Many a Slip Between the Cup and the Lip

As we enter 2012, our President’s numbers are up. The unemployment figures are down. The Stock Market numbers are steady and trending up.

Democrats have regained the high ground as the Republicans continue to shoot themselves in the foot. But, here comes the but, it’s only January. The election is still ten months away.

On Thursday before the House vote on extension of the payroll tax cut, the St Petersburg Times wrote an editorial entitled, “ They (the Republicans) picked party loyalty over you”. The lead stated, “If your taxes go up 10 days from now, you will know who to blame: U.S. House Republicans, including all of those in Florida and Tampa Bay. They are the ones who failed to support bipartisan legislation to extend the payroll tax cut that was overwhelming approved by the Senate. They are the ones who rejected an extension of the long-term unemployment benefits for 3 million Americans. And they are ones who should be held accountable in the next election for their callous indifference to the needs of their constituents.” The three House members from Pinellas & Hernando counties were even pictured.

You would think that would be enough to cause the legislators to run for the hills. Well, not really! On Monday, December 26th, the House members responded. And, you will not believe their defense. Stating the Times editorial was “premature”, the response said the House Republicans were only standing up against “short-term extensions”. Again, they said business owners needed long-term certainty. And, get this. They ended by stating, “That is why the House stood up Tuesday in support of America’s workers, America’s business owners, and America’s doctors and said enough is enough”. So call it spin or call it a deep held convection, it all ignores reality. A deal was struck in the Senate between Senate Democrats and Senate Republicans (the St Petersburg Times editorial pointed out Senator Rubio had joined Senator Nelson in voting to approve the compromise). The deal was agreed to by House Speaker Boehner, but he could not deliver his House caucus. The House Republicans were attempting to re-negotiate the deal after the deal was agreed to (that’s bad faith bargaining) demanding inclusion of the oil pipeline, more budget cuts, and other favored Tea Party Wish List items. Many will believe their nonsense.

So, as 2012 dawns, let us resolve to double our effort to re-elect President Obama and Vice-President Biden and Senator Bill Nelson.

So, Happy New Year to all. Let us get down to work.

Many a Slip Between the Cup and the Lip

President Goen