A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Mel, Illinois — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 18:50:59 GMT

LB, Virginia writes: I used to love this blog, but now it's so polluted with right wing nut cases who have such disdain for democracy it's downright depressing. I'll continue to try and read the comments, but it's not easy.

++++++++++++

I too am tiring of the constant drum beat of the con-servatives around here. I was raised in a very liberal family, and I’ve gotten very comfortable with my beliefs. I don’t like it much when my values are challenged and when I almost have to think about things rather then fall back on my tried and true tenets. I used to be able to come to this site and feel comfortable, being with people like me, insulated from the rest of the world. But about a year ago things started to change, and for some reason diverse opinions were allowed on the site. Now I feel uncomfortable that some of my tried and true beliefs are no longer that tried and true. There are other opinions out in the world, and while I reject most, if not all, of them, they sometimes make me almost think. And it’s during those times I feel bad about my self, and not quite so sure of what is going on in the world..

Mel, Illinois

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

KJ, Dallas, TX — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 18:51:07 GMT

Tell Congress to pass President Obama's Recovery plan, NOW!

http://ga3.org/campaign/obama_budget

OBAMA/BIDEN, 2012

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Nashville_fan — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 18:51:09 GMT

You know, it may be a pitiful plan, but I'll take that over the constant b!tching and moaning we've gotten for the past 60+ days.

I for one say THANK GOD! Keep the IDEAS coming!

PUH-LEEEEEEZE!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

The Last Living Democrat — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 18:52:21 GMT

What difference does it make - the Democrats are in charge of everything - they will pass any budget they want - more money for Acorn and Moveon.org

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Jerry Rodgers, East Texas — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 18:52:33 GMT

Obama's numbers are off by almost $3 trillion, according to the CBO, and you're telling us the Republican numbers are soft? Too funny.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

A New America — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 18:55:35 GMT

The republicans could not come up with anything in 8 years. Why does anyone think they can now????

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Grow A Pair — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 18:55:58 GMT

You just had a previous article telling us that Obama and the CONgressional Democrats were kicking the hard parts of the budget, you know the massive spending of money that we don't have, down the road. Now you're laying it on thick against the Republicans? Grow up.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

magggs,OKC — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 18:59:10 GMT

Somehow you neglect to mention that taxes for the wealthy will go down by ten percent also:
"Under the Republican plan, the top marginal tax rate would be slashed from 35 to 25 percent, facilitating a dramatic transfer of wealth up the economic scale. Anyone making more than a $100,000 would pay the top rate; those under would pay 10 percent."
I'm sure there will be no deficit under this plan, Just like Bush's. Not

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

jawillie, Philadelphia, PA. — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 18:59:12 GMT

Just read the first few pages. All it does is repeat the same budget talking points that they've been regurgitating since January. It talks alot about what's "wrong" with the current budget, but nothing by way of actual solutions.

And this is a surprise...why?

http://jawillie.blog.com

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

let it be — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 18:59:39 GMT

Clearly, the GOP has no ready ideas. AFTER the President proposed his budget, AFTER the Republicans were accused for the umpteenth time of having no alternatives, they try to pick apart the budget and respond with the same old talking points (low taxes). What is infuriating is that NONE of them have the courage to say that the ideas of "trickle down" economics have failed, that lowering both taxes and the deficit at the same time cannot work. IF it is important to safeguard national security by continuing to fund two wars (and now the problem of the Mexican drug cartels), then we have to either spend (and borrow) or spend (and raise taxes). We are open to new ideas, sound ideas, ideas that have some track record. Cutting taxes in and of itself doesn't do any of those.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

CBO - Wash DC — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 18:59:57 GMT

The only reason the Democrats want a budget from the Republicans is so they can talk about it and take a little bit of the focus off of the piece of garbage they call their budget. Covering up $12 trillion is additional debt Obama and the rest of the loony Democrats are proposing though is really an impossible task. And $12 trillion is the sunny-day proposal!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

KJ, Dallas, TX — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:00:02 GMT

"Talk and no action" republicans. All they do is complain, whine, fear monger, and criticize. But they wouldn't know a good budget if it slapped them in their lying, pathetic faces.

OBAMA/BIDEN, 2012!

http://ga3.org/campaign/obama_budget

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Julie, Palm Desert, CA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:00:26 GMT

More tax breaks and no spending except on defense. Sounds like a republican plan. Would love some details people. So of course, no healthcare reform, no education reform, no jobs creation.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Clara Kansas City, MO — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:01:12 GMT

Republicans don't know the difference between a spreadsheet and a word document. No one told them what 'crunching numbers' means and it is no wonder they figured out how to SELL derivatives and credit swaps but had no idea how to value them. Really all they have become is the party of NO (ideas, numbers, personality). Is anyone really surprised by this?
^^^^^^^^^^^^^
I know this offends the delicate sensibilities of some; but all's fair in love and blogosphere:

Greg in WA (Sent Thursday, March 26, 2009 11:26 AM)
I appreciate your attempt at raising the discourse, this is my take:
1. Health Care – for every US made automobile, $1,500 is directly tied to health care costs. This single measure can level the playing field for ALL business, large and small by moving the burden. If this is done correctly – it is the equivalent of a MASSIVE tax cut for businesses.
2. Investing in Education so that we aren’t being “lapped” by students in other countries, so that WE are smart enough to compete and BE the innovators in science and technology. Developing smart, curious individuals IS an ‘export’. We need to be the ones developing and innovating.
3. RENEWABLE ENERGY is the new global product we should be racing to get here. It is not only necessary for our survival as an Independent Nation; but we could sell it globally.

These are the cornerstones of Obama’s budget and they are critical to moving our country forward. Aren’t you tired of the “old way” of framing our problems so we stay entrenched in our ‘battle’ positions? I really believe that the majority of Americans ARE tired. That is why the election turned out the way it did in November. Yes, I am a liberal; but I am a friggin’ pragmatic liberal. I pull REALLY hard on the rope just to get the flag slightly left of center. I understand that we have to govern from the middle; but when we get mired down in entrenchment decade after decade without attempting something new; well that is simply put – the definition of insanity.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^

“…Is anyone else out there thinking that Republicans just believe if they say something enough, it becomes the truth? I mean, surely they have more of a clue than the bizarre perspective put forth by the likes of Jindal, Palin and Limbaugh? Are they REALLY that clueless?” Casey | Sebastopol, CA (Sent Wednesday, March 25, 2009 10:14 PM)

I believe that is part of the manifesto. Section IV paragraph 12,…-“Say it and it will be so”…if you then read down to Section XIII paragraph 3 you find this section,…”thou shall not have a clue nor shall you get a clue – should you inadvertently clue in – you must immediately revoke your rights, etc. etc. etc.” It is all part of the standard issue membership. I never ‘bought in’ to the Platinum membership, so I don’t have access to the 2nd Tier manual – but I am sure it discusses the tax benefits to membership, how to offshore your business and money and in general continue to rape and pillage the middle class. Thank G-d I got a clue in 1992, admittedly – I voted for Perot, I thought we needed a more pragmatic ‘business’ approach back then, I have since come to the light and realize how full on the Republican Propaganda machine onslaught is towards their rendition of Family Values, Religion and Guns. Now they all just seem like a bunch of parrots repeating the shrill talking points with no direction, no objectivity and really no plan for governance – just more Platinum Membership protection. They, like Sugar Moon (who is also Monkberry, Full Moon and Bad Chihuahua, he hides behind ‘fake’ monikers because he is too ashamed to show up in the light of day, but I digress), are afraid of educated people who think for themselves. It blows their mind to be expected to support their ludicrous, ridiculous statements by facts. They aren’t so keen on ‘disclosure’ or ‘accountability’; but boy howdy, give ‘em their guns and their bibles and their MGD and they are good to go. PS. Many of them, due to an inability to read, aren’t even aware of the manifesto. Those who are aware pretend its’ existence is merely a ‘joke’. On that point, I agree with them.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^

“…And, BTW, I never mentioned the economy. It's not all about the economy. I'm scared crapless about Obama's campaign promises and current actions to weaken out defense.” B.S., Virginia (Sent Thursday, March 26, 2009 10:44 AM)

You might try a high fiber diet. The inability to excrete could be impacting (pun intended) your judgment! Just a healthy tip for you.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^

“…[excellent post!] One last question: Why do 6 out of ten anonymous right wing posters have either the word "Moon" or "Dog" in their moniker? Did I miss a joke?” Ted, Mid Michigan (Sent Thursday, March 26, 2009 12:36 PM)
Oh he’s a joke; but you didn’t ‘miss’ anything. They are probably one and the same person, and simply not bright enough to ‘branch’ out. I believe when you hear an obviously misposted item from a regular – it is the same “moon” or “dog” moron lashing out. Whatever the mix of that animal, it surely is a stray. I wish someone would lock it up in a “no-kill” facility.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^

I'l be interested mostly in how the media play the result. My guess is: "OMG! Republicans win special election in Republican district! Obama's doomed!" Joe Don, Topeka, KS (Sent Thursday, March 26, 2009 1:08 PM)

Joe, you are an excellent neighbor – and poster! And if Murphy wins? Nothing but ***crickets*** - chirp, chirp.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Andrea, New York City — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:02:01 GMT

I cannot believe that Republican folks are being paid good money to produce this piece of crap. I am a graphic designer and I have seen a lot of bullsh*t that passes for information wrapped around pretty pictures.

Maybe we need to look at THEIR salaries. They are obviously not up to grade!!!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Brian Crooks, Naperville, IL — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:02:12 GMT

A budget with no actual numbers? Really? Is this a joke? This is just like the housing plan they released yesterday which they said they "couldn't predict a total cost" on. They do this because they know that no matter what the budget is, it's going to be HUGE. Especially if you put the cost of the wars on there, etc. They're in a much better position if they can just yell about President Obama's budget being too big without having to get specific about what they would cut out. For all their talk about President Obama not listening to their ideas, they're awful short on specifics.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Matt — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:02:15 GMT

This is truly pathetic. And I doubt we will ever see real numbers on this.

http://www.political-buzz.com

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Clara Kansas City, MO — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:04:28 GMT

PS. Boehner, this isn't a 'blue' print - it's a 'red' print, in terms of where it puts the country AND your party. Just my opinion, of course. Typical snake oil salesmen. Class warfare has become sales versus producers. GOPers think they 'work' hard for their earnings; but really - they work hard at working people up on their 'sales' pitches. I think their pitchers need relief, and I am not afraid to vote against them all, forever.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Beverly in Chicago — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:06:06 GMT

It's so refreshing and positive to hear and to have a President Obama. I feel so confident my children and grandchildren can stand on our President's shoulder and build prosperity for themselves and American so they will be able to produce and compete in the global economy.
I like the way our President is not going to chase after the bad money the Republican Party of No /Know Nothing (they're still searching for solutions to keep their old money).

Thank you CONTESSA BREWER for sharing my frustrations at the Party of Dumbies.

I heard absolutely nothing except critism. That was kinda like listening to Morning Joke without the same old rants.

In contrast to the same old tune of the the Republican Party of No /Know Nothing that had absolutely nothing constructive or positive to say, our President spoke in succinct terms what his plans are.
President Obama 's plans on education, health care, and jobs = competitiveness Bone head Bohener = to let the McDonald entrepreneurs grow the economy; what a bright Bone Head has for a hamburger helper with that plan! Our President knows a new innovative model based on technology, energy,as well as along with the shovels is a tangible and viable product which can be seen. Yet, at the same time President Obama didn't sugar coat what the road will be like. I didn't need that assurance; since I have sense enough to know instant gratification is not possible to UNDO in 3 months what has been decades of the Reagan/Bushs' debacle.

Chuck Todd the only bug I saw on the First White House Web Internet Chat is your bugged attitude at the White House letting the taxpayers get the straight dope instead of the tired media's parsings.

All this disagreement doubling and, tripling of the debt just to be partisan and negative. No matter how much you want to be a majority again it'll be decades; probably you'll never come back. You have bushwacked this country; therefore, it will be a long time before you see the Whitehouse again.

I can't wait to see you, the Know Nothing/ Party of No, will give as tangible evidence you have viable numbers for US of America.
I Can't wait to see how you do it without raising taxes.

I'm so proud we have a young, gifted, talented, articulate and... No Drama President Obama.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Jon, Seattle — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:06:16 GMT

Budget!? It's NOT EVEN decent toilet paper!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Jill F., Tulsa, OK — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:06:56 GMT

From a previous thread:

Nobody is asking the rich people to do ANYTHING for poor people. We are asking the rich people to quit stealing our money, start paying their taxes, and create jobs with living wages.

Nashville_fan
******************************************************
That is not true, Nashville. You want the wealthy to pay a crapload of taxes in order to support the programs that Obama is unveiling. So, in effect, you are asking the wealthy to support the poor. And as far as the concern for empathy goes, requiring higher taxes does nothing to increase human empathy. You are simply obligating them to do something and support things that they will eventually grow to resent.

I don't claim that the rich are victimized (although it seems that this country is headed in a direction in which successful people are punished), but I do feel that we should not create a country in which we reward people for doing nothing. And before you start talking about high unemployment, let me just preempt you by saying that I'm not just talking about the here and now. I mean, I'm a little perturbed that people who don't work and have never paid taxes are getting checks from the U.S. Treasury.

But, I am curious as to how the rich people are "stealing" OUR money...who is this "OUR" that you speak of? If there is any thievery going on, I would contend that it is our elected leaders who have been complicit in (and perhaps guilty of) that thievery (Democrats and Republicans).

Also, perhaps we should be talking to our elected (so-called) representatives about the need to pay their taxes. How many of Obama's appointments and/or selections were found to owe back taxes? Yeah, that's what I thought.

P.S. I don't need the rich to be worried about me...I take care of myself. Thank you very much.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Rob, from Iowa — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:08:20 GMT

Excellent South Park last night. With Kyle going through all kinds of grief to "save" the South Park economy, and performing the "miracle" of getting the citizens of South Park to have "faith" in the economy again. As he is resting in his hosptital bed watching the news after performing this "miracle", the news anchor mentions this person who "saved" the South Park economy. Last shot of the episode was a shot of Obama. Priceless!

Other than the 'smug cloud' episode, this was epic.

In the words of von Mises, Obamam is this generations "irresponsible pied piper".

It's tough to comprehend that the voices of reason on the economy are not coming from DC, or even Des Moines, yet rather, Europe.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Jose Von Hussein - The United States of America — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:08:51 GMT

Republicans should just let Grover Norquist write up their "budget." They all have to promise their fealty to him anyway with his "ALL TAX CUTS, ALL THE TIME!" zealotry. And he basically decides who gets to run as a Republican in a given district.

(Incidentally, has any reporter stopped to think about why Republicans are only from certain districts now, and also how much sway that guy has over Republicans in general when it comes to tax policy?)

So anyway, why not let the zealot run their budget numbers? I'm sure he'll use the same magic pixie dust he always has: "Watch as the magic tax cuts magically make the magic revenue increase."

And if you believe that, there's a bridge in Brooklyn...

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Izzy Buffalo, NY — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:09:07 GMT

It would have looked better if they just said "We need to postpone the unveiling of our plan to work out more details." This reminds me of my students who seem to think they will just get credit for handing in garbage and not following the directions. "Well, at least I turned in something!" Pres. Obama spoke the truth when he said how difficult the process is and how tough decisions need to be made. Now they see what he meant. The GOP (my party for now) is good at being critical and spitting out out talking points but if they want to keep moderates like me, they better come up with some real plans and stop appealing to the far right extremists with their divisive agenda.
Proud member of RepublicansforObama.org

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Deanie — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:09:29 GMT

This is soooooooooo typical of the Republican leadership....fostering discontent, distrust, disorganization and distration with nothing positive to offer attitudenally or a viable alternative intellectually. It is so sad that they are more concerned with "winning" than solving problems. They also are not serving either their legislative constituents or their party constituents.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

MSierra, SF — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:09:48 GMT

Lynn Wheatly: ‘...Is Geithner going to examine the biggest reason financial institutions stuggle at times? That being that the federal government just spends too much money that it does not have? Even Greenspan threw up his hands in frustration when government ignored his warnings years ago...’

Lynn, where did you get your Doctorate in Economics ? the Sorbonne ? LSE ?
or Close Cover Before Striking ?

There are MANY reasons that financial institutions are struggling
De-regulation is the biggest contributor
Even Alan Greenspan admitted HE WAS WRONG about de-regulation

Institutions were not required to have reasonable margins to cover their obligations
They leveraged their assets to extreme lengths
Many mortgage brokers created mortgages without checking for income or the value of houses. Many originated ‘straw transactions’ where no sale existed. Many lenders created mortgages they KNEW that borrowers could not afford.
Then, re-insurers like AIG gave ‘insurance’ on these loans

Does THIS sound like this mess was SELF CREATED by Wall Street and Main Street ?

What has been discredited, besides Wall Street and mortgage lenders is DE-REGULATION

Alan Greenspan admitted that he was wrong about de-regulation
That’s a pretty serious admission for a Libertarian
As for warnings, Greenspan kept interest rates abnormally low, contribution to the housing bubble

Let’s keep this in perspective, this happened under George Bush’s ‘Ownership Society’

‘...ownership society led to the policies that have created the crisis. From dramatically low interest rates to ignoring the warnings about predatory lending to quashing state regulations that would have helped prevent such massive Wall Street investment in subprime loans, Bush and his allies built an economy on a house of cards that was bound to collapse....’

Thanks, George
It was FUN while it lasted

‘... 5/6/04: “Thanks to being the most productive workforce in America, and I might say, thanks to good policies, this economy is strong and it’s getting stronger. … Home sales were the highest ever recently. That’s exciting news for the country.”...’

Gee, it’s lucky you were in charge George !!!

From ThinkProgress:

‘...Flashback: In 2004 Bush Campaigned For Re-Election On The Backs Of Subprime Mortgages

During the 2004 campaign, President Bush declared his pride in making America what he called “an ownership society.” He promoted expanding home-ownership as the best way to ensure a strong economy, campaigning constantly on the idea:

5/6/04: “Thanks to being the most productive workforce in America, and I might say, thanks to good policies, this economy is strong and it’s getting stronger. … Home sales were the highest ever recently. That’s exciting news for the country.”

8/28/04: See, I love an ownership society. It’s a hopeful society. It’s a society that provides stability in times of change.

8/9/04: If you own your own home, and building equity in your own home, and you’re changing from job to job, it provides great security and relief.

8/6/04: Home ownership is at an all-time high now in America. That’s fantastic news. Isn’t it wonderful to have somebody for the first time be able to say: welcome to my home; I’m glad you’re here at my piece of property.

Watch a 2004 campaign ad in which Bush fawns over the inherent value of ownership:

Of course, what the current enormous crisis — rooted in subprime mortgages — proves is that promoting home ownership without regulatory safeguards is inherently risky. As economist Paul Krugman explained, “[B]orrowing to buy a home is like buying stocks on margin: if the market value of the house falls, the buyer can easily lose his or her entire stake.” And that’s just what happened: More homeowners now owe more money than their homes are actually worth, while foreclosure filings in August rose 12 percent from July — and represented a 27 percent increase from Aug. 2007.

Further, the quest for an all-encompassing ownership society led to the policies that have created the crisis. From dramatically low interest rates to ignoring the warnings about predatory lending to quashing state regulations that would have helped prevent such massive Wall Street investment in subprime loans, Bush and his allies built an economy on a house of cards that was bound to collapse.

Today, Bush declared, “There will be ample opportunity to debate the origins of this problem.” That debate will need to focus on his own failed promise of an “ownership society” as an economic panacea....’

Please google ‘Bush Ownership Society’
You’ll find articles by Wikipedia, the LA Times, Washington Monthly, Newsweek, Slate and USAToday among others

YOU CAN’T RUN !!
YOU CAN’T HIDE !!
ALL YOU MAVERICKS !!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Julie, Palm Desert, CA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:10:01 GMT

Interesting reading, love them bringing up a woman in England who had to sue to get a cancer medication. Gee, like nobody in american has ever been denyed treatment by an HMO. Of course, the federal government has made it very difficult to sue to get the treatment you need and of course, as someone who worked for an HMO, they do this in hopes you will die before you can get treatment. Thankfully, I live in California which has given us more rights in this area. But don't act like it is only socialized health care that will deny you treatment, happens all the time here.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Ken Zion, Boston MA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:11:21 GMT

It didn't take Obama long to screw the country over now did it? No jobs. Bank bailouts as far as the eye can see, gas prices going back up because Obama is devaluing the dollar. Inflation soon to follow, as is always is the case when you implement Keynesian economics. Stimulus plan that won't stimulate anything.

Thanks Barack. You set the new standard for screwing the country over.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

It Is — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:12:52 GMT

It's Bush's fault! It's Bush's fault! It's Bush's fault! It's Bush's fault!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Greg R., Spokane, WA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:14:32 GMT

Does the GOP plan offer any $$$$ to re-buiild (with no oversight) a random country or $$$$ for the bombs it'll take to create the massive re-constructive effort?

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

eagle1776 — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:14:43 GMT

At least the Republicans have come out with something. Laughable as it is they present a budget with the same old stuff that got us into the mess we are in today. They have no concept whatsoever. All the Paul Ryan version will do is expand on the nothing they already have. When they present it they need to explain how their proposal will generate jobs, what it will cost, and about how long it should take under their plan for the economy to recover. Maybe they don't expect it to recover but to languish for many more years. We'll see.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Pat, Boston, MA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:15:31 GMT

The GOP - Still Crazy After All These Years

"Starting to find it kind of sad, the so-called conservatives posting here." Posted by Ted, Mid Michigan
_______________
Dear Ted: If you let these people bother you, then they have succeeded. It's what they want to do - make you miserable. They are the sad ones, not us. Their party hasn't a damn thing to offer this country.

Losers always try to bring you down to their level. They learned this behavior in grade school. As you can see from this thread, they haven't learned a damn thing. Even after the last 8 years you would have thought they wanted to rethink their message. But nope. It's never going to happen. So they go in ridiculing and blaming the Democrats for everything, hoping something sticks.

It ain't working.

I'm proud of President Obama. And Michelle Obama. We did good this election. Go on the internet and read some blogs from democrats. They're not getting down. They worked hard this past election and there ain't no way, no how, any republican is ever going to damper their enthusiam.

President Obama deserved this. The Republicans did not. President Obama is now out there getting support for his budget. He's doing a great job.

(sorry for my speech, I just hate to see people "down".) We have a great deal to be hopeful for. We won!!!!!!!!! "They" lost!!!!!!!!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Mark Foley (R) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:16:20 GMT

The GOP budget includes:

1)$130 million for airport bathroom stall upgrades.
2)$70 million for private GOP retreats with Congressional Pages.
3)$7 million for the Vitter Bill, to legalize prostitution.
4)$27 million for the Bush/Cheney War Crimes Defense Fund.
5)$4 million for Dick Cheney hunting insurance.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Ron Indiana — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:16:31 GMT

New ideas come from people who think. On-line town hall meetings, Op-Eds to more than 20 countries throughout the world, looking at the world from someone elses point of view, sharing and challenging ideas, finding solutions to difficult problems: That's when we grow as a people and a nation.

People with the same ol' vote "NO" or make critical comments, or creating fear and mistrust, condoning torture, know only words without ideas. The Senate Republicans do not want to create a budget, they simply want to critize. With the exception of Mike Pence,I do not see the House Republican leadership presenting a meaningful budget. The multi-hundred page document they talk about is just words and no ideas...other than lower taxes. There is still a split in this country...between those who think and those who criticize.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

TEC-Spring-TX — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:17:11 GMT

"You Can't Do That"
House Republicans release a 19-page document that contains no hard spending numbers or deficit projections:
Well we know how this would work. Same plan they have proposed since 1980.
"Things We Said Today"

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Ed, San Antonio — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:18:49 GMT

It's absolutely incredible that the Repuke base thinks that their idiot leaders in Congress has their best interest at heart.

WRONG!

That same base is supporting an 'idea' that is AGAINST their own best interest.

I suppose that they don't want/or need healthcare, lower taxes, jobs, better education, etc.

LOW-INFORMATION Repuke base!!!!! Nothing but SHEEP!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Tzalaran — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:18:52 GMT

All this finger pointing, namecalling, and partisan bickering has left me thoroughly disgusted. The rampant corruption, which will take some time to completely clear up, seems to be getting stronger instead of less influential. The leaders in both house and senate have been involved in the machinery of government for too long, and it has stained them by their long association and lack of action to prevent it.

This budget debate is an absolute farce. President Obama was elected because of his vision for returning america to greatness. based on the theories i've read and the research i've done, it sounds logical that it would play out in the manner he says it would. For either side to attempt to marginalize the president's agenda would be a knife in the back of all the americans who worked to get their voice into the white house.

The separation of powers dictates that the president doesn't make the laws, but enforces them. the modern culture of the presidency allows for him to set the agenda, and the veto power is available for those pieces of legislation that would be against the core principles of the nation. based on the precedent set by the legislature for Bush 43, Clinton, and Reagan, i think the current legislature has an obligation to move this president's agenda forward intact.

ideologically, there are points of contention that could be debated and compromised upon, but certain groups are unwilling to drop their ideology in order to even discuss these issues. The my way or the highway mentality is an anathema to how this nation was founded, and how it has operated for over 2 centuries.

it is time to grow up children, drop the partisan bickering and move to the center in order to fix the problems we are facing now once and for all. personally, all the posturing for reelection and future elections is forcing the public to view any and all of the legislative members in a negative light because of their inability to work together. look at the approval ratings for the president, congress as a whole, dems and reps separately, and you can easily see who the american people trust more. Most of you are not stupid, or you wouldn't be in office, so quit acting like children and cast off the "do nothing congress" title and advance the president's agenda. it is what the people of this nation want, and we deserve action after you have let this calamity fall upon us as your own pocketbooks have been padded from wall street, large corporate interests, and the selling out of the american people that your corruption has caused.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

I luv Keith Olbermann — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:19:27 GMT

And here is what the GOP "Budget Plan" meeting would look like:

Boehner: Come on guys, doesn't anyone have ANYTHING???

McConnell: Well I got out the old Bush budget and I think we should just go with it.

Boehner: Dammit Cantor turn that damned Brittany Spears crap off, we're trying to figure this out!

McCain: I say SPENDING FREEZE on everything but military spending.

Cantor: Who the hell invited McLame, I mean McCain?

Boehner: What do you think Mitch? Mitch??? Someone wake his ass up!

Cantor: How about we just attack like usual and have Michael Steele say some more dumb things and maybe they will all forget about our budget?

McConnell: Yeah distractions. I like it!

Boehner: Okay lets rap this up I got a tanning appointment in 20 minutes

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Doles, Miami, FL — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:33:47 GMT

Attack, attack, and attack, then come out with nothing-what a sound strategy!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:34:45 GMT

So, there were only general guidelines in the GOP budget proposal? That isn't a great shock only because their ideas are just as question and empty. Where are the projections what this will do? What are their numbers are projections based on? There are some needed details.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Brandy Warner — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:34:47 GMT

I am very worried that the GOP are trying to intentionally mess with the "PEOPLE" when it comes to their new "buget plans"...they only gave out one solid idea (the 10% tax on those making under 100k.) hoping to use the next week to get the word out and hope it will drag everyone in...so when the real facts come out, those who don't keep up with the everyday politics won't be paying attention to the damage it will do as far as UNDOING all of the progress we have made already...since the STIMULUS took effect we have started recieving an extra 100 a mo.for my husbands unemployment (we live in mi. he is a foreman for a road const. co. *seasonal ..it's mi)... my husband goes back to work in two weeks and was notified that all employees were getting an hourly paycut of 5%...(he works up to 80hrs a week)..i am very glad that the little extra would have seen from the tax cut on April 1st will really help to offset this..yeah it would have been nice to get a lump some to pay up some bills but its nice to know we have that little extra in unemployment that we can depend on now to help with diapers and our daughters lunch account.. I AM VERY PROUD OF OUR PRESIDENT FOR STICKING TO HIS RECOVERY PLAN HE PROMISED TO THE PEOPLE WHO ULTIMATELY VOTED HIM INTO OFFICE! i don't agree with some of the things he wants..but then again u will agree some of the people some of the time but not all of the people all of the time...IT'S TIME FOR OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS TO PUT UP A LITTLE LESS FIGHT FOR WHAT THEIR CONSTITU.'S WANT AND WORKING FOR IT! WORKING TOGETHER FOR IT!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

jawillie, Philadelphia, PA. — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:37:51 GMT

>>>Obama's numbers are off by almost $3 trillion, according to the CBO, and you're telling us the Republican numbers are soft? Too funny.
Jerry Rodgers, East Texas (Sent Thursday, March 26, 2009 2:52 PM)
==========
No one is saying the Republican numbers are soft. We're saying THE REPUBLICANS HAVE NO NUMBERS AT ALL, PERIOD! After pissing and moaning for three months, the best they can come up with by way of an alternative is a Sarah Palin reply, "We'll dig up some numbers and get right back to ya."

And here I was beginning to think they may actually come up with something useful. Silly me.

HEY BOB! THE DOW IS UP +144 NOW! WE MAY BREAK 8K BEFORE THE MONTH IS OUT AT THIS RATE. AND IT'S ALL OBAMA'S FAULT! DAMN SOCIALIST MUSLIM!
http://jawillie.blog.com

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Southern Alps — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:38:40 GMT

Do you think commissar Timmy called Soros before he tanked the dollar yesterday? Just read GS is making billions on the economic downturn. No question who the puppet master is now.
Northwestdad

I don't think Obama picks his nose without asking Soros what finger he should use.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

GP NW Indiana — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:40:32 GMT

“[B]orrowing to buy a home is like buying stocks on margin: if the market value of the house falls, the buyer can easily lose his or her entire stake.” And that’s just what happened: More homeowners now owe more money than their homes are actually worth, while foreclosure filings in August rose 12 percent from July — and represented a 27 percent increase from Aug. 2007.

------------------------------------------------------

Even though Krugman is a noble prize winner, I have to disagree with this...

If your home value falls, you are stuck in it until you pay it off. Nobody comes along and says, oops your house is worth 100K less time to take it away!!! No you stay in it for years until it is paid off...like an automobile.

If you are fully margined with a stock it works like this:

You have $1000.00 , and on margin you can buy a max of 2000.00 worth of stock. If the stock goes down 50% or more, they do a "margin call" and sell the stock. If it went past the 50% mark before they could sell it (say your stock opened 60% down), you would have to make up the difference with outside money.

So in all actuallity mr. Krugman....buying a house in a volatile market, is like buying a stock in a volatile market. You may lose alot, but you have the option to hold onto it (if you can afford to)and wait for the value to go up...but if it does not, at some point you'll have to realize the loss.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

GP NW Indiana — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:41:38 GMT

The party of "No" just included one more....

"No Details"

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Jon Johnson — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:45:27 GMT

It's a blue print you idiots! Just Like Obama's blue print for his "economic recovery plan" Our dear leader took weeks to come out with the hard numbers after his blueprint, I think you should extend the same timeframe for republicans, and judge the 2 plans on 2 things: which one creates more jobs, which one lowers our national debt, and aims to balance the budget.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

MSierra, SF — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:48:26 GMT

Evan Bayh, a man with a plan...

'...* Shrinking Economic Recovery:...'
'...* Preserving The Bush Tax Cuts:...'
'...* Delaying Cap-and-Trade:...'
'...* Weakening Bankruptcy Protection:...'

From WashingtonMonthly:

'...BAYH AND THE BLUE DOGS 'HAVE NO AGENDA'....
Sen. Evan Bayh (D-Ind.) has noticed some of the progressive pushback to his new working group, compromised of "centrist" Democrats, who want to water down make President Obama's popular domestic policy agenda more palatable to a small Republican minority. Apparently, he's not happy about it.

Sen. Evan Bayh (D-Ind.) is also unhappy with the friendly fire. Bayh announced last week that a group of centrist Democrats had come together to negotiate as a bloc with the White House and party leaders on major legislation. He promptly found himself targeted by an ad accusing him of "standing in the way of President Obama's reforms."

"We literally have no agenda," Bayh shot back. "How can they be threatened by a group that has taken no policy positions?"

I don't know, senator, why would you create a working group and host a series of closed-door meetings if you "literally have no agenda"?

The problem, of course, is that people feel "threatened" because Bayh and the Blue Dogs do have an agenda, and we've already seen some of their policy positions. The Wall Street Journal noted this morning that the working group's stated goal is to "protect business interests."

Ryan Powers highlighted some of these Democrats' other recent exploits:

* Shrinking Economic Recovery: The group's first significant "success" was "paring down the more than $900 billion economic stimulus bill to $787 billion," reducing the government's ability to spur economic recovery quickly. [Roll Call, 3/12/2009]

* Preserving The Bush Tax Cuts: Regarding Obama's plan to allow the Bush tax cuts to expire, Bayh said, "I do think that before we raise revenue, we first should look to see if there are ways we can cut back on spending." [Politico, 3/3/2009]

* Delaying Cap-and-Trade: Bayh coalition member, Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-MO), explained that the group might "push for a more lenient phase-in period for a cap-and-trade system and revenue-raising offsets to pay for expensive mandates." [CQ Politics, 3/9/2009]

* Weakening Bankruptcy Protection: Centrist Democrats "forced changes to a House bill that would allow bankruptcy judges to modify mortgages, ensuring that the legislation better reflected the concerns of the financial-services industry." [WSJ, 3/25/09]

Americans elected Democrats to hold a 58-seat majority in the Senate, and yet, the majority party will struggle to pass it's agenda -- a popular agenda, mind you -- because of Republican obstructionism, and Democrats who prefer to drive with their foot on the brake...'

Thge Blue Dogs sound a lot like the now discredited Democratic 'Leadership' Council, founded by Bill Clinton, Al Gore and Joe Lieberman

It was set up to attract Corporate campaign contributions

In exchange, you dance to the corporate tune...
That extended the de-regulation of the Bush and Reagan years and brought us NAFTA and Free Trade (sic)

Take a guess, what will the Blue Dogs do when Obama wants to regulate the financial industry ?
Who's side will they be on ?
How about food safety ?
anti pollution and gas mileage regulations ?

Keep an eye on this crowed
I think Joe Lieberman decided to join...

So, maybe they'll start pushing a war with Iran

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Jon Chinn — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:48:31 GMT

No numbers = no budget.

How can the press be played for even bigger patsys by the lieing GOP? Stay tuned, as I'm sure the press will find a way to be even more supine...

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Jody, Iowa — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:49:12 GMT

To the person who mentioned the right wing bloggers here. Some of the comments are outrageous and there are certain names I don't even read any more because they're hatefilled wrath. I don't mind reading oposing opinions but not rants. I look forward every evening to Countdown and Rachel Maddow who both cut through the daily news chatter and provide facts; the GOP doesn't like those facts but I do.

The GOP was good at convincing lots of people they were their friends because they'd keep taxes low. Yes, low for those who don't need it. What's wrong with the people who make over $250,000 a year having their taxes increase 3%? They've been the recipients of republican tax cuts for years but the GOP convinced people otherwise. I, too, am happy people finally regonized the scam and voted for Pres Obama and democrats. Obama's tax plan comes in lower than Ronald Reagans even with the sunset of Bush's cuts Jan 2011.

A budget without numbers...now that's unique. 10% tax rate for under $100,000 and 20% for over. So what part of that formula cuts the deficit? They're still going to spend billions but with nothing to show for the money. My guess is they're headed after social security and we'll be hearing the drumbeat. The Nation had a great article a few weeks ago about social security and the chatter about the crisis and need to fix it is pushed by a big business tycoon and the GOP. Social security is solvent; it's medicaid and medicare that are the problems which is all the more reason why it's critical that health care reform be passed. Wonder when Eric Cantor will give us his full budget with actual numbers? ha

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Gordon Ramsey — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:50:55 GMT

Pathetic cows. All these Repubs have done is work on their tans since November (I'm lookin' at you Boehner) ...give them some coloring books and a box of crayons because clearly since congress entered this session the GOP has been doing NOTHING.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

katiec — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:53:45 GMT

OMG! So typical of the republicans. For them what they presented was a big accomplishment as they do not have the intelligence to come up with anything of substance. They are not only ridiculous, they are laughing stock world wide.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Greg Vancouver — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:54:56 GMT

I am an American living in Canada right now and I've got to tell you that paying $108.00 a month for health care insurance for my family of four is pretty sweet. Sure we have some wait lists up here for non emergency proceedures but I have a family doctor which they always say is hard to get and if you need critical care you move right to the front of the line.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Now I understand — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 19:57:02 GMT

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Linda in Maryland — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:01:22 GMT

What a bunch of great thinkers the Republicans are. Gripe, gripe, gripe, run our country into the ground, give away our constitutional rights, and now this. A vague, vapid "blueprint". So the only way they come up with anything is when they are taunted--and then it's a big nothing when they do? What leadership! I, too, am not happy with the proposed budget and would like to see some serious weeding done--including eliminating the 1.7 billion bucks for those Bush tax cuts for the wealthy.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Peter V, San Rafael, CA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:01:46 GMT

Grow A Pair: Try coming up with an argument based on facts that don't come from your talk radio cult leaders, and stop playing games with "all caps," then you can tell the rest of us to grow up.

Mel: Progressives can't take reasoned arguments and a diversity of ideas? Have you seen what passes for reasoned argument coming out of your side?

"Every man for himself" is not a governing philosophy.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Terry, Kansas City — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:05:38 GMT

Sad really. After 60 days of constant criticism of their perceived failings of President Obama and his administration the best they can do is an outline and one without a single new, original thought. Can't wait for the several hundred page detail.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Terry, Kansas City — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:05:38 GMT

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Jerry Rodgers, East Texas — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:06:15 GMT

No one is saying the Republican numbers are soft. We're saying THE REPUBLICANS HAVE NO NUMBERS AT ALL, PERIOD! ---> jawillie

Being off by $3 trillion means the Democrats don't have any numbers either Sunshine.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Tatter Salad — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:07:22 GMT

Oh, give the Republicans a break. They've only been in office for 8 weeks! How can anyone have anything done in 8 weeks?

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

ulookarmless, Ventura, Ca — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:07:39 GMT

Is Boehner's fake tan the perfect analogy for this no substance "budget", or what?

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

jawillie, Philadelphia, PA. — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:07:49 GMT

>>>I luv Keith Olbermann (Sent Thursday, March 26, 2009 3:19 PM)

==========
ROTFLMAO! YOUR POST JUST MADE MY DAY! THANKS!

http://jawillie.blog.com

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Charles Pierce — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:08:42 GMT

Attack, attack, and attack, then come out with nothing-what a sound strategy!
Doles, Miami, FL

I'm confused. You talking about the Republicans, or the Democrats, or both?

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

'Um' is not a word Mr. President — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:10:38 GMT

Tzalaran: This budget debate is an absolute farce. President Obama was elected because of his vision for returning america to greatness.

Pfft!! Obama was elected because he's black and Soros threw a billion into the campaign hopper to get him elected.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Paul, Danville, KY — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:14:55 GMT

This 'budget' includes cutting the maximum tax rate to 25%. The last time it was that low? 1925-1931. This is astonishing. The Republicans are trying to recreate the conditions that led to the Great Depression.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Buzz — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:19:38 GMT

What difference does it make - the Democrats are in charge of everything - they will pass any budget they want - more money for Acorn and Moveon.org
The Last Living Democrat (Sent Thursday, March 26, 2009 2:52 PM
__________
Interesting post. Show us the numbers that show what ACORN and Moveon are getting, LLD, or are you just running your mouth?

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

New Independent — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:20:32 GMT

kj, Dallas, TX - Thanks, I did it! I also called my representative and my senators yesterday. It was funny. My republican rep. Scott Garrett in NJ, didn't even bother to ask my name or info. when I asked his office to let him know I supported the budget, they just said thank you and hung up, but both senators asked for my info. Interesting, huh? I feel like I really got the brush off!!!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Question Mark — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:21:59 GMT

Did the teleprompter censor out most of the GOP's proposal??????

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Matthew, Houston, TX — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:27:19 GMT

I agree that we should wait until the details for the Republican plan comes out before criticizing . . . I'm not holding breath, though.

The problem I see with the Republicans is that they are insisting that the deficit is reduced NOW. Well, because of their misguided ways over the last 28 years, we do not have that luxury. It's like a house that hasn't been maintained well and needs repairing. You can't do that unless you spend lots of money now, you know, go into a bit more debt, but it means that any future maintenence will be cheaper later if you spend more now.

The CBO have never gotten a 10 year projection correct. To base a 10 year budget projection on a single budget proposal is foolish. As President Obama has said, no one knows what is going to happen and by the time 10 years rolls around, there will have been 10 budgets passed. He has indicated that they will look at what is working and what isn't working from this budget to tweak the next budget. This makes any 10 year projection moot.

We need a strong foundation so that what we are going through doesn't happen again but you can't get a strong foundation if you don't spend the money up front. Think beyond your nose, think beyond today but most importantly, think.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Juanita, TX — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:29:18 GMT

No numbers in a budget?

I wouldn't have been able to sit down for a month if my deceased father ever saw me try to con people like this.

A budget without numbers belongs in the Bush league.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Rob, from Iowa — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:30:33 GMT

Jody, Iowa,

Countdown and Rachel simply live in an echo chamber and are simply opinion.

65,000,000 people voted for Obama. Yet 60,000,000 voted for McCain. Almost half of the American people did not vote for Obama.

I understand I get the left slant from MSNBC, the right slant from Fox, and CNN appears to be more middle. At least CNN criticized Obama's press conference. Watching MSNBC it was like they had cameras and live feed on site covering Jesus' Sermon on the Mount.

Blind faith in any political leader is suicide.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

shawn, mobile, alabama — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:30:55 GMT

This is typical of Republicans these days. They are just a bunch of blow hards that are full of hot air and bile. When will these guys get voted out of office? Can we please replace these morons with conservative Democrats? At least they do their jobs which is constructively trying to find compromise rather than blanket obstruction and ridiculous political games.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Brenda — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:31:09 GMT

I'm not pure left but far from the right, I personally think someone should get a roll of duck tape and tape the stupid republicans mouths shut, I think they just like hearing themselves on TV and actually it is hilarious to watch them make asses out of themselves. Go repukes you guys are just so smart and fantastic I can't believe John McNuts did not win the election!!!!!!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Rock,Janesville,Wisconsin — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:32:04 GMT

The "Gross Odd People" (GOP) call that piece of manure a budget?? What a joke America! Again. No specifics, no exact numbers, and no hope for our economic future. This piece of filth was created by "Crazy Cantor's Cronies" and the "Bonehead Boehner Bunch." These functional illiterates did not write a budget! They drew a comic book of only 19 pages long! These fools do not want to move forward at all!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Midge Baker, Prescott, AZ — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:32:17 GMT

I read the 19-page GOP pamphlet. Instead of one big NO, it's just a bunch of little no's strung out one per topic.
It still rehashes the same old same old Republican tactics which got us into this mess in the first place.

They don't offer any real facts, conclusions, or facts and figures. They speak of financial reform but don't give specifics. They just don't learn.

"The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present. The occasion is piled high with difficulty, and we must rise with the occasion. As our case is new, so we must think anew and act anew."
Abraham Lincoln

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Terry, Disabled Vet, Des Moines, IA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:41:31 GMT

Oh, these guys are slick aren't they! We have a plan yeah, yeah that's the ticket, float the boat and call it a plan. They will buy it they believed us before going into Iraq didn't they! They believed us when we said we did not torture didn't they! They believed us when we said we did not spy on innocent Americans didn't they! They believed us when we said that we were fiscally responsible didn't they! They believed us when we said we needed less oversight didn't they! ------These guys are nothing but enemies of the state!!!!!They have no plan other than obstructionism! Their plan only takes care of the rich! Time for a revolution to take place against the Repuke party which is an enemy of the state!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Patty, Boston, MA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:41:57 GMT

So......Is it true the GOP spent money on these 19 pages; only to return to the printer with finished product....ie detailed issue?
This is fiscal responsibility?

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

mike ca — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:44:19 GMT

talk about wasting money repbplicans payed someboby to draft a budget and all they got was 19 pages i dont think they got their moneys worth

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

John B, Des Moines, IA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:49:25 GMT

Clearly to the GOP "put up or shut up" means "put up a heavy screen of smoke and mirrors and shut up about the fact that it's all vaporware."

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

LB, Virginia — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:50:01 GMT

Uh oh, read the blueprint: no mention of any budget for our two wars....

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

AuntiQ — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:50:55 GMT

Mel, Illinois (Sent Thursday, March 26, 2009 2:50 PM)

Sorry, Mel, hope you don't think you're fooling anyone. Pretty good joke tho'.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

American Joe — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:53:31 GMT

Let's see, Pres.bush created a dept obligation of 1.3 trillion dollars annually, so 10 years down the road that would total a 13 trillion dollar defecit if nothing is changed in what he has initiated. Yet republicans continue to defend everything he had done. WOW!

Now I hear republicans want to scrap the charitable giving increase in tax rate because this would stifle any charitale giving from the wealthy. Americans probably would prefer you derease some of your exhorbatant compensation and pay your employee a living wage to provide for their families adequately. This would enable companies to continue employing them longer than 6 months after a drop in our economy. Most Americans would prefer a decent paying job than your charity anyway.

Also, charitable giving is down because of current market conditions, which also shows individuals who were making less than 250,000 were the majority of individuals actually giving to charities. Shocking isn't it?

If corporations (executives)were more prudent in their obligation to their publically traded companies success, we would not have to be bailing them out. Think about it, if executive take 12.4 billions dollars a year in bonuses in a bad year, even more through good years, and add that up over the last ten to twenty years, I think you'll find most companies would not have to lay off employees just 6 months after a down turn in our economy.People who have been layed off would still be employed and spending thus minimizing the overall effect of a downturn spiraling even further down.

It also appears that most executives are the one that have overspent their lifestyle to the point they need these compensation packages just to stay afloat, to keep those 11 or so homes afloat, the jets flying, the ranches solvent, etc. But now they claim that individuals who can't pay for one home have somehow overspent and deserve their fate. I'm all for executive of publically traded companies to make damn good money,but do you really need to make 300 + times the amount of your average employee. If I was an investor in that company and watch it's executives and board members bankrupt a company, had the government take over it and eliminate the shareholders for the takeover, I would be expecting people to go to jail, especially if this board and executives had paid themselves these giant parahute packages. Executives of publically traded companies have(or should have) a fidicuary responsility to share in the profits as well as the losses. Once publically traded, it is no longer your company, it belongs to the public as well.

I know this kinda talk upsets most executives, and personally have no vendetta against them. However in moving forward I would hope you would trim your sails voluntarily as has most Americans hav been forced to do. If not, you deserve all the anger most Americans can weild.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Robert, Virginia — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:55:37 GMT

Clearly, the GOP does not expect to be taken seriously. The times demand serious and thoughtful responses. If they do not care to give thought and meaning to their own words, why should anyone else? A budget includes numbers by definition. The numbers convey meaning and choices.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

AuntiQ — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:56:45 GMT

I luv Keith Olbermann (Sent Thursday, March 26, 2009 3:19 PM)

Thanks for the GOP budget plan discussion -- I was laughing out loud (I know I'm supposed to type LOL,or ROFLMAO according to my granddaughter, but I'm too damn old to learn new tricks). Anyway, thanks, it was great. I loved it.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

arnolde — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:17:10 GMT

As a head of department, if I were to present my CEO with a folder and wave it saying "you asked for a budget, here it is - a detailed blueprint", and he opened it and saw a ":budget" with no numbers, MY number would be up.... my ensuing steps would be to my office to pack and then through the door.

And why was the writer of this article so careful to leave out the fact that this "budget" cuts the tax rate for the wealthy from 36 to 25%? Interesting "oversight"

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Kevin - CA — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:33:15 GMT

The Republican Plan is a floor wax AND a dessert topping!

Just more critique and talking points, but these pages are incredibly different: they have a blue cover.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Billy, Houston — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:37:14 GMT

BBWWWWAAAAAAA - you didn't think the retreads would actually come up with anything substantial or viable did you?? What a joke, more tax cuts. They just don't get it. It probably took them all of 30 minutes to put this crap together. Step out of the way gop and let the real leaders press on.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

God Bless America — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:38:00 GMT

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Jilli, Houston — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:42:27 GMT

Hey, maybe the delay on the actual numbers is because Michelle Bachmann is doing the 'cipherin' in the new non-American currency she's so concerned about.

Ah ha ha ha ha!!! St. Ronnie has to be rollin' in his grave at the unmitigated stupidity of his party.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Benzzy — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:44:10 GMT

Budget, that a budget, hmmm, oh my!!!
I must not produce that as a term paper in my graduate class, this is nothing more than a high school term paper. Them people need serious help, unfortunately they are led by people who don't understand intellectual development at all, what a big SHAME. Go Get A Budget PUGS.
THIS IS AN EMBARRASSMENT, I SEE WHY THE SENATE REPUBLICANS DON'T WANT TO HAVE ANYTHING TO DO WITH THIS TRASH. GET YOUR SELF TOGETHER. AND YOU ALL NEED TO GROW MORE THAN A PAIR

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Ted, Mid Michigan — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:47:34 GMT

Ted, Mid Michigan
It would be great if you supplied every American with health but right now myself and plenty of other hard working Americans are having another trouble feeding our own families much less all the welfare mooches that we are having to feed also. I really don't need the added burden of making sure you get your cold looked at by a doc. People need to get back to taking care of themselves and not depend on everybody else to do it for them.

chris, alabama (Sent Thursday, March 26, 2009 3:46 PM)---------------------------------------------------

What you seem to be too dense to understand is that if everybody received coverage, everybody’s average health costs would lower. YOUR costs would lower. Less emergency room visits, more preventative care, more COMPETITION. The Insurance Agency will not be able to hold you hostage any more.

No one here is speaking of "Free" anything. You pay your health Insurance now, right? Directly out of your check from your employer, right? Only difference would be the money goes to a national health plan. Or, are you one of those who choose not to have insurance, partly the reason that premiums are so damn high now? So, where's the rub. Less Emergency room visits + More preventative care = lower health costs. Also, look at the TREMENDOUS cost that health care burdens business, large and small with.

And, while you're on you morally high horse, know this. I’m fully and gainfully employed, I'm educated, I'm a father, I pay property and all other required taxes, I give to charity when possible, and I pay for all those "moochers" too (don't you know anybody who needs some help right now?);I am a productive piece to our society. Sounds a lot like you, huh? Difference is, I would GLADLY pay a higher tax rate to ensure the medical needs you and your family! Because it's the right thing to do.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Russell, New York, NY — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:53:55 GMT

I am not even going to bother reading what any one post here but I will say this, Again you stupid americans have let yourselves get robbed by the same conservative talking heads again and again. They woo you in with the BS about giving you your money back and this time they are stealing it right in front of you and all you idiots can do is complain about what Obama is doing. You all deserve the crap storm you voted for the past 12 years, am glad to see you get robbed again, and again. You idiots got robbed under Regan, then asked Bill to clean it up, get rapped under Bush and now you want Obama to fix it but not with any money. Again, glad to see you all burning in the hells you all created. Good for all of you.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Bill Charlotte,NC — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:57:31 GMT

I have just one comment on a 19 page US budget with no details and no numbers..
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!
I get it; It is a joke, right?

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Rose — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:59:28 GMT

Geez. The GOP comes up with 19 pages of a preliminary budget after 8 years. Wow, that must have been really hard work! I guess next week will be the real deal (Not!). Don't they get that there is no budget without numbers....

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

JayKey — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 22:13:51 GMT

The Republican plan looked like a piece of toilet paper wrapped in a blue folder.....Where's the Plan?

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

donald king — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 02:41:04 GMT

the only 'hard' numbers in any GOP anything are the gay prostitute PHONE NUMBERS, and the phone numbers of meth dealers, aka, they are HYPOCRITICAL SONS OF BEYOTCHES, to the last one!

I don't agree with Obombya much, but it chaps my hide to see the GOP SCUM pull this crap, when they are the REASON FOR THE DEFICITS THAT DESTROYED THE NATION IN THE FIRST PLACE! HOW DARE THEY OPEN THEIR TREASONOUS FACES TODAY, after what they've done to this country.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

whynot, columbus, ohio — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 03:22:17 GMT

What is this somone's childs book report? Maybe you should have bought how to write a report for dummies. Hang on to this for 2012 - maybe Palin will use it.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

JJ — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 04:09:45 GMT

i just got a copy of the gop's budget. here it is:

pp. 1:4: picture of rush (4 pages are needed to cover the spread of the great leader)
p. 5: recovery plan: tax cut
pp. 6-7: economic plan: tax cut
pp. 8-9: energy plan: drill, baby, drill
pp. 10-12: unemployment benefits (pictures of tent cities: bushvilles)
p. 13: picture of a windmill
p. 14: picture of volcano jindal
pp. 16-17: health care plan (various prayers for the sick)
pp. 18-19: education plan (pictures of hannity, beck, joe the plumber, and rush again)

that's all folks

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Damon, Birmingham, Alabama — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 04:32:20 GMT

" don't claim that the rich are victimized (although it seems that this country is headed in a direction in which successful people are punished), "

Funny how a lot of idle, hedge fund rich complain of a three percent rise in taxes which is what they paid under the Clinton, Reagen years when in the early part of the 20th century anyone making over 100,000 had a tax rate of 90%. Strange that we still had lots of multimillionaries and billionaries. Funny that every few years we lower the taxes on those making over 100,000 and the inflation would continue to rise making the dollar a lot less in worth.

Why was it okay for the rich to pay such high taxes? Because those taxes motivated them to make more money. When the rich get a tax cut they just horde the money. When the poor and middle class get money they spend that money immediatly on things that will make them more comfortable raising them up an income bracket if things go well or at least take pressure off them. How is a multibillionare buying one yacht going to increase the economy when you compare it to effects of a million people buying a toaster oven?

Wealth trickles up it doesn't trickle down. Spending money on those you call worthless actually helps the economy because a lot of people who are jobless want to work but they cannot since no one is hiring. Food stamps help the economy because that money buys food which helps the grocery stores and the farmers/companies. There have been several studies on how much each dollar spent on various things generates. Such things were unemployment, food stamps, welfare, tax cuts for the wealthy. Tax cuts for the wealthy produced the least amount of dollars compared to every dollar spent on welfare.

Spending money on road construction, improvement, maintance hires tons of people and generates a lot of economic activity as does most infrastructure improvement.

The New Deal actually helped ease the depression. Each year of the new deal hired millions of people for work. When such jobs are added to the employment and deducted from the unemployment figures the great depression is a lot less worse. Also consider the ecomonic effects of all those schools being constructed, dams, bridges, roads. It takes years but the effects do happen. World War 2 was just four times the New Deal in terms of money spent. Millions of people were hired by the goverment to fill out positions in the miltary. Millions more were employed under goverment contracts to make weapons.

Why should the wealthy get more out of every dollar they deduct for charity on their taxes? Shouldn't a poor or middle class person get more of a deduction since giving to a charity is more financially draining then it would be on a rich person?

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Raina — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 04:44:12 GMT

Why would the GOP do this to themselves? A budget without numbers? So embarassing! Their proposal on tax cuts does even more for the most well off than George Bush's did. Why not wait until Ryan actually had the real numbers and approach this seriously instead for politically? They need a leader stat!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

amazing, midwest city, ok — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 05:38:44 GMT

House Majority Leader Boehner have no answers or num-bers. And why not? Instead of playing since January 20th, they should have been working to get those numbers to the public. No, they thought this would all die down and they could continue business as usually. The produce some pages with hogwash and later next week it will be more of the same. I am so tired of people (rich people) thinking someone want their money. How did they get their wealth? Some was inherit, but still where did it come from. They have been playing on the middle class and lower class to make their money. Then they lie and skim so they want have to pay taxes, hide money in oversea banks. So, who is cheating who? And the Republicans have helped themselves as well as their friends; and now they are scared the American people will find out just what they have been doing. The American people have found out just where their loyalty lies and it is not with the American people. Face it, the republicans are selfish; if you are not in their group, then you are beneath them. Can anyone answer the question "what have the Republicans done for you lately?" Americans should see how they have wasted everyone time since January 20th. They have been so busy getting their party together, they didn't bother to work on a plan to show the American people or Obama. It is really just sickin' for them to treat the American they way they do. Right now they just threw out a bone; and next week they just might throw a bone that has a little meat on it.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Bill Wages Fresno Ca. — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 06:35:53 GMT

It seems that a lot of folks are upset because the Republican proposal didn't have all the numbers in it. That is because we need to have it discussed and debated by others before they give a bottom-line. That's the way we do it in America.We put the rough draft on the table and give others the opportunity to look at it and make suggestions.
They didn't push it through congress without letting anyone see it. That's how obama did it.
They didn't make any laws that are in direct violation of our Constitution. That's how the Dumbocrats did it.
Did any of you find something in the proposal that you disagree with? Well, you will have an opportunity to object to it. Objecting to the format or the original draft is rather ignorant, don't you think?
Why would some of you blame anything in the proposal on Bush? He had nothing to do with it. He isn't even here.
Incidentally, What happened to all those promises that obama made about 'oversight','lobbyists', 'taxbreaks for middle class'? I don't hear any of you talking about his dishonesty.
Do you think that the land that was just taken over by the National Parks association could have been collateral for the China loan?

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Theo, Seattle — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 06:48:24 GMT

let's be clear, W put us on the hook for the 10-year $10.7 trillion debt that Obama is taking responsible for here and now. if only Americans knew even basic arithmetic (which obviously we don't with our pathetic savings rate, housing crisis, and this sudden 'outrage' at what greedy wall street types did), they'd know how screwed things were. Blaming Obama for putting all the off-budget W excursions on back onto the books is just childish and blissful ignorance.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Theo, Seattle — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 06:48:24 GMT

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Bill Wages Freno Calif. — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 06:59:06 GMT

Last week in California somebody did a survey of about two hundred high-school kids. They asked them several questions from our National Immigration test for citizenship.
The questions were the same as we got in the sixth and seventh grades from American history tests. Not one of those kids passed the test. As a matter of fact, there were only five questions answered correctly altogether.
It's sad that the democratic socialist school board would do this to our children. But, apparently, they did it to most of the people on this blog.
I dont think that anyone who cant tell us the number of stars on our flag should be allowed to vote.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Tess, Orlando, FL — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 09:21:13 GMT

Of course there are no real numbers. That would involve math, and as we all know, math use leads to science, and science is bad because it is a slap against God who leads the GOP. (or is it Rush? Anymore, the GOP God sounds like Rush)

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Pat Coady, Winter Springs, FL — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 09:56:47 GMT

I honestly thought it was an SNL comedy skit! And a good one at that. WHAT A JOKE!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Mary Deislinger, Boston MA — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 11:59:56 GMT

Yeah, what is up with that orangey complexion Boehner has? Also, sadly most of the population - understandably - doesn't have the exposure to details of governing, budgetary deficits, ten-year projections, etc.to truly understand the minute details. That is why the President has all those smart people around him. That, I believe, is what the Republicans count on. However, at some point we each have to judge those whom we elect based on our assessment of their intellect and ethics. Then we need to remain vigilant and respond to our representatives to Washington (Senators and Congressmen) and encourage them to vote the way we believe is best. It is impractical, if not impossible, to expect everyone in the country to agree on every philosophical point; however, we must stay focused on the big picture. I believe that is exactly why President Obama was elected and I believe we should let him lead based on those principles and issues he has outlined as being best for all of us and our country in the long run. I hate hearing the politicians - both dems and republicans - continually arguing about these petty points. P.S. No respectable news organization should ever mention Rush Limbaugh's name; why would we ever give that big fat idiot a moment's attention???

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

John Luma, Moorpark, CA — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:18:07 GMT

As a moderate Democrat it's easy to lose faith right now in both Parties. But the Republicans are completely out of their league! No solutions at all! This is crisis management time, and you would think they would all be working around the clock to construct their own detailed plans to get the economy back on track, and all they offer is -- Don't spend.

Hey, the businesses I work for are laying people off -- I'm out of a job -- so "Don't spend" is crushing thousands of families right now and is clearly not the answer.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

bay — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:20:48 GMT

One thing I have noticed, republicans are starting to really act like rush limbaugh. Not one penny for us, but war, war corp. meeee..Put all the tax burden on us..He really does represent republicans.. Sad..

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

nick — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:54:25 GMT

Could it be possible a definition of transfer of wealth is needed?

Is taking less of what someone earns and is entitled to by cutting income tax rates from 35% to 25% really a transfer of wealth up the economic stream, or is it actually allowing more of that wealth to remain with those who earned it and allowing them to keep more of what they created?

Cutting the top marginal rates from 35% to 25% takes nothing from any non-wealthy individual that non-wealthy individuals earned.

Question? How many more tax dollars does an individual earning $1,000,000 taxed at 25% pay in excess of the tax dollars an individual earning $100,000 pay taxed at 10%? Answer, $240,000 more. Is $240,000 more in income taxes not enough? Why not?

Could the answer be that the amount the $1,000,000 earner pays taxed at 25% is $100,000 less than if taxed at 35% (or more tax dollars if the rate increase from 35% as is also being proposed) and that would clearly reduce the amount of tax dollars available to fund entitlements, which seem to have become an expected way of life for too many able-bodied, able-minded Americans.

Obvioulsy whether this proposed tax rate structure sounds appealing depends on whose ox is being gored. For productive Americans it probably has a great deal of appeal. For able-bodied, able-minded Americans who depend on entitlements it probably has no appeal.

In all fairness, Americans made their choice last November 4th. Therefore, it's remote that the proposed lower tax rate structure will become effective and more probable that rates will increase for productive Americans as promised.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

BrianC, Longmeadow MA — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 13:57:51 GMT

The Republican Party is in its last breaths. The party of "NO" revealed yesterday its tired old mantra of "Dont tax us rich folk and everything will work out and be fine". The present day party of Let Them Eat Cake has become as irrelvant as the presidency of one of its fellow GOPers, Calvin Coolidge.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Cort, Wilmington, DE — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 14:15:37 GMT

I tried to read the plan. It's just not a serious document. It tosses some red meat to the republican base by using the term "Democrat" in place of the "Democratic Party", George Soros, and ACORN. Obviously nobody with an English major was involved with the creation of the document....every tenth word does not need to be in quotes!

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Arishia — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 14:25:54 GMT

Hey Chuck, seems your comments section is now owned by conservatives. Have fun with them. I'm outta here. Keep up the good work, and remember to get away from the beltway frequently to realign your conscience.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

Ted, Mid Michigan — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 15:24:22 GMT

Pfft!! Obama was elected because he's black and Soros threw a billion into the campaign hopper to get him elected.
'Um' is not a word Mr. President (Sent Thursday, March 26, 2009 4:10
-----------------------------------------------------
Um, you're an uniformed fool! Um, if you didn't hear; Obama had over three million contributers, at an average donation of, um, under one hundred dollars.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

mdoe, Philadelphia, PA — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 16:22:45 GMT

Your liberty is at stake. We do not exist in a vacuum. All of the things the government is trying to do now has been done before and failed miserably. This is how civilizations fall.

Do you want all of your personal decisions in life being made by a politician with political motivations and interest in his or her own power. And believe me Obama is no different than Bush is no different from Pelosi, etc.. They are all looking to increase the power of the nameless, faceless Federal Government.

Go out and earn your own goodies rather than requesting them from the government, and you will get to keep more of them.

Please read your history. Call your Congressmen and Senators and beg them to vote NO on this budget. We do not have the money to spend on all of the things in this budget, most of which are not necessary and not good for our great nation.

A GOP budget with no hard numbers

mdoe, Philadelphia, PA — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 16:28:50 GMT

Obama is taking responsibility for the debt? What does that mean? That's like saying Obama is taking responsiblity for a wildfire by throwing gasoline on it. HE IS DOUBLING IT IN JUST 1 YEAR. The Congress should vote NO on this monstrosity