off Virginia tax-raiser Mark Warner's island.
When he does -- good morning, John! -- expect him to scrub any evidence of his support for Warner's presidential bid and go looking for another national Democrat to lock arms with.
Yarmuth is clearly following the Dem strategy of nationalizing congressional races. His site is heavy on minimum wage tax increase, socialized medicine tax increases, and refusing to derail the Social Security/Medicare train wreck while we can still do something about it rather tha raise taxes. Oh, and he is going to "stand up to George Bush." What is funny is the races are becoming nationalized but only helping to underscore liberal weaknesses on the key issues.
What will John Yarmuth think of next?
When he does -- good morning, John! -- expect him to scrub any evidence of his support for Warner's presidential bid and go looking for another national Democrat to lock arms with.
Yarmuth is clearly following the Dem strategy of nationalizing congressional races. His site is heavy on minimum wage tax increase, socialized medicine tax increases, and refusing to derail the Social Security/Medicare train wreck while we can still do something about it rather tha raise taxes. Oh, and he is going to "stand up to George Bush." What is funny is the races are becoming nationalized but only helping to underscore liberal weaknesses on the key issues.
What will John Yarmuth think of next?
Chandler Acting Like D.C. Democrat
A good indication of his 2007 plans comes again from Rep. Ben Chandler's actions. Yesterday he voted against tracking terrorist financial records and rebuking the New York Times. He also has issued a press release apologizing for voting for the recent resolution against cutting and running from Iraq.
The one thing Chandler had going for him in his 2003 run for Governor was he had no voting record.
The one thing Chandler had going for him in his 2003 run for Governor was he had no voting record.
Thursday, June 29, 2006
ACLU Aids Georgia Sex Predators
A U.S. District Court judge issued a temporary restraining order this afternoon against a new Georgia law that would prohibit registered sex offenders from living within 1000 feet of places where children congregate.
Are we going to have to pass a constitutional amendment to get rid of child molestors?
And no, I don't care a bit about their "rights."
Are we going to have to pass a constitutional amendment to get rid of child molestors?
And no, I don't care a bit about their "rights."
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Shooting The Wounded
David Williams put a bullet in Ernie Fletcher today.
It's an age-old practice and the timing, really, is good. President Williams did the right thing in an effort to provide guidance to GOP candidates who have essentially no Governor to campaign with. Governor Fletcher, I know, has a better response to Williams' non-endorsement than he gave today. Holding his fire for later is no longer an option. Fletcher's timeframe for making his case just got scooted forward for him. This is going to get uglier, but the main point is that it is going to happen now and that is a good thing.
The wound Williams inflicted on the Governor is not on Ernie's back. As such, now is not the time to feign hurt feelings and retreat to safety. Let's have this out now. The Democrats are hoping we let this continue to fester.
It's an age-old practice and the timing, really, is good. President Williams did the right thing in an effort to provide guidance to GOP candidates who have essentially no Governor to campaign with. Governor Fletcher, I know, has a better response to Williams' non-endorsement than he gave today. Holding his fire for later is no longer an option. Fletcher's timeframe for making his case just got scooted forward for him. This is going to get uglier, but the main point is that it is going to happen now and that is a good thing.
The wound Williams inflicted on the Governor is not on Ernie's back. As such, now is not the time to feign hurt feelings and retreat to safety. Let's have this out now. The Democrats are hoping we let this continue to fester.
Let's Do Tax Holiday Right
Pre-filed bills are rolling into Frankfort and another shot at the bogus "Back to School Sales Tax Holiday" should be coming along soon.
It sounds good at first, but the tax holiday -- which exempts clothing and computer items from state sales tax, usually for a three day period in late summer -- is nothing more than a political stunt.
In fact, retail groups betray the fallacy of sales tax holidays by promoting the additional expenditures consumers will make while out shopping their 6% sale. So they know -- but hope you don't -- that you will probably spend more elsewhere than you will save on sales taxes. Further, I don't know about you, but I would never be motivated by a 6% sale. Better to wait until inventory change time and buy at 50% or more, don't you think?
Of course the largest thing we are supposed to overlook in weighing the Sales Tax Holiday is that all the back-to-school items are already burdened with embedded income taxes that far outweigh state sales taxes. That's a far more egregious wrong to address, and a permanent fix as well.
If you haven't already, go to www.fairtax.org and see what real tax reform looks like.
It sounds good at first, but the tax holiday -- which exempts clothing and computer items from state sales tax, usually for a three day period in late summer -- is nothing more than a political stunt.
In fact, retail groups betray the fallacy of sales tax holidays by promoting the additional expenditures consumers will make while out shopping their 6% sale. So they know -- but hope you don't -- that you will probably spend more elsewhere than you will save on sales taxes. Further, I don't know about you, but I would never be motivated by a 6% sale. Better to wait until inventory change time and buy at 50% or more, don't you think?
Of course the largest thing we are supposed to overlook in weighing the Sales Tax Holiday is that all the back-to-school items are already burdened with embedded income taxes that far outweigh state sales taxes. That's a far more egregious wrong to address, and a permanent fix as well.
If you haven't already, go to www.fairtax.org and see what real tax reform looks like.
Abortion Sally Gets Off Easy
Sally Jacobsen, the disgraced NKU professor who went on a mad rampage through a campus pro-life display in April and got caught, isn't going to jail. After she "apologized" and paid for the property she destroyed, the charges of criminal mischief, theft by unlawful taking, and criminal solicitaton were dropped yesterday.
I wish she could be hauled back in again and charged under the desecration of venerated objects (the crosses she broke) statute. The same kind of criminal behavior Sally Jacobsen exhibited at NKU has happened at other schools -- including the University of Kentucky in March -- but this one got all the publicity because Abortion Sally got caught. If there is no real penalty for these people, they will just keep doing their thing.
I wish she could be hauled back in again and charged under the desecration of venerated objects (the crosses she broke) statute. The same kind of criminal behavior Sally Jacobsen exhibited at NKU has happened at other schools -- including the University of Kentucky in March -- but this one got all the publicity because Abortion Sally got caught. If there is no real penalty for these people, they will just keep doing their thing.
School Choice, Not Racial Quotas
Race-baiter Jesse Jackson was in Louisville yesterday issuing plans for a 10,000 person rally in support of racial quotas in city public schools.
He would do better to support school choice for everyone instead of artificial racial-assignment policies that now cause some children to be denied admission based on the color of their skin. It flies in the face of all reason to suggest that a percentage of students with a certain skin color in any school would affect educational achievement for anyone. Of course that is beside the point for Jackson, but his hypocrisy didn't need to no unanswered again.
It is a bugaboo to education establishment types, but vouchers would at least give some at-risk kids a chance. Racial profiling student populations only provides press conference fodder for aging demagogues.
He would do better to support school choice for everyone instead of artificial racial-assignment policies that now cause some children to be denied admission based on the color of their skin. It flies in the face of all reason to suggest that a percentage of students with a certain skin color in any school would affect educational achievement for anyone. Of course that is beside the point for Jackson, but his hypocrisy didn't need to no unanswered again.
It is a bugaboo to education establishment types, but vouchers would at least give some at-risk kids a chance. Racial profiling student populations only provides press conference fodder for aging demagogues.
Warren Buffett Gives It Up
Uber-investor Warren Buffett's donation of $30 Billion to charity last week might have you thinking what good you could do with so much money. His ill-considered comments in favor of the Death Tax -- "It's very equitable," he said -- and the money it sucks from the economy suggests an idea that puts another bad liberal plan in some perspective.
Refusing to reform Social Security put that system another $600 Billion in the tank last year. Buffett's gift is much less impressive when thought in terms of picking up the tab for only two weeks of intransigence on this one federal program.
Refusing to reform Social Security put that system another $600 Billion in the tank last year. Buffett's gift is much less impressive when thought in terms of picking up the tab for only two weeks of intransigence on this one federal program.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
While You Were Working...
J.R. Gray (D-Benton) pre-filed a 2007 bill today to raise taxes.
Yes, it is a minimum wage bill -- a wedge Democrats hope to use in November -- but it works just like an off-the-books tax increase for businesses who employ minimum wage workers. Why don't Democrats show some courage and propose a tax increase rather than try to make it look like some kind of a fairness issue?
The Kentucky legislature is in special session right to trying to cut taxes on small businesses and Rep. Gray wants to raise them back up at the same time.
By the way, take a look at Gray's Republican opponent Marvin Wilson.
Yes, it is a minimum wage bill -- a wedge Democrats hope to use in November -- but it works just like an off-the-books tax increase for businesses who employ minimum wage workers. Why don't Democrats show some courage and propose a tax increase rather than try to make it look like some kind of a fairness issue?
The Kentucky legislature is in special session right to trying to cut taxes on small businesses and Rep. Gray wants to raise them back up at the same time.
By the way, take a look at Gray's Republican opponent Marvin Wilson.
Media Appearance
I will be weighing in on the goofy, pointless, and ultimately harmful liberal efforts to rewrite the First Amendment on tomorrow's Lexington Herald Leader editorial page.
Speaking of the First Amendment, here it is:
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Nothing in there about state employees not having to bring a laptop to work so they can read blogs all day long.
The low point of today's update on this ridiculous "scandal" was in this quote: "The government is not a private employer, the government cannot decide what content they want to ban," said Mark Nickolas, U.S. Rep. Ben Chandler's former campaign manager and operator of a Web log. "It's not constitutional."
While the libs are distracting with this stuff and the Fletcher Driving-Not-Walking scandal, the General Assembly is getting away with tweaking the AMC when they should be repealing it.
Speaking of the First Amendment, here it is:
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Nothing in there about state employees not having to bring a laptop to work so they can read blogs all day long.
The low point of today's update on this ridiculous "scandal" was in this quote: "The government is not a private employer, the government cannot decide what content they want to ban," said Mark Nickolas, U.S. Rep. Ben Chandler's former campaign manager and operator of a Web log. "It's not constitutional."
While the libs are distracting with this stuff and the Fletcher Driving-Not-Walking scandal, the General Assembly is getting away with tweaking the AMC when they should be repealing it.
Monday, June 26, 2006
Required Reading in AP Economics
While Kentucky politicos are irrationally consumed with what can or can't be read in the state Capitol, one Georgia high school has the right idea.
An Advanced Placement Economics course at Northview High School in Duluth is requiring students to have read The Fair Tax Book before classes start in the fall.
That should get Nancy Pelosi worked up since she won't let her minions talk about the Fair Tax, but it is good news for the future that these kids will be learning about it now.
An Advanced Placement Economics course at Northview High School in Duluth is requiring students to have read The Fair Tax Book before classes start in the fall.
That should get Nancy Pelosi worked up since she won't let her minions talk about the Fair Tax, but it is good news for the future that these kids will be learning about it now.
Yarmuth Won't Get Warner Nod
Kentucky's 3rd district U.S. House challenger John Yarmuth can't catch a break.
Yarmuth's frustration with his inability to draw support in the district will be compounded this week when he fails in his bid to get an endorsement from presidential wannabe Mark Warner.
If you look at the list of names who applied for Warner's endorsement, you will see he did succeed in making it to the second round in the selection process. Maybe Yarmuth's campaign should be called the "Close But No Cigar Tour."
Yarmuth's frustration with his inability to draw support in the district will be compounded this week when he fails in his bid to get an endorsement from presidential wannabe Mark Warner.
If you look at the list of names who applied for Warner's endorsement, you will see he did succeed in making it to the second round in the selection process. Maybe Yarmuth's campaign should be called the "Close But No Cigar Tour."
Sunday, June 25, 2006
Don't Go Easy On Sex Offenders Now
The Pandora's Box opened by the new Georgia law which prohibits convicted sex offenders from living within 1000 feet of areas where children congregate can't cause us to give in to criminals' convenience just because the ACLU types want us to.
Georgia's law is probably the toughest in the nation. Despite the activist whining, the result of this policy will be a mass exodus of sex criminals from that state. Kentucky would do very well to ignore the bellyaching and further stiffen its own restrictions.
Georgia's law is probably the toughest in the nation. Despite the activist whining, the result of this policy will be a mass exodus of sex criminals from that state. Kentucky would do very well to ignore the bellyaching and further stiffen its own restrictions.
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Repeal AMC Now!
Joe Fischer(R-Ft. Thomas) did the right thing this week when he filed an amendment in the House to repeal the Alternative Minimum Calculation and the limited liability entity tax.
The debate shouldn't be about how much we will tax unprofitable Kentucky corporations, but whether we should tax their business activity at all.
As Rep. Bob Damron(D-Nicholasville) said back in March, there is something un-American about taxing companies that aren't making a profit.
The debate shouldn't be about how much we will tax unprofitable Kentucky corporations, but whether we should tax their business activity at all.
As Rep. Bob Damron(D-Nicholasville) said back in March, there is something un-American about taxing companies that aren't making a profit.
Friday, June 23, 2006
It Gets Worse For Yarmuth
John Yarmuth wants Anne Northup's job in Congress. He has set up some pretty rough roadblocks for himself, like pushing to double payroll taxes, surrendering Iraq, and resurrecting public financing of national political campaigns -- welfare for politicians again!!
Now we see that Yarmuth has picked up a major endorsement that he isn't exactly promoting on his website or crowing to the media about: Los Angeles shock-jock John Ziegler hopes Louisvillians will lurch leftward for Yarmuth in November.
It's no surprise Yarmuth isn't trumpeting this one: Ziegler was run out of Louisville in August 2003 in the midst of a sex scandal.
Now we see that Yarmuth has picked up a major endorsement that he isn't exactly promoting on his website or crowing to the media about: Los Angeles shock-jock John Ziegler hopes Louisvillians will lurch leftward for Yarmuth in November.
It's no surprise Yarmuth isn't trumpeting this one: Ziegler was run out of Louisville in August 2003 in the midst of a sex scandal.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Sixty Five Cent Solution
We are always hearing about how Kentucky's schoolchildren need more money. This is a great way to increase classroom spending $174.5 million each year without raising taxes.
All the Sixty Five Cent Solution folks (including Ohio gubernatorial candidate Ken Blackwell) want is to cut down on the administrative waste in our public school system.
All the Sixty Five Cent Solution folks (including Ohio gubernatorial candidate Ken Blackwell) want is to cut down on the administrative waste in our public school system.
Blog Blockergate A Pathetic Scandal
I don't blame liberal bloggers for trying to make Blockergate into some kind of constitutional crisis. If conservatives didn't have any ideas, we would probably be doing the same type of thing. (As it is, we can let them yammer about censorship. We need to continue working for tax reform, school choice, and fiscal responsibility in Kentucky.)
But my scorn for all this hubbub does have its limits. The Bluegrass Institute adds to policy debates in a way the partisan blogs don't. If anything, state workers need to be encouraged to read www.bipps.org and to check www.kentuckyvotes.org to keep tabs on the legislature.
Now that people can surf the web on their cell phones, or download software to get around "blocks" on sites, and when rumor, innuendo, and hearsay zooms through Capitol offices faster than a T1 modem, I think we will survive this just fine.
While the Lefties are going gonzo on this, it might be a great time for the Fletcher Administration to start to work on a solid conservative initiative for the next session. Repealing Certificate of Need restrictions on medical care would be a good one.
But my scorn for all this hubbub does have its limits. The Bluegrass Institute adds to policy debates in a way the partisan blogs don't. If anything, state workers need to be encouraged to read www.bipps.org and to check www.kentuckyvotes.org to keep tabs on the legislature.
Now that people can surf the web on their cell phones, or download software to get around "blocks" on sites, and when rumor, innuendo, and hearsay zooms through Capitol offices faster than a T1 modem, I think we will survive this just fine.
While the Lefties are going gonzo on this, it might be a great time for the Fletcher Administration to start to work on a solid conservative initiative for the next session. Repealing Certificate of Need restrictions on medical care would be a good one.
Welcome Lexington Herald Leader Readers!
Despite persistent rumors to the contrary, conservatism isn't dead in Kentucky. It just needs a little cold water splashed in its face. Welcome to Kentucky Progress.
Kentucky is a conservative state, but our politics lag behind our people. And I am talking about fiscal conservatism. Though there is more work to be done, social conservatives rule the roost in the Bluegrass. Sadly, they have veered hard to the left on fiscal issues. If you are ready to push ahead, we have to demand repeal of the Alternative Minimum Calculation. Also, we need to go after the soft liberal underbelly of our state -- the education bureaucracy. This is the largest portion of our state budget and the mismanagement is undeniable. Step one there is for parents to demand school choice.
This would make a great start. Call your state legislators and demand total repeal of AMC during the special session that begins today. They won't do it, but they should know we are out here. Education reform has been a liberal bugaboo for decades and our progress has been stunted as a result. It is time for conservatives to stand up and lead our children. There are some great things afoot for the conservative cause in Kentucky. Please come back often to the Kentucky Progress for updates.
Kentucky is a conservative state, but our politics lag behind our people. And I am talking about fiscal conservatism. Though there is more work to be done, social conservatives rule the roost in the Bluegrass. Sadly, they have veered hard to the left on fiscal issues. If you are ready to push ahead, we have to demand repeal of the Alternative Minimum Calculation. Also, we need to go after the soft liberal underbelly of our state -- the education bureaucracy. This is the largest portion of our state budget and the mismanagement is undeniable. Step one there is for parents to demand school choice.
This would make a great start. Call your state legislators and demand total repeal of AMC during the special session that begins today. They won't do it, but they should know we are out here. Education reform has been a liberal bugaboo for decades and our progress has been stunted as a result. It is time for conservatives to stand up and lead our children. There are some great things afoot for the conservative cause in Kentucky. Please come back often to the Kentucky Progress for updates.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
YOU Pay Corporate Income Taxes
Revenue-raising politicians love to pile on "big business."
That's how we got the Alternative Minimum Calculation tax with Tax Modernization. The AMC forces businesses with no profit to pay taxes on their gross receipts. When possible, those costs to the business are passed on to consumers. When that isn't possible, employees take the hit. Either way, new businesses get the brunt of this and it accomplishes nothing so much as to restrain economic growth.
The special session starts tomorrow and the Bluegrass Institute is encouraging business owners to tell legislators to scrap the AMC. Amen to that. If you patronize small businesses or work for one, you would do well to raise your voice also.
That's how we got the Alternative Minimum Calculation tax with Tax Modernization. The AMC forces businesses with no profit to pay taxes on their gross receipts. When possible, those costs to the business are passed on to consumers. When that isn't possible, employees take the hit. Either way, new businesses get the brunt of this and it accomplishes nothing so much as to restrain economic growth.
The special session starts tomorrow and the Bluegrass Institute is encouraging business owners to tell legislators to scrap the AMC. Amen to that. If you patronize small businesses or work for one, you would do well to raise your voice also.
Welcome Liberal Time Wasters!
If you have been directed to this site because you read on the net about Kentucky state government blocking liberal Bluegrass Report, you might have a little too much time on your hands.
Kentucky Progress is a conservative site and, as such, I have no problem with being blocked from state employee computers -- especially during work hours. I'm glad to have liberal readers who disagree with everything I write -- and I do get a kick out of angry liberal legislators who accost me in Frankfort because of what I write about them on this site -- but I value my tax dollars as well. If you are reading this site and would like to comment via email or post a comment here, go right ahead. But if you are stealing from your employer in order to be here, I hope your conscience bothers you.
Kentucky Progress is a conservative site and, as such, I have no problem with being blocked from state employee computers -- especially during work hours. I'm glad to have liberal readers who disagree with everything I write -- and I do get a kick out of angry liberal legislators who accost me in Frankfort because of what I write about them on this site -- but I value my tax dollars as well. If you are reading this site and would like to comment via email or post a comment here, go right ahead. But if you are stealing from your employer in order to be here, I hope your conscience bothers you.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
KY Pension Collapse: Will Money Meet Mouth?
The Delta Airlines Pilot Pension collapse isn't going to get as much run in the media as anything potentially embarrassing to Republicans. The reason is defined-benefit pensions are designed much like Social Security.
Remember the "there is no crisis" rants from the left last year? By now, all honest economists agree that was an expensive distortion then and it is only getting worse.
Well I have an idea how to get past the smokescreen on this. Kentucky's public employee pensions are headed for a Delta-like disaster. If we gave all employees in the system the opportunity to opt out in favor of a defined contribution plan, we could wait and see just how many were willing to gamble their retirement security on what is left of the old economic ideology.
Now that would be a sight to behold...
Remember the "there is no crisis" rants from the left last year? By now, all honest economists agree that was an expensive distortion then and it is only getting worse.
Well I have an idea how to get past the smokescreen on this. Kentucky's public employee pensions are headed for a Delta-like disaster. If we gave all employees in the system the opportunity to opt out in favor of a defined contribution plan, we could wait and see just how many were willing to gamble their retirement security on what is left of the old economic ideology.
Now that would be a sight to behold...
New York Times As Contrary Indicator
When the New York Times puts its political prognostications on the front page, it is usually best to expect things to go the other way. Such is the case with today's bit about the impending doom of the Republican Party of Kentucky.
Almost as bad as Daily Kos' conspiracy theory yesterday about Dubai "still controlling" U.S. Ports.
Almost as bad as Daily Kos' conspiracy theory yesterday about Dubai "still controlling" U.S. Ports.
Monday, June 19, 2006
Murtha Initiates 'Culture of Compunction'
Memo to Democrats: you wanted John Murtha to be your spokesman on national defense and you got him.
Enjoy!
Quick, somebody ask Julian Carroll for a comment...
Enjoy!
Quick, somebody ask Julian Carroll for a comment...
What's Holding Back Kentucky Health Care
Democrats in Frankfort have to be worried about Gross Lindsay's primary loss because the doctor who beat him is in favor of common sense medical malpractice reform.
Senator Ed Worley (D-Richmond) faces a stiff challenge this fall in large part because of his own support of ambulance chasers on the same issue.
Reforming tort policy will help quite a bit. Even more helpful would be to drum up support in favor of repealing Kentucky's Certificate of Need laws.
Read up.
Senator Ed Worley (D-Richmond) faces a stiff challenge this fall in large part because of his own support of ambulance chasers on the same issue.
Reforming tort policy will help quite a bit. Even more helpful would be to drum up support in favor of repealing Kentucky's Certificate of Need laws.
Read up.
Make Timelines Not War!!
Apparently U.S. Senate Democrats are pushing again (still?) to quit fighting the war and hope the terrorists back off the IED's and stick to their prayer rugs.
Kos has the story.
Kos has the story.
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Lib Judges Can Run, Can't Hide
Marcus Carey's effort to bring ideological accountability to judicial races is causing his opponent to say dumb things.
This is going to get good. Thanks to Trey Walker for passing this along from San Diego.
This is going to get good. Thanks to Trey Walker for passing this along from San Diego.
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Iraq, Iraq, Iraq
Here is President Bush's radio address he gave today.
As I read it, what occurred to me is the President's political opponents here at home can take no pleasure in any good things that happen in Iraq -- ever. No doubt they will face a white-hot panic if continued progress mounts as fall draws closer.
What I see happening is both national parties running on Iraq this November.
UPDATE: Kentucky's Democrat opponents for Congress don't have Ben Chandler's advantage of being able to vote this way and that way on this issue. But such flip-floppery won't help him run for Governor.
As I read it, what occurred to me is the President's political opponents here at home can take no pleasure in any good things that happen in Iraq -- ever. No doubt they will face a white-hot panic if continued progress mounts as fall draws closer.
What I see happening is both national parties running on Iraq this November.
UPDATE: Kentucky's Democrat opponents for Congress don't have Ben Chandler's advantage of being able to vote this way and that way on this issue. But such flip-floppery won't help him run for Governor.
Friday, June 16, 2006
I Just Joined Unity '08, You Should Too!
Unity '08 is a political organization whose purpose is to bring people together to move America forward. Let me hasten to add I have not left the Republican party and you don't have to leave your party either in order to get involved with Unity '08. The point is to work with people from all political perspectives who are tired of the status quo.
You might think that Unity '08 is a little late to the two-party party to actually have an impact in 2008. And you would be wrong.
Actually, Republicans and Democrats will be behind in the spring of 2008 when they hold their precinct elections and start the process of rewriting their state and national platforms. Their advantage is they already have people, but the same people show up and propose the same platforms so little changes. What Unity '08 lacks in sheer numbers, in another two years it could make up for in energy and by working the same process in a fresh way. They are bringing the people together first and then working out the ideas.
We all know the environment is ripe for a new movement. It is even okay that partisans like me will be looking for a way to manipulate Unity '08. If it becomes anything like a forum where we can hash out philosophical differences honestly, it will have significantly more power per capita than the Dems and Republicans telling themselves the same things.
I suspect things will get pretty dicey with Unity '08 when the time comes to pick a slate for President. But the most interesting point of a political discussion is where the strength of ideas change open minds. Based on that, Unity '08 is worth a hard look.
You might think that Unity '08 is a little late to the two-party party to actually have an impact in 2008. And you would be wrong.
Actually, Republicans and Democrats will be behind in the spring of 2008 when they hold their precinct elections and start the process of rewriting their state and national platforms. Their advantage is they already have people, but the same people show up and propose the same platforms so little changes. What Unity '08 lacks in sheer numbers, in another two years it could make up for in energy and by working the same process in a fresh way. They are bringing the people together first and then working out the ideas.
We all know the environment is ripe for a new movement. It is even okay that partisans like me will be looking for a way to manipulate Unity '08. If it becomes anything like a forum where we can hash out philosophical differences honestly, it will have significantly more power per capita than the Dems and Republicans telling themselves the same things.
I suspect things will get pretty dicey with Unity '08 when the time comes to pick a slate for President. But the most interesting point of a political discussion is where the strength of ideas change open minds. Based on that, Unity '08 is worth a hard look.
Chandler Joins Bill To Raise College Costs
Ben Chandler's latest move in Washington D.C. deserves a lot of scrutiny.
He has added his name to a bill called "Reverse the Raid on Student Aid" HR 5150, which would cut by half interest rates on student loans for higher education.
In his two short years inside the beltway, Chandler has learned the value of sound-good, feel-good legislation. What the sponsors of this bill want you to believe is that cutting student loan interest rates lowers college costs and helps the poor, struggling college student and his/her family afford higher education.
It isn't that simple.
It would be that simple, I guess, if the Education Fairy paid lending institutions the difference in the costs of the loan and the government-set rate. After centuries of data have demonstrated to everyone else that price-fixing combined with taxpayer subsidies cause artificially high demand and actually increase costs -- a side benefit is creating waste! --, the sponsors of this bill want to clap their hands and believe it won't work that way this time.
The Republican leadership in the House has done a lot worthy scorn lately, but the coming showdown on this -- and the unceremonious death of this bad bill -- will underscore once again that as bad as the GOP might have been, the Democrats are worse. It's hardly a campaign slogan, but cutting off our noses to spite our faces is a luxury we can not afford now.
He has added his name to a bill called "Reverse the Raid on Student Aid" HR 5150, which would cut by half interest rates on student loans for higher education.
In his two short years inside the beltway, Chandler has learned the value of sound-good, feel-good legislation. What the sponsors of this bill want you to believe is that cutting student loan interest rates lowers college costs and helps the poor, struggling college student and his/her family afford higher education.
It isn't that simple.
It would be that simple, I guess, if the Education Fairy paid lending institutions the difference in the costs of the loan and the government-set rate. After centuries of data have demonstrated to everyone else that price-fixing combined with taxpayer subsidies cause artificially high demand and actually increase costs -- a side benefit is creating waste! --, the sponsors of this bill want to clap their hands and believe it won't work that way this time.
The Republican leadership in the House has done a lot worthy scorn lately, but the coming showdown on this -- and the unceremonious death of this bad bill -- will underscore once again that as bad as the GOP might have been, the Democrats are worse. It's hardly a campaign slogan, but cutting off our noses to spite our faces is a luxury we can not afford now.
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