Thug life, Godwin's Law, and the recall of Andy Dillon

by: Eric B.

Wed Apr 09, 2008 at 11:13:14 AM EDT

Yesterday on Right Michigan:

When it was all said and done mom and pop job providers were socked with a new "Michigan Business Tax" complete with a 22% surcharge.  On top of a spike in the income tax.  Because, apparently, when it rains tax hikes it has to pour.

Well, we knew that Nick wasn't much into research.  Apparently, he's not much of a fan of history, especially recent history.  Most of the rest of us remember the Michigan Business Tax as a replacement for the Single Business Tax, and not actually a tax hike.  I mean, I know in the bizarre mind of Leon Drolet, promising to replace revenue while repealing one tax and eventually figuring out how to do it is a tax hike, but most of the rest of us understand that to be deeply silly.

But, Nick's misadventure with recent history is part of his broader campaign to a) complain about the income tax hike, and b) complain about Andy Dillon defending himself against a recall election that would be held just two months before a general election.  Mind you, these are the same people constantly complaining about government waste, demanding a redundant election purely for the purposes of humiliating a public official and intimidating others.

Friday Coffee Talk

by: BZP

Fri Mar 21, 2008 at 07:16:09 AM EDT

Happy Friday! Enjoy your cup-o-links...

• Observer & Eccentric: High school freshman's blog makes a case against McCotter. The Congressional watch blog "Mad at Thad" got a nice profile in yesterday's paper.
• WMR: Report from the Kent County Democratic Party March Meeting. Check out Phil's ridiculously detailed report. Wouldn't it be cool if more county parties started doing posts like this?
• Media Mouse: Levin Tells Iraqis to Pay for Reconstruction. The Mouse has some criticisms about Sen. Levin's latest remarks about Iraq.
• Freep: Mayor would attack text messages' authenticity. "There will be a lot of conversations about texts and the authenticity of all of it," he said Tuesday in a brief exchange with reporters. "So I'm looking forward to having that conversation at a later date."
• Susan J. Demas: A recall worthy of ridicule. "I asked Drolet if he really believes Dillon spends every waking moment plotting to raise taxes again. 'It doesn't matter if I think he'll rape someone again,' he told me breezily. 'He has to be held accountable for the rape he did commit.'"

• Michigan Messenger: Anti-bullying forces to descend on Capitol to get Senate to pass bill. "Hundreds of educators, students and community members are expected to descend upon the State Capitol next week to demand the Senate pass a comprehensive bill aimed at stopping bullying in schools. The bill passed the state House a year ago, but has since languished in the Senate awaiting a hearing."
• House Dems: House OKs $40 Million Expansion of No Worker Left Behind Program. "Under the leadership of State Representative Richard E. Hammel (D-Mt. Morris Township), the House today passed the governor's plan to expand Michigan's program to retrain thousands of displaced workers so they can land good-paying jobs available now in high-demand fields."
• Jackson Cit-Pat: SmartZone bill clears big hurdle. Jackson could be eligible for a new SmartZone under a bill being pushed by Rep. Simpson and Sen. Schauer.
• WOOD: Granholm Town Hall Meeting Video. Here's your chance to watch the Governor's town hall, in case you missed it (link via BFM).
• Freep Editorial: Great Lakes states must protect every drop they can. "How long can Michigan and the other Great Lakes states afford to let such problems spiral out of control? Somewhere, a potential water disaster is lurking, much as a transportation disaster struck when a Minneapolis freeway bridge collapsed last August."
• LSJ Editorial: Crumbling: Michigan needs investment in roads, not more gravel. "Businesses look at public infrastructure when deciding where to invest. If they see Michigan going backward, will it increase or decrease the chances new firms will land here?"

• Tri-Cities Biz Review: Alt-energy grows like a breeze, thanks to corporate purchasers. "Sustainability is finally becoming more than a buzzword, and morphing into a real business imperative. We salute the SC Johnsons and Steelcases, those corporations doing the right thing and proving the financial worth of alternative energy sources." You can read more stories on renewable energy in the Business Review publications here and here.
• Flint Journal: UAW's Gettelfinger blasts American Axle in local speech. Give 'em hell, Ron! "We don't have a national health care program when every other country takes care of their citizens," Gettelfinger said. "We pay more and get less... But that's why we have 47 million uninsured Americans in this country."
• WLNS: City Named as One of the Best to Live and Work. "Forbes magazine has named Jackson one of the best metropolitan areas to live and work." Yes, you read that correctly.
• [con]serving Michigan: CDC Report Adds to Growing Evidence of State's Toxic Burden. "Under pressure from the public and from Congress, including U.S. Reps. John Dingell and Bart Stupak, both Michigan Democrats, the CDC finally released the report this last week. The recently leaked report finds that thirteen Michigan communities have elevated rates of infant mortality, cancer and other health problems."
• Great Lakes Guy: X Doesn't Mark the Spot in MI. Sixty-four teams to date have entered the $10 million competition to see who can produce a market-ready automobile capable of 100 mpg. None are from Detroit, and only one is from Michigan (Ann Arbor).
• Michigan Messenger: Metro Airport expansion plan doesn't fly with neighbors. "A planned expansion of Detroit Metropolitan Airport is threatening to uproot thousands of people and dozens of businesses, but local officials and residents are fighting back."

• Phil Power: We must change bad attitudes. "What Michigan needs to realize is that the auto industry has transformed its manufacturing basis from a brawn-based to a brain-based model. It's no longer enough for a new hire to get to work more or less on time and not get into fights with his or her foreman."

The Democratic Response: Dillon and Schauer Speak

by: LiberalLucy

Tue Jan 29, 2008 at 20:47:49 PM EST

From Senate Democratic Leader Mark Schauer - 

The Governor presented us with an aggressive, innovative, fiscally-responsible vision tonight. Everyone knows that our economy needs to be job one, and this focus on growth industries, education improvements, and incentives will help us keep and attract jobs. I'm looking forward to working in a bipartisan way to create jobs and more security for Michigan families.

 From Speaker of the House Andy Dillon - 

The governor's aggressive plan to diversify our economy and create thousands of new jobs for our workers makes this an exciting time to live in Michigan. The renewable energy industry stands to make Michigan a leader in the 21st century global economy and create new opportunities for our workers to get ahead. My colleagues in the House and Senate on both sides of the aisle can move past the partisan gridlock to achieve the one thing that we all want to do - build a brighter future for Michigan.

State of the State Live-blog from the Capitol - Tonight!

by: LiberalLucy

Tue Jan 29, 2008 at 11:48:59 AM EST

Tonight I'll be back at the Capitol live-blogging the Governor's State of the State address and I hope you'll join us for the discussion starting at 6 p.m.

In attendance tonight will be the full House and Senate, including Lt. Gov John Cherry, the State Supreme Court, a multitude of elected officials including the Attorney General, Secretary of State and several honored guests invited by the Governor. 

Widely-speculated possible topics the Lady Gov's speech include -

• Education
• "No Worker Left Behind" - worker retraining
• Health care
• Drug Industry Immunity
• Clean Energy Manufacturing
• "Michigan First" program
•  Government Reform

And then there's the list of things that we can probably expect from the other side...  

Possible Republican Response topics include -

• The Governor's wrong
• Andy Dillon's wrong
• Mike Bishop walks on water (or at least floats well, with all that hair gel)
• Rich Republican Conservatives feel for Working Michigan
• Cutting more taxes
•  "Protecting Michigan families" - i.e. telling you who you can and cannot love and what you're allowed to do with your own body.
  

Speaker of the House Andy Dillon and Senate Democratic Leader Mark Schauer will be speaking to the press shortly after the speech concludes.

So be sure and drop by MichLib after 6pm as I'll be bringing you the latest from the Capitol. Listen or watch along at home and join in the conversation here!

Friday Coffee Talk

by: BZP

Fri Dec 21, 2007 at 07:35:33 AM EST

Happy Friday. Enjoy your morning cup-o-links!

• Lessenberry: Stem Cells. "State Rep. Paul Condino has a package of bills before the House Judiciary committee that would lift restrictions on this work in Michigan. But Right to Life is determined to intimidate the legislature into rejecting these bills. You might want to let your lawmakers know what you think."
• House Dems: House Democratic Accomplishments in 2007 Move Michigan Forward. Here's Dillon: "House Democrats will work to restore our residents' trust in state government. We will fight to grow our economy and boost our residents' confidence. And, most importantly, we will work to create more good-paying jobs for our workers. House Democrats are focused on moving Michigan forward to become a powerhouse in the 21st century."
• Mark Gaffney: Keep state tax money from financing anti-union efforts. The Michigan AFL-CIO chair makes the case for House Bill 4443, the Public Funds Protection Act. The bill, "states that anyone who receives state funds cannot use any portion of that money to interfere with or discourage unionization by their employees or the employees of any other employer. The bill also prohibits public funds from being used to help unions organize, too."
• Freep: Granholm, Legislature too divided, according to voters. "Only 18% of Michigan adults said they approve of the job the Legislature has done, according to The Detroit Free Press-Local 4 Michigan Poll conducted by Selzer & Co. of Des Moines, Iowa, from Dec. 10-12. Only 32% approve of Granholm's job performance, her lowest approval rating since taking office in January 2003."
• Freep: Long-term lawmakers wanted. Another Free Press-Local 4 poll shows that 68% of Michigan residents support an extension of the term limit law, while only 41% support the idea of a part-time legislature.

• WILX: Lansing GM Workers Win Big. The Free Press has named the Lansing-built Buick Enclave as its Truck of the Year. Kudos to all the UAW workers at the Delta Township plant!
• BFM: Food Stamp Requests Up. Family assistance cases are down, while requests for food aid are up. The Michigan League for Human Services' quarterly bulletin can be found here.

• Capitol Journal: Romney returning. Multiple Choice Mitt is coming to Lansing this week, and Derek is posing an important question: does he prefer Michigan or Michigan State? Mitt's brother is an MSU trustee, but Derek has photographic proof of the flip-flopper wearing a UM sweatshirt. Hey Mitt, pick a side, we're at war!
• Michigan Messenger: Holes Poked in Romney's Claim His Dad Marched With King. Sounds like the Mittster was stretching the truth just a teensy weensy bit when he said his old man marched with MLK. But don't worry, he only meant it in the "figurative" sense.
• Michigan Messenger: Estranged Bedfellows: Top Black Michigan Republican Dumps McCain for Huckabee. Keith Butler has jumped on the Huckster's bandwagon. He becomes the second major McCain supporter in Michigan to jump ship, following Mike Cox's decision to step down as state Chairman back in September.
• Walberg Watch: Van Hollen: Walberg Is A Target. Tim Walberg and Joe Knollenberg made DCCC Chair Chris Van Hollen's list of Republican targets for 2008. The other good news? The DCCC is crushing the NRCC is the cash on hand department: $30.6 million to $2.3.
• BFM: McCotter's New PAC. It sounds like Thaddeus McCotter has gone off the deep end with the creation of his "Champions of American Freedom PAC." Go read Cordelia Lear's post for more.

Wednesday Coffee Talk

by: BZP

Wed Nov 28, 2007 at 07:21:24 AM EST

Happy Hump Day. Take a look at the new ad from the Human Rights Campaign in the sidebar, if you get a chance (these advertisers help keep the lights on). Enjoy your morning cup-o-links!

• Capitol Journal: Immediate effect. Derek walks us through the process talk of the whole presidential primary situation. He also asks the important question: "Would it kill someone to invest in a calendar?"
• Local 4: Senate Refuses To Restore Dems On Ballot. "Until they can resolve their differences and come forward with a unified plan, there's no need for us to take it up," Bishop told reporters. Wizardkitten's post can be found here.
• BFM: A Primary It Is. Cordelia Lear: "As to Mike Bishop and the Republican State Senate caucus refusing to take up the bill to put candidates back on the ballot - maybe our political lesson is that there was a reason why Andy Dillon insisted that some of the legislation associated with the budget needed to originate in the Senate."
• Lessenberry: Holding Water. Like a lot of folks, Jack is confused about the water bills working their way through the House and Senate. Critics of the Republican plan argue that Sen. Birkholz's bills would permit dangerously high water withdrawals from Michigan rivers and streams. She says this is, "wildly exaggerated nonsense." Lessenberry's follow-up interview with Rebekah Warren can be found here.
• Debbie Stabenow: Compact will prevent diversion of lake water. Sen. Stabenow sets the News straight on the Great Lakes water compact (h/t BFM).

• LSJ: Jobless rate dips to 5.4% for region. Lansing's "total employment for October was 236,400, down 100 from a year earlier but up 1,200 from September. The labor force - people working or actively looking for work - was at 250,000. That was down 500 from a year earlier but up 300 from September."
• Michigan Messenger: Consumers Energy seeks tax break for coal-fired power plant. Yesterday Bay County's Hampton Township approved two juicy tax abatements for Consumers Energy to build a dirty coal plant. You can read more here.
• Coalition for Progress: Fight global warming, sign the Michigan clean energy petition. Speaking of coal, CFP is urging the Legislature to pass legislation banning more dirty coal plants until certain measures are in place. You can learn more at http://www.nocoalrush.com.
• BFM: Grand Rapids Goes Green. For those who say the state of Michigan can't reach the goal of aquiring 20% of our electricity by 2020, the City of Grand Rapids has already done it... more than a month ahead of schedule. You can read the accompanying GR Press story here.
• Bay City Times: New report says global warming will lead to more phragmites along our shoreline. "Phragmites only make low water levels worse, by destroying wetland vegetation and diminishing the natural filtering capacity of wetlands, the report says."
• Tom Walsh: Granholm pushes for tech money. Tom discusses the Governor's two-day trip to California, "aimed at snagging some of California's billions of dollars for clean-technology energy projects in Michigan." Cathleen has a follow-up on Granholm's blog.
• Media Mouse: Michigan DEQ Cleanup Programs Face Funding Shortage. "Outta Sight!--Outta Mind!--Outta Money!" That's the situation DEQ's cleanup programs are in. Media Mouse shares details from a DEQ presentation in Grand Rapids yesterday.

• Michigan Messenger: World AIDS Day: Wine and Dine to Battle Illness in Michigan. Check out Todd Heywood's post for the details on events happening in Lansing, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Ferndale and West Bloomfield.
• Liberal, Loud, and Proud: Universal Health Care in Mid-Michigan: It's happening. "I'm lucky to live in Ingham County, a place where our local government leaders clearly see the benefits of universal health care for residents as a means of cost prevention. Since instituting the Ingham Health Plan over nine years ago, Ingham has become a model for counties all over the state and country, because it works, and while it isn't quite perfect yet, it's getting there."

If You Want an Election and Not a Coronation You Must Act Today - Monday Morning Edition

by: philgoblue

Mon Nov 26, 2007 at 02:05:06 AM EST

There is still time to stop the 15 January "primary" and have a caucus on 9 February that John Edwards wants to campaign for and believes he can win.

But we need you to do the following things right now.

Could Brewer be right?

by: yvette248

Sun Nov 25, 2007 at 07:17:31 AM EST

I am aware that the majority of this site is vastly outspoken on berating our party leaders on this primary fiasco, but a few things that have been taking place lately has me wondering? 

1. Is Brewer smarter than we are giving him credit for? 

2. Is it possible that Michigan can really win everything we are fighting for? A primary, all the candidates on the ballot, AND the seating of our delegates? 

I'm not saying Brewer/Granholm/Levin etc. are definitely right or definitely wrong, but a couple of wins lately has me thinking....  

Now House Speaker Andy Dillon, D-Redford Township, says he intends to hold a vote Monday on a bill that would reinstate the names of four presidential candidates who withdrew from the state's Democratic presidential primary last month. 

If the legislation passes, Michigan will be poised to realize an improbable trifecta triumph: The first large-state contest in the 2008 presidential cycle, a ballot featuring all the leading candidates in both parties and an opportunity for every registered Michigan voter to participate.

http://freep.com/app...

Go to federal court, Mark Grebner

by: David Boyle

Wed Nov 21, 2007 at 15:44:19 PM EST

  Whether you make claims in federal court re takings, substantive and/or procedural due process, equal protection, 1st and 8th amendment stuff re making it a misdemeanor for journalists/folks to discuss the voter lists, ...not to mention equities/issues like

1) the county clerks saying they can't get out the absentee ballots on time (disenfranchising our SOLDIERS IN IRAQ, for cripes' sake),

2) the fact that the Democratic vote will be disenfranchised as a whole with a 1/15 primary (since it violates DNC rules and the delegates won't even be counted at the national convention...and there are few candidates on the ballot as well)--and don't forget the implementation challenge to be filed against the MDP for the MDP disenfranchising Michigan Dems!--,

3) the waste of public money on such a primary (as Speaker Andy Dillon has mentioned),

4) the interest in settled, fair decisions and procedures, not rush jobs like the State of Michigan is shoving down people's throats;

or other claims entirely: there may very likely be some powerful way or ways to challenge any arbitrary, capricious, and/or just plain stupid Michigan state government or court decisions recently made. So I hope you challenge, as soon as possible.

  Even if you're not successful in the end (God forbid), you will at least have educated the public further about the extent to which their government is willing to steal from them, play with their votes (including soldiers' votes from abroad) and silence/criminalize free speech (again, the misdemeanor about discussing voter lists). So, it's more than worth the shot, any way one looks at it.

  Moreover, you will be giving a great Thanksgiving present to the public by doing so, since someone should be protecting the people of Michigan from thievery, disenfranchisement, and bullying by a shady governmental apparatus. And people will give you thanks for doing it. I know I will.

  Godspeed! We know you can do it! And have a great Thanksgiving, everybody!!

DetNews: primary gutted, Dillon cites wastefulness, Dingell feverish

by: David Boyle

Fri Nov 09, 2007 at 02:39:46 AM EST

  Michigan lawmakers failed Thursday in their attempt to save Michigan's endangered Jan. 15 presidential primary. [Yes!]
  The Senate voted 26-9 on a bill to restore the primary in a way that could pass legal muster with a judge who this week declared the law establishing the primary unconstitutional. But Democrats refused to vote for a companion procedural motion to give the bill "immediate effect." And without that, the bill cannot become law until around March 1 of next year -- long after the proposed primary vote. [Go Dems!] ...
  The bill's sponsor, Sen. Michelle McManus, conceded that without immediate effect the primary is all but dead. She blamed Democrats and their union allies who want party caucuses, rather than a primary. [Ha ha Michelle McM! Gotcha!]
  Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop, R-Rochester, had urged his colleagues during Senate debate to vote to restore the primary.
  "If you don't support immediate effect, you have destroyed our opportunity to have a presidential primary on Jan. 15," he said. "Make us relevant in this (nominating) process." [Mike Bishop: Debbie Dingell's and Jennifer Granholm's GURU on this issue...]
  Bishop was hoping the House would pass the bill and return it to the Senate, where another vote on immediate effect then could be held. But later Thursday evening, House Speaker Andy Dillon, D-Redford Township, cast doubt that will happen. Dillon said the primary wouldn't be very meaningful if all of the Democrats, except Clinton, decide not to participate.
  "It costs us $10 million to have the election," Dillon said. "When the (top) Democrats pulled out, it hurt the quality of it ... I'm not sure it's worth $10 million to hold a primary that only involves one party." [ANDY DILLON FOR GOVERNOR!!!] ...
  Debbie Dingell, a Michigan member of the Democratic National Committee, worked feverishly to round up votes for the primary. And she said Thursday it isn't dead. [Feverish ol' Deb, failing fast...]
  "Not yet," she said. "We're still moving forward on the legal side and the Legislature may come back next week and could take it up."
  If the primary isn't held, Dingell said the fallback plan is to hold a Democratic caucus the same day as New Hampshire's primary, which will take place in early January -- although the date has not yet been set. [Why not Dec. 15? Scoop the whole country!]
  "I want the primary because I think it's the right thing," Dingell said. [Debbie Dingell--modern Gandhi, General Motors style.] ...

  2 tiny points:

1) I will likely advocate publicly for the recall, or removal from the DNC, of anyone who tries to hold a crazy-stalker-of-New-Hampshire early-January caucus;

2) as of yesterday's Senate vote; Debbie Dingell, Mike Bishop, and Saul Anuzis--and, yes, Jennifer Granholm--: Michigan Liberal bloggers like philgoblue, and courageous Michigan Senate Dems on Thursday, have kicked your sorry, treacherous *** re the early primary. And we will keep embarrassing you in public, the more you act like ***es.
  And learn to enjoy it, because that's what we're here for.

Wednesday Coffee Talk/Open Thread

by: BZP

Wed Oct 31, 2007 at 07:22:59 AM EDT

Well, it only took 'em nine months, but last night this morning the Legislature finally finished their one constitutional homework assignment for the year. Hooray!

• AP: Budget Deal Struck in Lansing. Ding, dong, the budget's done. This AP story has a nice summary of the final details on the DHS budget. You can read more over on the Detroit News and the Free Press.
• BFM: Republicans being Republicans. Speaker Dillon finally calls the House Republicans what they are after voting to spend the revenue they refused to support: hypocrites.
• State News: Mich. Supreme Court readies to hear same-sex benefits case. ?An LGBT family is going to rely on those benefits just as much as a traditional family... Families are expensive investments, and not being able to care for your family is a very scary thing.?
• Bay City Times: Brown to host town hall meeting. For folks living in the thumb region, here's your chance to hear from State Rep. Terry Brown, D-Pigeon. He'll be providing residents with information and resources on how to avoid foreclosure.
• WLNS: Proposal to Make Auto Insurance More Affordable. "House democrats spoke on a consumer protection package for residents that would eliminate credit scoring, the unfair practice of basing a person's auto insurance rate on their credit, and hold insurance companies accountable for charging excessive rates."

• State News: E.L. seeks to 'incubate' new businesses. Here's E.L. Mayor Sam Singh: ?This is an opportunity for the city to incubate those good ideas, and eventually as those companies grow, we will help (facilitate) that transformation from the incubator into other spaces.?
• The Conversation: Why Trade Adjustment Assistance is important. "Call your Congress person and tell them to vote ?yes? on TAA. Thousands of Michigan workers depend on it!"
• Muskegon Chronicle: State offers hotline to help homeowners. "The Michigan State Housing Development Authority has set up a toll-free 'Save the Dream' hotline for homeowners at risk of losing their homes or who face mortgage problems and need financial counseling. The telephone number is (866) 946-7432."
• Oakland Biz Review: Pacts could spur auto co. hiring. According to a study conducted by the Center for Automotive Research in Ann Arbor, new labor contracts at Ford/GM/Chrysler could result in the hiring of as many as 50,000 hourly workers over the next four years.
• Local 4: Talks Between Ford and the UAW Shift into High Gear. Is time on Ford's side? Here's what Autopacific analyst Jim Hall had to say: "?I won?t say time is running out for Ford, but time is running short and they have really, as they get farther and farther along they have got to find ways to make things happen faster.?
• AA News: Universities to get 1 percent state aid increase. "The 1 percent increase in state aid to universities and community colleges for operations fails to make up entirely some $25 million in mid-year fiscal 2007 budget cuts."
• DetNews: Growing Oakland University pushes to become top-tier research hub. "By 2020, [President] Russi wants Oakland flourishing as a research hub with about 25,000 students, vaulting from the eighth-largest public university in the state to at least the fourth."

• Capitol Journal: Elections - one week out. Derek shares his predictions for the Lansing and East Lansing City Council races.
• Coalition for Progress: Election Day volunteers also needed in Kalamazoo. "For more information about volunteering on November 6th, please RSVP. Shifts are for two or four hours, beginning at 9am and running until 8pm."
• BFM: Blackwater Granted Immunity. Kathy has a great update on the Blackwater situation.
• Midland Daily News: Democrat Lewis: Tax income, not services. Garnet Lewis is rolling out her campaign for the 98th House District, which includes most of the City of Midland and parts of Saginaw County. You can visit her campaign website here.

Wednesday Coffee Talk/Open Thread

by: BZP

Wed Oct 24, 2007 at 07:16:03 AM EDT

Happy Hump Day! Enjoy your morning cup-o-links...

• AP: Issues in state budget dispute appear to be narrowing. We'll hold you to that, Matt: "We're not even interested in a continuation budget at this point," said Matt Marsden, a spokesman for Republican Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop of Rochester. "There is no reason not to get this done." Christoff has more on the budget in this article.
• DFP: Battered speaker stands by role in budget dealing. "I'm not angry yet. Maybe I'll get angry," [Dillon] said. "I feel bad for other members who were doing the right thing, and now they have to face this. I'm not taking it personally."
• AP: DNR warns of cutbacks unless fees raised. "The department is seeking a wide-ranging package of fee increases - including the first boost in hunting and fishing license prices since 1996... Without the increases, funds that support game and fish programs, forest development and state parks will have deficits. That will require "drastic reductions" in programs and services, the DNR said."
• Walt Sorg: Interviews with Rep. Joan Bauer (D-Lansing) and Sen. Valde Garcia (R-Howell). Hop over to AM Lansing's website to listen to the interviews about the budget situation.
• LSJ: Bill under consideration would compensate people exonerated by DNA evidence. "The proposal calls for compensation of $50,000 for every year spent behind bars, plus repayment for expenses, lost wages and medical care."

• WILX: "Green" Development Announced. Downtown Lansing is suddenly a hotbed for redevelopment projects. Here's the latest.
• Bay City Times: The investments just keep coming at Dow Corning Corp. "Dow Corning recently announced it would spend $50 million to cut emissions at its Midland plant, and reduce its natural gas use by an amount large enough to heat 3,500 homes... That's on top of the whopping $1 billion expansion and 1,300 construction and manufacturing jobs at the company's Hemlock Semiconductor plant in Saginaw County."
• AP: Detroit automakers want action on Japanese currency. "To me, there's absolutely no doubt that Japan has been managing its currency," said Mustafa Mohatarem, GM's chief economist, citing estimates that the yen is undervalued by 20 to 25 percent. "It's a fiction to believe that Japan's currency in any respects reflects market conditions."
• D-News: UAW goes all-out for pact OK. "With a large contingent of dissenters jeopardizing ratification of the tentative deal, United Auto Workers leaders intensified their push for passage Tuesday, including recruiting UAW retirees to help make their case at informational meetings at Sterling Heights Assembly and Stamping, both of which vote today."
• Michigan Messenger: LCC terminates domestic partner benefits for non-bargaining employees. Another blow to the concept of equality in this state.

• BFM: West Michigan GOP in Trouble? It looks like a Republican stronghold could be trending blue.
• Ann Arbor News: Dingell legislation would set deadline on Iraq pullout. "The legislation, introduced by the Dearborn Democrat without any co-sponsors, would require President Bush to begin withdrawing troops from Iraq within 30 days and require him to complete that withdrawal by the inaugural of the next president on Jan. 20, 2009."
• LSJ Editorial: E.L. council: With three slots to fill, voters should mix experience, youth. Nathan Triplett gets the nod. Keep up the good work!

Friday Coffee Talk/Open Thread

by: BZP

Fri Oct 05, 2007 at 07:40:52 AM EDT

Accept no substitutes! That's the message from our new BlogAd, which you can check out in the lower-left sidebar. Sign the petition and tell Congress to support the original ENDA (Employment Non-Discrimination Act), which includes protections for gender identity. Now, onto the links!

• Stone Soup Musings: A state-sized temper tantrum. You tell 'em, Kathy! "To all of you temper tantrum-throwing adults unhappy with the recent tax increase, grow up and act your age. Never in my life have I been so embarrassed by some of the things I?ve been hearing on the news and reading in the paper. We?re like a huge dysfunctional family."
• Toledo Blade Editorial: Revenge of term limits. "More than a decade ago, Michigan voters adopted term limits for state legislators. Anyone now can serve up to six years in the house; eight years in the Senate, and after that they are barred from serving for life. The idea was to get fresh ideas; the reality has come close to wrecking the state."
• DFP: New tax burden? Chill out and hear the truth. "According to the most recent U.S. Census Bureau data, Michigan ranked No. 26 in state and local taxes as a percentage of total personal income. The new taxes likely will move Michigan a few notches in the wrong direction in tax-burden comparisons with other states, but it's worth noting that we've not been a high-tax state for many years."
• Skubick: Dems didn't play nice. I'm not even going to comment, but I'm sure this will make more than a few people's heads explode.
• Lessenberry: Budget Deal. On Wednesday, Jack chatted with Speaker Dillon about the budget deal. Listen to the interview here.
• Lessenberry: Fringe Benefits. In yesterday's post, Jack talked with Rep. Robert Dean about his legislation to limit lawmaker's fringe benefits. The bill passed with strong bipartisan support in the House. "That gave Majority Leader Mike Bishop a golden opportunity to strike a blow against waste... You might have thought they?d pass it in a minute. But you know what? They didn?t even put it on the calendar. They didn?t even schedule it for a hearing."
• BFM: Bishop Again Brings Censorship To The Senate. There goes Mike Bishop, trying to censor the media again. Open government, anyone? Kevin has a similar post up over on Michigan Messenger, and you can read the AP story here.

• Great Lakes Guy: Bringing Renewables Into Port. "There's mounting evidence that the wind business will generate all sorts of jobs for technical, scientific, professional, and skilled workers. But apparently transportation - a historic strength of the greater Great Lakes region - is another industry that stands to benefit. The Clure Marine Terminal is processing imports from overseas as well as exports to Spain." The LSJ has a nice story on a renewable energy tour that's passing through Michigan this week, which you can read here.
• BFM: Michigan's New Economy Keeps Growing. Christine has a nice post about Clinton Township-based Kuka Robotics, one of the world's leading manufacturers of industrial robots.
• AA Biz Review: Arbor Networks on hiring spree. "An Ann Arbor network security firm plans to add 16 employees and change offices in an expansion bolstered by increasing demands for its Web security products." The company Vice President cited their proximity to UM as a way of hiring knowledgeable workers for their expansion.
• AA Biz Review: Ann Arbor pharma services firm adds 70 workers. The Ann Arbor division of i3 Drug Safety plans to expand by 60 percent by hiring 70 new employees, and move into new building by early November.
• Michigan Future: Will Your Next Vehicle Be 'Connected'? New Facility Seeks to Make Cars Smarter. "The Connected Vehicle Proving Center (CVPC), which officially opened [in Ann Arbor] this week, seeks to take vehicle safety to the next level by serving as a proving ground for testing, evaluating, and showcasing 'connected' vehicle systems... Ultimately, it is hoped that the center will serve as a catalyst for growing the connected vehicle industry, thereby attracting related technical and engineering jobs to Michigan."
• Michigan Messenger: MichBio Expo in Lansing. "MichBio, a trade association for the life sciences industry in Michigan, will host its annual MichBio Expo at the Lansing Center, October 16 and 17. Keynote speakers will be James C. Greenwood, BIO president and CEO, and Lou Anna K. Simon, Michigan State University president."
• Midland Daily News: Beverage company building in Monitor Twp. "Beverage distributor Fabiano Brothers wants to have a hand in continuing the development spurt at U.S. 10 and Mackinaw Road by building new corporate offices and warehouse space to anchor a new business park."

What about the Senate?

by: LiberalLucy

Fri Sep 21, 2007 at 15:34:50 PM EDT

Perhaps I've been entrenched at the House for too long, perhaps I've developed a political Stockholm Syndrome and I feel for my Democratic 'captors', or perhaps there's still a shred of logic left in my tired, sleep deprived brain, but I'm going to take the more unpopular road for just a moment.

Have we forgotten about the Senate?

Yes, it'd be nice if all 58 Democratic House members could just hit the green button and head home. If that had been the case, we'd never be having this discussion. It'd be done and over, period.

However, thanks to that little 'wrinkle' that is our great system of checks and balances, it has one other body to get through first, the Senate.  Most unfortunate for us is the so-called leader Republican Mike Bishop, who despite the copious amounts of hair product and vanity in his possession, is still the majority vote leader.

Already proven himself to be the biggest obstructionist of them all, I really doubt that we'll ever find Bishop encouraging his members to vote for a Democrat-only House bill, and that leaves us back at the illogical political standoff at O.K. Corral, again.

Many of you have said this morning that we'll cross that bridge when we come to it, but is it really crossable? Will a single party bill actually help or hinder the chances of preventing a government shutdown?

I'm convinced that this situation and these questions have been asked and played out in the minds of some of the state's most brilliant political strategists for months and months. Still the overwhelming factor crushing it all is the out-of-touch evil Bobsey Twins of Bishop and DeRoche of the House. They don't care and just like with small children, no one can seem to make them care.

So back to the Democratic vote only option. Dillon was asked this morning by a reporter whether or not it would pass the House as a Democrat-only bill, and he said that time was drawing very near, so for those of you shouting for that, rest assured that's a very real and near option. But again, what about the Senate?

We're at the impasse of picking our poison. Neither seems very desirable or healthy, because in the end, there's still that pesky Senate to get past.

House Republicans want their Shutdown

by: LiberalLucy

Fri Sep 21, 2007 at 08:52:37 AM EDT

To no one's surprise and to every one's dismay, House Republicans again reneged on an agreement to reach a bi-partisan deal that would prevent the state government from shutting down on October 1st.

After Dillon finished speaking to the press, House Democratic Communications passed out a list of reforms had already been introduced, to prove that the Dems were doing all they could to get this problem solved.

Clearly, with the exception of Rep. Chris Ward (R-Brighton), the House Republicans can't decide who they want to anger more. Us the constituency or Dillon and the House Dems.

After some badly-needed shut eye, I'll do a more extensive piece, but for now, I can barely keep my eyes open.

Yup, they did it again...

by: LiberalLucy

Fri Sep 21, 2007 at 07:55:49 AM EDT

As one reporter put it, "What just happened to the last six hours of my life?"

I'm not quite sure to do, the media isn't quite sure to do, but the general consensus is that everyone is on the point of exhaustion.

Many of us have been up for 24 hours now, and there's a copious amount of caffeine that's being made and consumed at a somewhat equal rate.

While there are a few lobbyists left in the gallery, most have succumbed to need for sleep and gone home.

What is amazing is the resolve and furor of the Democratic Caucus. Without a doubt, each and everyone of them is beyond tired. But not only is no one breaking ranks by leaving, they continue to stand tall and strong together.

They will not give in.

Say 'Thanks' to this Republican, he's earned it.

by: LiberalLucy

Fri Sep 21, 2007 at 05:49:19 AM EDT

People are used to having the left fight the right and vice versa, and sometimes when those two sides get along, people become confused and forget what you're supposed to do when they aren't fighting.

This is one of those rare times where I would ask you to consider stepping away from the norm. I'm guessing that after you read this, you'll understand why.

We're in the middle of a constitutional crisis. We have to come together and make a compromise.

I'm going to pay a very heavy political price for doing this. But I feel some solace in knowing I'm doing the right thing.

Citing constituent opinion "3 to 1 against tax increase", Ward temporarily stepped aside from his leadership position within the House Republican Caucus because he joined ranks with Speaker Andy Dillon (D-Redford Twp.) and Majority Floor Leader Steve Tobocman (D-Detroit) in voting for this bill.

When asked what reasons within his own district spurred his decision, Ward cited public education.

My public schools are feeling a terrible crunch. Cost of public education is skyrocketing, as are retirement, health care costs, etc. Good public schools mean a lot to me.

I abhor taxes, but this is a fair way to do it with the least impact on state services. This is the first of many, many difficult votes necessary for this chamber to move on from this crisis. I find some solace in knowing I'm doing the right thing.

I commend Rep. Ward, and I would ask that each and everyone of you, regardless of whether or not you live in his district, would do the same. Positive reinforcement has a longer lasting impact than does the negative. While we always know that doing the right thing isn't always popular, we are much more cognizant of it when we actually witness it.

Thank Rep. Ward by email or by phone 517.373.1784.

An End in Sight?

by: LiberalLucy

Fri Sep 21, 2007 at 05:06:42 AM EDT

Republican Rep. Chris Ward of Brighton, so far the lone member of his caucus to vote with a majority of Democrats said that his fellow colleagues Judy Emmons of Sheridan and Dick Ball of Bennington Twp. would soon follow his lead.

It looks as if the Democrats will be wrapping up this day and night long vote quickly.

Someone Please Stop the Craig DeRoche Train Wreck

by: LiberalLucy

Wed Sep 19, 2007 at 01:45:04 AM EDT

I swear I have no idea how House Republican Minority Leader Craig DeRoche of Novi retains his title of leadership. 

The man is a walking public relations disaster.

While I start salivating the minute I see him walk over to the House press box, I have to be honest, my heart goes out to the House Republican Communications staff who are charged with handling him. What a miserable, thankless job.

He makes it so easy for both this partisan blogger and the objective mainstream media (MSM) to make him look like a fool, because he makes the most ridiculous statements.

Take for instance tonight's episode. The House floor was nearly cleared after the vote, Speaker of the House Andy Dillon (D-Redford Twp.) had already given his press conference, and the Sargent at Arms were locking up. The lights had already dimmed, and when DeRoche walked over to the press box, there were only two of us still there.

While I'm not sure if Craig is smart enough to know who I am by now, his communications people surely do. I feel like hanging a sign above my head that says something like "Welcome to the Lions Den. Step right up to make your next absurd statement and have it broadcast to the good people of Michigan!" With record readership here at MichLib, there are more people than ever coming back for the daily episode of Craig's Follies.

DeRoche started out right away with more or less the same statement he's been making every time he sees us.

"This is just more political posturing from the House Democrats. They clearly aren't up to the task of governing."

Wow, good to know that the Senate and House Republican leadership was doing such a great job of communicating with each other. Perhaps DeRoche has found himself on communications blackout from every other Republican legislator?

"We'll try to be a part of the process. Everyone has been watching a train wreck. Bishop is being responsible by talking about all sorts of options. "

When the subject moved on to his own caucus and their votes tonight, the water continued to get murkier.

Vote, thy name is Procedure

by: LiberalLucy

Tue Sep 18, 2007 at 23:21:56 PM EDT

The good news is that the House just made it possible for the state to avoid a government shutdown on October 1st. (See the 5 day rule)

Basically, the bills will have to sit for 5 days before the Senate can act on them, and we're running up against the Oct 1 deadline.

When HB 5194 just passed 77-26-5, it was not a vote on raising the income tax, even though that's what has been negotiated all week.

What did just happen is something that's commonly referred to as a shell or vehicle bill, because it's a bill without much substance but designed to move the process along.

Instead of voting on a tax increase, they voted to give disabled veterans a $250 tax exemption. 

Don't despair though, if nothing else, the ball is now in the Senate's court, and while Speaker Andy Dillon (D-Redford Twp.) made it clear shortly after the vote that he's continuing to work with House and Senate Republicans. Changes will (hopefully) be made in the Senate, and then they can kick it back to the House. 

The important thing is that the House has done what they can to make sure the government won't shut down. 

As for that second bill, it's another shell bill on the issue of use/service tax. We'll be waiting and watching to see what the Senate does.

Also the Senate passed a couple bills today (SB 632 and HB 4800), but not terribly significant to the budget.

The Senate is adjourned till noon tomorrow, the House till 1:30.

Stay tuned to MichLib for continuous updates. 

(Thanks to lpackard for her collaboration)