Republican News Sweep

The Era of ‘Blame Bush’ Is Over: National Debt Increased More Under Obama Than Any Other President

2012-03-20T11:28:00.000-07:00

It was announced today that the national debt has grown $4.939 trillion in the three short years since President Obama took office, the largest increase in debt under any president in our nation’s history. It tops the $4.899 trillion debt acquired under President George W. Bush’s two terms in office. President Obama and Congressional Democrats have often blamed President Bush for our national debt issues, claiming the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and the Medicare prescription drug program are to blame for our current debt crisis.

“Looks like the president and Congressional Democrats can no longer play the ‘Blame Bush’ game to wipe away their responsibility for our debt crisis,” stated Westmoreland. “Today’s numbers show it is their reckless ‘spend now, pay later’ policies that have driven this country into more debt than any other president in our nation’s history. And that’s not even the full picture because we are just three years in to this president’s first term. If he were to win re-election and his budget proposals were actually approved, our debt would reach $20 trillion by the end of his presidency – an increase of more than $9 trillion. Or to put it another way, if he were to serve as president for two full terms and spend money the way he wants, he will have increased the national debt almost 100 percent since taking office.”

President Obama’s budget proposal for FY2013 expects the national debt to continue to rise throughout his presidency, without seeing a balance through the ten year projections. However, his disregard for the national debt is a change of tune from his 2008 campaign. Then, the president repeatedly spoke out against the debt acquired while President Bush was in office.

“And how does President Obama feel about a president who acquires so much debt? Well, in his own words, he describes that president as both ‘irresponsible’ and ‘unpatriotic,’” stated Westmoreland. “Look, we have absolutely got to get our debt under control. Whether the president or Congressional Democrats like it or not, they can’t keep writing checks for their favorite pet projects that this government cannot afford to cash. Numbers like these released today should serve as a wakeup call to all Americans, no matter their political affiliation, that it is time reform the way Washington spends money before it’s too late.”

Click here to view the video of President Obama referring to President Bush as ‘irresponsible’ and ‘unpatriotic’ for increasing the debt $4.899 trillion in eight years – less than what President Obama has increased the budget in only three short years.

Westmoreland: The State of Our Union Is Divided

2012-01-25T08:18:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, the president gave his State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress. The speech covered a multitude of issues, including energy, immigration, education, national defense, and taxes. The speech is a constitutional requirement on the presidency and has become a way for the president to announce his agenda for the coming year. Below is Representative Westmoreland’s reaction to the president’s speech.

“What struck me the most was the president’s complete disconnect with reality. He promised job creation and announced the need for an all-of-the-above energy plan – an idea instituted by Republicans back in 2008 – yet only two weeks ago he killed the Keystone Pipeline, a construction project that would have created tens of thousands of direct jobs and helped America decrease its reliance on oil from the Middle East. He discussed the damage a tax increase would have on our fragile economy, yet in the same speech advocated for raising taxes on American job creators. He even invoked President Lincoln, stating ‘that government should do for people only what they cannot do better by themselves, and no more,’ while at the same time pushing for more regulations of our energy and financial industries. I didn’t think the gap between what the president says and what he does could get much larger – until he actually contradicted himself in the same speech.

“Yes, the Campaigner-in-Chief unfortunately gave the speech that I was expecting: one full of rhetoric that painted the rosy view of our country rather than the actual state of our union. And why wouldn’t he? He’s running for president after all. And his reelection bid is based on his ability to convince the American people they aren’t worse off under his leadership.

“Well, like my grandmother always said, ‘Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.’ And Mr. President, you aren’t fooling me this time.

“This was the same speech we’ve all heard before. Promises of comprehensive immigration reform, education reform, tax breaks for college tuition, job creation, tax breaks for American companies, and energy independence. All promises the president has broken. The president’s speech tonight was nothing more than a laundry list filled with lofty promises, but short on actual policy.

“While I agree with him that the American spirit is one that can lift this country back to the prosperity we are capable of, we can’t do that with crushing debt, overly burdensome regulations, and higher taxes on small businesses. And while that’s the president’s agenda for 2012 the House passed legislation to address all of these issues that were stalled in the Senate last year. This administration's failed policies have driven our economy to the brink, and his State of the Union only solidified his intent to continue down this same path.

“The true state of our union is one of divisiveness, brought on by the president’s continued insistence on of pitting Republicans against Democrats, rich against poor, haves against have nots. This president seems to thrive on chaos and we all can remember what his former Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel said, ‘You never want a serious crisis to go to waste.’ Our country is facing serious challenges right now and leaders in Washington must put aside political rhetoric, roll up their sleeves, and come up with real solutions to help the American people. Unfortunately, we didn’t see that,” stated Westmoreland.

From Georgians with Newt:

2012-01-10T07:25:00.000-08:00

Just a few weeks ago many of you headed north to Iowa to help in our efforts before the Caucuses. Now, it is time to deploy to South Carolina.

Starting on Monday, January 9th, and continuing through the Primary on Saturday, January 21st, we have created a rolling deployment plan to make sure the people of South Carolina know where Newt stands when it comes to protecting this country and to share Newt's bold solutions to defeat President Obama.

There are opportunities to join people from all over the country in phone banking, walking door-to-door, waving signs, and many other exciting campaign activities!

If you are interested in traveling to South Carolina please contact Ella Krivitchenko at ellak@newt.org to let her know your availability and preferred dates of travel. In addition, please copy Sonya Harrison at sharrison@newt.org.

From Republican News Sweep: Send us YOUR official Republican candidates announcements and we'll do our best to share them with our readers. Info on sidebar.

Westmoreland Supports Legislation to Cut Taxes, Create Jobs

2011-12-13T16:37:00.001-08:00

Today, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3630, the Middle Class Tax Relief & Job Creation Act. The legislation contained a myriad of provisions, many of which have been passed by the House as stand-alone bills. Some of the more notable provisions include $183.4 billion in spending cuts, an extension of the two percent Social Security payroll tax, an extension and reform of unemployment benefits, a two year ‘Doc Fix,’ language requiring President Obama to issue a permit for the Keystone XL pipeline, and a legislative stay on the ‘Boiler MACT’ rules. The legislation passed with bipartisan support and has been sent to the Senate for consideration, but it is unclear whether or not it will garner enough support to be sent to the White House for signature. Congressman Westmoreland supported the bill.

“Look, this bill isn’t perfect. There are parts that I love and parts I could do without. But at the end of the day, you have to determine if the good outweighs the bad. The Middle Class Tax Relief & Job Creation Act helps to relieve the tax burden on American families, and it does so without a harmful tax hike on small businesses. Instead, it pays for the tax relief with more than $180 billion in spending cuts. Whether it’s the provisions to repeal portions of Obamacare, the provision to freeze the salaries of Members of Congress, or the provisions to close tax loopholes, the Middle Class Tax Relief & Job Creation Act ensures that the burden of paying for this legislation isn’t shouldered by job creators.

“In addition to the tax relief, H.R. 3630 also creates approximately 140,000 direct and indirect jobs with the Keystone Pipeline construction and saves countless jobs by delaying the EPA’s harmful Boiler MACT regulations. Plus it makes much needed reforms to unemployment benefits, including allowing states to drug test recipients they determine are likely to be using illegal substances. Clearly, when it comes to the Middle Class Tax Relief & Job Creation Act, the good outweighs the bad.

“Now, there has been a lot of talk from the White House promising to veto this bill because of the Keystone XL Pipeline provision, which mimics language passed by the House last month with bipartisan support. Well if President Obama wants to kill legislation that creates jobs, ensures Medicare recipients have access to physicians, and extends unemployment benefits at a time when our unemployment rate continues to sit above eight percent, then he will have to answer to the American people. The president can no longer jeopardize American jobs in an effort to appease environmental activists that make up his liberal base. The buck stops with him. The Senate needs to pass this legislation and the president needs to sign it,” stated Westmoreland.

Camp: Legislation to Prevent Default and Cut Spending is a Victory for the American People

2011-08-01T17:47:00.000-07:00

Chairman Dave Camp (R-MI) released the following statement after the bipartisan House vote passing legislation to prevent default and cut spending:

“Tonight’s vote marks a victory for our economy and the American people. The legislation not only cuts spending and reforms how Washington manages its budget, it also prevents default on our financial obligations. Importantly, the package does not increase taxes, which is critical to making sure job creators have the resources they need to invest and hire more workers. Finally, the legislation establishes the clearest path yet to a balanced budget amendment — something I have long supported and that is long overdue.”

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Chairman Dave Camp (R-MI)
Statement in Support of Legislation to Prevent Default, Cut Spending
August 1, 2011

(Remarks as Prepared)
Mr. Speaker, if Congress does not act – and act now – America will default. That would wreak havoc on our economy and make it harder for Americans to find and keep a job in an already weak economy. Default cannot be an option, and I am pleased that the bill before us ensures that will not occur.

Just as a default would threaten the economic health of this country, so would increasing taxes. Raising taxes on families and job creators would hinder investment, increase the cost of doing business and result in even less hiring. That is the wrong direction when we are struggling with an unemployment rate of 9.2 percent and 14 million Americans looking for work.

The good news is that the legislation before us recognizes these basic facts. It avoids a default, it makes sure the government pays our bills and it does not increase taxes.

And though some have argued that the new Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction could pave the way for tax increases that is not going to happen. The Committee’s structure, the baseline it will work off of and the fact that Republicans are in the majority in the House virtually guarantee taxes will not go up.

Furthermore, this legislation finally forces Washington to make serious changes to the way it spends taxpayer dollars. There are real budget reforms, there is a path to a balanced budget amendment and there are automatic spending cuts if Congress does not rein in spending on its own.

I applaud the efforts of all of those who helped craft this agreement, especially Speaker Boehner and Leader Cantor.

I urge my colleagues to recognize this opportunity to fix what is broken in Washington and use this occasion to significantly cut runaway spending.

Mr. Speaker, I urge a yes vote.

GAGOP Hosts Health and Legislative Leaders for Obamacare Discussion

2011-02-12T15:26:00.001-08:00

The Georgia Republican Foundation, Chairman Sue P. Everhart and Foundation Chairman Chip Pearson hosted many of Georgia’s elected leaders on health care and legal policy for a panel discussion on Obamacare highlighting the legislation’s current and potential impact on the state. Among those taking part in the discussion were Attorney General Sam Olens; Insurance Commissioner Ralph Hudgens; Senator Renee Unterman, Chairman of Health & Human Services; Representative Richard Smith, Chairman of Insurance; and Representative Sharon Cooper, Chairman of Health & Human Services.

The panelists discussed the current status of various legal challenges to the legislation, the viability of insurance exchanges and the implications of the legislation on individuals, small businesses, insurers and physicians. The panel also fielded questions from the audience.

“This broad legislation has significant impact on Georgians and our future prosperity,” said Pearson. “Americans have a lot of questions, and we thank the panelists for taking the time to answer them.”

The Georgia Republican Foundation consists of major donors to the Party. Members are invited to numerous Foundation Breakfasts and Georgia Republican Party events throughout the year. For more information about the Georgia Republican Foundation, please contact the Finance Department at 404.257.5559.

Westmoreland Votes to Repeal ObamaCare

2011-01-19T16:42:00.001-08:00

Congressman Lynn Westmoreland joined his colleagues today to vote to strike down the job-killing ObamaCare legislation passed during the last Congress. The controversial legislation squeaked by Congress early last year, much to the chagrin of the American people. According to a recent Washington Post poll, 59% of Americans oppose the law. Below is Congressman Westmoreland’s statement.

“ObamaCare is bad policy, crafted using bad procedure. It was passed against the will of the majority of Americans, and is one of the main reasons Democrats saw massive defeats at the polls in November. There are currently 26 states challenging ObamaCare in court. We have already seen some success in federal court, including in Virginia where a judge ruled that individual mandates were unconstitutional. However, Congress must do its part to put an end to this job-destroying law that places federal bureaucrats between patients and their doctors. That’s why I am proud to announce that I joined a bipartisan group of my colleagues in the House today and voted to repeal Obamacare.

“Congressional Democrats and the White House cooked the books on ObamaCare, using accounting gimmicks; one of which was charging 10 years of and only havin 6 years of spending. Any practical assessment of ObamaCare shows it costing 2.6 trillion dollars and increasing the deficit by 701 billion dollars over the next ten years. And believe it or not, it might actually get worse – when Medicare was created in 1965, they projected the cost would be 12 billion dollars in 1990. But in actuality, the cost in 1990 was 96 billion dollars – an 800 percent increase over the projections.

“We need real reform in this country that will address the problems within our health care system, while decreasing costs – not increasing costs like ObamaCare does. Now that we have voted to repeal, the committees of jurisdiction will take the next several months to hold hearings and draft legislation to replace this harmful law with real reforms. The vote today will not be an overnight solution and much must still be done. However, it is a step in the right direction,” stated Westmoreland.

Georgia Republican Party Chairman Sue Everhart Formally Announces Campaign for Re-Election

2011-01-19T10:33:00.000-08:00

Georgia Republican Party Chairman Sue P. Everhart today formally announced that she will run for re-election as Party Chairman at the State Convention in Macon in May.

“I wanted to reassure Republicans throughout the state that I will remain on the job until we take back the White House in 2012,” Everhart said. “We swept the state this election cycle, but a well-funded Obama campaign and energized Democratic get-out-the-vote effort will mean that the State Party will need an experienced Chairman in place to keep the gains we made on November 2. I am confident I am the best person to do that,” she added.

When Chairman Everhart first took office in 2007, one of her main goals was to build on the Republican majority through sophisticated and extensive training and to strengthen grassroots networks. Her personal experience in grassroots politics coupled with her vision for its development in Georgia led to a focused volunteer effort that resulted in landmark wins for Republicans.

Under the leadership of Chairman Sue Everhart, the Georgia Republican Party has grown its majority to an unprecedented level. In 2008, Georgia went against the national tide by delivering for John McCain and re-elected U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss. In 2010, Republicans swept every constitutional office, re-elected U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson, and added to the majorities of the U.S. House and Georgia General Assembly.

Sue is a proven leader, determined grassroots advocate and a seasoned fundraiser. With critical events such as redistricting and a presidential election on the horizon, Georgia Republicans need experience at the helm of the GAGOP. Proven leadership will make the difference in 2012.

In seeking her final term, Sue’s primary focus is to move forward with the accomplishments of the Party under her chairmanship and to build a complete and lasting majority in our state. Her plan, including a continued focus on expanding the reach and capabilities of the GAGOP’s social media and IT structure as well as efforts to switch local elected officials to the Republican Party, is a stepping stone to create an enduring era of Republican leadership in Georgia.

Sue Everhart, a former banker, is a long-time Republican activist who served as Chairman of the Sixth District Republican Party and First Vice-Chairman of the Georgia Republican Party before being elected as Georgia GOP Party Chairman in 2007. In 2007 and 2010, she was selected as one of the 100 Most Influential Georgians. In addition, Sue was chosen as one of 10 women in the United States to be honored as a “Woman of Achievement” by the RNC in 2009. Currently, Chairman Everhart serves on both the RNC Rules and Ethics Committees as well as the Committee on Arrangements for the 2012 GOP National Convention. In addition to her political involvement, Everhart is active in civic organizations in her community.
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Westmoreland Named to Two Subcommittees on Financial Services

2011-01-18T19:23:00.000-08:00

Subcommittees on Financial Institutions and Housing and Insurance Vital to Economic Growth of Georgia

Congressman Lynn Westmoreland today was named to two influential subcommittees on the House Financial Services Committee: the Financial Institutions and Consumer Credit Subcommittee and the Insurance, Housing, and Community Opportunity Subcommittee.

“Georgia is a growing financial center, and it is important we have a conservative voice on the committees that will affect our economic development in the future,” stated Westmoreland. “I’m looking forward to representing the state of Georgia on the Financial Services Committee this Congress and will work hard to bring economic development back to our state.”

The Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Credit will have jurisdiction over bank regulations and banking institutions as well as the controversial Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, established under Dodd-Frank. The Subcommittee on Insurance, Housing, and Community Opportunity will have jurisdiction over the housing and real estate sector, as well as insurance institutions.

“Georgia has had more bank failures than any other state in the country since 2008,” stated Westmoreland. “We have also been disproportionately hit by the housing market bust that hit the nation in 2007 and 2008. However, we have a strong economy that can recover from these trials – as long as we continue to have a conservative voice at the table.”

Initial hearings and markups have yet to be set, but please check regularly with http://financialservices.house.gov for updates on committee activities.
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Herman Cain Announces Presidential Exploratory Committee

2011-01-13T04:00:00.000-08:00

Business Executive to "Test Waters" for Potential White House Bid

Business executive Herman Cainannounced today that he has officially established a presidential exploratory committee, "Friends of Herman Cain," to "test the waters" for a possible White House bid.

"After receiving overwhelming encouragement from supporters and donors across the U..S., I have decided to form a presidential exploratory committee," Cain said. "During this time, we will examine the extent of financial resources and grassroots support that would be critical to winning the Republican nomination."

Cain is best known for his role as President and CEO of Godfather's Pizza, Inc., where he led the company from the brink of bankruptcy to profitability in just 14 months. He has also served as an executive of other Fortune 500 Companies, such as Pillsbury and Burger King.

He served as chairman of the Federal Reserve in Kansas City, as well as the President and CEO of the National Restaurant Association. Cain was a senior economic adviser to the Dole/ Kemp presidential campaign in 1996.

Cain hosts a nightly radio program, "The Herman Cain Show," one of the highest-rated shows in the Atlanta media market. He is also a syndicated columnist.

"Friends of Herman Cain" is a registered non-profit in the state of Georgia, and the names of exploratory committee members will be released at a later date..

For more information, please visit the newly launched http://www.hermancain.com.
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Westmoreland Launches Twitter Page

2011-01-11T14:01:00.001-08:00

Today, Congressman Lynn Westmoreland launched his Twitter page @RepWestmoreland. Twitter has become an increasingly popular social networking site that allows what’s known as ‘micro-blogging.’ It gives its members an opportunity to share a link, send a quick update, and follow other members. To follow the congressman on Twitter, visit www.twitter.com/repwestmoreland and select ‘Follow.’

“I am excited to be joining the Twitter community. It is a great opportunity for me to connect with my constituents and I would like encourage everyone in Georgia’s Third Congressional District who is on Twitter to follow me. I will use my Twitter page to update constituents on the goings on in Washington, news relevant to our district, and other important information. One of the themes of the 112th Congress is promoting greater transparency in Congress and with my new Twitter account, I can let you know what I’m working on for you while I’m in Washington,” stated Westmoreland.

The congressman can also be found online at www.house.gov/westmoreland and on Facebook by searching ‘Lynn Westmoreland.’

Justin Tomczak Enters Race for GAGOP 1st Vice Chair

2011-01-10T08:21:00.000-08:00

Grassroots Veteran Announces at Cobb GOP Breakfast

Grassroots veteran Justin Tomczak announced his intentions to seek the position of 1st Vice Chair of the Georgia Republican Party in his home county at the Cobb GOP breakfast on Saturday.

Tomczak was introduced by State Representative (elect) Sam Teasley who said “I have known Justin’s work ethic and his commitment to advancing the conservative cause here in Georgia. Having recently won a grassroots election against an incumbent Democrat, I firmly believe we need people in party leadership who are committed to engaging local Republicans in direct voter contact. Justin’s campaign experience and love for the grassroots would be a great asset to the State Party.”

Tomczak brings a solid record of experience in Republican politics to the table. He interned for State Rep. Earl Ehrhart in 1999 and the GAGOP in 2003, served as Grassroots and Volunteer Director for the GAGOP in 2004, Political Director for the campaigns of Governor Sonny Perdue and Senator Saxby Chambliss, and most recently served as Political Strategist for the successful campaign of Congressman Tom Graves in Georgia’s 9th District.

“I have worked side by side with Justin and appreciate his servant’s heart and tireless commitment to the grassroots in Georgia” said Greene County GOP and 10th District 1st Vice Chair Brian Burdette. “He has vast statewide experience, brings a wide variety of perspectives to the table, holds rock solid conservative values and has a proven record of service.”

Citing his campaign theme of “Grassroots in Action” Tomczak kicks off a 4 month campaign that will culminate at the GAGOP State Convention in Macon, May 13-14th. To learn more please visit the campaign website www.GrassrootsInAction.com, add Justin Tomczak on Facebook and/or follow him on Twitter.

About Tomczak: Justin Tomczak’s first political activity was marching in the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C. as a child. He was home schooled through high school, served as Student Government President at Kennesaw State University and went on to earn a Masters in Public Policy from Harvard University. He has worked tirelessly for the GAGOP and numerous successful Republican campaigns. He is currently responsible for public relations in Georgia at State Farm Insurance. In 2004 Tomczak received the Ronald Reagan Leadership Award from the Georgia Association of College Republicans and he is a Coverdell Leadership Institute (CLI) graduate.
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Everhart Names Kevin Harris Acting Executive Director of the GAGOP

2010-11-09T18:13:00.000-08:00

Sue Everhart, Chairman of the Georgia Republican Party, today named Kevin Harris acting Executive Director of the Georgia Republican Party. Harris replaces Toby Carr, who joined Governor-elect Nathan Deal’s transition.

“I appreciate Toby’s hard work throughout the Election that led us to historic victories in 2010, including a Republican sweep of all statewide offices,” Everhart said. “I look forward to working with Kevin as we prepare for the upcoming State Convention and the Presidential election in 2012.”

Kevin Harris previously served as Political Director for the Georgia Republican Party. Kevin is a professor of political science and a seasoned member of Georgia’s Republican grassroots organization. He has served as a precinct captain, chairman of the Fannin County Republican Party and chairman of the 9th District Committee Republican Party.

Republican Party Projected To Pick Up 6 State Attorney General Seats on November 2

2010-10-27T08:29:00.000-07:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Republicans may pick up as many as six state Attorney General seats on November 2, according to Joseph Kastner, Ballotpedia's state Attorney General elections editor.

Kastner says that Attorney General seats currently held by Democrats in Arizona, California, Georgia, Kansas, Ohio, and Oklahoma are in the "leans Republican" or "likely Republican" column based on factors that include polls and campaign funding.

Heading into November 2, the Democratic Party holds the AG position in 32 states, while the GOP holds it in just 18.

However, only 30 of the 50 state attorney general seats are up for election in 2010. In the 30 states with 2010 attorney general elections, Democrats hold 20 seats and Republicans hold 10.

If the GOP picks up six seats as projected, holding all its "safe, likely and leans" elections, it will win 57% of the 30 November elections. It will also then be in possession of 24 state AG seats altogether, while the Democratic Party, if it holds all its "safe, likely or leans" Democratic seats, will be at 25.

Just one state, Iowa, is in the toss-up column, according to Kastner's analysis. Iowa's AG position, currently occupied by a Democrat, could go either way. The Iowa Attorney General election pits incumbent Tom Miller against Republican challenger Brenna Findley. According to Kastner, Iowa's race is "one of the toughest to predict" because of limited polling information in the down-ballot race. GOP challenger Findley has significantly outperformed Miller in the money sweepstakes since mid-summer which may enable her to be competitive with Miller's incumbency and name-recognition advantage.

If the "leans/likely" elections come in where projected for Democrats and Republicans, then toss-up Iowa is the state to watch to see if the final national tally is 26 D–24 R, or a 25-25 split.

Two attorney general offices are likely to get a new occupant as a result of their 2010 gubernatorial election, because in these states, the AG is appointed by the governor. Hawaii currently has a Republican governor, but is thought to be a gubernatorial pick-up opportunity for the Democratic Party in 2010. The reverse is true in Wyoming.

Ballotpedia.org is sponsored by the non-profit, non-partisan Lucy Burns Institute (LBI) based in Madison, Wisconsin.

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Dale Peterson ad for Nathan Deal, candidate for Georgia Governor

2010-10-24T15:16:00.000-07:00

I laughed at the end... the true sign of a good ad in my opinion! - jmd

Roy-onomics: No Way to Pay for Big Spending

2010-10-13T07:33:00.001-07:00

Georgia legislators are required to pass a balanced budget but you wouldn’t know it if you saw Roy Barnes’ campaign promises. The Savannah Morning News has quantified Barnes’ campaign pledges at $2.2 billion per year, meaning his governorship would cost voters over $8 billion in campaign promises alone.

How will Roy Barnes pay for his binge-spending plans? He’s only proposed elimination of one tax exemption, the tax exemption on jet fuel, worth $24 million and barely 1% of his new spending. Barnes also proposed a plan to allow local governments to collect sales taxes, but he disagrees with his own campaign manager on the amount of revenue it would bring in. Even the most optimistic estimates fall far short of balancing the budget with his pie-in-the-sky promises of massive new spending.

“Roy’s big spending plans mirror those of Washington Democrats, not the wishes of Georgia voters,” said Georgia Republican Party Chairman Sue Everhart. “Republicans are addressing the concerns of Georgians by cutting spending and living within our means.”

Georgia Republicans Got It Right, But Macon Telegraph Won’t Hear of It

2010-09-22T09:27:00.000-07:00

The Macon Telegraph ran a column on Sunday encouraging the Georgia Republican Party to take action to change the ballot in light of misleading information spread in the press. After agreeing to give the GAGOP space to refute their claims, the Telegraph rejected the response.

While it is the paper’s prerogative to refuse op-eds, the Georgia Republican Party believes the column printed by the Macon Telegraph was misleading and warrants response. Below is the op-ed submitted by the GAGOP.

Georgia Republicans Got It Right

Kenny Burgamy made many claims in his recent opinion piece (There’s Time to Get It Right, Macon Telegraph, 9/19/2010) that were untrue and infeasible. Perhaps the most errant assumption was that Georgia Republicans got it wrong when they nominated Nathan Deal as the Republican candidate for Governor. That couldn’t be further from the truth.

Nathan won the nomination in a close primary and runoff. In a state considered to be a Democratic stronghold for generations, Georgia Republicans showed up in record numbers in two successive elections showing their preference for the party of personal freedom and smaller government. While Nathan won the runoff by less than 1 percent, the top two finishers in the primary both bested Roy Barnes with 10 percent more votes.

Mr. Deal’s personal finances have been well documented over the last week, but let’s not ignore the facts. Nathan is a successful small businessman who has created jobs and turned a profit – even in these difficult financial times. Businesses have their ups and downs. The only thing unique here is that Deal’s ups and downs are front-page news.

I can see how that point would get lost in the Democrats’ spin cycle. Most people understand that they simply cannot spend more than they take in. Democrats, however, have overlooked that rule as they have escalated our country into further debt with their binge spending legislation, plunging our nation into $13 trillion in debt.

In Georgia, Roy Barnes has shown he’s not all that different than Washington Democrats. As governor, he turned a $700 million budget surplus into a $620 million shortfall. Now, he’s proposed $2.4 billion in new spending with no way to pay for it, just like a Washington Democrat.

Roy has spent most of his career suing small businesses rather than creating them and destroying jobs for his personal gain. He doesn’t embrace the creative spirit of Georgians who take calculated risks — he demonizes them.

The Georgia Republican Party is the party of small businesses and strong families across Georgia. We believe that Americans can better themselves through hard work, personal responsibility and seizing opportunities. While the road to success is lined with periodic setbacks, we see them as learning opportunities that can move us forward.

Georgia’s successful economic recovery will depend on people willing to take a calculated risk to start a business and employ Georgians. It will also depend on policy-makers’ willingness to create an environment that fosters our American and exceptional entrepreneurism. That’s why we need Nathan Deal.

Nathan’s Real Prosperity plan increases Georgia’s competitiveness by lowering income taxes on Georgia’s families and reducing corporate income taxes by a third. The Tax Foundation estimates that his plan will improve Georgia’s business climate from the bottom half of states to the top one-third.

Nathan’s plan for education, “Real Results,” provides maximum flexibility for local school districts, protects the HOPE scholarship and will bolster math and science education.

He has led the fight against Obamacare. He stands up to Washington liberals whose brand of “change” comes with hefty price tags that Georgians can’t afford.

Georgians are concerned with issues, not petty and personal attacks. Nathan Deal has the philosophy, plan and experience to put Georgia back on track. I ask you to vote for Nathan Deal and not rewind Georgia to the bad old days of Roy Barnes.

Sue Everhart is the chairman of the Georgia Republican Party and lives in Marietta.

Newt Gingrich to Speak at FRC Action's Values Voter Summit

2010-09-09T11:26:00.000-07:00

/PRNewswire -- FRC Action has confirmed that former House Speaker Newt Gingrich will speak at FRC Action's fifth annual Values Voter Summit, which will be held September 17-19 at the Omni Shoreham in Washington, D.C.

Mr. Gingrich joins a Saturday morning session that also includes Dr. Bill Bennett, Gov. Bob McDonnell (R-VA), and David Limbaugh, whose new book, Crimes Against Liberty, has rocketed to No. 1 on the New York Times best-seller list.

Gingrich will provide insight into the current political climate and his evaluation of what might be historic GOP gains in November.

The line-up of speakers at the Values Voter Summit also includes: Senator Jim DeMint (R-SC), former Senator Rick Santorum, Representatives Michele Bachmann (R-MN), and Mike Pence (R-IN), current and former governors Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney, the Duggar family, Phyllis Schlafly, Lila Rose and many more.

FRC Action's Values Voter Summit is cosponsored by American Family Association Action, American Values, The Heritage Foundation, Liberty University, Liberty Counsel and Family Research Council. The Summit will be held September 17-19 at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, D.C. A presidential and vice presidential straw poll, exhibit hall, book signings, new media row sponsored by Media Research Center and much more will be packed into this three-day conference. On Saturday evening, American Family Association Chairman Emeritus Don Wildmon will be honored at a gala dinner and receive the fourth annual James C. Dobson Vision and Leadership Award.

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Democrats' Ticking Tax Bomb, Part II

2010-07-21T09:56:00.000-07:00

How the Democrats’ Year-end Tax Hike Will Affect Typical Taxpayers

As described in Part I of this series, starting January 1, 2011, Washington Democrats will impose a $3.8 trillion tax hike on hard-working Americans. This tax increase will affect every American who pays income taxes through higher tax rates on individuals, families, and small businesses. Married couples and parents will be singled out for even higher taxes, and there will be significant tax hikes on the very investments that grow the economy and create good jobs. Even the death tax – repealed entirely for 2010 – will be resurrected on January 1, 2011. So far, Democrats have done nothing to disarm this ticking tax bomb.

So how will the family budgets of typical taxpayers be affected by these looming Democrat tax hikes?

A family of four earning $50,000 per year could pay more than $2,100 in higher taxes.
A single mom earning $36,000 per year could pay over $1,100 more in taxes.
Married senior citizens earning $40,000 per year could pay more than $1,400 in higher taxes.

Here are the details:

Typical Tax Return #1: Middle-income family of four
Filing Status: Married, filing joint return Children: 2 Adjusted Gross Income: $50,000
	Without Democrats' 2011 Tax Hike	With Democrats' 2011 Tax Hike
Standard deduction	$11,600	$9,750
Personal exemptions	$15,000	$15,000
Taxable income	$23,400	$25,250
Tax liability	$2,652	$3,788
Child credit (non-refundable portion)	$2,000	$1,000
Total tax	$652	$2,788
Democrats' 2011 tax increase: $2,136

Calculations are based on Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) estimates of various tax parameters reflecting expected inflation adjustments for 2011.

Typical Tax Return #2: Modest-income single parent
Filing Status: Head of Household Children: 1 Adjusted Gross Income: $36,000
	Without Democrats' 2011 Tax Hike	With Democrats' 2011 Tax Hike
Standard deduction	$8,600	$8,600
Personal exemptions	$7,500	$7,500
Taxable income	$19,900	$19,900
Tax liability	$2,373	$2,985
Child credit (non-refundable portion)	$1,000	$500
Total Tax	$1,373	$2,485
Democrats' 2011 tax increase: $1,112

Calculations are based on Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) estimates of various tax parameters reflecting expected inflation adjustments for 2011.

Typical Tax Return #3: Married senior citizens
Filing Status: Married, filing joint return Children: 0 Adjusted Gross Income: $40,000, including $5,000 in dividends ($100,000 invested, 5% yield)
	Without Democrats' 2011 Tax Hike	With Democrats' 2011 Tax Hike
Standard deduction	$13,800	$13,800
Personal exemptions	$7,500	$7,500
Taxable income	$18,700	$18,700
Qualified dividends	$5,000 taxed at 0% (special rate for taxpayers in the 10% or 15% brackets)	$5,000 taxed at 15% (ordinary income rate)
Total tax	$1,370	$2,805
Democrats' 2011 tax increase: $1,435

Calculations are based on Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) estimates of various tax parameters reflecting expected inflation adjustments for 2011.

While the effect of these Democrat tax increases on any particular taxpayer’s family budget will depend on that taxpayer’s specific facts and circumstances, these typical tax returns make clear that this is a massive tax hike that the American people simply can’t afford.

As these examples show, married couples and taxpayers with children will be hit particularly hard by the Democrats’ tax hike. For more detail about the re-imposition of the marriage penalty and the reduction in the child credit scheduled for January 1, 2011, stay tuned for Part III of this series, coming soon.

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Ways and Means Republican Press Office
www.Republicans.WaysandMeans.House.Gov
202.226.4774

Democrats' Ticking Tax Bomb, Part I

2010-07-21T09:54:00.000-07:00

Overview: Americans to Pay Higher Taxes Starting January 1, 2011

Get ready to pay higher taxes in 2011 thanks to Democrats in Washington. Starting January 1, 2011 – less than six months from now – an unprecedented, $3.8 trillion tax increase is scheduled to kick in, affecting every American who pays income taxes. This Democrat tax hike will force hard-working Americans to pay over $200 billion in higher taxes next year alone.

What are some of these tax increases? They include:

Higher Income Tax Rates on ALL Americans Who Pay Income Taxes

Individuals and Small Businesses*
with Taxable Income in the Following Ranges…

… Pay This Statutory Rate on that Range of Income in 2010…

…But will Pay This Statutory Rate on that Range of Income in 2011

Up to $8,375 for single filers and
Up to $16,750 for married couples

10%

15%

Between $8,375 and $34,000 for single filers and
Between $16,750 and $68,000** for married couples

15%

15%

Between $34,000 and $82,400 for single filers and
Between $68,000** and $137,300 for married couples

25%

28%

Between $82,400 and $171,850 for single filers and
Between $137,300 and $209,250 for married couples

28%

31%

Between $171,850 and $373,650 for single filers and
Between $209,250 and $373,650 for married couples

33%

36%

Over $373,650 for both single filers and
married couples

35%

39.6%***

Dollar amounts listed in the table above will be indexed for inflation in 2011. Amounts listed for married couples are for married couples filing joint returns.
*According to the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT), 94% of all U.S. businesses in 2007 were S corporations, partnerships, or sole proprietorships – “pass-through” business types commonly used by small businesses – that file their taxes on their owners’ individual Form 1040s and pay taxes at the individual tax rates.
** Because of one of the marriage penalties that will be reinstated (see below), this $68,000 amount will drop to $58,200 in 2011, meaning that a married couple with as little as $58,200 in taxable income will be subject to the higher 28% rate on their next dollar earned, rather than the 15% rate.
*** Because of the reinstatement of additional, hidden tax rates (see below), while the top statutory rate will be 39.6% in 2011, the top effective rate will actually be 41.6%.

Higher Taxes if You Are Married

For Married Couples
Filing Jointly, the Marriage Penalty Is Reinstated With Respect To...

2010

2011

The Standard Deduction

Singles: $5,700

Married: $11,400

No marriage penalty because the standard deduction for married couples is twice the standard deduction for singles

Singles: $5,800

Married: $9,750

Marriage penalty is reinstated because the standard deduction for married couples is $1,850 less than twice the standard deduction for singles

The last dollar of income
taxed at the 15% rate
(instead of at 25% in 2010
or at 28% in 2011,
the next highest tax rate in effect)

Singles: $34,000

Married: $68,000

No marriage penalty because the last dollar of income taxed at 15% (instead of at 25%, the next highest rate) for married couples is twice the corresponding amount for singles

Singles: $34,850

Married: $58,200

Marriage penalty is reinstated because the last dollar of income taxed at 15% (instead of at 28%, the next highest rate) for married couples is $11,500 less than twice the corresponding amount for singles

Dollar amounts listed in the table above for 2011 are JCT estimates reflecting expected inflation adjustments.

Higher Taxes if You Are A Parent
Pro-family Tax Benefit	2010	2011
Child Tax Credit	$1,000 per child	$500 per child

Higher Taxes on Investments that Grow the Economy and Create Good Jobs
Investment Incentive	2010	2011
Top rate on long-term capital gains	15%	20%*
Top rate on qualified dividends	15%	39.6%*

* Because of the reinstatement of additional, hidden tax rates (see below), while the top statutory capital gains rate will be 20% in 2011, the top effective rate will actually be 22%. For dividends, while the top statutory rate will be 39.6% in 2011, the top effective rate will actually be 41.6%.

Note that, under the Democrats’ new health law, beginning in 2013, investment income will be subject to an additional 3.8% surtax for single taxpayers earning more than $200,000 and married couples earning more than $250,000. This will bring the top statutory rate on capital gains to 23.8% and the top statutory rate on dividends to 43.4% in 2013. Because of the additional, hidden tax rate increases described below, however, the top effective rate on capital gains will be 25.8% in 2013, and the top effective rate on dividends will be 45.4%.

Higher Taxes through Additional, Hidden Tax Rate Increases

Hidden Tax Rate Increase Reinstated

Individuals and Small Businesses*
with Adjusted Gross Income…

… Pay this additional, hidden
tax rate increase in 2010…

… But pay this additional, hidden tax rate increase in 2011

Personal exemption phase-out (PEP)

Above $171,000 for single filers and
Above $256,700 for married couples
filing jointly

None

Approximately 0.8%

Pease limitation on itemized deductions (such as mortgage interest, charitable contributions, and state and local taxes)

Above $171,000 for both single filers and
married couples filing jointly

None

Approximately 1.2%

Top effective marginal tax rate on income (including dividend income) in 2011,
including reinstatement of these hidden tax rate increases:

    39.6% (top statutory rate)
      0.8% (PEP)
+    1.2% (Pease limitation)
  41.6%

*According to the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT), 94% of all U.S. businesses in 2007 were S corporations, partnerships, or sole proprietorships – “pass-through” business types commonly used by small businesses – that file their taxes on their owners’ individual Form 1040s and pay taxes at the individual tax rates.

Dollar amounts listed in the table above are JCT estimates for 2011 reflecting expected inflation adjustments.

Note that, under the Democrats’ new health law, beginning in 2013, dividend income will be subject to an additional 3.8% surtax for single taxpayers earning more than $200,000 and married couples earning more than $250,000. Factoring in the additional, hidden tax rate increase described in this table, the top effective rate on dividends will be 45.4% in 2013.

Resurrection of the Death Tax
Estate Tax Provision	2010	2011
Exemption amount	N/A – Death Tax repealed	$1 million
Top rate	N/A – Death Tax repealed	55%

For examples of how these looming tax hikes will affect typical American taxpayers, stay tuned for Part II of this series, coming soon.

Floor Statement of Ranking Member Dave Camp (R-MI) re: H.R. 4380, the Miscellaneous Tariff Bill

2010-07-21T09:52:00.000-07:00

I am disappointed that I cannot support this legislation.

The Miscellaneous Tariff Bill has long been a bipartisan effort that helps both American manufacturers and consumers obtain lower-cost access to products that aren’t made in the United States.

The process used to assemble this legislation is a model in transparency and accountability. This is a long-standing process that has been used by many Congresses – under both Republican and Democrat control – and should serve as an example of how similar legislation should be prepared.

Every provision is first introduced as a separate bill.
Each provision is vetted by the Administration and by the U.S. International Trade Commission and is subject to public notice and comment.
All information is posted on the Committee website.
Any provision receiving any opposition is removed from the final package.

In my view, this bill technically does not contain earmarks in the form of limited tariff benefits. Each provision lowers duties on imports, and any company or person that imports that product receives the benefit of those lower duties, not just those we can positively identify today. Despite these facts, Democrats have written the rules of the House in such a way as to treat limited tariff benefits like other earmarks. The Democrats were wrong to do so.

But the Republican Conference has taken the position, and correctly so, that we are taking a one-year moratorium on all the provisions included in the Democrat Rule to demonstrate our commitment to getting government spending under control. I am committed to both the letter and spirit of that moratorium and therefore will vote against this bill.

In fact, the Majority is well aware of our earmark ban, and I can’t help but wonder if this bill was put on the suspension calendar – after three-and-a-half years without a vote – so that it would fail and they might avoid taking the blame. It is a sham and it won’t work. The business community knows it, the American workers whose jobs depend on it know it, and we know it – Democrats have had three-and-a-half-years to pass the MTB and they have failed to do so.

Congress has not passed an MTB bill since December 2006 -- right before the Democrats took the Majority. The only new trade bill they have considered in that time is the Peru trade agreement.

I think the record speaks for itself – Republicans have long-supported the MTB and U.S. employers while the Democrats have written rules that discriminate against this bill. More importantly, business investment and hiring are frozen in the face of looming tax hikes, smothering government regulation and little or no action on the trade agenda – all brought about by Washington Democrats.

A true commitment to trade and the good-paying U.S. jobs it provides would involve passing the pending bilateral trade agreements, which, economically, are even more important to this country.

Mr. Speaker, what you are seeing today is merely one more attempt by the Majority to distract American workers and employers from the real damage they’ve done to the American economy. This legislation cannot overcome the over $670 billion in new taxes already passed by this Congress and the billions more coming. It cannot overcome the anti-business attitude of so much of the legislation produced by the Majority.

Mr. Speaker, if my friends on the other side of the aisle were truly interested in helping American manufacturers, they’d be lowering taxes, knocking down trade barriers, and supporting the private sector. This legislation is no substitute for those policies.

Mr. Speaker, the House should take a breather from earmarks, as called for in the Republican Conference Moratorium. It is unfortunate that this pause includes the MTB, but we didn’t write the Rule. I urge my colleagues to show the American people we are serious about reforming the way Washington works and vote no. I reserve the balance of my time.

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Ways and Means Republican Press Office
www.Republicans.WaysandMeans.House.Gov
202.226.4774

Cobb County GOP Breakfast

2010-06-03T19:02:00.001-07:00

Saturday, June 5 at 8:00am. 

End Time: Saturday, June 5 at 9:30am
Where: Williamson Bros. BBQ

Republicans Win Back Supporters

2010-05-13T05:39:00.000-07:00

A new Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll finds Republicans "have solidified support among voters who had drifted from the party in recent elections, putting the GOP in position for a strong comeback in November's mid-term campaign."

"The findings suggest that public opinion has hardened in advance of the 2010 elections, making it tougher for Democrats to translate their legislative successes, or a tentatively improving U.S. economy, into gains among voters."

"Republicans have reassembled their coalition by reconnecting with independents, seniors, blue-collar voters, suburban women and small town and rural voters -- all of whom had moved away from the party in the 2006 elections, in which Republicans lost control of the House. Those voter groups now favor GOP control of Congress." Read more: Republicans Win Back Supporters

Above is from: Taegan Goddard's Political Wire
Comment: Watch out, the Dems would like Republicans to get confident and blow it. Voters like it when you're humble and working hard to show you're worthy... Keep working to earn those votes, it ain't over until the election results are in, and then it's time to prove that you deserve the votes... and, if you win, time to make sure you keep the votes coming in subsequent elections. Once the Republicans are in power, the press is going to turn and all of a sudden everything that goes wrong will be the fault of those in power (unlike now when nothing is the fault of anyone other than Bush or fat-cat-capitalists).

GA Senate Votes to Prevent Coercive Abortions

2010-03-26T13:51:00.000-07:00

The Georgia State Senate today voted to prevent women in Georgia from being forced to have an abortion against their will. Under Senate Bill 529, authored by Sen. Chip Pearson (R-Dawsonville), criminal abortions will include unlawfully coercive abortions, or with the intent to prevent a birth based on the gender or race of the unborn child.

“Georgia should have the proper protections in place for women who may be in danger of coercion. The numbers tell the true story; when 64 percent of abortions involve coercion, we clearly need to give women recourse to protect their personal decisions,” said Pearson. “It’s also imperative that as a civil society, we protect the unborn from gender and race selection.”

The bill defines the offenses of a criminal abortion to be when a person performs an abortion with the knowledge that a pregnant woman is being coerced, with the intent to have an abortion based on race, color or gender, or with the knowledge that a pregnant woman is seeking an abortion based on race, color or gender. The bill also allows women to recover civil damages if they receive such an abortion, and ensures that they would not be held criminally responsible.

In a recent article from The Economist, the author coined the term “gendercide” to describe the gender and race selection that has wiped out at least 100 million girls across the globe. The article went on to note that “the cumulative consequence for societies of such individual actions is catastrophic.”

Even Secretary of State Hilary Clinton agrees, saying that “Unfortunately with technology, parents are able to use sonograms to determine the sex of a baby, and to abort girl children simply because they’d rather have a boy.”

According to Americans United for Life, nine states currently have some form of coercive abuse prevention laws and three states have sex-selection abortion laws. The Atlantic Magazine notes that Georgia is joining seven other states in its effort to prevent sex or race-selection abortions.

Sen. Chip Pearson serves as chairman of the Economic Development Committee. He represents the 51st Senate District, which includes Dawson, Fannin, Gilmer, Lumpkin, Pickens, and Union counties and portions of Forsyth and White counties. He may be reached at 404.656.9221 or via e-mail at chip.pearson@senate.ga.gov.
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ObamaCare’s Immediate Impact: Declining Profits for an Already Weak Manufacturing Sector

2010-03-25T10:17:00.000-07:00

With the ink not even dry on the Democrats’ health care overhaul, American manufacturers are already warning about how much it will cost them. Both Deere and Caterpillar are reporting that the bill will result in their reported earnings declining by $150 million and $100 million respectively. A spokesman for Caterpillar noted the bill’s tax “could cause us to consider changes to the retiree prescription drug benefit,” a concern other companies have raised as well. This is just a preview of what is to come from the over half-trillion dollar in tax increases contained in the Democrats’ health care bill -- the largest tax increase in American history.

Caterpillar predicts $100M health care reform cost:
“Heavy-equipment maker Caterpillar says the new health care reform law will create a $100 million drag on its first-quarter earnings because of tax law changes.”

Deere says health care law will raise expenses :
"Deere, based in Moline, Ill., is the second company this week to indicate that the new law will increase its costs."

Obama Tax’s $14 Billion Charge Starts at Caterpillar:
"Disclosures by Caterpillar and AK Steel Holding Corp. in the two days since the signing are the first sets of health-care charges that ultimately may shave as much as $14 billion from U.S. corporate profits."

Deere sees $150 million hit from healthcare reform:
"Farm equipment maker Deere & Co expects after-tax expenses to rise by $150 million this year as a result of the healthcare reform law President Barack Obama signed this week."

Ways and Means Republican Press Officewww.Republicans.WaysandMeans.House.Gov
202.226.4774

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Higher Income Tax Rates on ALL Americans Who Pay Income Taxes
Individuals and Small Businesses* with Taxable Income in the Following Ranges…	… Pay This Statutory Rate on that Range of Income in 2010…	…But will Pay This Statutory Rate on that Range of Income in 2011
Up to $8,375 for single filers and Up to $16,750 for married couples	10%	15%
Between $8,375 and $34,000 for single filers and Between $16,750 and $68,000** for married couples	15%	15%
Between $34,000 and $82,400 for single filers and Between $68,000** and $137,300 for married couples	25%	28%
Between $82,400 and $171,850 for single filers and Between $137,300 and $209,250 for married couples	28%	31%
Between $171,850 and $373,650 for single filers and Between $209,250 and $373,650 for married couples	33%	36%
Over $373,650 for both single filers and married couples	35%	39.6%***

Higher Taxes if You Are Married
For Married Couples Filing Jointly, the Marriage Penalty Is Reinstated With Respect To...	2010	2011
The Standard Deduction	Singles: $5,700 Married: $11,400 No marriage penalty because the standard deduction for married couples is twice the standard deduction for singles	Singles: $5,800 Married: $9,750 Marriage penalty is reinstated because the standard deduction for married couples is $1,850 less than twice the standard deduction for singles
The last dollar of income taxed at the 15% rate (instead of at 25% in 2010 or at 28% in 2011, the next highest tax rate in effect)	Singles: $34,000 Married: $68,000 No marriage penalty because the last dollar of income taxed at 15% (instead of at 25%, the next highest rate) for married couples is twice the corresponding amount for singles	Singles: $34,850 Married: $58,200 Marriage penalty is reinstated because the last dollar of income taxed at 15% (instead of at 28%, the next highest rate) for married couples is $11,500 less than twice the corresponding amount for singles

Higher Taxes through Additional, Hidden Tax Rate Increases
Hidden Tax Rate Increase Reinstated	Individuals and Small Businesses* with Adjusted Gross Income…	… Pay this additional, hidden tax rate increase in 2010…	… But pay this additional, hidden tax rate increase in 2011
Personal exemption phase-out (PEP)	Above $171,000 for single filers and Above $256,700 for married couples filing jointly	None	Approximately 0.8%
Pease limitation on itemized deductions (such as mortgage interest, charitable contributions, and state and local taxes)	Above $171,000 for both single filers and married couples filing jointly	None	Approximately 1.2%
Top effective marginal tax rate on income (including dividend income) in 2011, including reinstatement of these hidden tax rate increases: 39.6% (top statutory rate) 0.8% (PEP) + 1.2% (Pease limitation) 41.6%