Posted by
Bob Sordahl on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 12:00:00 AM
Originally posted on February 18, 2009 at Conservativecompass.com
Republicans appear to be taking a pass on this session of Congress.
I believe I see what they are doing, essentially telling the
Democrats: “If you think you can do a better job, go for it, and don’t
ask for our help. Your party will own the results of whatever comes
from the bills you pass.” I get it, but I don’t necessarily believe
it is the best thing for our Country or the party.
We know the Dems have sufficient votes to pass whatever they want,
so how much resistance is useful and appropriate? Where does loyal
opposition end and obstructionism begin? And how far do you push the
American people to prove your point without alienating them from your
message of fiscal responsibility and accountability? How much
influence can anyone hope to have from the outside?
It seems as
if almost everyone in America is lining up to get their share of the
economic “stimulus” money, so it will be difficult if not pointless to
reject whatever benefit that might be gained from it. Some Republican
governors are considering refusing the money because of restrictions
written into the package. However other provisions of the legislation
allow state lawmakers to take the money regardless of gubernatorial
approval, making such action largely symbolic and futile. Considering
the dire economic situation currently faced by most states, my
suggestion would be to do what is best for the State and its citizens,
and battle principle some other time when the stakes aren’t so high.
I’ve made it clear in previous posts that I don’t believe the
“stimulus” package will accomplish its declared goals, and I believe it
is as pork heavy as any legislation passed in the last 20 years.
Having said that, I’m certainly not interested in sabotaging any
positive effects the program may yield. As an American, I’m more
interested in the recovery of our Country than in being right, and I
think some of my Conservative brethren in Congress would do well to
follow that lead.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s been refreshing to
see Republican lawmakers stand up and hold their ground on this issue.
That is encouraging for the future, but I believe it is time to move on
and save energy for the many partisan battles yet to be won this year.
We can’t lose sight of what is really important, and this has been a
great opportunity for some Republicans to gain political standing
fighting for what they believe is right. As Americans however,
regardless of party affiliation, we can’t sacrifice our Country for
principle.