Sunday, March 21, 2010
As the Republic Crumbles...
Monday, December 21, 2009
Should the Sixth District Look Outside the Box?
A.C. Kleinheider has a very interesting column in today's Nashville City Paper. In the column, A.C. posits that noted anti-tax advocate, award-winning blogger, and conservative activist Ben Cunningham should consider running for the recently vacated Sixth District seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.
A.C. notes that he has talked to Ben and that he has not warmed to the idea of himself as a political candidate.
I'm of two minds on Cunningham for Congress. For the people of the Sixth District, and the American electorate as a whole, Ben going to D.C. would be fantastic. Ben is one of the best economic minds I know, and given that our political leaders are about to vote us into economic armageddon (if they haven't already done so by the time you read this), we're going to need people of Ben's intellect, experience, and character on Capitol Hill.
That being said, I know Ben and have to openly wonder if this would be a good thing for him. I always have to consider what public office - seeking it, working in it, keeping it - does to people. I saw the toll the grind of the Senate took on Senator Fred Thompson. I saw how tough it was for Congressman Ed Bryant to deal with the campaign grind. And both of my former bosses were experienced politicians at the time.
If Ben does decide to enter the fray, I am sure that he would find friends aplenty for his campaign. Ben has helped people throughout Tennessee to keep taxes low and to fight government waste. He has helped organize more conservative issue discussions than anyone could possibly know. While a potential Mae Beavers entry into the field might partially disrupt its formation, a Cunningham candidacy could very well formulate a grassroots network - both within the Sixth District and outside of it - that could be the difference in a divided primary where all of the other candidates look fairly similar.
I keep hearing the libertarians, tea partiers, and conservative grassroots talk about getting back to basics and keeping the politicians out of office. If that's really what you believe and you aren't so filled with apathy that you're willing to do something about it, you might want to contact ol' Ben Cunningham. He could be exactly the guy you want representing Tennessee in the U.S. House of Representatives.
A.C. notes that he has talked to Ben and that he has not warmed to the idea of himself as a political candidate.
I'm of two minds on Cunningham for Congress. For the people of the Sixth District, and the American electorate as a whole, Ben going to D.C. would be fantastic. Ben is one of the best economic minds I know, and given that our political leaders are about to vote us into economic armageddon (if they haven't already done so by the time you read this), we're going to need people of Ben's intellect, experience, and character on Capitol Hill.
That being said, I know Ben and have to openly wonder if this would be a good thing for him. I always have to consider what public office - seeking it, working in it, keeping it - does to people. I saw the toll the grind of the Senate took on Senator Fred Thompson. I saw how tough it was for Congressman Ed Bryant to deal with the campaign grind. And both of my former bosses were experienced politicians at the time.
If Ben does decide to enter the fray, I am sure that he would find friends aplenty for his campaign. Ben has helped people throughout Tennessee to keep taxes low and to fight government waste. He has helped organize more conservative issue discussions than anyone could possibly know. While a potential Mae Beavers entry into the field might partially disrupt its formation, a Cunningham candidacy could very well formulate a grassroots network - both within the Sixth District and outside of it - that could be the difference in a divided primary where all of the other candidates look fairly similar.
I keep hearing the libertarians, tea partiers, and conservative grassroots talk about getting back to basics and keeping the politicians out of office. If that's really what you believe and you aren't so filled with apathy that you're willing to do something about it, you might want to contact ol' Ben Cunningham. He could be exactly the guy you want representing Tennessee in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Labels: 2010 Congressional Races, Economy, Taxes
Monday, June 22, 2009
Cap-and-Trade on the House Floor Tuesday?
There are some early rumblings that the so-called "Energy Tax" - also known as "cap-and-trade" - might hit the floor in the House tomorrow. Tennesseans should be concerned, because a recent study said that Tennessee could lose 80,000 jobs as a direct consequence of cap-and-trade. Even conservative estimates from the CBO say that every family would basically suffer a $1,600 annual "tax" from the passing of cap-and-trade.
(Just for perspective, 80,000 potentially jobless Tennesseans is more than the populations of Johnson City, Jackson, Kingsport, Bristol, Franklin, Morristown, and Bartlett.)
The following ad has just hit the airwaves in an effort to rally support against cap-and-trade.
If you would like to keep that extra $1,600 per year in your pocket, perhaps you need to call your representatives in Congress and let them know how you feel.
Monday, October 13, 2008
The Working Class Revolt
From Dr. Helen Smith of KnoxVegas:
So basically, Democratic women are the ones most likely to support raising taxes on the top earners. That's probably good since they might possibly be the only ones left working after men and Republicans decide it's not worth the trouble to pay a good deal of their income for programs they don't want, should Obama be elected.
So basically, Democratic women are the ones most likely to support raising taxes on the top earners. That's probably good since they might possibly be the only ones left working after men and Republicans decide it's not worth the trouble to pay a good deal of their income for programs they don't want, should Obama be elected.
Labels: 2008 General Election, Taxes
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Minnesota Teaches GOP About Tax Hikes
I guess I shouldn't be surprised about this sort of thing, but I am.
This just arrived regarding our pending trip to the Republican National Convention:
***
Dear RNC Guest,
The Minnesota Department of Revenue recently issued a tax change that
will affect your hotel stay. Beginning July 1, 2008, the Minneapolis
metropolitan area counties of Anoka, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, and
Washington imposed a 0.25% Transit Sales & Use Tax, which will be used
to fund the area's transit system including light rail, commuter rail
and bus rapid transit.
Due to this change, the tax rate listed on your hotel confirmation may
not be accurate. Please refer to your hotel folio upon your arrival or
departure for the accurate tax rate that will be applied to your stay.
Please refer to your hotel folio for tax rate information, which may
vary from your hotel confirmation.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
Kind regards,
2008 Republican National Convention Travel Desk
Travel Technology Group
***
Grr...
How did Minnesota politicos think this would go over? Seriously, how blinded by greed can a government be?
This just arrived regarding our pending trip to the Republican National Convention:
***
Dear RNC Guest,
The Minnesota Department of Revenue recently issued a tax change that
will affect your hotel stay. Beginning July 1, 2008, the Minneapolis
metropolitan area counties of Anoka, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, and
Washington imposed a 0.25% Transit Sales & Use Tax, which will be used
to fund the area's transit system including light rail, commuter rail
and bus rapid transit.
Due to this change, the tax rate listed on your hotel confirmation may
not be accurate. Please refer to your hotel folio upon your arrival or
departure for the accurate tax rate that will be applied to your stay.
Please refer to your hotel folio for tax rate information, which may
vary from your hotel confirmation.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
Kind regards,
2008 Republican National Convention Travel Desk
Travel Technology Group
***
Grr...
How did Minnesota politicos think this would go over? Seriously, how blinded by greed can a government be?
Labels: 2008 Republican National Convention, Taxes
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Paul Speaks Out Against Raising the Gas Tax
I haven't agreed with much that Ron Paul has said over the past week or so, but we are in total concert on this.
Labels: Taxes
Thursday, December 20, 2007
The Government Giveth, and It Taketh Away (from Tennesseans, Texans, Floridians, Alaskans, Nevadans, South Dakotians, Washingtonians, and Wyomingians)
I was relieved to see that the Democrats in Congress were able to put off important issues (as they see them) to the nation such as steroids in baseball and the Sudan Accountability and Divestment Act to allow for the patch to temporarily protect over 20 million Americans from the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) this upcoming tax season to be brought to the House floor.
Of course, there was a price for some of us. Nancy Pelosi and her Democratic minions decided that it just wasn't fair that those of us who live in states with no state income tax be allowed to deduct our exorbitant sales tax amounts from our federal income tax debt. Of course, I suppose that we should expect that with all of the states being impacted save Washington being states that went red for George W. Bush in 2004.
Thus, the tax relief that was provided for by past Republican-led Congresses sits in D.C. while the Democratic leadership returns home to their respective states. Beautiful.
UPDATE: Oops. It appears that the Democrats actually did bring the Sudan Accountability and Divestment Act to the floor for a vote before they decided to fix the massive problem with the AMT. It apparently was more important than providing tax relief to non-state income tax residents, as well.
Here is the press release from Tennessee Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn:
Blackburn: Fiscal Conservatives Score Healthcare and Tax Relief Victories for Tennessee Families
Blasts Democrat Leadership for going home with vital work undone on Sales Tax Deductibility
Washington, D.C. -- As American families prepare for the Holiday season and begin to plan for the New Year, Congressman Marsha Blackburn applauded Republican leadership in passing tax fairness for working Americans, vital healthcare funding for Tennessee children, and partial DSH payment for Tennessee hospitals without a tax increase. Blackburn questions Democrat Leadership's commitment to extending Tennessee's sales tax deductibility.
"After more than eleven months of broken promises, politically-motivated votes and brinksmanship by the Democrat Leadership, I am pleased that Congress was able to provide this critical relief for working Tennesseans."
"Tennessee families can enjoy the holiday season with the full understanding that for the coming fiscal year, the long arm of the Internal Revenue Service's Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) will not extend any further. By stripping out tax increases insisted upon by the Democrat Leadership, House and Senate Republicans were able to pass clean legislation to prevent additional working class families from paying the AMT, which would have hit an additional 23 million American families in the coming year. "
"At the same time, I am equally pleased that Congress finally took action to hold off a pending collapse of the SCHIP system by passing legislation that fully funds the program, provides physicians a .5% payment increase through Medicare, and critical Medicaid DSH payments for Tennessee hospitals until June 30, 2008."
Blackburn blasted Democrat Leaders for returning home for the Holidays without extending the sales tax deductibility that is worth billions for Tennessee families each year.
"While Speaker Pelosi and her colleagues on the coast may not be interested in providing tax relief for Tennessee families who do not pay a state income tax, it is shameful to leave town while Tennessee families are at risk. I hope the Majority returns to Washington in a spirit to negotiate a solution that permanently delivers sales tax deductibility for Tennesseans"
Of course, there was a price for some of us. Nancy Pelosi and her Democratic minions decided that it just wasn't fair that those of us who live in states with no state income tax be allowed to deduct our exorbitant sales tax amounts from our federal income tax debt. Of course, I suppose that we should expect that with all of the states being impacted save Washington being states that went red for George W. Bush in 2004.
Thus, the tax relief that was provided for by past Republican-led Congresses sits in D.C. while the Democratic leadership returns home to their respective states. Beautiful.
UPDATE: Oops. It appears that the Democrats actually did bring the Sudan Accountability and Divestment Act to the floor for a vote before they decided to fix the massive problem with the AMT. It apparently was more important than providing tax relief to non-state income tax residents, as well.
Here is the press release from Tennessee Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn:
Blackburn: Fiscal Conservatives Score Healthcare and Tax Relief Victories for Tennessee Families
Blasts Democrat Leadership for going home with vital work undone on Sales Tax Deductibility
Washington, D.C. -- As American families prepare for the Holiday season and begin to plan for the New Year, Congressman Marsha Blackburn applauded Republican leadership in passing tax fairness for working Americans, vital healthcare funding for Tennessee children, and partial DSH payment for Tennessee hospitals without a tax increase. Blackburn questions Democrat Leadership's commitment to extending Tennessee's sales tax deductibility.
"After more than eleven months of broken promises, politically-motivated votes and brinksmanship by the Democrat Leadership, I am pleased that Congress was able to provide this critical relief for working Tennesseans."
"Tennessee families can enjoy the holiday season with the full understanding that for the coming fiscal year, the long arm of the Internal Revenue Service's Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) will not extend any further. By stripping out tax increases insisted upon by the Democrat Leadership, House and Senate Republicans were able to pass clean legislation to prevent additional working class families from paying the AMT, which would have hit an additional 23 million American families in the coming year. "
"At the same time, I am equally pleased that Congress finally took action to hold off a pending collapse of the SCHIP system by passing legislation that fully funds the program, provides physicians a .5% payment increase through Medicare, and critical Medicaid DSH payments for Tennessee hospitals until June 30, 2008."
Blackburn blasted Democrat Leaders for returning home for the Holidays without extending the sales tax deductibility that is worth billions for Tennessee families each year.
"While Speaker Pelosi and her colleagues on the coast may not be interested in providing tax relief for Tennessee families who do not pay a state income tax, it is shameful to leave town while Tennessee families are at risk. I hope the Majority returns to Washington in a spirit to negotiate a solution that permanently delivers sales tax deductibility for Tennesseans"
Labels: Taxes
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Bredesen Lies About Taxpayer Funding
Bill Hobbs and the TN GOP are all over this one. So is Volunteer Voters.
I suppose that we shouldnt' be that surprised. Bredesen has been flagrently misusing and then lying about the use of Tennessee taxpayer funds for years. The sad thing is that Tennesseans haven't yet gotten fed up with his shell game for these revelations to matter politically.
I suppose that we shouldnt' be that surprised. Bredesen has been flagrently misusing and then lying about the use of Tennessee taxpayer funds for years. The sad thing is that Tennesseans haven't yet gotten fed up with his shell game for these revelations to matter politically.
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Speak Up, Taxpayers!
Bill Hobbs has a poll on how a good chunk of your Tennessee tax dollars are being spent. Hop on over there and let your voice on Phil Bredesen's reckless spending be heard!
Rangel's Tax Hike - Paid for by You, All in the Name of Democratic Contributors
Last week, I assailed Democrat Charlie Rangel's proposed tax hike - which would be the largest tax increase in American history - along with others such as Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn and Former Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist.
Now comes word from The New York Times (and keep in mind that this is the NYT, so its veracity is not proven) that - prepare for shocking news - Rangel's proposal will help those who have been bankrolling Democrats, including Rangel, for years.
I'm sure it's just a coincidence...
MORE:
RedState
Pirate's Cove
Sweetness & Light
Now comes word from The New York Times (and keep in mind that this is the NYT, so its veracity is not proven) that - prepare for shocking news - Rangel's proposal will help those who have been bankrolling Democrats, including Rangel, for years.
I'm sure it's just a coincidence...
MORE:
RedState
Pirate's Cove
Sweetness & Light
Labels: Taxes
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
The Democrats & the Largest Tax Hike in History
Well, America, I hate that you are going to get what you deserve for voting the Democrats into power in the Congress.
I have been studying House Ways & Means Committee Chairman Charlie Rangel's tax increase for the past several days, and it frankly makes me ill. Here we go, folks - back to the bad ole days when the government takes everything and you end up working for free.
Andrew Wilkow, who hosts the Wilkow Majority on Sirius Radio, took Rangel apart (and logically - not by yelling and screaming at him. ala Bill O'Reilly) through well-reasoned debate yesterday. Bill Frist takes Rangel to task today over at VOLPAC.
Rangel's proposal is horrific, and his selling of the idea as better for hard-working Americans is intellectually dishonest. This proposed tax increase - the biggest in the history of our nation - is meant to benefit those who have decided that life is about the government taking care of them, that by not working they are bettering themselves and their country. The Democrats will stop at nothing to hurt the American worker.
Pardon me if I'm a bit upset, but I'm not exactly pleased with the idea of politicians engorging the government beast while hard-working Americans get little for their toil.
MORE: Here is the release from Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn:
Blackburn Blasts Democrat Plans to Implement Largest Tax Hike in American History
Washington, D.C. -- Congressman Marsha Blackburn joined the House Republican Leadership at a press conference this morning to voice her strong opposition to the largest proposed individual tax-hike in U.S. history. House Ways and Means Chairman Charlie Rangel briefed members of his committee on the proposed legislation the previous day. The plan will implement a new $1.3 trillion tax increase, sunset the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts in 2010, and lead to a $3.5 trillion increase within 10 years. Following the news conference, Blackburn issued the following statement:
“Everyone knows that the Federal government doesn't have a revenue problem, it has a spending problem. The Democrat led ‘Hold onto Your Wallet' Congress is once again telling the American taxpayer that they don't pay enough in taxes.
“An estimated 23 million families will pay the Alternative Minimum Tax in 2007, at a cost of an estimated $2,000 in additional per person taxes. Chairman Rangel's tax hike plan doesn't cut taxes; it simply shifts the tax burden from one line on the form to another. Our constituents know that any tax by any name is still a tax. They will pay more under this plan, and that is the wrong policy. The American taxpayer has suffered enough at the whim of the liberal elite and tax and spenders."
If this plan were to become law, the effective top marginal tax rate in this country would be the same as it is in Germany. The plan outlined by Chairman Rangel would transform the capital gains tax rate of 15% to the maximum income tax rate of 35% for revenue generated by investment in private equity, repeal section 199 deductions for American manufacturers, reinstitute the marriage penalty, and do nothing to reauthorize the state sales tax deduction set to expire at the end of this year.
EVEN MORE: President Bush weighs in on taxes and on the massive spending bills that Congressional Democrats are sending his way.
I have been studying House Ways & Means Committee Chairman Charlie Rangel's tax increase for the past several days, and it frankly makes me ill. Here we go, folks - back to the bad ole days when the government takes everything and you end up working for free.
Andrew Wilkow, who hosts the Wilkow Majority on Sirius Radio, took Rangel apart (and logically - not by yelling and screaming at him. ala Bill O'Reilly) through well-reasoned debate yesterday. Bill Frist takes Rangel to task today over at VOLPAC.
Rangel's proposal is horrific, and his selling of the idea as better for hard-working Americans is intellectually dishonest. This proposed tax increase - the biggest in the history of our nation - is meant to benefit those who have decided that life is about the government taking care of them, that by not working they are bettering themselves and their country. The Democrats will stop at nothing to hurt the American worker.
Pardon me if I'm a bit upset, but I'm not exactly pleased with the idea of politicians engorging the government beast while hard-working Americans get little for their toil.
MORE: Here is the release from Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn:
Blackburn Blasts Democrat Plans to Implement Largest Tax Hike in American History
Washington, D.C. -- Congressman Marsha Blackburn joined the House Republican Leadership at a press conference this morning to voice her strong opposition to the largest proposed individual tax-hike in U.S. history. House Ways and Means Chairman Charlie Rangel briefed members of his committee on the proposed legislation the previous day. The plan will implement a new $1.3 trillion tax increase, sunset the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts in 2010, and lead to a $3.5 trillion increase within 10 years. Following the news conference, Blackburn issued the following statement:
“Everyone knows that the Federal government doesn't have a revenue problem, it has a spending problem. The Democrat led ‘Hold onto Your Wallet' Congress is once again telling the American taxpayer that they don't pay enough in taxes.
“An estimated 23 million families will pay the Alternative Minimum Tax in 2007, at a cost of an estimated $2,000 in additional per person taxes. Chairman Rangel's tax hike plan doesn't cut taxes; it simply shifts the tax burden from one line on the form to another. Our constituents know that any tax by any name is still a tax. They will pay more under this plan, and that is the wrong policy. The American taxpayer has suffered enough at the whim of the liberal elite and tax and spenders."
If this plan were to become law, the effective top marginal tax rate in this country would be the same as it is in Germany. The plan outlined by Chairman Rangel would transform the capital gains tax rate of 15% to the maximum income tax rate of 35% for revenue generated by investment in private equity, repeal section 199 deductions for American manufacturers, reinstitute the marriage penalty, and do nothing to reauthorize the state sales tax deduction set to expire at the end of this year.
EVEN MORE: President Bush weighs in on taxes and on the massive spending bills that Congressional Democrats are sending his way.
Friday, June 01, 2007
Senator Mike Williams Votes for $220 Million Tax Hike
I've always wondered where the Independent caucus stood on taxes. I guess now we know.
Of course, maybe independents are really not for hiking taxes during a time of economic prosperity and they'll kick Senator Mike Williams out of their club. Well, maybe not...
I've always said that a legislative member without a "D" out from his or her name that votes for a tax increase is looking for an excuse not to run for re-election next time around.
Mike Williams already has one reason not to run. Explaining to the good people of Tennessee's 4th Senate District why he chose to raise their taxes - which is significant even with a voluntary act like smoking given the large number of tobacco farmers in Claiborne, Grainger, Hancock, Hawkins, Jefferson, and Union counties - is just another reason to retire.
If you ask me, I think Williams sees the writing on the wall, and I do not believe that he will run for re-election in 2008.
Of course, maybe independents are really not for hiking taxes during a time of economic prosperity and they'll kick Senator Mike Williams out of their club. Well, maybe not...
I've always said that a legislative member without a "D" out from his or her name that votes for a tax increase is looking for an excuse not to run for re-election next time around.
Mike Williams already has one reason not to run. Explaining to the good people of Tennessee's 4th Senate District why he chose to raise their taxes - which is significant even with a voluntary act like smoking given the large number of tobacco farmers in Claiborne, Grainger, Hancock, Hawkins, Jefferson, and Union counties - is just another reason to retire.
If you ask me, I think Williams sees the writing on the wall, and I do not believe that he will run for re-election in 2008.
Labels: General Assembly, Taxes
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Tax Day Cometh
It was a very sad day yesterday, as we had to mail our tax check into the IRS. Actually, we had to mail in two checks - one for 2006's tax burden and one quarterly check for my 1st Quarter revenues in 2007. Talk about a double whammy!
If you haven't gotten around to filing those 1040's yet this year, go visit my friends (and fellow conservatives) Virginia and Harold Mann at Liberty Tax Services in Knoxville. They can help you out with filing an extension while they assist you in preparing your taxes. They have several locations around Knox County (Virginia works primarily out of the office on Chapman Highway, only a hop, skip, and a jump away from my office in South Knoxville).
Good luck, fellow Americans. I hope that Uncle Sam's taxes don't cut too deep.
Labels: Taxes
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Tennessee Republicans Drawing a Line in the Sand over Eliminating the Food Tax?
It's nice to see that the GOP-led Tennessee Senate is finally fighting back against the the spending tyranny of Governor Phil Bredesen. Bredesen introduced his latest budget yesterday, one that would increase state spending by over $1 billion - that's billion with a "b."
Today's story on the matter in the KNS shows the frustration that Bredesen is having now that Tennessee Republicans feel emboldened to fight his proposals and not walk them through the legislative process like they have done previously (for instance, as was done with the Pre-K debacle).
It's amazing to read how Bredesen doesn't see the money that we Tennesseans spend on food that is taxed as "our money." No, it's "revenue" to Yankee Phil, even before you spend it. So, basically, that money that you are carrying around in your wallet really isn't yours in the Governor's eyes. At least a portion of it is already the State's. Gee, that's nice.
One part of today's story that immediately interested me was Tom Humphrey's report that 16 of the 17 GOP Senators had signed on as co-sponsors of Senator Mae Beavers' bill that reduces the food tax by 0.5% per year for each of the next 12 years, which eventually phases the tax out of the system. (Yes, that process is a bit of a compromise, but it would have to be in order to get through Naifeh's House, so I do applaud Mae's bill.)
But the story didn't say which senator had not signed on as a co-sponsor. So, thanks to the new legislative website, I looked it up. I guess I expected Senator Mike Williams to be the lone holdout, but I was wrong. It's Shelby County's Paul Stanley. If Stanley is for the bill (and for his sake I would hope so, given the heavily Republican district he represents), then a united GOP caucus in the Senate is something that Bredesen should be worried about.
Finally, I love how Yankee Phil characterizes tax cuts as "voodoo." Apparently, the Governor only sees the natural order of things being government becoming bigger and fatter, and the conservative mantra of smaller government and putting more money back into the pockets of the citizens who earn it as supernatural or "black magic."
If eliminating taxes and keeping money with the citizens instead of the bloated bureaucracy is "voodoo," then just indoctrinate me as a witch doctor, because I would rather be that than a Tennessee Governor bent on putting the finances of the government before the finances of the people she is supposed to serve.
MORE: Ben Cunningham and A.C. at Volunteer Voters weigh in on Yankee Phil's bizarre allegation that this is somehow about instituting an income tax. Ben's remark:
"We may have to order extra meds for some of our elected officials."
Today's story on the matter in the KNS shows the frustration that Bredesen is having now that Tennessee Republicans feel emboldened to fight his proposals and not walk them through the legislative process like they have done previously (for instance, as was done with the Pre-K debacle).
It's amazing to read how Bredesen doesn't see the money that we Tennesseans spend on food that is taxed as "our money." No, it's "revenue" to Yankee Phil, even before you spend it. So, basically, that money that you are carrying around in your wallet really isn't yours in the Governor's eyes. At least a portion of it is already the State's. Gee, that's nice.
One part of today's story that immediately interested me was Tom Humphrey's report that 16 of the 17 GOP Senators had signed on as co-sponsors of Senator Mae Beavers' bill that reduces the food tax by 0.5% per year for each of the next 12 years, which eventually phases the tax out of the system. (Yes, that process is a bit of a compromise, but it would have to be in order to get through Naifeh's House, so I do applaud Mae's bill.)
But the story didn't say which senator had not signed on as a co-sponsor. So, thanks to the new legislative website, I looked it up. I guess I expected Senator Mike Williams to be the lone holdout, but I was wrong. It's Shelby County's Paul Stanley. If Stanley is for the bill (and for his sake I would hope so, given the heavily Republican district he represents), then a united GOP caucus in the Senate is something that Bredesen should be worried about.
Finally, I love how Yankee Phil characterizes tax cuts as "voodoo." Apparently, the Governor only sees the natural order of things being government becoming bigger and fatter, and the conservative mantra of smaller government and putting more money back into the pockets of the citizens who earn it as supernatural or "black magic."
If eliminating taxes and keeping money with the citizens instead of the bloated bureaucracy is "voodoo," then just indoctrinate me as a witch doctor, because I would rather be that than a Tennessee Governor bent on putting the finances of the government before the finances of the people she is supposed to serve.
MORE: Ben Cunningham and A.C. at Volunteer Voters weigh in on Yankee Phil's bizarre allegation that this is somehow about instituting an income tax. Ben's remark:
"We may have to order extra meds for some of our elected officials."
Labels: Bredesen, General Assembly, Taxes, TN GOP
Monday, February 12, 2007
Taxing Tennessee
In the past few weeks, Governor Bredesen has reiterated what I have been saying about him for some time now - he's just another tax-and-spend Democrat.
Bredesen - For higher state gas taxes.
Bredesen - For higher state cigarette taxes.
Bredesen - Against any food tax deductions.
All of this in the face of a gigantic revenue surplus and a state bureaucracy that is more obese than when he took office.
Many conservative commentators think Bredesen is just groovy and not at all bad for Tennessee because - with all due respect to them - they've been told that is the way it is and they haven't thought much for themselves.
The fact is that there are more people on the government payroll now than there were five years ago. The fact is that we are being taxed more now than we were five years ago. The fact is that the State of Tennessee spends more now on bloated government programs than it did five years ago (in fact, the State budget for 06-07 is nearly 25% higher than it was when Sundquist left office).
I am interested to see how Lt. Governor Ramsey fights to end the tax on food. Will he find a way to compromise with Bredesen, or will he stick to his guns and refuse to let yet another bloated budget come out of his chamber? The general feeling amongst most Democrats that I have spoken to on the subject is that Ramsey will roll over on this one. I hope they're wrong. I hope that Ramsey has more Dick Armey in him and less Newt Gingrich when it comes to dealing with the Executive.
There are many important issues before the General Assembly this year, but I don't see any more important than getting the unfettered growth of Tennessee government under control.
UPDATE: More from Terry Frank, David Oatney, Volunteer Voters, and Mark A. Rose, along the same lines as above. Of particular note are the figures in Rose's post, because, as he points out, there is still a massive government surplus with the tax on food abolished.
Bredesen - For higher state gas taxes.
Bredesen - For higher state cigarette taxes.
Bredesen - Against any food tax deductions.
All of this in the face of a gigantic revenue surplus and a state bureaucracy that is more obese than when he took office.
Many conservative commentators think Bredesen is just groovy and not at all bad for Tennessee because - with all due respect to them - they've been told that is the way it is and they haven't thought much for themselves.
The fact is that there are more people on the government payroll now than there were five years ago. The fact is that we are being taxed more now than we were five years ago. The fact is that the State of Tennessee spends more now on bloated government programs than it did five years ago (in fact, the State budget for 06-07 is nearly 25% higher than it was when Sundquist left office).
I am interested to see how Lt. Governor Ramsey fights to end the tax on food. Will he find a way to compromise with Bredesen, or will he stick to his guns and refuse to let yet another bloated budget come out of his chamber? The general feeling amongst most Democrats that I have spoken to on the subject is that Ramsey will roll over on this one. I hope they're wrong. I hope that Ramsey has more Dick Armey in him and less Newt Gingrich when it comes to dealing with the Executive.
There are many important issues before the General Assembly this year, but I don't see any more important than getting the unfettered growth of Tennessee government under control.
UPDATE: More from Terry Frank, David Oatney, Volunteer Voters, and Mark A. Rose, along the same lines as above. Of particular note are the figures in Rose's post, because, as he points out, there is still a massive government surplus with the tax on food abolished.
Labels: Bredesen, General Assembly, Taxes
Thursday, December 07, 2006
BREAKING: Tax Relief Agreement Struck
As I reported earlier this week, I have been anxiously watching to see if this Congress could extend the tax relief package during this final week.
It appears that a deal has been agreed upon, and it's about time.
It appears that a deal has been agreed upon, and it's about time.
Labels: Taxes
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Will tax relief be extended by the lame-duck Congress?
One story I have been keeping tabs on is whether or not the lame-duck Congress will be able to pass the popular tax relief package before recessing at the end of the week. It appears more likely on Wednesday than it did on Sunday, according to CNNMoney.com.
While I am watching this for ideological reasons, I also have a vested interest here, as well. On top of the sales tax deduction in which all Tennesseans have a stake, I am also quite interested in the extension of the small business deductions that have yet to be extended this year.
It is always possible that the next Congress could take up this issue if the current version fails at extending the tax cuts, but it would be terribly complicated, as some Americans will have already filed prior to the extension being granted.
It's easier to get the job done now, and I urge everyone to contact their representatives in the House and Senate to make sure that these tax cuts are extended for the next couple of years.
While I am watching this for ideological reasons, I also have a vested interest here, as well. On top of the sales tax deduction in which all Tennesseans have a stake, I am also quite interested in the extension of the small business deductions that have yet to be extended this year.
It is always possible that the next Congress could take up this issue if the current version fails at extending the tax cuts, but it would be terribly complicated, as some Americans will have already filed prior to the extension being granted.
It's easier to get the job done now, and I urge everyone to contact their representatives in the House and Senate to make sure that these tax cuts are extended for the next couple of years.
Labels: Taxes
Friday, December 01, 2006
Was Norris the victim of a Tennessean attack?
It appears that Senator Mark Norris (R) was the victim of sloppy journalism at the best and character defamation at the worst by Nashville's Tennessean. NashvillePost.com has the story here.
It's tough to tell what happened since it's mostly hearsay. However, one thing is for sure - judging by the public response to the reports of GPS monitoring of innocent citizens as a way of raising tax monies, any member of the General Assembly who brings up this idea next may be lynched.
OTHER REACTIONS:
Tennessee Politics Blog
Bill Hobbs
Terry Frank
PREVIOUS:
What's that about the gas tax?
Republican Senator wants to track your movements
It's tough to tell what happened since it's mostly hearsay. However, one thing is for sure - judging by the public response to the reports of GPS monitoring of innocent citizens as a way of raising tax monies, any member of the General Assembly who brings up this idea next may be lynched.
OTHER REACTIONS:
Tennessee Politics Blog
Bill Hobbs
Terry Frank
PREVIOUS:
What's that about the gas tax?
Republican Senator wants to track your movements
Labels: General Assembly, Taxes
What's that about the gas tax?
Yesterday, I opined as to what sort of punishment should be doled out to Senator Mark Norris (R) for attacking the liberty of Tennesseans with a hairbrained scheme of putting GPS trackers on all of our vehicles as a way of taxing the bejeezus out of us. (Similarly, Mark Rose wonders why "tax reform" amongst non-conservatives always involves raising taxes and not lowering them.)
Say Uncle weighed in through an excellent post - he supported kicking members of the Senate Transportation Committee in the - well, uh - crotchular region.
Blue Collar Republican was shocked - until he found out that Norris was involved.
Now Terry Frank says that Norris is backtracking like Michael Jackson having passed a Toys 'R Us.
So, should we celebrate Norris' reversal? I guess, but it doesn't change the fact that he proposed the idea in the first place, or at the very least was mulling it over. That alone should be worth some sort of public shaming, doesn't it?
Say Uncle weighed in through an excellent post - he supported kicking members of the Senate Transportation Committee in the - well, uh - crotchular region.
Blue Collar Republican was shocked - until he found out that Norris was involved.
Now Terry Frank says that Norris is backtracking like Michael Jackson having passed a Toys 'R Us.
So, should we celebrate Norris' reversal? I guess, but it doesn't change the fact that he proposed the idea in the first place, or at the very least was mulling it over. That alone should be worth some sort of public shaming, doesn't it?
Labels: General Assembly, Taxes
