CNN

President Obama is reaching across the isle so much in these first couple of days at his new job. I already see the change and i love it. Now when someone ask you "What change?" say "This change!"

So the great one needs to drag in a two-bit governor from a meaningless state to convince us to sign on to the Porkulus Plan.

We've come a long way from the Greek columns in Denver, the multitudes in Berlin and the pagentry of innauguration. The great one is sinking fast and projecting to the world his lack of confidence and inability to lead.

The Republican Governors and Republican Congressmen keep playing that old song of give us a tax break and trickle down will occur. Well, that tune went out with the last election and they better get with the plan or risk becoming an obscure minor party. We have tried all that trickle down stuff, and it doesn't work!

It's time the rich people pay their fair share and it's time to close the doors on job outsourcing to third world countries or the USA will turn into a third world power.

Kelly in WI.

I hate to say it but you are an idi0t!!

Honey bee insurance would be a smart thing. if you have been paying attention. Honey bees are dying at an alarming rate!!!

What does this mean to America? No bee's no pollination! No pollination, no flowers, fruit, vegetables... etc... NO AMERICA!!!!

Dumb Dumb

I advocate having a strong third party " Responsible Party"., as I am entirely comfortable with all of the provisions contained in either bill (the Senate, House or the Republican draft proposal.

I can’t help but believe that the political two-party system literally fails and is actually a large part of the problem. That is just my opinion but as an example just look at all of the comments offered, how emotional, irrational and illogical they are with their extremely polarized biases and with no real objectivity or discipline for validity. True that some just enjoy the debate, even invite argument and then laugh at their ability to prompt emotion from others but yet many seem to honestly defend a strong bias without giving credit to the real validity of the more moderate positions. Any defense of the Bush-Cheney administration as being other than self-indulgent, irresponsible, sociopathically belligerent and even criminal in having arrogantly pursued their private agenda is totally blind and unreal. Any rationalization offered for having elected Obama as the result of other than having had eight years of Bush-Cheney is totally naïve and also unreal. One extreme simply demands the need to be tempered by the opposite extreme. Both parties take advantage of manipulating opinions based on individual biases, without ever allowing the recognition that their extreme positions are only exploiting people’s emotions while pursuing their political interests. The country’s best interests consistently fall victim to the politicians’ best interests and that isn’t about to change.

The only way it can change and have the benefit of offering the people positions that represent their best interests is to have power more diluted and with entities presenting real answers to each of the real issues rather than the pendulum always swinging back and forth providing total power first to one and then to the other party. It isn’t a matter of having power divided between the two parties and then causing dead-lock but rather of having additional legitimate parties dividing the power, aligned with the people’s different concerns and necessitating honest cooperation, coalitions and more consistent moderate governing. The following conditions really prohibit that from ever happening. First and foremost, the necessity for huge amounts of capital in politics literally prohibits many of the best candidates and any new parties from getting off the ground. Next, the reality is that ‘power corrupts and total power totally corrupts’ and that is what they all seek. Then, extremism actually satisfies their political goals and is what they won’t easily give up. And lastly, the politicians, Special Interests, lobbyists and the select few all have real control because of the large demand for humungous amounts of capital and there is no way they want to lose that control. It can also be added that it is simply a desirable, easy and lucrative life for them. Whatever they say to sway the people the truth is ‘it ain’t going to change’ and they know it and it is just silly for us to then say what should be or to debate it.

The tax cuts are meant for the rich and the corporate interests. The lesser and small businesses will see none of it, and that is why the republi KLAN plan is so utterly fuhked into a wall. These morons just don't get it.

WOW i cant believe the crazy people on this message board. Bush's Tax Cuts did nothing. What we need is infrastructure building that in the long run saves us money so when we do have money, money we can spend to build our economy, not repair it. tax cuts wont work. Same old tired ideas the republicans have been shouting forever and a day. When will they learn they have no new ideas. They are a lost party still traveling down that same dark path.... Tax cuts, free market, Iraq was. isnt this what caused America to drown?

Go Obama! turn this economy around. lets build new, better roads, Better educate our children! Turn our buildings into energy efficient buildings so they are creating energy, not burning it up! thats what needs to be done. Not giving tax breaks to companies so they file for bankruptcy 2 months later. How can companies survive when the PEOPLE have no money? the people deserve the money and then the companies will get some of that when people feel comfortable to spend again!!!!!!!

DUH!!!

The arogant republicans are still trying to get most of the money in TAX CUTS FOR THE RICH – what part don't they understand as to why the economy is in the tank already - TAX CUTS FOR THE RICH - NO MORE. I sure hope Pres. Obama puts their feet to the fire - no giving in on tax cuts for the rich.

Why not cut the bull and get to the bottom line... furnish a simplified list of what is in this spending package, along with the name of who proposed each item, those who are willing to go on record as supporting it, how many jobs it will create and for how long.

1. Bees $ Name
2. STD
3. Acorn
4. Sod

Responsibility? Accountability? Transparency? Where is the change? Lets stop ignoring the red flags and get real.

What the American people need is for congress to cut their pay and do away with SSI and Medicaid as well as build up our Active Duty Military to the strength it was BEFORE Clinton. This will do more for the economy than any thing else!!!!!!!!!

READ MICHAEL IN TEXAS READ HIS POST BRILLIANT!
MICHAEL MAYBE WE SHOULD PUT YOU IN CONGRESS HAHAHAHAHAHA

2 democrats that want more tax dollars. How Shocking

OK, Governor, why, if you want to maintain states rights, do you look for more handouts from the Federal government?

And the Republican Senate bill: When ARE the Republicans going to learn that tax cuts, especially corporate tax cuts with no strings, do NOT stimulate the economy, they just put more money in the pockets of the CEOs?

Other than that, the Republican bill has the obvious cuts to the so called "pork" that was in the Democratic bill, but there isn't a whole lot of difference except in amounts. I'd double the amounts to troubled homeowner projects, and up the amount for "Americans in need". Actually, I'm impressed that the Republicans actually noticed THAT.

karin from phoenix – you are no republican if you are for higher government spending. That is the thing that is republicans number 1 core value. LOWER SPENDING. How exactly are you a republican. And this GOP governor from Vermont I doubt is very republican. Vermont is a liberal state.

You know, I just saw where Obama's delaying aid to Kentucky. I knew it! Obama doesn't care about Kentucky. In fact, I bet he had a hand in altering the course of nature to purposely make that ice-storm hit them. We need to stage a telethon, maybe have someone do their best Kanye West impression and say "Barrack Obama hates Kentucky people!"

I know, sounds stupid. Yet, seems perfectly reasonable for a bunch of libs to have blasted Bush after Katrina (never mind that the Dems in control in New Orleans didn't do a dang thing).

The GOP keep touting more tax cuts. In case you didn't notice the $350Billion Dollar tax cut Bush gave in June was a complete failure. It generated more job losses!

Are these people for real?

I know that Mr. President Barack Obama uses his brain allllll the time!!!!! I know that this stimulus package that he has bought to the attention of the American people will be beneficial. I don't doubt that. He has clearly shown how he takes time to think effectively and tends to act on things quickly and effectively!

DEMwits, given how disrespectful you are, perhaps we should take you as a representative republican. Instead of stirring up trouble, why don't you try doing what Obamas doing? Something actually constructive.

Okay people, some of you are operating from a misperception that isn't helping this debate between Dems and Repubs about tax cuts, so let me try and help:

If tax cuts were being proposed for the wealthy, I would be the first one to say, "No way, Jose!" Unfortunately, the words "tax cut" reminds to many people of when the wealthy did get the cut.

But tax cuts being proposed by both parties now is for the poor and economically struggling among us. The difference between the Dems and the Repubs on this boils down to the amount. The Repubs feel the poor and unemployed and those dealing with home mortgage problems need more help than the Dems do, that is why they are recommending a larger tax cut.

In this case, the Repubs are the ones working for the people on this, so we should get on board. Some of you may feel they have an agenda (the 2010 elections), and that may be true, but who cares what the motive is when the act is the right thing to do? You can still vote Dem in 2010, but don't let party bias cause you to bite off your nose to spite your face…and all those hurting around you.

Be glad the Repubs are protecting us from signing onto a bill that would have had the Dems shoving a lot of nonsense expenses down our throat just cause we put them in office and they think they can now "do what they want."

This is why the founding fathers said it was good to have two separate groups fighting for control up there. Neither one ever gets to totally be "in control".

"GOP governor: We need an economic stimulus now"

Then have a meeting and inform the Rushlicans. They are the ones saving the world right now.

Republicans have CUT taxes on the Businesses…..They CUT Taxes on the Huge Corporations, They CUT Taxes on everyone that was IN Business !! Not the average workers ! (That's why it didn't work, and never will work ! ) They need to CUT Taxes on the regular / average people that is drawing a PAYCHECK, for a change…..Do people think they CUT Taxes on the people that go to a Fast Food Place for their Lunch Hour ? Do people think the Republicans CUTS Taxes for the people that take a Luch Bucket or a Lunch Bag to WORK ???
They have been CUTTING TAXES for the LAST 8 YEARS !!!!

( I think it's time to "Quit" "cutting Taxes" for the most Wealthy !!!

YES WE DO! The Republicans who are being loyal to Limbaugh-the-comedian and Hannity-the-hater want to derail Obama's plan.

We need LEADERS....... not whiners! Offer solutions, work with the President!

The Stimulus Bill must also include:

The freezing of ALL Foreign Aid, including to Israel, Japan, etc. We need the money here !

And a tax break for small business of under 1000 employees to keep those small businesses afloat during these tough times.

You know, I fully support Obama and I've very Democrat, but some of the things in that bill are simply despicable and won't help a bit. The money should be going to the people, not stupid little useless programs.

Thank you Govoner Douglas!!! I'm a republican who is totally ashamed of the GOP!!!

Robin, you said tax cuts don't work for the unemployed...but they do. It is called unemployment compensation. When you lose your job, and so many have, you can draw unemployment.

One of the ways this new bill is lacking is in what it does not do for those people...it doesn't increase the amount they can draw significantly.

I do like your idea of no federal tax...just a sales tax...I think we need to get away from Washington deciding what we are going to pay for with our own money anyway. Let's face it: They aren't even able to come to agreement up there about that...and we sure can choose a whole lot better than millions on sexual disease prevention funding.

I'm surprised our right-wing friends haven't suggested that foremer, "famous" GOP governors should have their input taken too. You know, like the wildly successful Bush Brothers in Florida and Texas!!!

The GOP preaches that big government doesn't work – then they get elected and prove it!!!

Tax the rich and anything over $250,000 and America will be saved.The rich will still be rich,but the poor will not all be poor.

You folks who think it would be good for the states to go broke are asking for an explosion in crime. If you don't think it saves jobs, check up on how many cops and schoolteachers are facing imminent pink slips right now.

Yes we do need a stimulus, in the form of tax breaks and tax cuts, not more spending that will furhter hurt the american dollar, stupid democrats.

I forgot how badly Vermont needs STD education funding immediately! Yes, vote for the pork bill! Fund STD education and climate control satellites! Yes I can smell the pork sizzling in Pelosi's frying pan.

Tax cuts do NOTHING when people aren't working, aren't earning salaries, and aren't actually PAYING taxes! Why is this so difficult to understand? The only tax cut that would actually work is to replace federal income taxes with a federal sales tax...you spend it, its taxed...you don't have it to spend, you pay no taxes. Simple.

To all the obamabots who are blindly calling McCain (and the others who want to negotiate where the spending goes in the stimulus bill) obstructionists, why don't you actually do some research before you start blathering your liberal ideology.

The stimulus package is chock full of spending in support of social programs/activities which in no way will ever "stimulate" the economy. This funding is clearly limited to a small sector and could never affect on overall influx of $ to the general economy...this is agenda spending!!!

I suggest you all take the time to read the fine print and ask yourselves how all this "social spending" is going to help general industry and our small businesses get back on their feet and create job opportunities?

republicans are just setting the stage for the 2010elections . the gop is going to be in for a rude awaking. the people are hurting and the repubs. are playing games with the stimulus package shame on them .

Farrell, Houston, Tx February 2nd, 2009 1:23 pm ET
THE GOP REFUSE TO LISTEN TO TOP ECONOMISTS THAT OBAMA HAS CONSULTED. THE GOP ARE WAY OUT OF THEIR LEAGUE ON THIS ONE AND ARE LOOKING MORE AND MORE LIKE IGNORANT FOOLS.
---------------------–
Really? Please then explain why 200 top economists came out against this porker of a bill this past weekend! I don't think you can!

no republicans can be trusted, they are for the rich and richer, America needs help with food and shelter, and health care, things that none of the republicans can relate to, God Bless President Obama.

I am sure the Governor's are in favor of stimulus bill. they want their money to balance their state budgets but that is not going to create jobs for the working taxpayer. All it does is let the State Govt pay some bills! I am from Va. and our Gov. let our budget go to crap! He was too busy rubbing shoulders and campaigning for Obama, he forgot all about Virginia! Give the money to the taxpayers and let us decide whom we want to succeed and not!! By the way, i think every member of Senate/Congress should be audited on their taxes. Heck we may not have a deficit after they are audited. amazing how people apologize for a ""mistake " in not paying their taxes. If we did that, we would be writing from Jail, if they allowed it!!!

Republicans are SO good at pointing out what is wrong with things, but SO bad at fixing things.....

Am I right or do I need to point out all the things that went wrong the last eight years???

So to all of you Republicans out there: You would do yourself a huge favor if you stopped attacking the stimulus plan that may not be perfect, but actually OFFERS solutions, and start creating something productive, admit your mistakes, and acknowledge that A plan is better than none.

I mean, come on, what did GW do the last 8 months of his presidency? Did he offer ANYTHING? No.....he didnt.....

All you republicans do is attack attack attack and then jump on someone else's ideas and call it your own. Does giving a black man (or woman, for that matter) a high position (or high profile)in office right after another political party does the same ring any bells??

You republicans get more and more pathetic every day.......
(sorry, but at this point, with people dying, losing their homes, and going hungry – I have NO sympathy for you losers....)

My opinion about this whole stimulus package is that soemthing has to be done. Now we all knwo the trickle down economics does not work. You die hard right wingers who pray to Rush and Sean Hannity are fools and most of you wouldn't get the very tax breaks that you are agreeing to because you do not make enough money to get the tax breaks. Now on the other hand, all these social programs that you far left wingers who pray to Nancy and Harry are myopic because all those programs that you agree to funding, will not benefit you because you make too much money to qualify for them. I thought Washington DC would have learned that the rich elite and the dirt poor only make up less than 20 % of the United States Population and the rest are the middle income folks. So put the money toward rebuilding projects such as levies, bridges, roads. Build better schools for our children, create easier avenues for small business loans and give the tax credits to small business who needs it, not Merrill Lynch and Bank of America and GM who will do nothing but take that extra income and buy 50 million dollors jets and pad the 12 or so board members pockets with ridiculous bonuses. Give a portion of that money to Healthcare so hospitals can properly staff thier facilities and get the supplies they need to provide better healthcare. Give the Tax credits to the hard working middle income Americans that keep this country moving. offer better tax incentives who choose to have health insurance, upgrade thier vehicles to eco -friendly vehicles, make necessary upgrades to thier homes for better energy conservation etc.

Do the republcans realize that over 100,000 Americans lost their jobs last week alone?

I think they all need to get out of DC and take field trips back to their districts for a reality check. I think they'd find that the political gamemanship isn't high on the list for their constituents.

Tax cuts do not produce jobs – if they did, why did bush have such and abyssmal job creation rate?

While many may think that the investments in health care, education and family planning are pork, I'd ask you to think beyond this week and this month. These are long range investments and cost cutting measures that will benefit us all in the future of this country.

I would hate to see Obama and his administration bow to the republicans and their economic ideology. We've tried that – and look where we are today!

Look ! Mr.President you can always do onething at a time. The bill had signed now the challenge is tough no one will agree with tons of money shall (we) call it stimulus aid to the country. But, who's going to get it? Banks, whom you can not ask for a penny loan make sure all these 900 b's will be acounted by people in your cabinet and who's who are going to get the bail out not in the (hands) of crook's institution just keeping the money for their own use and forget the poor
people who most contribute the tax money for goverment to spend. My recommendation is follow every move what the congress and senate will do (GOP members) damage(s) a lot. Instinct will play and follow it.

VP

To the tax cut naysayers, I say: If you don't think that repealing the federal income tax and making it retroactive for 2008 doesn't immediately impact your local economy for good then you are not considering what that would do for you personally. Repealing the fed tax means you no longer have that deduction from your paycheck...you get that $50 or more dollars that was going to Uncle Sam every week.

I'm sure you can stimulate the economy with an extra $200 bucks in your own pocket, not to mention the $1,000 or more you would be refunded for all you paid in during 2008.

Now tell me, which makes more sense, allowing Pelosi to decide which organizations get that $50 out of your pocket every week or you deciding to spend it locally the way you want to?

Jobs will only be created when the money is given to the states. They know what projects will generate jobs in their townships. The GOP had 6 years of control to cut all the taxes and stop all the spending they wanted. They decided to go to Iraq and spend like nuts. Now we are in this mess.

I am sickened by the Partisan attitude the GOP is showing toward a stimulus plan aimed at helping the American people when they all jump on board to help the Banks, Wall Street and the Auto Industry. None of this money did squat for the American people but they play Politics with money that will help save our jobs and help to get millions of others back to work. If there is Pork in the stimulus package then I agree some of it will have to be taken out, but to actuallyplay games at a time like this shows what Pompous, Arrogant elitist these OLD MEN are with their multiple houses and vacation home.

I wish they were in our shoes, Oh they can be lets just not vote for them like they didn't vote to help us. There are now words that can express how angry I am right now.

Con artist always say, "you've got to move quickly. The deal wont be here tomorrow."

And why do they do that? Because it gives people less time to think and see the holes in the proposal. Same here with this stimulus bill (which isn't a stimulus at all...just a big ole check the American taxpayers will have to pick up sooner or later, which throws money to people on Obama's and the Dems 'supporter list'.

Dems need to stop playing favorites when our country really does need a stimulus for the economy....they are using this crisis to push through the mindset that "if you want help, you have to take the only option we give you." Heck no, we don't!!!!

And if they push us too, refusing to modify that bill of all its port, then they will sure pay the price at the next election. Fool me once, shame on you...fool me twice, shame on me.

TCM...I see a lot of talk and a lot of bleating, but not much in the ideas dept. Typical of the right wingers here.

Yes, there are issues with the bill. Yes, there should be negotiation to pull stuff out that is not needed. But, what is needed is to get people to work making things. Tax cuts are not going to help at this time. The rich are fine and will just squirrel away or use it a way that does not stimulate the overall economy. Focus on the folks starting at the bottom. Put them to work, get them to spend their money on goods and services and raise the boats for everyone.

well…it needs to be an ECONOMIC STIMULUS…..not a SLUSH FUND FOR ENTITLEMENT REPLENISHMENT…..Which is what Obama's proposal is….any sane person that can read above a 5th grade level can see that 90% or more of these funds are going to things that need replenishment; welfare…school debt….etc..etc….not job creation. I hope the GOP and any sensible democrat (if there is such a thing) will stand their ground and do what's right for America. VOTE AGAINST THE ENTITLEMENT PACKAGE…….Obama's agenda does nothing but put us further in the hole, with no prospect for recovery…is that what you ignorant libs what to leave for your children?
****************************************************************************Dear TCM:

Darling, they're only entitlements when YOU don't need them. You wouldn't feel that way if you lost your job and the ground was pulled from under you. Not everyone who needs social services right now is a welfare queen (BTW, welfare reform limits the years you can spend on welfare, so what you really want is for unemployed people to starve or die). It's going to take about 18 months for the country to turn around. What do you suggest the 100,00 people laid off per week do? Can they come and eat at your house? No?

stimulus? Now we do not need Billions for STD, ACORN, UAW.
We need lower taxes. Don't give me $500, sure thats good. But the last money from Pres Bush did nothing. This will do nothing either. We are just borrowing from who knows who and giving to things that we do not need to be giving too. Wait and be generous with our hard
earned money some other time. Our economy needs its people with
jobs and lower taxes. Not over spending for STUFF. You can't borrow form Peter to pay Paul. The government has earmarks, paybacks for people that got Obama elected. NOT NOW ...Wait till we are out of this mess.

I feel so sorry for Michigan – they're desperate and need help right away.

Again, no mention of the 11 democrat house members who voted against the stimulus.

Where's the pork? Someone listed things they thought were pork the other day and none of them were pork as far as I can tell. Pork is special projects to specific constituents. This plan is on-line, you can go read it yourself. Show me something in there that won't stimulate the economy. Tax cuts for business who made more than $250,000 in profit last year? NO!!!!!!!!

The plan now has tax cuts for small businesses and people making less than $250,000 a year. The republicans call that welfare, but tax cuts for wall street and the rich are a stimulus? Give me a break!

Memo to Plantation Repuglicons and other Hooverites in congress:

Drop the "tax cuts for the rich and small business" – it's a proven loser. That's not gonna do the job.

Get moving on a bill that builds infrastructure, helps people stay in their homes and creates real jobs – not just saving the Wall Street robber barons and greedy mortgage bankers...

If that’s what we need why didn’t Bush cut taxes and stop spending? The GOP had the ship for 6 years before the congress wrestled it out of their hands for his last 2 years. Bush and the GOP could have cut Business taxes in half, suspended the cap gains taxes, and revamped the entire tax code. They didn’t, so now try it our way. We are trying to work with you but you want it your way on our watch.

Gov. Douglas is definitely country first. Republicans need to take notes from him. But that won't happen now that they have two leaders. One who has annointed himself emperor of the party (Limbaugh), and one who thinks that bipartisanship is overrated. They have underestimated their base; some of whom are in Kentucky freezing; without electricity as we speak. Republicans will be in for more surprises come election time.

Wow, another governor begging for money from the mesiah. This is not news.

Douglas, go take care of your problems in Vermont and stop trying (although you will likely succed) to take money from the taxpayers.

Can someone pls tell the GOPs that Tax cuts are useless if you dont have a job. Obama is pushin for blue collar jobs, green tech jobs, jobs in science & arts.

GOPS DO NOT UNDERSTAND THE ECONOMY AND HOW TO IMPROVE UPON IT. THEY ARE GOOD AT INVADING COUNTRIES WITH OIL.

SIGNED: BUSH FAMILY

A GOPer that wants the stimulus now? That's a switch. At least some of these obstructionists have some brains. Mitch says they're not trying to hold the stimulus up and no one that he knows is doing that. Then why did they all vote NO. I think Obama should just go ahead and make it so because Republicans don't care if American's can't pay mortgages or heat their homes or even put food on the table. Since when did they ever care about ordinary Americans? They just want their buddies to get the big tax breaks so they are holding America hostage while the country burns.

@Scott the Independent

So, JFK was wrong when he said cutting marginal rates will stimulate the economy? Go back and check his State of the Union address in 1963. Why do tax cuts result in raising revenues to the treasury?

The crash course that is need is that even though revenues go up to record levels, spending more than you take in ALWAYS leaves you broke.

You can't have it both ways. I don't think the economy is what the condom provision of this bill is meant to stimulate.

Get a grip and go read this lovely piece of "legislation" then get back to me and tell me if that's how you'd partition your persona; budget.

Interesting how the Republican governors of the states including Palin are supporting the stimulus package. Hmmm ...

Allen slashing taxes hasn't worked for the last 8 years. More companies have sent jobs over seas, more companies have gone bankrupt due to their taxes getting cut. This hasn't stimulated the economy one bit. Unemployement is up. It is time for government to come in a spend some money rebuiling America, and the American brand.

Once the pork and sacred cows are removed the bill may be worth beans. Until then the agendas must be removed!!!

Voting in Democracts did not give consent to spend foolishly....at this point it doesn't matter which party repesents us...the people, the taxpayers, are demanding responsible spending and accountability.
The longer the delay in decision making the harder it is becoming for working citizens, buisness owners, and family households to survive.
Get off you touchee's and do something NOW!

ps...From my persepective...unless this country, this world, turns their eyes back to God nothing , I mean nothing, will work and hold. A bandaid only convers the sore, it doesn't heal the injury.

TCM,

This is not an Obama bill. The house democrats drafted this bill. Obama is trying to get all members of congress to work together. He wants a good bipartisan bill that will stimulate the economy. So far, only the democrats have come up with a drafted bill. Republicans are just now starting to give input and talk about drafting an alternative.

If there is one proven theory it is tax breaks to the wealthy doesn't do anything for the country but bankrupt the economy. For once the news medias should do the country a favor and publicly state where America stands world wide on education.

The Conservatives don't want Federal help for education but if something isn't done and done quickly in this area the U.S. will lose a generation of knowledgeable and capable people to perform jobs in the 21st Century.

republicans in congress are being the obstructionists. they don't want the country to succeed in pulling out of this mess they got us into. 2010 will be a great year to rid the congress of republicans completely.

"The American Republic will endure until the day Congress discovers that it can bribe the public with the public's money."
-Alexis de Tocqueville

Scott the Independent – Tax reductions without a reduction in unnecessary federal spending does not solve the problem. You are correct on that point. The "crash course in Economics" for the GOP is a little disengenuous, however, because the democrat spending plans don't work either. We need jobs. We need to make it more attractive for businesses to operate in the U.S., not drive them elsewhere (both foreign and domestic businesses). On this we should all work together.

We need fiscal responsibility now. Our money is turning into monopoly money, it'll be worth nothing by the end of the year!

Why is it soooooo difficult for "the powers that be" to comprehend that it would be Waaaaaaaaaaaay Better!!!!! to just give the American taxes back to those who paid taxes (like directly to the businesses who need to make payroll, to the homeowners who need their mortgage refinanced to lower the payments & interest fees) DUH!!!!!!!!!!! Giving our tax dollars to banks & lending institutions WHO ARE NOT LENDING THE MONEY TO THOSE TAX PAYERS WHO NEED IT is definately NOT stimulating our ecomony!

We do need some sort of stimulus, but the nuts we have in Washington are too busy trying to sneak in their "favors", as usual. This economy is in the tank because of them and their outrageous spending. They are killing this country, one favor at a time.

This spending bill is just a way for more gov. You will be paying big time for it for ever.
Yep, millions for honey bee insurance is really a great stimulus. Ha.
The dems just want us to be dependend on gov from cradle to grave.
And that means slaves to the gov. tax tax tax.

Dear Governor Douglas,

I suggest you speak with your GOP comrades in the House and Senate. Perhaps a person who belongs to their ilk and is seeing the economy sinking like a lead balloon can perhaps talk some sense into them. I think there are good ideas on all sides, but neither side has sole claim to being right.

Every day as I read the decisions Barack is making and the followers not only on this blog but in Congress, I get more discouraged with the direction this country is going. To organize to destroy free speech because you do not agree with the speaker, to organize to destroy the opposition because you have the money and you disagree with their position, all too much reminds me of another once immensely popular politician who carried out the same tactics... Adolf Hitler.

Not saying Barack is anything like Hitler, but once you start down the dark path and begin believing you are more than what you are, it may be too late. Let's hope Barack can change to someone who is out for more than himself. Then it will be change I can believe if.

Sounds like Republican governors need to have a long talk with their congressmen and senators... DUH.

Maybe the Republican governor should talk to the Republican Members of Congress and Seantors.

I am ashamed to say that THEY seem to be the ones holding things up while American jobs are being lost every day, every hour.

In contrast to the Democrats and President Obama, I don't see any sense of urgency on the part of the GOP ... except for John Boehner's and Mitch McConnell's shrill, self-serving protestations that they aren't really holding anything up.

The American people/voters aren't stupid and will remember this in 2010.

Scott the Independent:

The problem isn't so much that "trickle down" doesn't work, it's that CEOs seem to be at least as crooked as politicians. The apparently inescapable conclusion is that someone is always going to steal whatever money is lying around, whether that's a pork-barreling politician or an insanely over-paid CEO.

We the People of the United are at the bottom of the economic food chain–of course we get eaten alive.

I miss the great messiah,El Rushbo,he will save us from the evil liberals.He will put two Mercedes in every driveway,free cigars,call girls on islands ive never heard of,and oxys for all.

we don't need their vote remember Bill Clinton signed the economy bill without single republican vote.
let us do it again don't listen to their idea.
enough of their 8 years of tax cut.

Hey, are you a hard working American, who actually goes out and earns money instead of sitting at home demanding the government gives you a check? A you afraid of what Obama's 'stimulus' would mean to your taxes? Are you either too proud to sit on your butt and collect a government check, unable to have 14 kids, or not a member of a 'recognized' minority? The answer is simple: Just declare yourself a "Friend of Barrack"! By becoming a "Friend of Barrack" you too can enjoy the privalege of not paying income taxes. After all, it just slipped your mind, and as a "Friend of Barrack" you can have such people as Senators Durbin, Kerry, and Dodd all say that you are a wonderful, straightfoward person. And becoming a "Friend of Barrack" has never been easier. Simply have a labotomy, declare Barrack Obama as your personal lord and savior, and take a vow to only say bad things about Sarah Palin. (Note: you may be required to perform animal and/or human sacrifices).

So, keep that job and avoid those pesky taxes....Become a "Friend of Barrack" today. ("Friend of Barrack" is a trademark of Harpo Studios, Inc.)

No tax cuts, no spending no stimulus. I have the best stimulus package in the world. Exempt what the Constitution says a Government will fund and then cut 800 billion from Federal Government Spending. We will pay off our Government Debt in less than 10 years and we would be able to cut all taxes in half or more. The dollar would skyrocket overnight making all imported goods cheaper.

Yes indeed, this tax cut nonsense is ridiculous - an extra $9 in my pay check will buy me a pack of cigarettes but doesn't help anyone out who is loosing his/her job. I am so sick of Republicans and their holier than thou, tax-cuts will save the economy attitude I can hardly stand it. Stop licking your wounds in public and go do your jobs....your job is not tearing Obama down every chance you get. He won - get over it.

WEW, the main people on this page screaming about welfare have either received themselves or need to receive it. What is so horrible about investing in education, healthcare, and energy. Bloomberg even admits that tax cuts do not relieve an ailing economy. I know many of you are following the Limbaugh relief package, but I like to depend upon educated people for a change. PS – I am a Republican. Man, we seem bent on losing.

This is a joke! The republican senators don't understand that tax cuts and rebates will do nothing because that money will be put away! The people voted Obama in for a reason! The repubs are trying to stand up to this so they can take some spotlight back! Hence why they voted an idiot like Steele in to lead the party

the repubs are a joke. They are going to give Obama all the grief they can and now that they have that cartoon looking character steele as RNC what a loser he is it's gong to be even harder for Obama. I say the hell with them allPresident you and the dems run the show, the dumb repubs have had a shot at it for 8 years, enough said.

The House Republicans should not be celebrating. They should be ashamed. With the country spiraling deeper and deeper into a financial crisis, they stand by and do nothing.

House Republicans believe that the free market can solve the enormous problems we are facing now. Then I think the free market should be employed in their districts. There should be no federal money spent in the districts of the Republicans that voted against the stimulus package. Let them use the free market. The rest of us could use those funds for schools, bridges and other "shovel-ready" projects in our districts.

Let me get this straight...the Grand Obstructinist Party does everything in it's power to prevent theis stimuloas package all while screaming that we need a plan right away. And if the plan isn't done thier way, ie tax breaks like the ones that brought so much success the last eight years then...no one wants to listen to them...meanwhile President Obama has been reachng across the isle, holding meetings with them, cocktail parties, constant communication.

I don't fully understand the GOP's love affair with the "Tax Cut". Didn't Reagan try cutting taxes based on the idea of the Laffer Curve and it was a complete disaster?!

What you guys forget is that US citizens pays its government one of the lowest tax rates in the world. The economics of cutting taxes in the US don't make sense.

I hope GOP will release their version of the stimulus bill soon so we can see where they stand on the issue.

@TCM – ignorant liberals. I don't believe a liberal got us into this hell...It was a right wing conservative, remember?

Give us a stimulus that is a STIMULUS not a barrel of pork!

how about to think about :
new energy sources, green buldings, cars, better education for all, fix the banking system, we need jobs in health, industry, science, education. Why not to alternate 2 workers on job – half and half of time? Some people are so overworked. Working week is cca 40 -60 hours, so it can be divided in 20-30 and 20-30 hours between 2 people. = work for more people, less job unemployment. Get the jobs here in USA, not overseas. Be more productive, more modest in personal greed.
Unfortunatelly people do need supervisions, otherwise a some of them turn shamelessly greedy.

Contraceptives will not help economy...

controll bonuses, welfare, medical, teen pregnacies, people who live on welfare by having more and more children = educate them.
Control those greedy CEOs and others.

Yes we need a stimulus but nots Obamas bloated socialist stimulus! You the tax payers will be paying for it..

Need the stimulus package in order to advert the States from raising taxes at the state level---–dahhhhhhhhh!! I calculated the 890 million stimulus among the working Americans--–the state rate is much better-–but the states are going to raised their taxes anyway--because the stimulus package cause and effect want have an effect for a least 2 years--–and they can't wait.

I need a job first before a tax cut

no jobs, tax cut doesn't make any sense....

why give tax cut to corporations that got us into this mess in the first place....they're just collecting tax cuts from the govt as bonuses for CEO's while hiring more people from India to take american jobs!

the republiklans one-minded idealogy of tax cuts for big corporations and the mega rich individuals have failed us for the last 8yrs!

let's create jobs for the american people....NO MORE TAX CUTS FOR THE RICH!

Unfortunately, the GOP is still the party of the "few" and not the party for all Americans. The GOP is also the party of: "We can't" "We won't" "No way" "Now how" and "Absolutely not!" Is there anything the old guys at the GOP can do but say "No?" I am thankful for some guys like Gov. Douglas, unfortunately, there aren't enough brave GOP members in Congress to make a difference.

Well, GOP, I can be thankful that you are certainly true to your nature and you no longer can blame Bush for all of your failures. These are your failures now! The Dems will surely win the W.H. and Congress in 2012; you guys may win Georgia only!

This stimulus plan is nothing but spend, spend and more spend. Where are the jobs?

REPUBLICANS WON'T EVEN LET THEIR COLLEGUE TAKE THE COMMERCE SECRETARY JOB BECAUSE THEY ARE AFRAID TO GIVE DEMS 60 SEATS! "COUNTRY FIRST" HUH REPUBLICANS; NOT!!! AMERICANS ARE STARTING TO SEE WHAT THE REPUBLICAN PARTY REALLY STANDS FOR, AND IT AIN'T COUNTRY FIRST NOR PATRIOTISM WHICH THEY LIKE TO POLITICIZE SO MUCH!!! GET READY FOR ANOTHER ROAST IN 2010!!!

THE GOP REFUSE TO LISTEN TO TOP ECONOMISTS THAT OBAMA HAS CONSULTED. THE GOP ARE WAY OUT OF THEIR LEAGUE ON THIS ONE AND ARE LOOKING MORE AND MORE LIKE IGNORANT FOOLS.

voting against the stimulas wont help ! just make the cuts in it, THEN send it to the house..and quickly !

The republicans still think tax cuts for everything is the answer. It has never worked and never will. TCM and Allen your rhetoric is exactly why the GOP is in this conundrum right now. The majority voted overwhelmingly for Obama. You need to accept that and move on. We lived 8 years with Bush being called cowards and traitors. People have had enough and want something different. The richest people in the country have dramatically increased their wealth while the rest of us have either stayed the same or lost money. I realize after this election that you pissed off republican white guys will never change. You cannot win elections anymore with just the white vote. So you should get used to democratic rule for quite sometime.

What about the core principals? How can they take the money? Operation Chaos is going as planned. Soon the Govs will be against the Congress, Steele will be against Rush

OH YES CUT THOSE TAXES FOR THOSE BIG REPUBLICANS -
MORE IN THE OLD POCKET AND OFF – SHORE BANK ACCOUNTS – THEY DIDN'T GET RICH ENOUGH IN 8 YEARS DID THEY??????

It will not work. Check the history of stimulus packages that have been tried before by other presidents. None have worked.

I think a few of the obstructionists might get voted out next time – tee hee hee he

The level of economic illiteracy on display in these comments is simply staggering.

I've actually read where people have commented, "Tax cuts don't help people without jobs." Really? Where in the hell do you think jobs come from in the first place?! They come from investment... investment of money from people being allowed to keep more of THEIR OWN MONEY in the form of lower taxes.

(So many people do not realize that "tax cuts" simply mean, "We, the federal government, will steal LESS from you this year and you can keep more of what YOU earn.")

When people say "tax cuts for the rich," well, when the "rich" pay the overwhelming majority of all income taxes in this country, when there actually IS a tax cut, don't you think it should go to those who actually pay the lion's share of the taxes? How can you give a tax cut to someone who doesn't pay taxes?

Generations ago, activists pushed for mandatory public education for all children. Great, now let's take it a step further...
DEMAND MANDATORY K-12 ECONOMICS EDUCATION IN OUR PUBLIC SCHOOLS NOW!

Who cares if there are about 1 billion dollars worth of items in the stimulus package that some people don't like (birth control stuff, etc, etc.) The whole package is about 819 billion – what difference does 1 billion, in or out, really make? Get real! Stop with the foolishness of arguing the small stuff and get on with it. Republicans just need to go away – far, far away.

What is it the GOP Dont get Tax cuts do not work have we not tried them? If some of these states go broke then Police will lose their Jobs crime rates will go up, people who are Unemployed will not Continue to get Unemployment Benifits not to Mention more and more People will lose Healthcare and for those Unemployed who cant feed their Children will starve because there is no money For the Food-Stamp program. not to Mention the state will have to raise Property taxes To get the money from somewhere Now I ask the do nothing Gop how in the Hell Tax cuts alone will fund these Programs?

The problem with tax cuts and reduced spending is that in the end it will probably cost more money. People are going to continue receiving state issued handouts and if tax cuts are included in that scenario then that's going to drive the deficit through the extraneous roof that's already miles above (or below) the budget.

For Christ's sake can the Republicans just give the American people a break? We elected a Democratic president and a Democratic congress. Let them do what we elected them to do. You can cater to your base but most Americans voted for the Democrats. The Democrats shouldn't abadon the idelas of those that elected them to cater to your base.

Stimulate Us? You can throw it "North, South, East, and West. It is still just the USA... That is not the way out..... All you do is Isolate your part of America... The World will just "Counter-Balance" everything you do... Dito!

The GOP has been disparaging the aid to states in the stimulus package, btu they fail to point out that states, which must balance their budgets, will be forced to raise taxes to provide vital serivces at the local level that Congressional republicans have no responsibility for. In fact, a vote against helping the states to some extent, is a vote for higher local taxes.

It seem that the ones that is opposing the stimulate bill have a better ideas. So what is it? I waiting -- I didn’t think you knew.

Oh! God, hell is too hot, so can I come in where it is cool? I don’t think so; you didn’t live up to any of my words.

Why are the Repubs want a tax cut for the wealthy but not the poor. Peple we need to rally around the Repubs and put them to shame. They need to know that we do not want tax cuts, we want jobs, housing and food.

All this talk....why haven't the Repubs drafted a stimulus package themselves????????

All I hear is compalining with no solution.......................

While I agree that the stimulus bill needs to be pushed through as quick as possible, I also don't think there should be any items in the bill that doesn't provide jobs or address the reason for this financial meltdown..,.the housing market. Tax cuts have not worked in the past and they won't work now. Until our politicians address the housing crisis, there won't be a solution to the economy. It's what started this meltdown and it's what will continue to be a drag on our economy until it's fixed.

Look at the jobs created by a home being built and/or sold. From the concrete poured for the foundation to the sheets put on the bed after someone moves in, thousands of products are used and purchased. These guys have to get their heads out of their butts and fix the beginning of the problem, not just throw money around.

While I agree that the stimulus bill needs to be pushed through as quick as possible, I also don't think there should be any items in the bill that doesn't provide jobs or address the reason for this financial meltdown..,.the housing market. Tax cuts have not worked in the past and they won't work now. Until our politicians address the housing crisis, there won't be a solution to the economy. It's what started this meltdown and it's what will continue to be a drag on our economy until it's fixed.

Look at the jobs created by a home being built and/or sold. From the concrete poured for the foundation to the sheets put on the bed after someone moves in, thousands of products are used and purchased. These guys have to get their heads out of their butts and fix the beginning of the problem, not just throw money around.

The problem is the depletion of jobs due to the "perception" of the market. It's Simple Logic at it core... more American Jobs equals more spending, people can at least try to pay their mortgages, more American revenue circulating in the US...the creation of new businesses as a result... thus the creation of even more jobs, thus the economy coming back online in lieu of greed basically depleting the free market then blaming everything on home owners after their jobs were cut in the first place due to the greed of share holders. You are not fooling me!

Why, why, why.
Why is there a need for a give-away??? It doesn't matter if it is an individual, a city, a state on the US . . . the need is now because of overspending and not being able to 'stay within the income'. But, I guess if you are some congressmen, you can get this done by not paying your taxes.

What we REALLY need is for the federal government to cut taxes on business and stop spending money it doesn't have.

well...it needs to be an ECONOMIC STIMULUS.....not a SLUSH FUND FOR ENTITLEMENT REPLENISHMENT.....Which is what Obama's proposal is....any sane person that can read above a 5th grade level can see that 90% or more of these funds are going to things that need replenishment; welfare...school debt....etc..etc....not job creation. I hope the GOP and any sensible democrat (if there is such a thing) will stand their ground and do what's right for America. VOTE AGAINST THE ENTITLEMENT PACKAGE.......Obama's agenda does nothing but put us further in the hole, with no prospect for recovery...is that what you ignorant libs what to leave for your children?

CNN's coverage of this bill has been 7 to 1 from the Republican side. The Republican's tax cuts will not work. They are not acting on country first but with the media stirring up dissent looking at the 2010 election!

Tax cuts didn't keep us from getting into this mess and they sure won't be able to get us out of it. Time for the GOP to cowboy up and make the interests of the nation, not just the Rush Limbaughs of the world, a priority!!! You lost the election for a reason, now recognize why that is and act responsibly for once!!!

Republicans to America: "Drop dead!"

Then have your Repub comrades in the Senate vote on it.

Smart cars for gov officials would save money in the long run.

Infrastructure jobs would last longer than a one time rebate check.

Comeon lawmakers... get your act together. This breaking along party lines crap is totally what we voted against.

Way to go Gov. Douglas!

What the GOP needs to do is to take a crash course in Economics so they can understand the historic basis on which they seem to put so much of the American peoples future on. What they need to do is understand that of the last 3 decades the republican party and its economic theories have ruled in Washington and this country and this is the result of over 28 years beginning with the trickle down theory from Regan to the recession of George Bush 41 to the near depression of George Bush 43; GOP we are dying here and you don't seem to understand you have no clothes. LET IT GO.

Yes we do....but not the one being proposed. It won't help anyone, it just fulfills campaign favors.