"That's Saul, folks!"Michigan Republican Party Blog

House Republican Leader's Comments

Wednesday, January 31, 2007

Granholm avoids tough budget choices

Governor should stop raiding family wallets to feed overstuffed government

Rep. Craig DeRoche

Listening to Gov. Jennifer Granholm sound the alarm bells over yet another budget deficit is becoming old hat for those of us who work in Lansing. January predictions of doom and gloom from the Granholm budget office are becoming as frequent as New Year's weight-loss resolutions, with similar results.

Every year the governor tells us we need to take a few pounds off the budget, followed by a lot of talk about tough and drastic action needed. We hear a lot about cutting waste and bureaucracy, but after much fanfare and hubris, what follows is a business-as-usual budget approach for the same old government we have rather than budgeting for what we wish to become.

The result is the equivalent of yo-yo dieting. The administration talks a good game for a while, but at the end of the day we end up right back where we started -- back with too many pounds of fat in the state's budget.

Spending rises

Despite the rhetoric about deep and massive budget cutting during the first term of the Granholm administration, the facts tell an entirely different story.

In four years, the state budget has actually increased from $39.3 billion to $41.7 billion. Michigan is spending $300 million more on state employee salaries and benefits, $1.5 billion more on the departments responsible for managing welfare and Medicaid, and $250 million more on our state correctional facilities.

Last year the departments of Human Services, Corrections and State Police spent even more money than they were budgeted -- to the tune of almost $70 million. This kind of fiscal mismanagement by three of the governor's top cabinet level officers is unprecedented -- and it happened without so much as a slap on the wrist for the offenders.

Structural change avoided

The governor talks a great game about cutting spending. But a little research and some simple arithmetic points out the obvious: Our state waistline is growing, not shrinking.

As jobs and families continue to leave our state this administration continues to spend more, and the result is a budget that is bursting at the seams. Rather than find solutions to our structural problems, the governor sought short-term measures and one-time fixes to keep us hobbling along from year to year. Our problems haven't gone away, and every New Year brings a new crisis.

Early indications from the Granholm administration point to a remedy that would have dire consequences for families and businesses already struggling to stay afloat. With the state budget ready to pop, Granholm is suggesting we're not spending enough. She argues we need to spend more -- and to do it she wants more of your tax dollars.

Instead of putting the state on a sensible diet to live within its means, the governor has decided it's not possible for the state to cut any more fat -- she's resigned to buying a bigger wardrobe. She wants a larger budget to fit our state's growing waistline, and by the way, you'll be getting the tailoring bill. While the state budget gets fatter, your wallet gets smaller.

Live within our means

Michigan has been in dire straits for some time now, much of it having to do with the restructuring of our auto industry and the changing global economy. But while other states have adapted and become more efficient, Michigan is still operating with a bloated and costly state bureaucracy.

We won't get out of this mess unless we make the tough decisions necessary to force our state to live within its means. We certainly won't turn things around by taking more from the wallets of Michigan families to feed the needs of an overstuffed state government.

We had an election a few short months ago, and spending the next four years bemoaning the outcome will not do any of us any good. We all share a responsibility in Lansing to seek common ground; too much is at stake to spend time pointing fingers. Republicans in the House will work toward solutions to this challenge without asking Michigan families to foot the bill. I challenge my Democratic colleagues to do the same.

But leadership needs to start with the executive office. The governor needs to come clean with the people of Michigan, stop blaming our state's shortcomings on her long-departed predecessor and start leading a true transformation of state government that puts our state in a position to succeed in the global economy.

This is not a New Year's resolution we can afford to blow off.

State Rep. Craig DeRoche, R-Novi, is the House minority leader.

Articles of Interest 1-31-07

643 Days until election day.

NBC News did a very “to the point” story about soldiers in Iraq and what they think it means to “support” our troops.  It’s a must watch:

http://migop.blogs.com/blog/2007/01/nbc_story_on_ir.html

Two Americas, Nine Bathrooms…is how John Fund in the WSJ Opinion Journal starts the following story about Democrat Presidential candidate John Edwards:

Former Senator John Edwards continues to wow crowds with his famous "Two Americas" speech, in which he knits together populist themes in a rousing call for an updated form of class warfare. The bottom line: Corporations must be curbed and the rich taxed more heavily.

But Mr. Edwards is running into a surprising amount of flak over his own lifestyle. Reporters have noted that the former trial lawyer amassed a fortune in personal-injury cases and now is proudly living on the pretty side of the tracks. Also press accounts have noted that, despite his stump speech portraying himself as the "son of a mill worker," Mr. Edwards was actually the son of a middle manager.

The scrutiny has extended to his new house. The Raleigh News & Observer, the most influential paper in his home state of North Carolina, says Mr. Edwards is facing questions about whether "there is any contradiction between" his ownership of 29,000 square foot estate in nearby Chapel Hill and his supposed identification with the poor and downtrodden. His home comes complete with a basketball court, a squash court, a swimming pool and a four-story tower. It's been dubbed "a plantation" and "Uncle John's Cabin." Comedian Jay Leno has been unsparing in his needling of the self-appointed tribune of the working class: "I guess we know which of the two Americas he lives in."

State Committee member Bill Runco’s mother passed away last week.  Please keep Bill and his family in your prayers.  The funeral is this Thursday.

Reminder:  Tonight we have one of our “Listen & Learn” sessions in Oakland county at the County Commissioners Auditorium.  We start at 6:00pm and try to end around 8:00pm or so.  Please join us.

Saul Anuzis

NBC Story on Iraq...Support our Troops?

Articles of Interest 1-30-07

644 Days until election day.
 
Governor Mike Huckabee announced his campaign for the Republican nomination for President.  Governor Huckabee was in Michigan late last year and made a great impression at a Downriver event we have during the baseball playoffs.  The Governor is planning on being at the Mackinac Island Leadership Conference and we expect him back in our state over the next year.

Huckabee is an optimistic messenger with a quick wit and calming demeanor.  Although a long shot by most accounts, he’s someone worth watching and listening to.

We thought we heard the last from Jane Fonda…and hoped the same from John Kerry.  So here’s a blast from the past worth remembering:

http://migop.blogs.com/blog/2007/01/shes_backhes_no.html

I have been asked by the publishers of MIRS and Gongwers News Service to no longer run their stories daily in my clips.  I appreciate the coorperation we had over the last few years and will NOT be reprinting their stories daily.  They run their news service as a private entrepreneurial venture in our state’s capitol and I don’t want to make it any harder than the Democrats already have to do business in Michigan.

OK, back to the snow blower....I made two paths to get out of the drive...now I have to finish up our drive and the neighbors drive who needs a little help.  A Merry belated WHITE Christmas to all!!!

Saul Anuzis

She's Back...He's NOT!!!

Articles of Interest 1-29-07

645 Days until election day.


As we start out a new week, we are waiting for the Democrats to propose their latest plans to raise taxes.  U.S. Senate nominee Mike Bouchard wrote a great guest editorial in the Oakland Press, which I have reprinted below. 

Taxpayers and citizens are asking…are there any other options to raising taxes.  The Mackinac Center put together a short list of where to start.  $1.8 Billion in Savings!?! Check it out:

http://migop.blogs.com/blog/2007/01/18_billion_in_s.html

Our deepest sympathies go out to the families of Dan and Hulda Piercecchi and Matt Kidd.  Matt’s brother, Cpl. Mark D. Kidd, 26, who was a Marine on the equivalent of his fourth tour in Iraq, was killed last week in Iraq.  Please keep their families in your prayers.

Here is Sheriff Bouchard’s point of view:

GUEST OPINION-Oakland Press
Governor must steer right course, not sink state in higher taxes

Michael J. Bouchard is the sheriff of Oakland County.

In the past several years, our state has lost countless businesses and the jobs that go with it. In our neighborhoods, “For Sale” signs sprinkle our friends’ and neighbors’ front yards and seem to stay up longer and longer.

We are left to wonder what kind of decisions our children will be forced to make when it comes time to start their families and careers.

It will take real leadership right here in Michigan to address these issues and make the tough decisions to put our state back on the road to recovery.

But Michiganians have a special resilience and have shown, time and time again, that we are willing to roll up our sleeves and tighten our belts to get the job done.

But the leadership we need to solve our state’s looming $3 billion shortfall starts at the top with the governor and won’t be found in another gubernatorial appointed commission.

I have traveled the state, and I have talked to families that want and expect real action.

They can balance their family budgets, and they expect our state and the governor to do the same. These families also know if they spend too much one month, they have real consequences and can’t raise taxes to pay their way out of it.

And we have all seen the ramifications of raising taxes.

It will just compound an already disastrous situation. If a ship is sinking, you don’t add water. That would only drown the people still on the boat.

In the long run, tax increases hurt our economy and send a clear message to businesses. And businesses have gotten that message and left our state or refused to come here. Raising taxes again will only shackle us to more bad news in the future.

But we can tighten our belts and set priorities, such as ensuring our children get a first-class education. Knowing those priorities and sticking to them will help us to determine where we have to make the tough choices.

But it will take creativity and courage to move forward in the right way.

For the sake of our state and for our children’s future in the state, let’s hope our governor is willing to step up to meet that challenge.

The impending shortfall shows there are no more tomorrows. Today is the day.

Saul Anuzis

$1.8 Billion in Savings...

http://www.mackinac.org/article.aspx?ID=7602

How To Replace the SBT With Nothing

2007 Version

(Note: Legislative Analyst Jack McHugh has also discussed these ideas in detail in a WJR-AM 760 radio interview.)

There is a broad consensus that the state’s Single Business Tax is too complex and harms our economy. In Lansing, this recognition is usually followed up with, "It’s impossible to eliminate the SBT without replacing it with a different tax. There’s no way to cut the $1.885 billion it brings in."

Not so fast! Below is a list of ways to achieve $1.885 billion in savings with little heavy lifting. Much of the savings comes from injecting competition into government operations, providing government employee fringe benefits comparable to (generous) private sector plans or eliminating non-core functions.

• Higher education — Change the funding mechanism to a standard "per-pupil foundation grant" in which the money is attached to the students, rather than each university getting an amount determined by legislative maneuvering. As colleges are forced to compete for students they would "sharpen their pencils," rein in costs and eliminate the kinds of inefficiencies highlighted in recent audit reports. If the effect was that costs fell by just 5 percent, the savings would be: $70 million.

• Shift state police road patrols to less expensive county sheriff deputies. With benefits and related expenses it costs more than $100,000 per year to employ a state trooper; most sheriff deputies cost much less to employ. Effect on public safety: Zero. Savings: $65 million.

• Adopt the Hay Group report recommendations on rationalizing public school health insurance, including requiring co-pays and preferred provider networks. This could save: $422 million.

• Eliminate the Michigan State University cooperative extension service and agriculture experiment station to save: $61 million.

• The original version of this list recommended halting the so-called “21st Century Jobs Fund” before it borrowed and spent $400 million. It’s too late for that now: All but $33 million was spent before the election, and taxpayers will be repaying the debt for decades. At the very least, the bleeding can be stanched — $75 million of what is being characterized as a “$1 billion state deficit” is new borrowing for this boondoggle. Skip it and save: $75 million.

• Prison privatization — according to a Rio Grande Foundation report, if 5 percent of prisoners are placed in privately-managed prisons, the state saves 14 percent on overall prison spending, because government-managed prisons have an incentive to "sharpen their pencils." Savings: $192 million.

• Eliminate "History and Arts" subsidies, and cut state library subsidies in half: $35 million.

• In 1999 the Citizens Research Council noted that "a number of changes have occurred over the past decade that have reduced the need for intermediate school districts." Let's help the ISDs catch up by reducing their operations grants: $32 million.

• Cut so-called "20j" payments to affluent schools in half. This extra money is a political response to the fact that under Proposal A certain wealthy school districts benefit less from per-pupil state foundation grant increases than other districts. (They still benefit, though.) Savings: $26 million.

• Cut transit funding in half. By eliminating protectionist regulations that restrict alternatives, empty buses driven by public employee union members can be replaced by private sector innovations like jitneys, commercial van pools, "call-and-ride" services, car-sharing and more. This will improve service for transit users at a much lower cost: $112 million.

• Repeal the "prevailing wage" law that requires above-market rate wages be paid on school construction projects: $150 million.

• Schools can realize huge savings by privatizing non-core functions like transportation, food service and custodial. Many have already done so: The Mackinac Center’s most recent survey of school privatization shows that 38.5 percent of school districts already have a competitive contract in place for one of these functions. Some idea of the magnitude of these savings can be seen in the experience of one district that saved the equivalent of $177 per student by contracting out its custodial needs. Statewide, similar savings would add up to $300 million annually! In the short term, it would not be unreasonable to expect: $50 million.

• Reduce the Merit Award Scholarships by 50 percent. Shockingly, at the governor’s request, the Legislature just did the opposite and increased these non-need based college scholarships by $64 million annually beginning in 2010. When families face economic hard times, the first thing they do is cut luxuries. This is a luxury Michigan can no longer afford. $60 million.

• Reform Medicaid and welfare — The state spends almost $15 billion on these two programs, more than $6 billion of which is from state taxes and fees. Medicaid in particular is a command-and-control monstrosity rife with perverse incentives. Reforming it in ways that give recipients an incentive to economize and take better care of themselves could save hundreds of millions of dollars, while actually giving recipients greater freedom and choice. If just 1.6 percent of the expense in these two programs could be reduced in this way, the state would save: $240 million.

• Stimulate growth. Can anyone doubt that eliminating the SBT, one of the most complex and burdensome business taxes in the nation, would be a shot of adrenalin for the state’s economy? It would send a powerful message that Michigan is open for business. The dynamic effects of such a change on income, property and sales tax receipts would easily raise: $300 million.

Total: $1.885 billion.

This is approximately how much the Single Business Tax has taken in over the last few years. That amount goes to the "general fund" and some of these savings are to the "School Aid Fund," but in many ways the money has been shown to be "fungible" or easily moved between them. (For example, higher education appropriations that now come from the general fund could come out of the School Aid Fund.)

There is a common theme that runs through opposition to every one of these common-sense reforms: "That’s not the way we’ve done it in the past."

That’s not good enough anymore: Michigan is at the tipping point of going from relative decline in population and income, to absolute decline. If we don’t reduce the disincentives to doing business here, there’s nothing to prevent the entire state from going the way of Detroit, with a declining population and an economy that is unable to support a government establishment that believes its citizens exist to serve it — not the other way around.

None of the items above would be "devastating" to the state, "vulnerable populations" or even to any particular interest group. Most people would not even notice that these changes had taken place. If the elimination of the SBT were "paid for" with spending cuts, Michigan residents might notice something else instead: Michigan’s economy would start growing, property values would increase, and jobs and income would start to rise. If citizens, not special interests come first, then these reforms are no-brainers.

______________

Note: This list combines current spending, proposals from the governor’s budget recommendation and speculative savings that assume certain policy reforms. It is intended as an illustration of what is possible, not as a precise roadmap.

#####

Jack McHugh is a legislative analyst for the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, a research and educational institute headquartered in Midland, Mich. Permission to reprint in whole or in part is hereby granted, provided that the author and the Center are properly cited.

Articles of Interest 1-28-07

646 Days until election day.

The non-binding resolution on Iraq being pushed by the Democrats in the U.S. Senate is nothing more than political posturing.  They are not willing to take a “real” stand, pass a “real” bill or lead on this issue.  The Senate Democrats are doing nothing more than politicizing this issue for their own, selfish personal gain as our men and women in the armed service risk their lives to protect us from another terrorist attack.

If the Democrats really have a “better” solution or plan for Iraq, please share it with the American people.  Complaining, cheap sound bites and politicizing this issue isn’t helping solve the problem or bring our troops home.

At some point I hope the American people realize how disingenuous the Democrats are on Iraq and the war on terror and react…by throwing the bums out.

Lead, follow or get out of the way…there is a job to do.

Here’s a good editorial cartoon that says it well:

http://migop.blogs.com/blog/2007/01/democrats_nonbi.html

Here is a good write up about the resolution itself:

http://www.redstate.com/blogs/smagar/2007/jan/26/a_non_binding_resolution_is_bad_for_these_reasons_sign_the_nrsc_pledge

Meanwhile, Michigan Democrats are trying to build some kind of political “consensus” for a tax increase.  They are unwilling to accept the fact Michigan needs to change the way we provide services, pay for those services and tax it’s citizens.

The Governor continues to hire her political cronies while threatening to cut essential services.  We overpay for teacher’s insurance to help fund their union bosses political activities.

Over the past several State of the State speeches Governor Granholm has given have been full of platitudes.  No specifics, no new ideas and a continued discussion of “having a plan” and “working the plan”.  I don’t think it’s working?

Michigan is at a crossroads.  The Democrats are in the drivers seat but don’t seem willing or able to lead.  We have no concrete proposals, no plans…nothing on the drawing table.  The Governor and the House Democrats argue the “people have spoken”….OK, help us understand what YOU (the Democrats) think the people of Michigan want.

What are your plans…who is your leader?  A wink and a smile will NOT turn Michigan around.

Yesterday afternoon we held our latest “Listen and Learn” session at the Dearborn Public Library.  We had a full crowd from around Wayne county and had a great discussion about the elections, the need for Republican to stand for something and desire to get on with winning again!  Thank to all of you who took Saturday afternoon away from your families to spend it with us.

Saul Anuzis

Pelosi Democrat's Ethics....yeh

The Democrat's "Non-Binding" Resolution

Articles of Interest 1-27-07

647 Days until election day.

Governor Granholm issues “directives” for state agencies to cut spending.  How about issuing a directive to herself  to stop hiring political cronies who lost elections when so many long term state employees and programs are being cut.

First, State Senate candidate Andy Levin gets a “labor” job….then Democratic Congressional nominee Nancy Skinner becomes the First Gentleman’s Chief of Staff….Granholm for Governor campaign manager Howard Edleson gets one of Michigan’s “international” travel jobs and then Granholm’s recruited failed Attorney General candidate Scott Bowen gets a “newly created” job as “state employer”.

With this kind of leadership, attitude and cronyism…is there any wonder we have financial problems in our state???

The state allows “sweet heart” bidding on teacher’s health coverage that costs hundreds of millions EXTRA in taxpayer dollars…they push “prevailing” union bidding for construction as we try and save every TAXPAYER’s dollar…they allow state employees to “retire” and collect their full pension while getting hired back the next day…the Governor’s 21st Century Fund provides “corporate welfare” to get “new” companies to locate in Michigan while we let employers like Pfizer slip away…Honda never even look…Toyota expand elsewhere.

Before “we” start raising taxes, shouldn’t we address some of these blatant abuses of taxpayer dollars.  I know some Democrats believe these are part of their “quality of life” standards…I can’t wait to see Howard’s expense report for his first overseas junket???  So when the Governor starts talking about education cuts, meal on wheels cancelled or some other scare tactic…ask her about her own hiring tactics and spending habits.

We can’t tax ourselves out of a recession…the Democrats continue to live in a state of denial.

On a happier front, I just wanted to share the good news with everyone that Matthew (Washtenaw County Chair) and Rebecca Schneider had a baby girl last Sunday evening at 8:24 PM.  Her name is Ava Lila Schneider.  She weighs 7 pounds 7 ounces and is 21 inches long.

Saul Anuzis

Articles of Interest 1-26-07

648 Days until election day.

Senate Republicans introduced a $400 million dollar tax cut as a proposed replacement for the Single Business Tax.  Governor Granholm has set up a special task force and has orchestrated various interest groups to start the drum beat for a tax increase.

Senate and House Republicans have been consistently pushing for a net tax cut to help spur economic development in Michigan.  Not only are we having a hard time keeping jobs, but we are having a very difficult time recruiting companies to relocate here.

Michigan is in line to be the ONLY state in the country to lose jobs 4 years in a row.  With Pfizer leaving, House Democrats pushing for repeal of our tort reforms, Governor Granholm proposing additional taxes…we are desperately in need of leadership.  The Democrats apparently do NOT understand that it’s impossible to tax our way out of a recession.  At least someone is looking out for the taxpayers!?!

GOPAC announced former Congressman J.C. Watts, Jr. will be stepping down after serving nearly four years as Chairman.  Former Maryland Lieutenant Governor Michael Steele will be named as GOPAC's seventh Chairman.

Under Watts' leadership, GOPAC more than tripled fundraising, raising nearly $9 million during the last election cycle.  GOPAC trained thousands of Republican activists across the country and assisted Republican organizations in recruiting candidates for local office.  GOPAC also provided direct campaign support to candidates in 17 states. They also provided here in Michigan.

Steele will take the reins of leadership at GOPAC beginning February 1, 2007. Steele was Chairman of the Maryland Republican Party prior to serving as Lieutenant Governor.  He was the Republican nominee for United States Senate in 2006 in Maryland.

GOPAC was founded by Delaware Governor Pete du Pont in 1978 in an effort to build a farm team of Republican officeholders who could then run for congress or higher state offices later.  Other past Chairmen of GOPAC were:  former Oklahoma Governor Frank Keating, California Congressman David Dreier, Arizona Congressman John Shadegg and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich.

Congressman Duncan Hunter announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination for President.  Serving his 14th term as a congressman, Mr. Hunter, of San Diego, is a Vietnam veteran and a lawyer. He was the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee until this year and is now the ranking Republican on the panel.

Reminder - Listen & Learn session this Saturday in Dearborn at noon.

Saul Anuzis

Articles of Interest 1-25-07

649 Days until election day.

Last night we conducted one of our “Listen & Learn” sessions at the Ottawa County GOP headquarters to a standing room only crowd.  We spent several hours discussing various challenges, first time opportunities and ways we could better work together.  Folks from Ottawa, Allegan, Berrien, Muskegon and St. Joseph were represented.

Several hundred questionnaires have been sent in or handed in at various “Listen & Learn” sessions. I would encourage you to share your comments, suggestions or concerns via the questionnaire if you can’t personally make it to one of our sessions.

As our state convention draws nearer, we have confirmed Governor Mitt Romney and Senator Sam Brownback as two of our speakers for Saturday morning.  Caucuses will be held Friday, February 9th and we will hold statewide leadership elections Saturday.

So, the House Democrats announce last year that they wanted to roll back the tort reform and liability reform laws that Republicans implemented several years ago.  Next, Pfizer announces that they are closing facilities and moving thousands of jobs out of state…laying off over 2,400 well paid Michigan citizens.  Is it possible that Michigan will be the only state in the country that will lose jobs 4 years in a row while the rest of the country creates another 7 million jobs???

Michigan continues to struggle in a single state recession under Governor Granholm, who “has a plan” and continues “working her plan”.  And now the Governor wants to raise your taxes…trying to tax ourselves out of a recession???

Thanks!?!

Saul Anuzis

Articles of Interest 1-24-07

650 Days until election day.

President Bush delivered his State of the Union address last night.  The President laid out an aggressive plan for his domestic agenda as well as explained the challenges at hand with the war of terror and Iraq.  While he insisted that America could not afford to fail, he also warned the Iraqi government that “our commitment is not open-ended.”

The Democrats seem to make an issue of the President’s plan to get the job done in Iraq and bring our troops home.  He has offered a specific plan to secure Baghdad and turn it over to the Iraqis.  For no other reason than partisan politics, the Democrats were trying to make the point that the President’s plan wasn’t a good one but offered nothing more that a slight re-statement of what the President has said are our goals. Politicizing the war is dangerous…I hope the Democrats support our troops and not just play politics the war on terror.

The challenging part for Michigan was when the President called for greater fuel efficiency for cars and for taxes on health care benefits over $15,000 for families.  Obviously, anytime you set arbitrary standards on the auto industry you run the risk of causing unintended negative consequences on our automakers.  While we all support the need to reduce our dependency on foreign oil, want to see a continuation of better fuel efficiency in cars and support the concept of any alternative fuels as well as more domestic oil supplies…we have to be careful not to create a situation that could hurt our domestic auto industry.

Congressmen Joe Knollenberg, Thaddeus McCotter, Mike Rogers and Candice Miller were quick to respond to the President’s proposals and guaranteed that Michigan’s legislators would be moving very cautiously on any of these proposals and they would oppose anything that hurt our citizens or job providers.

I was encouraged to hear the President address the need for a guest worker program, strengthening our borders and a commitment to deal with illegal immigrants that did NOT include amnesty.  I believe most Americans support legal immigration and understand the need to incorporate all those who come here into the American way of life…what has been referred to as patriotic immigration.  What that doesn’t mean is amnesty for those who illegally came to this country that would allow them citizenship.  It makes no sense when one of the unique qualities of this country is the fact that our society is based on the rule of law and that somehow we would forego that basic principle and allow someone’s first act to be a crime on their way to citizenship.

Overall the President did a very good job making his case to the American people. The other historical moment was when the President turned and said “Madam Speaker” as for the first time the State of the Union was opened by the first female Speaker of the House. It is clear he is ready and willing to work with a bi-partisan Congress to get things done.  Both on style and substance, I think this was one of the President’s best performances.

Here's what the D.C. press is saying about Thaddeus McCotter these days. From the Washington political Roll Call newspaper:

Rep. Thaddeus McCotter (Mich.). When McCotter won the Republican Policy Committee chairmanship, he became the unlikeliest backbencher to catapult to leadership in the 110th Congress. By his own admission, the third-term lawmaker harbors no great ambitions beyond the Policy Committee, where he has the freedom to stretch his legislative legs. Cerebral and quick-witted, McCotter wants to revamp how Republicans view the Policy Committee and make it the ideas center for Republicans working to reclaim their "party of ideas" mantra. McCotter also is one of the House GOP's strongest advocates for widening the net and allowing more rank-and-file Members to be a part of the legislative process - a different approach from the top-down style minted by former Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-Texas). He already has begun holding informal listening sessions with rank-and-file Members to gauge their positions on certain policy matters, and as an ally of Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio), he will play a key role in redefining the GOP brand.

Senator Sam Brownback was the first Republican to make it official this weekend, he is running for President.  Senator Brownback formally announced in his home state of Kansas that he would be a candidate for President.  The Senator has been in Michigan several times, talking to Republican activists about his plans and goals.  He has been very well received, but is considered a long shot by most as he starts his bid.  Senator Brownback will be joining Michigan Republicans at our state convention in Grand Rapids February 9th and 10th.

We have links to all the potential Republican Presidential web pages on our blog.

Saul Anuzis

Articles of Interest 7-23-07

651 Days until election day.

Today we head up to Midland for our latest “Listen and Learn” session and then end the evening with the President’s State of the Union address to the American people.

We were hit with some bad news yesterday as Pfizer announced it was closing it’s research part in Ann Arbor and Michigan would be losing over 2,400 good paying jobs.  Clearly there is no one specific issue, cost or policy that caused this to happen, but this Governor has continued to spend beyond our means, call for additional tax increases, support the House Democrats and Trial Lawyers desire to roll back tort reform and promotes permitting and licensing processes that are not “job provider” friendly.

Sorry Governor…you can’t blame this one on the auto industry or China?!?

Follow the rhetoric coming from the Governor’s office…she takes credit for creating any job, but all the job loses Michigan has had are not her fault or the fault of poor public policy.  The election is over…the Governor is term limited out…this is not about her re-election…this is all about good public policy that will help turn Michigan around.

The amount of spending in real dollars of state government continues to go up.  We spent more this last year than the year before and have continued to spend more every year under Governor Granholm.  In fact, this Governor has ignored the constitutional requirement to spend within the state’s budget, secretly creating a deficit and not announcing it until after the election…now that’s pure politics.  Michigan has a constitutional requirement to live within a balanced budget.

Pfizer like Google is nothing more than a symbol of what is happening in Michigan.  This Governor’s policy is to provide corporate welfare and/or incentives to attract individual businesses while not addressing the core of the problem…creating a job provider business climate that can  compete with Indiana, Ohio and Wisconsin let alone India, China and Mexico.  The Governor likes to remind us that “the world is flat” but apparently thinks Michigan can hide under some rock?

Taxes, big government, excessive spending, special deals for friendly unions, double dipping state employees and an unfriendly regulatory environment continues to leave Michigan in a single state recession and the rest of the United States enjoys some of the lowest unemployment rates ever with over 7 million new jobs created over the last 4 years.

The time has come for real leadership.  The Governor was re-elected by the people of Michigan and given a Democratic House.  Instead of looking for cover and/or acting surprised, let’s get going.

Saul Anuzis

YES...I repeat...the dabate on TAXES

Articles of Interest 1-22-07

652 Days until election day.

TAXES…are you ready???

Governor Granholm continues her drumbeat “shocked” at the revenue shortfall that is before us in the state of Michigan.  Wait a minute…hasn’t she been “our” Governor over the last 4 years.  Hasn’t this Governor been aware of the fact we are the ONLY state in the country losing jobs while over 7 million new jobs have been created nationwide.

Just a few weeks ago, Governor Granholm announced that her Administration violated the state’s Constitution and spend more money than it brought in…by tens of millions of dollars.  Michigan has a constitutional requirement for a balanced budget.  Live within your means…by law requirement.  The Governor waiting until after the election to announce this “shortfall” in at least 3 various state budgets and is now asking you the taxpayer to make up the difference.

How could any competent CEO or head of any household not see that if they kept spending the way they have been spending…they would have been spending beyond our means.  For four years we got more of the same and now, after she has been re-elected, her Democrat tax and spend plans are coming out in the open.

Listen to the rhetoric.  “Revenue shortfall” and “revenue neutral” or “revenue enhancement” and my favorite “everything is on the table”.  Everything except cutting the budget and living within our means.

Governor Granholm and the Democrats gained a majority in the House this last election and only need TWO Republican votes to pass a tax increase.  If you go back in history you’ll see, the Democrats have been able to bring over a few Republicans votes who have not been willing to make the cuts required.  I’m afraid we are being set up for more of the same.

Talk to your legislators, let the Governor know your thoughts.  Get this debate going in your neighborhoods and your local editorial pages.

I don’t believe the citizens of Michigan are taxed too little or that government is too small?  Do you?

Saul Anuzis

Articles of Interest 1-21-07

653 Days until election day.

The 168 members of the Republican National Committee headed home yesterday and today after several days of interesting meetings and most importantly after electing our new leadership for the next two years.

Our new Chairman from Kentucky, Mike Duncan is “one of us”. A long time member of the committee, who understands the inner workings, challenges, objectives and opportunities we face.  I believe we had an honest and critical review of what happened this last election and no one is under any illusions of the tasks at hand.

RNC Chairman Mike Duncan in our final “closed door” session lead one our best sessions we have ever had and we discussed the goals and objectives for the next few years.  I think every member left with an optimistic, enthusiastic and committed energy to make sure the Republicans hold onto the White House and take back Congress. 

Make no mistake about it…it’s not going to be easy.  But under Mike Duncan and our General Chairman Senator Mel Martinez, we will re-establish our brand, stand for the principles that made us a majority party…and we’ll be back.

Saul Anuzis

Articles of Interest 1-20-07

654 Days until election day.

Today we are finishing up our Republican National Committee meeting.  We elected U.S. Senator Mel Martinez as our General Chairman and Mike Duncan as our Chairman.

Senator Martinez delivered a great speech about where he came from, how and why he became a Republican and laid out a message that I think will resonate far and wide.  I believe he will be a passionate spokesman for our party and will be particularly helpful as we grow our Hispanic American GOP team.

Yesterday afternoon was full of sessions and forums about the election, tactics and analysis.  It was clear that what happened in Michigan was not very different than in the rest of the country.  Compared to many other states, Republicans in Michigan held on fairly well.  Everyone was enthusiastic and optimistic about what the future has to hold.

The Taiwanese Ambassador had a group of our members over to dinner at his residence.  We had an opportunity to talk about the political and economic situation in Taiwan, meet some new friends and exchange thoughts and ideas about improve the relationship between our countries.

Michigan’s own Tony Snow addressed the meeting this morning.  He made some great points about who we are and how we need to help get the President’s message, accomplishments and goals out to the grassroots.  President Bush has done a tremendous job in so many areas, and yes we have some huge challenges ahead, but together, as Americans, we can make a difference.

We end the meeting later today at the RNC headquarters.  We made some efforts to reach out to various groups, political leaders and get to know some of the new staff that will be working with us throughout this cycle.  Mike Duncan is going to be a great national Chairman and a good friend of us in Michigan and I’m very encouraged and excited about the prospects through 2008.

Saul Anuzis

Articles of Interest 1-19-07

655 Days until election day.

The Republican National Committee meeting continues in Washington D.C. this week. Last night I hosted a reception honoring our Congressional Delegation.  Many members of the RNC as well as “Michigan Alumni” who now work in Washington came by to visit with old friends.

Governor Mitt Romney and his wife Ann dropped by the reception.  Former Secretary of Energy Spence Abraham joined Jane and I in hosting so many new and old friends as we greeted our guests and friends.

Yesterday afternoon, President Bush had the members of the RNC over to the White House for an afternoon reception.  We strolled through the East Wing of the White House getting a chance to see some of the historic works of art and visit the many rooms throughout the wing. We headed over to the East Room where the President delivered an inspiring off the cuff talk to the members.  He highlighted many of the accomplishment of his Administration, touched on some of his points he hopes to make during his State of the Union address and spent a significant amount of time talking about his goals, objectives and hopes for Iraq.

The President was strong, confident and resolved...yet clearly humbled by the awesome responsibility he had to the American people.  It was one of the best speeches I have heard the President give.

Leaving the East Room, there was a beautiful portrait of “our” President, Gerald Ford with a black ribbon draped over it.  The East Room is where many of the ceremonial visits and presentations are held, and it was a fitting memorial to President Ford.

I had a chance to talk to Karl Rove for a few minutes.  He has agreed to come back to Michigan to help us raise some money and was very interested in helping us take back the State House.  So we’re on the radar screen and that’s always a good thing!

I took some time to visit with the new Republican whip of the House, Congressman Eric Canton from Virginia.  Congressman Cantor is one of the “rising stars” in our party, a tech savy Congressman who has a reputation of being one of the most effective members as well.  The Congressman is a regular reader of my blog and is a good friend to our Michigan Congressman and wanted a quick update on how we held onto all our Republican members and what kind of opportunities we might have…say in the 1st Congressional district in 2008.

I had a chance to visit with all the Republican members of our Congressional Delegation.  Congressman Thaddeus McCotter has assumed his new role in the House leadership ranks and everyone is adjusting to their new responsibilities as they start this new session.

The Presidential campaigns are in full swing.  Both Governor Mitt Romney and Senator John McCain held receptions and talked to the RNC members about their potential bids for the White House.  Mayor Rudy Giuliani’s,  Governor Pataki’s, Governor Huckabee’s and Senator Brownback’s political folks where everywhere, getting a lay of the land and recruiting supporters for their bids.  Senator Sam Brownback, who has been a frequent visitor to Michigan is getting ready to formally announce his Presidential campaign this Saturday in his home state of Kansas.  So we’re off and running.

More tomorrow.

Saul Anuzis