General Feed
Fresh Off the Press
Posted by Doug El Sanadi - November 21, 2008
It looks as though Hillary Clinton will be the new Secretary of State. ... Read more
Cartoon Blogging
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 21, 2008
HT: Tim Wise
... Read more
And this is what the bailout has been like...
Posted by Andrew Moylan - November 21, 2008
Hilarious hat tip: ... Read more
This is how I felt when the bailout passed...
Posted by Andrew Moylan - November 21, 2008
Hilarious hat tip: ... Read more
Calling all Twitter users
Posted by Joshua Culling - November 21, 2008
Just a reminder that NTU and some members of staff are on Twitter; follow us for updates ranging from what Josh had for breakfast to which states are begging for federal bailout money.
NTU: http://www.twitter.com/ntu
Kristina Rasmussen: http://www.twitter.com/kmrasmussen
Andrew Moylan: http://www.twitter.com/... Read more
There they go again XXXI
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 20, 2008
Another in an ongoing series intended to highlight the actions of legislators/governmental officials/bureaucrats/do-gooders who want to expand the nanny state in an attempt to improve your life.
Australians may be facing a toilet tax, according to the Register.com:
Australians could face 'pay as you dump' charges as part of a Toilet... Read more
Starting a New Chapter in Detroit: Eleven
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - November 20, 2008
Following up on yesterday's post urging bankruptcy as the only way to save American cars, here's Mitt Romney on Morning Joe arguing for Chapter 11 not bailouts:
... Read more
2008 Earmark Database Available
Posted by Demian Brady - November 20, 2008
LegiStorm has teamed up with Taxpayers for Common Sense to launch a database of 2008 earmarks. Here is the press release, and here is the bilious pork.... Read more
Flake for Appropriations!
Posted by Andrew Moylan - November 20, 2008
Hey, remember last year when we blogged about the prospect of Jeff Flake on the Appropriations Committee, only to have Republican Leadership ignore us and get slaughtered in this year's election? Good times!
Well, we're getting the band back together! Flake is again putting his hat in the r... Read more
Persistence Pays Off for Anti-Tax Activist
Posted by Demian Brady - November 20, 2008
Local officials were afraid this would happen. The final tally is in and the liberal bastion of Montgomery County, Maryland approved a measure to make it more difficult for the County Council to ex... Read more
Paterson's $21k rug
Posted by Joshua Culling - November 20, 2008
I broke my BlackBerry this morning, so I was already in a questionable mood when I got to the office. NY Gov. David Paterson has exacerbated my condition, upon this report that he is the proud new owner of a $21,000 Turkish rug, purchased at taxpayer expense.
While stressing that she was not familiar with the mansion's rug, Lucille Laufer of th... Read more
SC Comptroller Promotes Transparency
Posted by Doug El Sanadi - November 19, 2008
"And at a time when so many have lost their faith in government and when the cost and spending of government is skyrocketing, sunshine is more important than ever."
Three cheers for a government official so bold about promoting transparency!... Read more
Italian Government Sells Alitalia
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 19, 2008
The BBC is reporting that the Italian government has agreed to sell Italy's bankrupt airline to a private business group. According to the report, "The airline filed for bankruptcy in August, weighed down by high labour costs, strikes, surging oil prices and political interference." Does that sound a bit like anyone that you know -- Detroit perhaps? Perhaps bankruptc... Read more
New RSC Chair
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 19, 2008
Rep. Tom Price (GA) has been nominated to chair the Republican Study Committee, a group of House conservatives, in the 111th Congress.
His NTU Rates Congress 2007 rating = A.... Read more
Tax Foundation Podcast
Posted by Joshua Culling - November 19, 2008
I did a podcast with the Tax Foundation this afternoon about ballot initiative results. You can find it here.... Read more
I'm happy Joe Knollenberg lost...
Posted by Andrew Moylan - November 19, 2008
Joe Knollenberg is (theoretically) a Republican from Michigan's 9th district, where I grew up and my family still lives. Knollenberg lost his Congressional seat in this most recent election and I am HAPPY about it. Why am I so happy? Because Joe Knollenberg doesn't think he's bailing people out with OUR money...
... Read more
Good news from down under
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 19, 2008
Tax cuts could be on their way in New Zealand... ... Read more
Big Labor's Christmas Wish List
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 19, 2008
The Alliance for Worker Freedom has a great list of big labor legislation we're likely to see in the 111th Congress.
... Read more
MyPrivateBallot.com
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 19, 2008
A great ad...
... Read more
NTU Vote Alert on Auto Bailout, Stimulus
Posted by Andrew Moylan - November 19, 2008
November 19, 2008
******************************************
National Taxpayers Union Vote Alert
NTU urges all Senators and Representatives to vote “NO” on the various unemployment insurance, stimulus spending, and auto industry bailout packages that may come before you this week.
Our members know that government doesn’t create wealth; it either redistributes or destroys it. Shifting money from individuals to government programs (many ... Read more
The TARP Bailout Queue
Posted by Demian Brady - November 19, 2008
MoneyNing.com put together a list of the companies that have applied for a bailout via the Troubles Asset Relief Program:
1. First Midwest Bancorp Inc. (FMBI) - Received preliminary approval for about $193 million worth of investment
2. South Financial Group Inc. (TSFG) - Applied
3. CoBiz Financial Inc.... Read more
Quotation of the Day
Posted by Demian Brady - November 19, 2008
Duane Parde, president of the National Taxpayers Union, likened ethanol to a 30-year-old deadbeat still living rent-free in his parent's basement.
"It's time for all of us to march into that basement and say, 'Happy 30th birthday, ethanol — now grow up and get out of our house!' " Parde said.
Link.... Read more
Gov. Paterson and his crew head to DC
Posted by Joshua Culling - November 19, 2008
NY Gov. David Paterson, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, and probable Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith are headed to Washington today to ask for federal bailout money to resolve their pending budget crisis, according the PolitickerNY. They'll be meeting with New York's Congressional delegation, along with House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer and Senate Majority Lead... Read more
Want to Save Detroit? Let Them Go Bankrupt.
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - November 19, 2008
I don't know much about medicine, but I do watch both House and Scrubs. I'm pretty sure that makes me a medical expert.
One thing I've learned from those shows, is that when a vital organ fails you can buy time by hooking a person up to machines. But ultimately, you're going to need a transplant to fix the ... Read more
Carton Blogging -- the Wednesday Edition
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 19, 2008
HT: Tim Wise
... Read more
I present the funniest series of YouTube videos ever created
Posted by Joshua Culling - November 19, 2008
I figured we'd start of this morning with a laugh completely unrelated to fiscal policy. Yesterday at lunch, Andrew Moylan mentioned the video posted below. Naturally when I got home I scoured the intertubes for it. Anyone who grew up in my generation fondly remembers trips to Chuck E Cheese (those such as myself from Toledo, Ohio prefer Major Magic's)...
... Read more
The zig-zagging bailout roils markets and the economy
Posted by Ross Kaminsky - November 19, 2008
It's not really Hank Paulson's fault that he's had to switch gears so many times in the few weeks since the bailout bill was passed. The mandate of the "TARP" has changed at least weekly since then, as Paulson reacts to what he's learning about how it's functioning -- or not functioning.
Still, this sort of chaos was predictable with government getting into areas that it shouldn't, taking on problems that are even bigger than our Federal Treas... Read more
The 145th Anniversary of the Gettysburg Address
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 19, 2008
On November 19, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln delivered his Gettysburg address at the dedication of the Gettysburg national military cemetery. The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History highlights the anniversary of the address by making it the Institute's featured document of the week.
... Read more
Buying in for a Bailout
Posted by Demian Brady - November 18, 2008
CNBC reports a Dutch firm, Aegon, is considering buying a US thrift so it could be eligible for a sweet slice of bailout pie.... Read more
NY Senate Republicans prefer bailouts to spending cuts?
Posted by Doug El Sanadi - November 18, 2008
Posted on behalf of NTU's State Government Affairs Manager, Josh Culling:
NY Gov. David Paterson had proposed $5.2 billion in budget cuts to confront a looming state budget crisis. Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos, a Republican, apparently thought it would be political advantageous to resist the cuts. He first urged a vote on the cuts, which he knew would ... Read more
Paying for firewood in a wooded state park
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 18, 2008
Maine's transparency database allows users to post comments on spending information they view.
This comment by user "upg52" caught my eye (and made me laugh):BAXTER STATE PARK:
Let me try to understand this. Baxter State Park Authority paid Baxter State Park $4,280 for firewood, in o... Read more
Public Transit Needs Help Too
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 18, 2008
Apparently, recent record-high gas prices and spikes in ridership weren't enough to keep America's public transit systems from imploding along with the financial system, state governments, and the auto industry. CQ.com is reporting today that "transit agencies hope Congress will include a provision requiring the Treasury Department to guarantee billions of dollars in financing agreements at risk because of American International Group Inc.'s col... Read more
Just say no to a state bailout
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 18, 2008
Steve Malanga has an excellent guest opinion in the Wall Street Journal on how governors need to learn to use fat years to prepare for lean ones.
He points out how states were in D.C. this time last year demanding a SCHIP spending expansion, but now they're begging for a bailout: "This zigzagging -- beseeching the feds to let them spend mor... Read more
The Georgia Senate Runoff & the FairTax
Posted by Demian Brady - November 17, 2008
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports the FairTax is turning into an important issue in the runoff between Republican incumbent Saxby Chambliss and Democratic challenger Jim Martin.... Read more
You are not alone
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 17, 2008
Governor Mark Sanford (SC) started his Sunday WSJ “Don't Bail Out My State” op-ed with: “I find myself in a lonely position. While many states and local governments are lining up for a bailout from Congress, I went to Washington recently to oppose such bailouts. I may be the only governor to do so.”
I’m pleased to report that you are not alone, Governor Sanfo... Read more
New Yorkers prefer spending cuts to tax hikes, and it's not even close
Posted by Joshua Culling - November 17, 2008
According to a Siena College poll, New York voters overwhelmingly support spending cuts, rather than tax increases, to eliminate a projected $2 billion budget gap.
Seventy-five percent of voters think the state budget gap of $2 billion for this fiscal year should be closed by cutting spending, while 10 percent support increasing taxes and nine per... Read more
How McCain Could Have Bailed Out Taxpayers
Posted by Andrew Moylan - November 17, 2008
In today's print and online versions of the DC Examiner, I make the argument that McCain could have protected taxpayers, improved his chances of being elected President, and perhaps more importantly, changed the course of the bailout, in one fell swoop.
By opposing the bailout, McCain could have separated himself from the unpo... Read more
Thoughts on an Auto Bailout
Posted by Andrew Moylan - November 17, 2008
NTU sent a letter opposing a $25 billion auto bailout as Congress apparently gears up to work on one this week.
Two interesting thoughts...
First, as an aside, I heard that organized labor raised $80 million for this year's presidential election. Am I the only one who thinks maybe they should have instead raised $80 million for their retirement and healt... Read more
Tax Foundation Sales Tax Rate Map
Posted by Joshua Culling - November 17, 2008
Joseph Henchman prepared a useful map of sales taxes in the United States.... Read more
Required Bailout Reading for the Weekend
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - November 16, 2008
Prof. Russ Roberts, writing for NPR, has some interesting thoughts on the problem with the bailout: Hank Paulson. According to Roberts:
When no one knows how the rules of the game are going to change — and they seem to change from week to week — who wants to take a risk? Who wants to borrow money? Who wants to invest? Business and consumers a... Read more
Carton Blogging
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 14, 2008
HT: TaxGuru
... Read more
Auto Bailout: Lemon Socialism
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 14, 2008
Says Charles Krauthammer for National Review Online:
Saving Detroit means saving it from bankruptcy. As we have seen with the airlines, bankruptcy can allow operations to continue while helping shed fatally unsupportable obligations. For Detroit, this means release from ruinous wage deals with their astronomical benefits (the ... Read more
Transparency: Achieved in Louisiana, Progressing in Montana
Posted by Doug El Sanadi - November 14, 2008
Spending transparency has come to Louisiana! Check out the new government spending database, LA Trac (Louisiana Accountability and Transparency). The database resulted from an executive order by Governor Jindal and the authorization of the legislature. As the Commissioner of Administration, Angele Davis, ... Read more
State Taxes
Posted by Demian Brady - November 14, 2008
TaxGirl has begun what should be an interesting series of reviews of tax policy in each state of the Republic.
Here's her intro to the series. She's also looking for feedback:I really do welcome personal anecdotes about your experiences in various states. I’m especially interested in folks who have mo... Read more
A Simpsons Parable
Posted by Demian Brady - November 14, 2008
Here's some levity for a dreary, cloudy (at least it is in DC) Friday.
In the 1998 episode "Trash of the Titans," Homer Simpson is elected as Springfield's Sanitation Commissioner after running on the slogan, ""Can't Someone Else Do It?"
Thanks to Fox's ruthless, Internet-trolling team of lawyers, only this montage clip is available of Homer's campaign theme song, "The Garbage Man Can":
... Read more
Hurry, holiday shoppers! Is a sales tax coming to the Internet?
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 14, 2008
According to Forbes, a web sales tax is looming.
Here’s why the tax grabbers should be stopped.
... Read more
Way Cooler Than Those Nerdy Segways
Posted by Demian Brady - November 13, 2008
Coming soon from the Defense agency that gave us the Internet: flying cars!... Read more
That's the Government for Ya
Posted by Demian Brady - November 13, 2008
The Administration and Congress stampeded head over heels to get the $700 billion financial bailout package passed into law, and since then it turns out there has been much foot dragging and delay when it comes to oversight of the program. (By the way, we were told Paulson needed authority to go out there and buy up the toxic asse... Read more
A Closer Look at the Big Three Auto Makers
Posted by Christy Paavola - November 13, 2008
As lawmakers contemplate giving more taxpayers' money to the Big Three auto makers, Michelle Malkin received an interesting letter from an auto industry worker that highlights some of the reasons these unionized companies are in need of a bailout. The letter states:
Their business practices are not a tax payer problem, b... Read more
Governator catches bailout fever
Posted by Joshua Culling - November 13, 2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger has asked the federal government to give some bailout money to the states as part of a stimulus package while "insisting that such aid would not be a bailout" and insisting that "the important thing is not to confuse spending with investing."... Read more
Taxes and the Economy
Posted by Demian Brady - November 13, 2008
Amity Shlaes warns that the expected Democratic tax hikes - especially on capital gains - of 2009 will undermine efforts to restore the economy.... Read more
Three possible tax hikes out west
Posted by Joshua Culling - November 13, 2008
Governors in Nevada, California, and Oregon have hinted at the possibility of tax hikes in the near future.... Read more
Should the government stop dumping money into a giant hole?
Posted by Joshua Culling - November 13, 2008
Warning: there is one instance of the s-word in this hilariously relevant video from the Onion.
... Read more
Wiki Your Way to Transparency
Posted by Doug El Sanadi - November 12, 2008
For taxpayer activists, one of the most important issues is transparency in government spending. If we can see how government officials use taxpayer dollars, then we can hold those officials accountable for their actions. Today, the National Taxpayers Union is announcing a project that will help you promote government transparency in your state or locale.
You may have visited www.... Read more
Subsidizing Failure
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - November 12, 2008
Be sure to check out today's Cato podcast on, "What to do with GM?" Hint: The answer isn't subsidizing abject failure.
... Read more
Even More Estimates of Obama's Health Plan
Posted by Demian Brady - November 12, 2008
Back in October, the Heritage Foundation reviewed several competing analyses of Obama's health care plan. Heritage concluded that the plan would reduce the number of uninsured, expand government control, and lead to considerable increases in federal spending.... Read more
Another Estimate on Obama's Health Care Plan
Posted by Demian Brady - November 12, 2008
During the campaign, Obama said his health plan would cost $65 billion a year. The Washington Post editorialized that he was given himself credit for savings that might not materialize, they put the price tag at $110 billion. Economist Jonat... Read more
No Easy Ride
Posted by Demian Brady - November 12, 2008
While Congress is planning on throwing more money at the auto industry, a Brit newspaper reports that Obama's team is studying Manchester's car congestion tax to see if it can be brought across the pond.... Read more
Chicago on the Paulson Plan
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - November 12, 2008
The University of Chicago School of Business has weighed in on the bailout. Here's the conclusion:
We analyze the market response to the revised Paulson plan and show that, possible systemic effects aside, this plan does not create any value in the banking sector: it amounts to a massive redistribution from taxpayers to bondholders. Whil... Read more
Deja Vu
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - November 12, 2008
Over in The Corner John Derbyshire is experiencing a bout of deja vu with our fearless leaders' plan to bailout the auto industry:
It's all a bit too creepily similar to the travails of the British auto industry in the 1960s. That en... Read more
2008 Fiscal Ballot Measure Recap
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 11, 2008
As promised, you can now read NTU's recap of 2008 fiscal ballot measure results (PDF).... Read more
$27.8 budget shortfall in California
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 11, 2008
California's Legislative Analyst Office just dropped a bombshell by announcing that California will need $27.8 billion in budget "solutions" over the next 20 months.
Taxpayers, hold on to your wallets/handbags.
HT: Jon Coupal, HJTA... Read more
GM Retread
Posted by Andrew Moylan - November 11, 2008
Back in July, I wrote a post entitled "People can write checks for that amount." In it, I discussed the trials and tribulations of General Motors. The title referred to a quote from an analyst saying,"What's GM worth now -- $7 billion?" asked Bruce Birger, managing director of Birger Capital Management. "People can write checks for that amount."... Read more
With Thanks to All Who Served
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 11, 2008
... Read more
New Jersey insists on drowning future generations in debt
Posted by Joshua Culling - November 10, 2008
In my remarks at the New Jersey Statehouse last month, I mentioned that New Jersey has the 5th highest per capita debt burden in the country. Now, according to to the state Treasury Department, it has the 3rd highest absolute debt burden in the country at $31.9 billion and counting.
Sounds like a case for... Read more
Maine tax repeal may lead to more relief
Posted by Joshua Culling - November 10, 2008
In our 2008 Ballot Guide (PDF), NTU came out in support of Maine's Question 1, which repealed beverage taxes meant to fund the state's Dirigo health program. With its success last week, Mainers are poised to vote on two more pro-taxpayer initiatives next year.
Next year, voters are expecte... Read more
Monday Bailout Roundup
Posted by Andrew Moylan - November 10, 2008
That took forever! (That's what she said)
... Read more
CA continues to self-harm
Posted by Joshua Culling - November 10, 2008
After reviewing the impact of 2008 ballot initiatives on taxpayers across the country, it's never too early to look ahead to 2009.
California's now-routine fiscal crisis has already ballooned to an $11.2 billion deficit, just over six weeks after Gov. Schwarzenegger signed the budget... Read more
Hank Paulson: Enabler-in-Chief
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - November 10, 2008
First Uncle Sam loaned AIG $85 billion of your money. Then AIG asked for $37 billion more. Well, turns out $123 billion wasn't enough!
That's right, now we're giving, AIG an even $150 billion bailout. I guess because that number is easier to subtract than $123 billion (r... Read more
Ouch
Posted by Demian Brady - November 10, 2008
Fannie Mae (formerly a GSE -- Government Sponsored Enterprise -- but now a GCE -- Government Controlled Enterprise) reported a third quarter $29 billion loss.... Read more
Need To Know Basis...
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - November 10, 2008
And apparently you don't need to know. Since September 14, the Fed has loaned nearly $2 trillion of your money to various financial institutions. I say "various financial institutions" because Uncle Sam won't tell us to whom he's lending your money.
I guess Hank Paulson was just kidding when he said, "We need protection. We need tra... Read more
New Mexico Voters Vote Down Spaceport Tax
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 08, 2008
Otero County (NM) voters rejected a tax hike that would have helped to finance a commercial inland spaceport.
Taxpayers across the galaxy rejoice.
... Read more
Big Union Money in Massachusetts Ballot Question
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 08, 2008
The Massachusetts income tax repeal question was rejected by voters on Tuesday. Even so, big-government boosters were concerned enough with the possibility of passage that they spent $6.12 million on “vote no” advertising.
The pro side spent $81,000.
Turns out that 86 percent of the funding for the “vote no” effort came from teachers unions. ... Read more
Plastic Bags Targeted with a Sin Tax
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 08, 2008
NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg wants to tax plastic bags. NYC, along with many other cities, is facing falling sales tax revenues. But is a bag tax really the best way to go?
Taxing the very bags that carry new... Read more
Byrd Goes; Pork Stays
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 07, 2008
CNN is reporting that Robert Byrd is stepping down as the chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee. While that might sound like good news for taxpayers, the story quotes Byrd as saying: "I am now confident that stepping aside as Chairman will not adversely impact my home state of West Virginia." Translation: I've got min... Read more
Rich Galen on Auto Industry Bailout
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 07, 2008
I thought professional spinmeister and political commentator Rich Galen's take on the auto industry bailout was both amusing and succinct:
Let me understand this. General Motors is going to go bankrupt next year because it insists on building cars no one wants to buy and, to forestall that, it wants to buy Chrysler which builds cars homeless people don't even want to ... Read more
Cartoon Blogging
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 07, 2008
HT: Tim Wise
... Read more
Obama's Election = Farm Bill Reform?
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 06, 2008
Could Obama's election translate into cuts to agriculture subsidies? Let's hope so.
... Read more
A Raw Deal?
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - November 06, 2008
Over at NRO Radio, Burton Folsom takes on the New Deal and tells us why we shouldn't have a New New Deal.... Read more
Deadline to Claim Refund Checks is Approaching
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 06, 2008
If you're still missing an income tax refund or economic stimulus check, you need to use our online refund database soon and then get in touch with the IRS. According to Bankrate.com, "By law, the rebate checks must be sent out by Dec. 31. So the IRS has established the late-November address change cu... Read more
Fascinating poll results
Posted by Andrew Moylan - November 06, 2008
Our friends at the Club for Growth have some terrifically interesting poll data from swing districts.
What I found interesting is that these districts essentially tracked the national outcome in terms of who they planned to support for President and for Congress. They supported Obama over McCain by a margin of 48 to 44 and Democrats to Republi... Read more
A Fiscal Snapshot of Rahm Emanuel
Posted by Demian Brady - November 05, 2008
There is a lot of speculation as to whether Obama will govern as a leftist (based on his platform and background) or as a moderate (based on his rhetoric, which has generally glossed over his platform and background). Well, one of his first decisions was to ask Rep. Rahm Emanuel to be his chief of staff. Here are some fiscal... Read more
An Opportunity for Reform of Perks for Ex-Presidents?
Posted by Demian Brady - November 05, 2008
With Bush's approval ratings in the tank, perhaps Congress could be persuaded to enact reform of the expensive benefits bestowed upon former presidents. Last year, the Toledo Blade examined the tab to taxpayers for providing a very generous pension, office and travel expenses, postage, and security to ex-presidents.
... Read more
Some Athletes Trying to Minimize the Portion of Their Wealth That Would Be Redistributed
Posted by Demian Brady - November 05, 2008
From the AP:MLB agents ponder beating potential tax increase
Looking ahead to the possibility of an Obama administration, some baseball agents already are thinking about trying to beat a possible tax increase for their well-paid clients.
Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama has proposed increasing the top federal income tax rate from ... Read more
Wins for Colorado Taxpayers
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 05, 2008
Earlier in the campaign season, NTU's Joshua Culling identified Colorado's Amendment 59 as the number one ballot prioritry.
Colorado enjoys one of the strongest taxpayer protection laws in the nation, the Taxpayer's Bill of Rights (TABOR). TABOR guarantees that government cannot raise taxes without going to the voters first. Amendment 59 would have gutted TABOR, openi... Read more
2 TFA Losses in House; 0 in Senate
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 05, 2008
Two 2007 "Taxpayer Friend Award" winners did not keep their House seats:
Rep. Tom Feeney (FL)
Rep. Steve Chabot (OH)
No 2007 Senate "Taxpayer Friend Award" winners lost their seat.... Read more
A Look at What May Be Coming
Posted by Demian Brady - November 04, 2008
Congressman Jim "I'll earmark the *#&@ out of it" Moran opens his mouth again. This time he isn't expressing his enthusiasm for pork, but his disapproval of one of the fundamental rights of a free society - the right to the fruit of one's labor.
... Read more
Wanted: A Non-Keynsian President
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 04, 2008
"Wanted: A Non-Keynsian President" is the title of Brian S. Wesbury and Robert Stein's column this week at Forbes.com. They highlight the downside of yet another stimulus package:
As a whole, another short-term stimulus will just leave the U.S. deeper in debt with no change in the incentive to work, save o... Read more
It's Election Day!
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 04, 2008
... Read more
I&R Under Attack?
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 04, 2008
Today’s highlighted measures from NTU’s informational ballot guide Colorado Ref O, Ohio Issue #1, and Wyoming Amendment B. These measures share something in common: if approved, each would make getting citizen-driven questions on the ballot more difficult.
Colorado’s Referendum O would make it harder for citizens – and taxpayers – to place a constitutional a... Read more
Washington's Reduce Traffic Congestion Initiative
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 03, 2008
Today’s highlighted taxpayer-related measure from NTU’s informational ballot guide: Washington’s I-985, the Reduce Traffic Congestion Initiative.
I-985 would implement some of the recommendations issued by the Washington State Auditor’s Office in a recent transportation performance audit review. Specifically, I-985 would open carpool lanes for everyone durin... Read more
NTU Discusses Ballot Measures on the Radio
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 03, 2008
NTU's Pete Sepp talks with Lowman Henry of American Journal Radio about state and local ballot measures on tomorrow's ballot.
... Read more
The Big Poo Resurfaces
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 03, 2008
The editors over at National Review Online have picked up on "The Big Poo" in the Minnesota sales tax hike fight.... Read more
Taxpayer Information for the Final Stretch
Posted by Demian Brady - November 03, 2008
The Candidates on Fiscal Policy
Below are links to Excel files with all the available NTU or NTUF data for Barr, McCain, and Obama.
NTU Rates Congress
BillTally
VoteTally
NTUF Presidential Cand... Read more
Arizona's Proposition 105
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 03, 2008
Why Majority Rule Makes Sense for Arizona Taxpayers.... Read more
More Clouds on the Financial Horizon
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 03, 2008
Forbes magazine has a sobering article entitled "2020 Vision" that is certainly worth a read or two. Here's the intro:
If you make more than $250,000 you are perhaps fretting about how much the bailout and the fiscal stimulus will cost and how much you will pay for them. Tune out these dark thoughts. There is something much bigger to think about: the risin... Read more
Fact Checking a Fact Check
Posted by Demian Brady - November 03, 2008
Obama has repeatedly claimed that he has offered spending cuts above and beyond the cost of his proposals. NTU Foundation could not find enough savings in his proposals to add up, and neither could CBS News. Using budget and third-party sources to verify Obama's spending claims, NTU Foundation's ... Read more
Ballot Measure Poll Tracking
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 03, 2008
Ballotpedia is tracking ballot measure polls.
The measure to repeal South Dakota's term limits is down, 55 to 30.
... Read more
Transparency Website for Kentucky, Coming January 1, 2009
Posted by Doug El Sanadi - November 03, 2008
In less than two months, Kentucky will launch Kentucky's Open Door, "a full-service, user-friendly e-Transparency Web site that will allow you to find out how your tax dollars are being spent." This is a homepage prototype, and some possible page designs incl... Read more
Louisiana's Amendment 5: Property tax reforms for homes taken by eminent domain
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 02, 2008
Today’s highlighted taxpayer-related measure from NTU’s informational ballot guide: Louisiana’s Amendment 5.
Amendment No. 5 would allow residents to transfer their fixed property tax assessment level with them to a new home if the relocation was made necessary by the government’s expropriation of the resident’s original property. If this amendment is enact... Read more
Quotation of the Weekend
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - November 01, 2008
"Instead of giving a politician the keys to the city, it might be better to change the locks."
-- Doug Larson... Read more
Possible sales tax hikes in Florida
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - November 01, 2008
Today’s highlighted taxpayer-related measure from NTU’s informational ballot guide: Florida’s Amendment 8.
Amendment 8 would authorize local sales tax options to fund community colleges. Even though the tax hikes would require voter approval and sunset after 5 years, this amendment would open the door to yet more taxes.
Sales tax hikes are also on the ba... Read more
Celebrities Say The Darndest Things
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - October 31, 2008
There's been some confusion coming from the Obama camp regarding whom to tax. Happily Whoopi Goldberg is clearing things up for us. According to Whoopi, "Everyone's taxes are going up."
As much as it pains me to say this about someone on The View, I think she's right.
... Read more
Responding to Andrew on Obama's definition of rich
Posted by Ross Kaminsky - October 31, 2008
Andrew,
By coincidence, I modified my note before reading yours to include the possibility of a doughnut hole in Obama's plans, i.e. to lower taxes on incomes below $X and raise them on incomes above $Y while doing nothing in between.
My understanding, by the way, separate from the infomercial, is that Obama was promising a tax increase for individuals making over $200K and families making over $250K. Do you believe that's incorrect?
My... Read more
My Remarks to the New Jersey Taxpayers Alliance
Posted by Joshua Culling - October 31, 2008
Yesterday I participated in a press conference announcing the formation of the New Jersey Taxpayers Alliance, a coalition of business groups and taxpayer advocates (including NTU) dedicated to reversing decades of harmful economic policies in the Garden State. The scariest things I've encountered this Halloween are New Jersey's economic indicators (ZING!). Below is a transcript of my remarks.
--
On behalf of the more than 10,000 New Jersey... Read more
Obama's Definition of "Rich"
Posted by Andrew Moylan - October 31, 2008
I'm not often compelled to jump to the defense of Barack Obama's tax policy, but I think something should be clarified for our readers in response to Ross' post.
I don't know if this is necessary, but I suppose it's worth pointing out that this post should NOT be considered as any kind of endorsement for Obama or his tax plan. I think any tax hikes are a bad idea, pa... Read more
Bill Richardson lowers Obama's definition of "rich"
Posted by Ross Kaminsky - October 31, 2008
This morning, New Mexico governor Bill Richardson, and enthusiastic supporter of Barack Obama, continued the downward ratchet of the level of income at which Barack Obama intends to confiscate income.
Obama started at $250,000, then said $200,000.
Joe Biden then dropped the bar to $150,000 three days ago.
And now, Bill Richardson says that "there is a tax cut for those" making $120... Read more
Where's My Bailout?
Posted by Joshua Culling - October 31, 2008
HT: ... Read more
Study Shows Minnesota Senate Candidates Differ Greatly on Spending
Posted by Christy Paavola - October 31, 2008
NTUF has recently released a cost analysis of Minnesota Senate candidates Norm Coleman's and Al Franken's platforms and the difference is staggering. An unparalleled $600 billion separates the two candidates proposals.
Among the findings:
Norm Coleman has outlined a fiscal agenda that would in its entirety increase annual federal spending by a net of $2.07 billion. All told, he has offered 21 propsals that would affect the budget... Read more
Labor law reform in Colorado
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 31, 2008
Today’s highlighted taxpayer-related measures from NTU’s informational ballot guide: Colorado’s Amendment 47 and Amendment 49.
Amendment 47 contains “right to work” protections that would prevent the mandatory joining of a union as a condition to work. Learn more about Amendment 47.
Amendment ... Read more
Cartoon Blogging
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - October 31, 2008
HT: Tax Guru
... Read more
Corporate Tax Must Come Down
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 31, 2008
Check out the winning entry of the Tax Foundation's CompeteUSA YouTube contest.
... Read more
Obama's Capital Punishment
Posted by Ross Kaminsky - October 31, 2008
In a speech in Sarasota, Florida on Thursday, Barack Obama said he "will eliminate capital gains taxes for small businesses and start-up companies that are the engine of job creation in this country."
Sit back and think about that for a minute, especially in combination with what he said to Joe the Plumber.
What does Obama think the goal of someone who starts a small business is? To stay small?
How much clearer could Obama be that he doe... Read more
A $50 Billion Difference
Posted by Christy Paavola - October 30, 2008
When voters in Colorado go to vote on Tuesday they will have a choice between Democrat Mark Udall and Republican Bob Schaffer for Senate, two men with stark differences of opinion on spending. According to the NTU Foundation's recent fiscal analysis of the two candidates' platforms a $50 billion difference exists.
Among the findings:
Udall has offered 54 proposals that would affect federal spending - 25 of which would increase ann... Read more
NTU's Tax Refund Database is Online
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - October 30, 2008
Still waiting for an income tax refund or stimulus check? It's possible the IRS still has it. More than 380,000 Americans who are owed a total of $266 million fall into that category. By searching NTU's online tax refund database, you can determine whether the IRS might have a check waiting for you.
... Read more
Great news from Florida!
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 30, 2008
A federal judge has granted a preliminary injunction in our Florida ballot speech case, which suspends Florida’s “electioneering communications” law and allows us to talk about the amendments on the Florida ballot.
Here’s mo... Read more
Utah's Amendment B: the State Trust Fund Amendment
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 30, 2008
Today’s highlighted taxpayer-related measure from NTU’s informational ballot guide: Utah’s Constitutional Amendment B.
Constitutional Amendment B, the Utah State Trust Fund Amendment, would allow the permanent state trust fund set up for the 1998 tobacco settlement to receive other forms of money, including severance tax revenues gained from natural resource... Read more
New Jersey Civic and Business Leaders Announce Formation of New Jersey Taxpayers Alliance
Posted by Joshua Culling - October 29, 2008
What: Press Conference
Where: New Jersey Statehouse, Trenton, New Jersey Committee Room #10, Annex Building
When: Thursday, October 30th, 1:30 p.m.
I'll be there, giving a "situational analysis" of New Jersey's current tax climate. Spoiler alert: It's absolutely abysmal.
Stop by the New Jersey Taxpayers Association for more details on tomorrow's event.... Read more
No Thanks to the Stimulus 2 Cash
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 29, 2008
As supplicants for Stimulus 2 cash gather today on the Hill, I’d like to point out two must-reads:
First, testimony from South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford, who points out “there may be better routes to recovery than a blanket bailout, including offering states like mine more in the way of flexibility and freedom from federal mandates instead of a ... Read more
Ohio's #5
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 29, 2008
Today’s highlighted taxpayer-related measure from NTU’s informational ballot guide: Ohio’s Issue #5.
Issue #5 asks voters to approve a law that effectively puts payday lending services and their employees out of business in Ohio by making it unprofitable to offer these loans. If payday loans are driven out of existence, there could be additional political pr... Read more
Bailout Blackout Continues
Posted by Andrew Moylan - October 29, 2008
The Agitator covers the ongoing saga of the lack of transparency in the bailout. Contracts with major financial firms are being posted with large chunks of information redacted.
This is precisely why NTU put together this 39-group coalition letter... Read more
That short, blond chick from that one show drops some knowledge...
Posted by Andrew Moylan - October 29, 2008
...on voting, taxes, and whales. Clearly, she has her finger on the pulse of the three most important issues to everyday Americans. CNS News has the story.
Hayden Panettiere, Wikipedia tells me, is an actress from the show Heroes, which I have never once watched. I... Read more
NTU Releases Congressional Candidate Survey Results
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - October 29, 2008
For two decades, NTU has been asking Congressional candidates about their views on taxes, spending, and debt. The 2008 responses have been compiled and are now available for download (Excel file) here. See how candidates on your ballot responded to NTU's questions.
... Read more
Revving Up For Another Bailout
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - October 28, 2008
Did you love the last round of bailouts? Well Christmas came early this year. Congress and the White House are now looking to bailout the auto industry.
Bailout lovers can celebrate. I'll be busy trying to decide if I should laugh or cry.... Read more
California's Proposition 1A: Oppose the Open Taxpayer Checkbook
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 28, 2008
Today’s highlighted taxpayer-related measure from NTU’s informational ballot guide: California’s Proposition 1A.
Proposition 1A would issue $9.95 billion in bonds to partially fund a $45 billion high-speed rail service project between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Taxpayers would pay $19.4 billion over 30 years to cover bond costs. Transportation experts ha... Read more
Newspeak from Speaker Pelosi
Posted by Demian Brady - October 28, 2008
"But I do tell you that if the Democrats win, and have substantial majorities, Congress of the United States will be more bipartisan."
ABC News.... Read more
Predicting Outcomes of State Ballot Measures
Posted by Doug El Sanadi - October 28, 2008
Recent, national economic events will shape how many voters respond to statewide ballot measures. According to this article, aftermath from the financial crisis will incline citizens to vote for measures mandating that state governments spend and tax less. People reason, “If hard times force us to be frugal, shouldn’t the government react in a similar fashion?... Read more
Quote of the Day
Posted by Demian Brady - October 27, 2008
While doing some work, I was listening to my music and audio files collection on random selection and this ol' Ronald Reagan quote came up which is even more true now than when it was originally spoken (to loud applause):
"Our government is too big and it spends too much."
... Read more
Wesbury: Paving the Road to France
Posted by Ross Kaminsky - October 27, 2008
A dose of economic reality just as Americans need it most:
see "Paving the Road to France", by Brian Wesbury and Robert Stein, 10/27/08
http://www.ftportfolios.com/Commentary/EconomicResearch/2008/10/27/paving_the_road_to_france... Read more
Ted Stevens convicted, will still receive $122,000 taxpayer-funded pension
Posted by Andrew Moylan - October 27, 2008
Even though Senator Ted Stevens (R-AK) has been convicted of a felony, he will still receive his taxpayer-funded pension of $122,000 per year. We wrote about the huge loopholes in the "no pensions for felons" law that was passed last year, but this issue illustrates it pretty darned clearly.
Stevens' ... Read more
Sad note: Dean Barnett passes at age 41
Posted by Andrew Moylan - October 27, 2008
Dean Barnett, one of the most eloquent writers you'd ever encounter, blogosphere or elsewhere, died today after a long battle with cystic fibrosis.
I didn't always agree with him, but I ran into his writings first at Townhall.com a few years ago. He alone kept me coming back to that blog, day in and day out. He then moved on to the Weekly... Read more
Stop the presses: Thomas Friedman says something I agree with...
Posted by Andrew Moylan - October 27, 2008
The Club for Growth points me to a Thomas Friedman column in yesterday's New York Times which actually contains something I agree with. I think Friedman is powerfully wrong when he advocates for more taxpayer funding for and government control of so-called "alternative energy," but in this case, he makes a whole lot of sense.
Friedman argues that go... Read more
Bailout Roundup
Posted by Andrew Moylan - October 27, 2008
Got a "case of the Mondays" today?
In the first installment of what I hope will be a weekly roundup of some of the best bailout blogging content, I make my first obscure movie reference. Office Space fans rejoice!
On to the best posts of the week...
-Russell Roberts at Cafe Hayek writes of the ... Read more
Tragedy of the Civil Rights Movement: Not Enough Taxes
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - October 27, 2008
Drudge this morning is linking to a radio interview from 2001 in which then-state senator Barack Obama declares:
But, the Supreme Court never ventured into the issues of redistribution of wealth, and of more basic issues such as political and economic justice in society.
To that extent, as radical as I think people try to characterize the Warren Court, it wasn’t that radical. It didn’t break free from the essential constraints th... Read more
I laughed multiple times while reading this article
Posted by Joshua Culling - October 27, 2008
An article in the New York Times this morning about the resignation of Charles O'Byrne, a top aide to Gov. David Paterson, made me laugh. First, the title:
Paterson Aide Quits in Furor Over His Taxes
I literally thought that, in a moment of sudden awareness, O'Byrne became ticked off about New York's oppressive tax burden, the 2nd highest in the country... Read more
Find Out Why McCain Cited NTU as a Government Watchdog in Two Debates
Posted by Natasha Altamirano - October 27, 2008
In the last two Presidential debates, John McCain has highlighted the National Taxpayers Union as a government "watchdog" guarding fiscal responsibility. With just over two weeks until Election Day, NTU is urging taxpayers to visit NTU's Web site to get the latest and most comprehensive analyses of fiscal policy available -- including legislative records and campaign promises of both John McCain and Barack Obama.
... Read more
Oklahoma's Question 741: More tax forms on the way?
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 26, 2008
Today’s highlighted taxpayer-related measure from NTU’s informational ballot guide: Oklahoma’s Question No. 741.
State Question No. 741 is a constitutional amendment that would require a person or business to file an application in order to be considered for a property tax exemption.
Adding bureaucratic hassles to the tax burden already faced by small bus... Read more
Why Aren't Candidates Talking about the Foundations of Prosperity?
Posted by Brianna Cardiff - October 25, 2008
During election season, candidates make a lot of promises about how they are going to make people better off. The importance and value of the American worker has been mentioned in a couple of debates. Yes, American workers contribute to societal prosperity, but they are not the essential feature. Our workers could not be prosperous in the absence of certain foundational institutions (for an international example: communism didn’t fail because ... Read more
Taxpayers and Georgia's Forest Preservation Amendment
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 25, 2008
Today’s highlighted taxpayer-related measure from NTU’s informational ballot guide: Georgia’s Proposed Amendment 1, or the Forest Preservation Amendment.
Proposed Amendment 1 would allow the state to assess and tax certain privately owned tracts of timberland according to their “current use,” rather than to assess and tax based on a property’s highest-valued... Read more
Ever wondered what SC state employees get paid?
Posted by Doug El Sanadi - October 24, 2008
Probably not until you read that subject line (and maybe not even then). At least now, though, you can sate your curiosity here. Kudos to the Comptroller's Office for putting that link on the official South Carolina Spending Transparency page. ... Read more
Rainy Day Raid in Alabama
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 24, 2008
Today’s highlighted taxpayer-related measure from NTU’s informational ballot guide: Alabama’s Statewide Amendment Number One.
Amendment One would expand a “rainy day” fund for education spending and relax associated borrowing rules. The measure would allow for an increase in the amount of money borrowed from the fund, and the repayment period would increase ... Read more
Can we find the blacked out bailout contracts on USASpending.gov?
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 24, 2008
Yesterday I linked to Jim Harper’s post on the blacked out bailout contract documents. Would it be possible to find the hidden details at www.USASpending.gov, which is supposed to provide information on government contracts over $25,000?
Unfortunately, no. ... Read more
Blagojevich Acting Shady
Posted by Joshua Culling - October 23, 2008
IL Gov. Rod Blagojevich won't tell taxpayers how much of their money he's spending on state-subsidized health care:
First, Gov. Rod Blagojevich gave out state-subsidized health care without permission.
Now, he won’t tell taxpayers how many people are participating, how much tax money has been spent, or even which state account he’s using ... Read more
Blacked Out: Where’s the transparency in this bailout?
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 23, 2008
What was that about transparency and the government bailout ?
Scroll to page 25 of this Treasury agreement with the Bank of New York Mellon to carry out aspects of the bailout. Notice that the compensation details have been blacked out. Think “big black marker” b... Read more
North Dakota's Measure 2
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 23, 2008
Today’s highlighted taxpayer-related measure from NTU’s informational ballot guide: North Dakota’s Statutory Measure No. 2.
Measure 2 would lower the state corporate income tax by 15 percent and cut the state personal income tax in half.
North Dakota is projected to have a $1.3 billion budget surplus, and Measure Two could save taxpayers over $415 millio... Read more
Nebraska Senate Candidates Will Cost Taxpayers $6.2 Billion to $19.9 Billion
Posted by Natasha Altamirano - October 23, 2008
The NTU Foundation has released the second of several studies on U.S. Senate races around the country, which found that roughly $14 billion separates the platforms of Democrat Scott Kleeb and Republican Mike Johanns.
Among the findings:
Kleeb has offered 49 proposals that would affect federal spending -- 13 of which would increase annual outlays and 36 of which have unknown fiscal effects -- for a net annual spending hike of $19.9 bil... Read more
More Fun With Bailouts
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - October 23, 2008
If it's good for the goose it's good for the corn growers I guess. That's right, now the ethanol industry is in line for a bailout. I'm at a loss.
... Read more
The Moral Case for Tax Havens
Posted by Andrew Moylan - October 23, 2008
The always-indispensable Dan Mitchell of the Cato Institute makes the case for tax havens in a recent video (below) for the Center for Freedom and Prosperity.
He makes the case not just on financial grounds, but on moral grounds. It's an interesting angle that one doesn't often think of, but things aren't quite as America-centric as we 'Mericans tend to think they are (or as West-centric as we... Read more
NTU Launches New Website: BeyondBailouts.org
Posted by Andrew Moylan - October 23, 2008
As time wears on post-bailout, conservatives and libertarians will be engaged in a long battle with liberals to define the root causes of our current financial difficulties and their proper remedies. In an attempt to counteract the rapidly proliferating view that “deregulation and the excesses of capitalism” were the cause of our probems, NTU has joined with ou... Read more
Context Matters
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - October 22, 2008
In the wake of Barack Obama's promise to "spread the wealth around," some have defended the comment by quoting Adam Smith. Folks like prolific blogger Andrew Sullivan and ... Read more
What a Pro-Taxpayer Stimulus Bill Would Contain
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 22, 2008
Instead of more spending, how about some stimulating tax policy:Suspend minimum withdrawal rules for IRAs. No one should be forced to withdraw from their Individual Retirement Account just because they hit a certain age, especially if they'd prefer to wait for a market uptick. This change would address the concerns of older taxpayers, many of whom respo... Read more
South Dakota's Measure 10
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 22, 2008
Today’s highlighted taxpayer-related measure from NTU’s informational ballot guide: South Dakota’s Measure 10.
Measure 10 would prohibit taxpayer funds from being used for lobbying, bar legislators and their staff from being able to use their positions to secure state-contracted jobs, outlaw the process of trading state contracts for campaign donations, and ... Read more
Lower property tax assessments on the way?
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 22, 2008
The Atlanta Neighborhood Development Partnership recently analyzed property taxes in the metro Atlanta neighborhoods hardest hit by foreclosure. The findings, as reported by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution? If today’s assessments remain unchanged, the 15 ZIP codes with the highest for... Read more
Do Taxpayer-Funded Campaigns Actually Save Taxpayer Dollars?
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 22, 2008
Based on a case study of Maine and Arizona, the Center for Competitive Politics says no.
... Read more
Oil Prices Down 52% Since July
Posted by Andrew Moylan - October 21, 2008
A silver lining, perhaps? Oil prices have dropped 52 percent from their record-high of $147.27 per barrel on July 11th of this year. They now stand just over $70 per barrel.
Anecdotally, I've now started seeing sub-$3.00 per gallon gasoline all over the DC metro area, which tends to suffer from higher gas prices than many parts of the ... Read more
New Mexico Senate Candidates Will Cost Taxpayers $345 Million to $25.3 Billion
Posted by Natasha Altamirano - October 21, 2008
The NTU Foundation has released the first of several studies on U.S. Senate races around the country, which found that roughly $24.9 billion separates the platforms of Democrat Tom Udall and Republican Steve Pearce.
Among the findings:
U.S. Rep. Udall (NM-3) has offered 19 proposals that would impact federal spending -- seven of which would increase annual outlays and 12 of which have unknown fiscal effects -- for a net annual spend... Read more
Voting Early? Take NTU's Ballot Guide with You
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - October 21, 2008
According to ComputerWorld early voting has started in 31 states. Before you head out for early voting, make sure that you take a look at NTU's 2008 Ballot Guide (available here in PDF). If you're planning to vote absentee, take a look at... Read more
When I Say 3% I Really Mean 35.7%
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - October 21, 2008
Newsflash: politicians aren't great at telling the truth. Sadly, neither is USA Today.
As the Heritage Foundation points out, Barack Obama's claim that his tax plan would only hurt 3% of small businesses is "highly deceptive." In fact, ... Read more
"Yes I Believe Later on There Should be Tax Increases."
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - October 20, 2008
Well at least he's honest. House Banking Committee Chairman Barney Frank (D-MA), speaking on CNBC today tells Maria Bartiromo, "Yes I believe later on there should be tax increases. Speaking personally I think there a lot of very rich people out there we can tax down the road." You can watch him promise to raise "a lot of very rich people" here at the 4:30 mark... Read more
Tune in Tomorrow
Posted by Doug El Sanadi - October 20, 2008
At 10 AM tomorrow, Megan Rhyne, Executive Director of the Virginia Coalition for Open Government, will be featured on the Tertium Quids radio program, a show sponsored by the Tertium Quids (Tertium Quid meaning "third ent... Read more
Cato Rates America's Governors
Posted by Joshua Culling - October 20, 2008
Our friends at the Cato Institute dropped some knowledge this morning, releasing their annual Fiscal Policy Report Card on America's Governors. It rates governors' policy decisions on tax and spending issues since 2003; those in favor of big government receive lower scores. Many of those on either extreme end of the ranking will come as no surprise to readers of this blog.
Study author Chri... Read more
Q. What Else Will Cost Taxpayers $700 Billion?
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 20, 2008
A. Unfunded public employee pensions.
Says Time Magazine:A study by analysts at Barclays Global Investors in San Francisco estimates that public-employee pension funds in the U.S. are short $700 billion. That's more than all state and local governments collected last year in property, sales and corporate income taxes combined. As a result... Read more
Jon Caldara on CO Amendment 49
Posted by Joshua Culling - October 20, 2008
For other important ballot measures in Colorado and... Read more
Local Government Tax Cap Effort Underway in Florida
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 20, 2008
NFIB Florida is organizing a petition drive to put an amendment on the 2010 ballot that would place a revenue cap on local governments. Called Your Dollar, Your Decision, the amendment would tie local government revenue growth to inflation and would be breakable with the approval of voters.
Interested individuals can find ... Read more
Do you vote for tax hikers?
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 18, 2008
Get your free "I Don't Vote for Tax Hikers" bumper sticker!
... Read more
New Jersey's Question 1: Taxpayer Approval of Bonding
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 18, 2008
Today’s highlighted taxpayer-related measure from NTU’s informational ballot guide: New Jersey’s Public Question 1.
Public Question 1 is an amendment to the state constitution mandating that any legislation that issues state authority bonds would require voter approval prior to its passage and execution, thereby injecting taxpayer oversight into the budgetar... Read more
'Tax'achusetts No Longer?
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 17, 2008
Today’s highlighted taxpayer-related measure from NTU’s informational ballot guide: Massachusetts’ Question 1.
Question 1, otherwise known as the Small Government Act to End the Income Tax, would reduce the state individual income tax from 5.3 percent to 2.65 percent for all Massachusetts taxpayers beginning in 2009. The state income tax would be completely ... Read more
I&R Measures in 2008: What Taxpayers Need to Know
Posted by Kristina Rasmussen - October 17, 2008
Budget & Tax News printed our roundup of the tax-related initiative and referenda on the 2008 ballot. There’s also a summary of other fiscal measures (funding shifts, gaming questions, good government reforms) up for consideration.... Read more
Cartoon Blogging
Posted by Jeff Dircksen - October 17, 2008
HT: TaxGuru
... Read more
Coalition Against Colorado Amendment 59 Forming
Posted by Joshua Culling - October 16, 2008
After publishing our annual Ballot Guide last week, NTU has identified Colorado Amendment 59 as our number one ballot priority looming in November. It would be disastrous for taxpayers in the state, essentially wiping out the TABOR amendment they fought for and won in 1992. Special interests have been lining up to weaken TABOR for 16 years. 59 would be the final blow.
Am... Read more
NTU/CAGW to Presidential Candidates: "Want to cut spending? Here's how!"
Posted by Andrew Moylan - October 16, 2008
NTU joined with our friends at Citizens Against Government Waste to write a letter telling Senators McCain and Obama, “You want to go through the budget line-by-line to root out waste? Good news! We’ve been doing that for decades, and here’s where you can start…”
We discuss just some of the projects that our respective organizations have been working to iden... Read more
"Joe the Plumber"
Posted by Dominic Rupprecht - October 16, 2008
The person in this