Recess Roastings: “Was Potentially Crippling My Generation Worth It?”
The Few Dems Willing To Confront Voters Catch Heat for Runaway Spending Agenda
Democrats Expected a Free Ride This August
“After a jam-packed legislative session marked by the passage of controversial bills like Wall Street reform, Democrats will hit the campaign trail armed with talking points to draw distinctions between the two parties. And the Democratic leadership is predicting they will get a gentler reception this time.” (Alex Altman, “Recess ’10: Democrats Work to Ensure a Friendlier Reception This Year,” TIME, 8/2/10)
Recess Roasting: Himes Kicks Off August Roastings with Weak Defense for Failed Spending Spree
Himes made it clear that he stands by his vote for the stimulus plan, that although it may not have been a perfect plan, it helped us turn the corner. He says that when he started to see a bit of economic growth at the end of last year, he started to become more conservative in spending. This garnered a few laughs from the audience as a people were clearly not in agreement.
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However, when Himes informed attendees about an issue coming up, the Bush tax cuts, things started to get loud and heated. Himes assured people that while everyone may want tax cuts, the cost of making these cuts permanent is about $1.5 trillion. “Do not tell me that if we cut taxes that the government will get more revenue,” Himes said. “There is not a moment in this country’s history where that has been true.”
“Liar!” shouted some people, while other voices blended together in an eruption of shouts.
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Himes then opened the floor for questions and comments, the first of which was met by loud applause and cheers.
“I don’t think Congress should do anything, should pass any law, take any step,” said the man. “I don’t believe any of you [in Congress] have read any of the bills you have passed.” He explained that he’s in the auto body business and doesn’t understand why General Motors and Chrysler can be running their parts departments at a loss and be supported by the government, when he and other small businesses struggle to stay afloat, not having anyone to bail them out. “I don’t believe you guys should do anything else except go back and figure out what you can cut,” he concluded as applause burst out around him.
Himes responded, “GM has comeback in a big way,” which was met with snickers. He added that while he is not fully comfortable with government mixing with private businesses, if larger companies like GM go under, much of the Midwest’s economy and jobs also suffer. Throughout the rest of the questions and comments Himes’ answers were met with groans, boos and people talking over him.
One man said he had a problem with bailing out communities that have been fiscally irresponsible, and one woman was upset that while athletes and move stars are getting paid millions, teachers’ jobs and salaries continue to be cut. A young man got up and asked Himes, “Was potentially crippling my generation worth it?” and then proceeded to list all of the things that Himes has voted for that has caused debt. (Elizabeth Connors, “Hostile Crowd Greets Himes at Town Hall Meeting,” Minuteman News Center, 8/11/10)
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