(Thanks to Congressman Doggett for this post. - promoted by Katherine Haenschen)
To Preserve a Lifeline for More than 6 Million Americans
In my hometown of Austin, there's a Texan named Anne. Anne was Vice President for an Austin company that borrowed too much. When the economy tanked, her company tanked too, closing its doors and leaving 88 people in the Austin-area -- one of the best economies in the country -- without a job. Without extended unemployment benefits, Anne says a difficult situation would have become disastrous situation. She has been unemployed for three years. Earlier this year, Anne said that of the 118 jobs for which she had applied, she had gotten 3 interviews. In two of those, employers said that she was overqualified. Unfortunately, being overqualified doesn't put food on the table, and doesn't keep a roof over your head.
If it weren’t for unemployment insurance, she says that she and her husband would have been unable to keep their home and purchase necessities to get by, including prescription medications. She is discouraged by the situation and remarked that the real shame is that her story is far too common. This scenario has played out in homes of millions of other people. It has happened to folks from Michigan, from New York and California. It has hit families in every state across our nation.
Don't Blame the Unemployed for Unemployment
We must work to create jobs. But we must not forget those who need this critical support while they search for one. Unfortunately, Republicans continue to blame unemployment on the unemployed, sounding a lot like the old 1950s doo-wop song by the Silhouettes called “Get a Job”— “Preaching and a crying” telling folks that they are “lying about a job that they never could find.” At a time when there are about five unemployed Americans for every job opening, it is clear that many people remain jobless not because of their lack of wanting to work—but a lack of work.
Congress has never allowed emergency unemployment benefits to expire when the unemployment rate is anywhere close to its current level of 9.1 percent. If this Republican Congress fails to act, more than two million Americans who lost their jobs through no fault of their own will lose their unemployment benefits by the middle of February, including 124,000 in Texas. More than 6 million will lose benefits during 2012.
What my bill would do
So today, I introduced legislation to do two things: continue the current federal unemployment programs through 2012, and for one year, provide some immediate assistance to states grappling with insolvency problems within their own UI programs. The legislation would relieve insolvent states from interest payments on federal loans for one year and place a one-year moratorium on higher federal unemployment taxes that are imposed on employers on states with outstanding loans. According to preliminary estimates, these solvency provisions will stop $5 billion in tax hikes on employers in nearly two dozen states, as we as provide $1.5 billion in interest relief. The legislation also provides a solvency bonus to those states not borrowing from the federal government.
Economists agree: extending unemployment benefits good for workers, good for economy
Despite what has become another talking point for Republicans and their “Jobless” agenda, there is near unanimity among economists that few government expenditures have more positive, stimulative effect on our economy than insurance payments to the unemployed, who use this lifeline to pay the bare necessities while they search for another job. A recent estimate from the Urban Institute says every dollar the federal government spends in federal unemployment generates two dollars of economic growth. The Economic Policy Institute has estimated that preventing UI benefits from expiring could prevent the loss of over 500,000 jobs.
The federal unemployment programs provided over $3 billion in benefits in Texas this year. Imagine the hit Texas would take if those benefits simply stopped, and along with it spending on milk, clothes, rent, mortgage and other basics.
Plug this hole in the safety net now
Creating jobs cannot happen overnight. We cannot pretend that there are enough jobs for everyone who wants one today. We cannot pretend that the unemployed can survive without this support. We cannot pretend that this is a problem for which there is no solution. This is the solution: We must extend federal unemployment insurance for those who need this critical support while they search for a job—and we must do it now.
A week after Election Day and it feels like the storm surge completely washed away the Texas Democratic Party. While on Election Day nationally Democrats had bright spots and rays of hope, in Texas it was completely dark and there were no rays of sunshine breaking through the clouds. After spending years on electoral strategy and millions of dollars on campaigns, Texas Democrats are probably at their lowest point in since the Civil War. Every single statewide office is held by a Republican, from the Governor's mansion on down. Republicans have a near super majority in the State House of Representatives, and hold more seats than at any time since Reconstruction. While Republicans do not hold a super majority in the State Senate procedural rules give them significant power, and much of the controversial legislation that was blocked by Democrats in the House during the last session was originally passed by the Senate. Make no doubt about it: Republicans are in complete control and there is not a damn thing Democrats can do about it.
There has been a significant amount of analysis of the election, and inquiry into how Republicans where able to make such significant gains and why Democrats where unable to compete. First it must be realized that this election did not happen in a vacuum, and there where several factors at work besides the candidates themselves. National politics played a significant role in the election in Texas, as across the nation Democrats took the brunt of the electorates' dissatisfaction with the economy. Despite the Republican establishment implicit involvement in the collapse of the economy, voters turned against the party in power because of persistently high unemployment. Strait ticket voting for Republicans trickled down the ballot and impacted the outcome of every election in Texas. Governor Rick Perry was also able to effectively determine the terms of the choice in the election, as the 10 year incumbent was able to paint himself as an outsider and paint Bill White as connected to Washington, D.C.
Chairman Richie stated the following in an e-mail:
Texas Republican Senators Kay Bailey Hutchison and John Cornyn are playing politics with Sotomayor's nomination despite the fact that she is clearly more qualified to serve on the Court than many nominees they have supported in the past. They are pandering to the extreme right wing elements of their party and denying our voice in support of her historic nomination. Take action now to make your voice heard today!
If you don't have time to take action immediately, you can forward this e-mail to your friends, families, and neighbors, or contribute to the TDP so we can fight against Hutchison and Cornyn's partisan politics.
Tomorrow, we will send more information (and another slideshow) about Hutchison and Cornyn's opposition to Sotomayor. For now, though, join Texas Democrats across the state in standing in support of Judge Sonia Sotomayor.
Ed. Note: The following 2,100 word piece is lengthy, but please read in full. Thank you.
Texas Governor Rick Perry issued a strongly worded letter this week for his campaign to be chosen as Republican nominee for the President of the United States in 2012 for Texas Governor in 2010. The letter is large on rhetoric -- and even larger in common sense hypocrisy. However, it is important for its insight into the Governor's current philosophy on the state of the Republican Party:
Drawing an Old Line in the Sand: Perry's Framing Looks Backward, Not Forward
Message from Texas Gov. Rick Perry: We have only begun to fight
Dear Friend,
While I was certainly disappointed by the recent national election results, I am not disheartened. If anything, the last two elections have confirmed one important fact: Republicans should not only campaign as conservatives, but govern as conservatives too.
The Democrats have won a battle, not a war. And when the Democrat definition of “change” is finally clear - when Americans realize that Obama, Pelosi and Reid are left of liberal – our resurgence will begin.
We can either use this time to wander through the wilderness of discontent, complaining and carping about the state of our party and the left-leaning media, or we can start planning the rebirth of the Republican brand by espousing a conservatism that puts people to work, that believes in the ingenuity of private enterprise, that functions from a place of optimism and faith in the individual more than the institutions of government.
Perry begins by challenging that President Bush's form of governance -- the way Senator Hutchison and national Republicans led the Party from 2000 through 2008 -- is not "conservative" government. In theory, then, he would have to be promoting his own form of government as the better option -- one where Republicans "govern as conservatives too." Furthermore, he draws traditional partisan lines -- liberal vs. conservative -- to frame his message.
Let's see what he uses as supporting arguments and evidence...
Now That You're Comfortable, Let Me Inspire You
So far, Perry has only laid out generic arguments regarding old battle lines. While it may appear backward-looking, it rings true to the heart of the principle of conservatism: that things are fine the way they are. More importantly, it harkens to a very old religious idea: God's plan is perfect, but humans are not.
Perry's opening salvo, therefore, harkens to old lines in the sand not because he necessary believes them, but because he wants to make his audience -- a conservative, Republican audience -- comfortable. Now that they are comfortable, he tries to show them how to wear an old pair of shoes in a new way:
This is not the time for timidity - but for bold ideas that crystallize the differences between two opposing philosophies.
Some think that the political pendulum will swing back now that the Democrats have total control over Washington. While I certainly see an opportunity for the re-emergence of a conservative movement focused on lunch pale [sic] issues, it won’t happen if we simply offer opposition - only if we offer an alternative.
We cannot merely object to socialized medicine, we must offer consumer-driven alternatives. We cannot simply say “no” to the failed status quo in education, but provide a vision that empowers parents and educators to offer a better product that prepares more students for the jobs of a high-tech economy. And we cannot allow the true party of big government and spending deficits - the Democrat Party - to cling to the mantle of fiscal responsibility simply because Washington Republicans blew it with twelve years of exploding earmarks and spending sprees.
We have to offer an alternative.
Perry's message in these paragraphs is simple: he repeatedly calls for new, bold alternatives -- but using "details" that are tried and true principles of conservative-led government. Again, the fact that they have always failed in the past is not because their belief system is flawed, but because flawed individuals were in charge. That's why:
Consumer-driven alternatives (individual) are necessary over socialized medicine (government)
Parents and educators (individuals) must lead the way on education reform, not the "status quo" (government).
Washington Republicans (individuals) caused the country to believe Democrats (government) were fiscally responsible.
The irony, of course, is how remarkably "big government" Perry has acted as Governor during his term. One only need be familiar with what he promoted as Governor of Texas on the issues he's outlined: health care, education, and government spending:
Health Care - Proposed that the state should make it mandatory for every sixth grade girl to receive the HPV vaccine in schools. (Source: "Perry's HPV vaccine order draws backlash from GOP" -- Austin American-Statesman, 2/6/07).
Public Education - Perry helped push the school finance reform that requires school districts -- including those parents and educators Perry touts -- to only increase their funding through local elections, and only then by a small amount. In the mean time, as the costs for public schools continue to rise, the funding from the state remains static at 2005 and 2006 levels. Perry's school finance system is anything but responsive to parents and educators. (Source: "More Texas school districts ask voters to raise taxes" -- Houston Chronicle, 8/28/08).
Fiscal Responsibility -- Governor Perry is most proud of his zero-based budgeting style. However, as Texans for Fiscal Responsibility (TFR) point out, both he and Senator Hutchison live in "political houses with a fair amount of glass." TFR points to his support of the business tax, which has been a uniquely terrible disaster for Texas' businesses. (Source: "Business tax shortfall may erase surplus" -- Houston Chronicle, 11/26/08).
Perry's bold, new ideas are old, tired failures for those familiar with him in Texas.
(To continue reading my response to Governor Perry's letter, click "There's More")...
(Additional perspectives from Thursday night. - promoted by Karl-Thomas Musselman)
We began our day with the Delegation Breakfast at the Red Lion Inn as usual. However, Thursday morning was different. Sheila Jackson Lee came to the podium. She had us close the doors to the room and had everyone take a seat.
And then she announced, "The Red Cross is here!", and so, with her speech, the healing of Texas Democrats continued... She reminded us that the task at hand is far larger than our emotions. She reminded us that voter suppression IS a reality. And we MUST persevere for our collective right to vote. We were left with a sense of duty and anticipation for the work ahead.
Next, I was approached by Rep. Rafael Anchia (Dallas)for a quick introduction. Now I know why they call him a rising star.
Before heading to Invesco Stadium, I attended the Faith in Action Caucus organized by the Obama Campaign. The Caucus is symbolic in its effort to cooperate with America's various religious group by having us listen to each other even though we don't agree with each other. Fascinating concept... The panelists of different faiths spoke about humanitarian issues that we can all agree on like: stopping hunger, slave traffiking, and preserving civil liberties.
Inauguration Ceremony:
I found a quick line into the stadium by following a small group of attendees hustling behind a Jewish guy. I heard the other line had a 3 hour wait! I am glad I found that group...
The stadium was full of hustle and bustle, yet traffic was moving smoothly. (The organization at this Convention has been amazing considering how many people came.) I had asked my Latina friend (and fellow Delegate) from El Paso to save me a seat. And she secured awesome seats in the front row of the back half of Texas Delegatation Seating. This allowed for us to get photographed like crazy!
When I got there, she took me with her on the quest to find the Rev. Jesse Jackson! You see, another Delegate, Renee of Dallas, had a sign with a picture of Sen. Obama and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the words "Barack Obama Fulfilling Dr. King's Dream." This sign was getting SO MUCH attention. So my friend Isela took me along as the three of us ladies: an African American, Latina, and me, got pictures taken like we were the Pussycat Dolls or something! (Disclaimer: I am in no way endorsing the Pussycat Dolls - lyrics are too racy.)
I have one pic of us with Jesse Jackson's wife, one with Jesse Jackson in the background, and one with Spike Lee in the background. Later on, Spike Lee came by to take a picture of Renee with her famous sign.
Now, let me tell you something about the Texas Delegation. We rocked! Texas showed amazing spirit and demonstrated our true grit as Democrats living in W'04 country. A young group of Texas Delegates waved a huge "Texans for Obama" banner. Isela's friend Lily draped herself in a huge Texas flag. Many of our Texas delegates were outfitted with outstanding Texas pins, decorated hats, and what-nots 'n doo-hickies. (I had a $2.50 Texas flag bandana from Sam Moon that I held with Isela.)
Texas Democrats should be so proud! Really, we showed a lot of spirit! Some of the other Delegations looked lame compared to us.
The program was awesome - you couldn't help but sing along with all the musicians who performed or the songs they played in the background like: Born in the U.S.A., A Change Would Do You Good by Sherryl Crow, or Only in America by some country singer. (Stopped listening to country after 9-11 and Toby Kieth.)
The crowd was fully cognizant that they were not only witnessing history - they were making it. They did the wave several times around just like we did at the Dallas Obama Rally at Reunion Arena - remember that?!
While all the speeches were great, I couldn't help but focus on crowd reaction. It was great to be able to chant, "Eight is enough!" with thousands of others who feel the same way.
When Sen. Obama left the podium, the final Benediction was prayed. But in a refreshing show of religious diversity, the Rev. asked us to end the prayer in the way that we would normally end our own prayers. So, at his count of three, I cried, "Ameen".
Then, firecrackers flared, and confetti and streamers blasted into the air accompanied by music and lyrics that tugged at every patriotic heartstring in that stadium. Sasha played with the fallen confetti on the stage as we all looked around in awe of the moment knowing it would forever be a part of our life experience. Isela stood on her chair and waved her small American flag high in the air as she just looked up at the sky and cried...
And so, my friends and family from Irving, Dallas, SD 9, the rest of Texas, and from sea to shining sea - just know that we will restore America to its glory. And we will hold our government accountable to its people and to its responsibilty as a just world leader. It's about time, don't you think?
The UT-Austin Government Department released the cross tabs of a July poll on public opinion in Texas. Among the more interesting results is that Democratic Party identifiers outnumber Republican Party identifiers by five percentage points, Dem 35%, Rep 30%. In 2003, according to all Gallup Polls in Texas, Republican Party identifiers outnumbered Democratic Party identifiers 41% to 24%. By 2007, the results favored Republican Party identifiers 33% to 28%. There are also interesting results in policy positions by party identification, ethnicity, income, education, etc. The UT-Austin Government Department has provided a useful tool to researchers of Texas politics and government. Thanks to James Henson and Daron Shaw for their work.
The report is here: http://texaspolitics.laits.ute... The cross tabs are here: http://texaspolitics.laits.ute...
If you're in Austin this weekend, swing by the Obama tailgating party Saturday afternoon. We'll promote Senator Obama's Return to Austin on Saturday, Nov. 17 by flyering tailgate areas, and then we'll watch the game and enjoy some hearty Texas BBQ.
Saturday, Nov. 10th
Longhorn BBQ & Tailgate for Barack Texas v. Texas Tech (Game Starts at 2:30pm CST)
Some historical perspective on state Rep. Kirk England's (HD-106) decision to put his convictions above political convenience and join the Democratic Party. Before we do that, England deserves congratulations for his courage. We can only imagine the embarrassment of the GOP, and they must have put enormous pressure on him not to leave the extremists of the Republican Party behind. England put his principles above politics, and his principles are in line with Democrats.
Also, Katy Hubener and the unified Democratic in the Dallas-Fort Worth area deserve credit, great credit, for opening the door to this harbinger of the history-shaping forces at work in Texas. Thanks, Katy, and thanks to all those who have helped turn around the DFW area.
When the GOP began its takeover bid in Texas, it started by recruiting moderate Democrats to switch parties. This began around 1984. Their argument was spurious at the time -- that the Democratic Party had moved too far to the left. That was always more spin that fact, but nonetheless, the migration of Democratic state representatives to the Republican Party was, sad to say, history shaping.
Now history is on the other foot, so to speak. The GOP HAS become a party of extremists, turning their backs on Texans from all walks of life. Middle class families forced to borrow huge sums of money to pay public college tuition, loans that turned out to be little more than kickback schemes. Hundreds of thousands of children without health care, millions of Texas uninsured or underinsured. Public education long forgotten. The physical infrastucture crumbling, state parks underfunded and public land being given away to privateers.
Whenever we hear stories about “the good old days,” they always involve some sort of line meant to make you feel lazy. Lines such as “I had to walk a mile through the rain and snow,” or “you kids don’t know how easy you have it,” are not unfamiliar to us. In some cases, though, the good old days were easier than they are now. For a long stretch of Texas history, Democrats were in control of government from the state house all the way to the governor. It makes a loyal young Democrat like me wonder: what kind of weather did Texas Democrats have to endure back then?
Texas has been a Democratic stronghold for a long time, stemming all the way from the formation of Texas as a state. “The Republicans back then were not even a viable organization,” says Chandler Davidson, author of Race and Class In Texas Politics. “The Democratic Party in Texas had three wings to it that basically satisfied everyone: there were liberals, conservatives, and moderates all within the one party.”
You can link to TheTexasBlue.com in order to read the rest of the article that I have written. I talked to lots of Texas Democrats that have been around for a while and have watched this state change folks. I hope that you will check it out. I learned a lot while writing it, and with the aspiration that others would too.
(Another good account of the TDP Convention, for those who just can't get enough. - promoted by Phillip Martin)
I attended the convention. I arrived early Thursday and was there till mid-day Sunday. While there was business I needed to attend to as far as my SD5 and Stonewall caucus, I was also there to meet and network with other great Democrats from across the state. This was my main concern.
