Blog Archives

Panic Mode for the DNC in the 5th District

It seems like Rep. Tom Perriello’s seat might not be safe after all, especially after The New York Times reported in this weekend’s edition that there are concerns about his re-election chances.

“After collecting pledges for millions of volunteer hours, O.F.A., under the auspices of the Democratic National Committee, is starting its “You Fight, We’ll Fight” effort by asking people to help in two regions to aid vulnerable lawmakers — in Colorado, for Senator Michael Bennet, the Democrat appointed last year — and in Virginia’s 5th congressional district, for Representative Tom Perriello, the freshman Democrat.”

If you think this is bad, then you should definitely check out the special plea that David Plouffe sent to Organizing for America.

“Senator Michael Bennet of Colorado and Congressman Tom Perriello of Virginia are two new members of Congress who have stood up for health reform and suffered vicious, deceptive attacks from the opposition. Now they’re both facing tough re-election fights, and they need our support.”

Why would the Democrats be having anxiety attacks over this race? Is it due to Perriello’s support of almost all of Obama’s policy objectives? After all, Perriello supports Obama’s cap and trade initiatives, when the district he represents is not in favor of many of the President’s key policies.

Cap and Trade Passes the House

The Waxman-Markey Amendment (H.R. 2454) passed the House today, 219-212. This bill is headed to the Senate, where many do not expect this bill to pass. Here’s what needs to be done to prevent this bill, which will raise taxes on working Americans and more harm on the economy. Call your Senator and urge him to strongly oppose Cap and Trade. You can contact your Senators by calling 202-224-3121 or visit the Senate website to find your Senator’s website.

Additionally, there were eight Republicans who voted for this bill this afternoon. According to the Washington Examiner, here are the eight cap and tax cheerleaders: Reps. Mary Bono Mack (CA), Mike Castle (DE), Steven Kirk (IL), John McHugh (NY), Leonard Lance (NJ), Frank LoBiondo (NJ), Dave Reichert (WA), and Chris Smith (NJ). Hopefully, you will call the number above, as it is the central switchboard, and call to voice your strong disapproval of their votes. Since they identify their party affiliation as a Republican, then they should advocate on behalf of the free markets by fighting against this bill. You can see who voted for the bill here.

Aside from this, there were some Freshmen Democrats, who should consult with former Rep. Marjorie Margolies-Mezvinsky. After all, she promised in 1993 not to vote for the Clinton Energy tax, only to turn around and vote for it. She quickly became a one-term Congresswoman. In Virginia, both Gerry Connolly and Tom Perriello should anticipate strong challenges in 2010. The residents of the 5th and 11th Districts did not elect their leaders to raise taxes, rather to work on their behalf to lower the tax burden.

Did Mr. Cap and Trade know what was in his bill?

Mr. Cap and Trade 2009, Rep. Henry Waxman, Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee should know what’s in his proposed $646 billion national energy tax bill, right? As you can see in the video below, Waxman openly admits that he doesn’t know what’s included in his bill and that he relies on the United Nations to help discriminate against domestic manufacturers and energy producers. Geez, with noble morons (like Pelosi and Waxman) leading the Democrats in Congress, we are starting to look towards restoring common sense in 2010.

Can Rick Boucher Kiss his Seat Goodbye?

The answer could be yes.  After reading this article, it looks like Boucher could be tested by his recent decision to back Rep. Henry Waxman’s proposal to put a 20% cap on greenhouse gases. Waxman wants this passed by August, because greenhouse gases are a threat to the public, and it would place more regulations on cars manufactured here in the U.S., power plants and factories. It would also harm the coal industry.

Boucher represents the coalfields in Southwest Virginia. One would think that he would carefully consider this decision, as the coal industry is one of the largest manufacturers in that region. Additionally, this would raise energy costs significantly over time. If this legislation is passed, could there be a challenger on the horizon to face off against Boucher?

**Cross Posted at Virginia News Platoon