Weekly Wrap-Up

This week we saw the passing of Robert Bork, and there have been several nice remembrances – from the New York Post, the New York Sun and the Washington Times, among others.

And the New York Times chimed in with a rather petty take on how Bork wasn't the first Supreme Court nominee to be “borked.”

In another big story from this week (and the one before that, and the one before that): We’re now “teetering on the cliff,” as the Wall Street Journal puts it.  

The Journal also examines what we've learned from the failure of House Speaker John Boehner’s “Plan B” for a smaller tax increase.

The Heritage Foundation is happy that conservatives stood their ground against tax hikes... and they point out that if Senate Democrats had taken action earlier this year, we wouldn’t even be in this predicament. Thanks a lot, Sens. Schumer and Gillibrand.

Meanwhile, John Podhoretz has another take on the situation – he’s not happy at all with rebellious conservatives.

I’m not at all happy with the bait-and-switch we saw thisweek with the President’s “Save General Motors” campaign... but it’s not as though anyone in their right mind ever believed this was a good deal for taxpayers.

It’s still disappointing to talk about Barack Obama as our President, and not as our soon-to-be ex-President – but there’s no changing that now, and I’m ready to close out the year with a spirit of optimism and determination for the battles ahead.

Since this is the last Weekly Wrap-Up of 2012, we have a special “New Years Resolution” Weekly Poll: What are you planning to do in 2013 to fight even harder against the Obama agenda and for conservative principles?

I look forward to seeing how people vote – and have a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

New York is still in deep fiscal trouble. In case you missed yesterday's article in the NY Post,  E. J. McMahon  (E. J. will be speaking at our conference) takes a critical look at the report issued by the State Budget Crisis Task Force issued on Monday and the structural problems New York faces.   The monthly report by the State Comptroller isn't much brighter as revenues continue to be less than anticipated. One of the reasons NY continues to have problems is shown in this 24/7 report on the states doling out the best (most expensive for taxpayers) and worst (most beneficial to taxpayers) benefits.  New York ranks #4 on the "best" list.

Speaker Silver is wrong in saying raising the minimum wage spurs economic growth,  yes, a few may have a small bit more to spend, but, fewer people will be working as employers won't be able to afford to hire more employees.  

Nicole Gelinas reminds us we are looking at another huge bill for the Tappan Zee and wonders how we will be able to pay it.  (Nicole will also be a speaker at this years' conference.)

Superstorm Sandy still wreaking havoc.

It isn't surprising that the Left is calling for more and tougher gun laws in the wake of the horrific massacre in Sandy Hook.  New York already has tough gun laws.  Guns are obviously inanimate object and need humans to operate them so why isn't the Left calling for more ways to "control" the evil that some humans do?  There are far too many questions that have not been answered (and may never be answered) to have a "knee-jerk" reaction and blame an inanimate object.  When a person has had too much to drink and gets behind the wheel  and takes the lives of innocent victims, we do not call for the banning of cars.  We propose and enact stricter drunk driving laws, take away licenses and punish the person responsible.  Why is it different with guns?  Should it be different?  Are we going to ban knives or demand that they are less sharp?  Some common sense has to prevail; get to the real problem. Ted Nugent lets us know his thoughts on the Sandy Hook massacre, I can't say that he is wrong.


Wow, Santa's "presents" have certainly changed since I was a kid.

We already know where VP Biden will go with gun control, seriously why make the pretense of looking at gun control and "other measures".

Red State hits the nail on the head.

The Security Chief has resigned along with two others, but, many questions are still unanswered.

Since I neglected to post any articles yesterday, you may have missed, Thomas Sowell and Wednesday's with Walter E. Williams.

As GOP leaders capitulate on core conservative values, the Heritage Foundation asks the question "Will they ever learn?"  No, they won't because voters are not holding them accountable, most are not engaged in the battle to save America from unnecessary spending but most of all because they keep sending the same people back to do the job.  Last month Barack Obama was returned to office for another four years, despite the extreme spending and narcissistic administration and the fact that he said to Russian President Medvedede ""This is my last election. After my election, I have more flexibility,"  President Obama believes his 3.3% margin gives him the winning hand and we as voters did not strengthen Congressman Boehner's hand.  Will they ever learn?  Not until we make them.

It is up to us to educate our, family, friends, co-workers and neighbors.  Discuss articles like this editorial in the Washington Examiner instead of who won this year's Survivor or Amazing Race. 

Proof that high taxes do not work. 

America falls from prosperity according to a London based think tank.

The elections are over, so the President has a new non-deportation policy.

File this under "the world is truly up-side-down".

Rich Lowry opines on the Sandy Hook tragedy.  So does John Podhoretz.

Hillary Clinton's head fake.

Tuesday's with Thomas Sowell  also on gun control. 

Nothing we can say will help stop the pain and horror of Friday afternoon's carnage in Connecticut.  No words will ever explain the inexplicable, no one will ever truly know why 20 children will never return to their parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and other family members.  Another piece of innocence was taken from all of America on Friday, another act of depraved indifference to the sanctity of life took place on Friday and all weekend the reaction has been predictable.  Yes, President Obama, these tragedies must end.  And they must end now, hopefully by fully returning to the Judeo-Christian values that were the basis of our Constitution that  formulated this great nation and understand that victims rights must outweigh criminal rights.  The Founding Fathers could have put any ideal in the First Amendment and Second Amendment, yet they chose religion and self-defense,  isn't it time we do so also?

The NY Sun  opines so does the NY Post.

Guns should not be the only consideration to end the tragedies. 


Senator Jim DeMint has big shoes to fill, but Congressman Tim Scott may just be the right fit!

This is why people do not approve of Congress.  Take care of the people who need the help, the people who need to be able to live in a home with heat and electricity, Sandy's Relief fund certainly should not contain money for Alaska and the Gulf of Mexico fisheries, nor repair jobs at Kennedy Space Center. Disaster relief is disaster relief, nothing more should be in the bill.

How convenient.

Taxes have consequences, too.

Weekly Wrap-Up

Wow... you know that if Sens. Schumer and Gillibrand oppose a tax, it must be pretty awful.

Too bad they never had a chance to oppose this tax before. Oh, wait...

Well, it’s all part of the madness that is Obamacare.

But the biggest news this week is Susan Rice and her decision to take herself out of the running for Secretary of State.

Here you’ll find her obviously self-serving account of why she made this decision – if this is a decision that she made, that is.

Seems to me that if the Obama Administration wanted to further its Benghazi cover-up, steering Susan Rice away from the confirmation hearings she would have to endure as would-be Secretary of State would be a smart strategy.

What do you think – is Susan Rice’s abandonment of her Secretary of State dreams simply a noble act on her part (as she wants us to believe)? Or is this the Obama Administration’s way of sweeping the deaths of four Americans under the rug?

Vote this week in our new weekly poll...

If you ask me, here’s the funniest line from the Susan Rice column: “I deeply respect Congress’s role in our system of government.” Her boss doesn’t seem to share that respect...

The other big news this week was Big Labor – though the unions seem smaller than ever after their juvenile antics in Michigan.  Sore losers, as the New York Post calls them.

So legalizing marijuana is no big deal, right? Wrong, according to people “on the ground” where it’s happening.

Have a great weekend!

Erik Kriss has more on Governor Cuomo's litmus test  and  his future support.  Fortunately, there is a glimmer of hope as Kriss reports it appears that the Republican leaders are standing up for the taxpayers.

Question to the Members of the NY City Council:  What message do these bills send to people?  It's okay to come into our country illegally, but all the other laws we pass must be followed?  Why, if it's okay to break one law, why does anyone have to follow any laws?

Here we go again.


News on Health Exchanges required by Obamacare.  (Governor Cuomo did not wait for legislative approval in New York, like President Obama, he just issued an Executive Order to get what he wanted.)  More on the Health Exchanges from the Heritage Foundation.

As this AP article points out, some think Obama's regulations haven't gone far enough and want more.  So Obama's Administration should stifle economic growth with regulations while the Federal Reserves cranks out billions to put people to work to create more regulations and the economy is supposed to get healthy with this kind of thinking.  Did anyone pass the Economics classes they took?

Don't cave on the necessary spending cuts, Congressman Boehner.  We all know if they are not done now, they never will be. 

Grover Norquist's war plan for the GOP.

Here's Karl Rove's take on what the President may really want.

The Wall Street Journal looks at the fiscal cliff's numbers. 

Where some of your money is being spent can be found here.  And that's just one agency!

Another glimmer of hope, this time for all who believe in religious freedom.

Instead of following Europe's fiscal morass, maybe we should turn to Singapore's economic plan....if they don't change it...they have a 1.9% unemployment rate.  This isn't a typo, 1.9% unemployment rate. 

Chairman Mike Long speaks out in the New York Times on the "New Model" for Albany.

Apparently, Governor Andrew Cuomo, believes his high ratings has given him the ability to impose whatever legislation he wants.  Do you remember his campaigning on Campaign Finance Reform or raising the minimum wage?  I also do not recall any campaign pledge to make New York State's abortion laws even more liberal than they are now, which happen to be the least restrictive in all of America.   A piece of advice Governor:  Don't let your ratings give you the impression you are unquestionably correct, you're not.  We, the Conservative Party, will also challenge you when your agenda conflicts with what is best for all New Yorkers.

Governor Cuomo likes to say New York is open for business, then today, completely shut down the possibility of New York becoming a "right-to-work" state.  Which is it Governor, open for business or continuing to hamper business with agency shop rules?

Why is the Left always so angry?

Hydrofracking facing more delays if this lawsuit goes forward.  

New York City fails to obtain $40M in school funds.

North Korea is successful and it is no surprise that Iran congratulates them.

Larry Kudlow's    thoughts on the Fiscal Cliff.

Someone send this to President Obama and those who need a visual on why cutting capital gains taxes are good.

Taxes are much higher than you think.

Bonus Thomas Sowell article:  Taxing the poor.

Wednesday's with Walter E. Williams.

Warren Buffett and those who think the rich should be taxed more are doing what they can to keep what they can.  Any surprised that they really don't want to pay more taxes?? Trying to save their money isn't all that terrible, don't all of us want to do the same. The difference is we are honest about it and not preaching that we should be paying our fair share. 

Jefferey Immelt, Chairman of the White House Council on Jobs,  told Charlie Rose this "The one thing that actually works, state run communism a bit– may not be your cup of tea, but their government works."  Great.  Obama's person says this after taxpayers bailed out AIG only to have government's shares sold to China costing American taxpayers how much in losses?  Why isn't the main stream media talking about this?

It just gets better today, if you are a progressive liberal.  But Republicans will be ridiculed by the main stream media if they try to cut spending.

Political Reality, II.

How many new employees have been hired by the current Administration on a daily basis?  The number is astounding, especially when you think of the fringe benefits, i.e. pension benefits.

Nicole Gelinas "Lhota work remains"

Tuesdays with Thomas Sowell.

Does anyone in the political world believe for a nanosecond that Speaker Silver would ever consider the direction that Senator Skelos is heading into.  Where is the exchange of ideas?  Where will the choice for voters be if this is the future of the major parties? 

The Conservative Party will stand strong for the voters in New York!  Chairman Michael Long makes it very clear, our support will be for elected officials that are truly looking out for the fiscal ( and ethical)  health of New Yorkers.

Why is Governor Cuomo putting himself in a position to be criticized?  This could be a very big mistake for the normally very cautious Governor.

More bad news on the NYS economic front.

George J. Marlin's thoughts on LIPA.

The EPA is replacing To Kill a Mockingbird in your children's classroom.  

More questions regarding the deaths of four Americans in Benghazi.  The Washington Times states the US knew for years about Benghazi's extremism.

Think about the benefits of closing this office, not only in federal salaries and benefits being paid, but also in ending outlandish regulations.

Apparently this school districts' strength is not in teaching math, is it is way too late for them to learn, hopefully not to late for others to learn.  

I don't remember Bob Costas letting people know this fact when he spoke about guns. So NFL players need protection, but everyday Americans don't? 

Someone should explain to this burglar the 2nd Amendment gives citizens the right to protect themselves from people like him.

Weekly Wrap-Up

As Americans mark the 71st anniversary of Pearl Harbor, we’ll end this week with a nice remembrance from the Utica Observer-Dispatch.

Six survivors of Pearl Harbor will be honored today in Albany, while a wreath-laying ceremony will take place in New York City.

Google, which dresses up its homepage for even the most ridiculous milestones, doesn’t seem to think today’s remembrance is worth the trouble... but Bing offers some interesting links.

As we remember such an historic event, the seemingly endless “fiscal cliff” saga seems especially petty.  But it continues, and it does represent an important debate about the character of our nation, and how “we, the people” should be governed.

Too bad that, as Charles Krauthammer points out, our President knows nothing about serious leadership. “Let’s understand President Obama’s strategy in the “fiscal cliff” negotiations,” Krauthammer states. “It has nothing to do with economics or real fiscal reform. This is entirely about politics.”

It’s also too bad that, as John Podhoretz warns, the GOP seems to be incapable of explaining why the Democrats’ “class warfare” agenda gets us nowhere.

And too bad that, as we remember Pearl Harbor, our Commander-in-Chief seems perfectly willing to send the U.S. military over thecliff for the sake of scoring political points for the far left. 

But even if Obama “wins” the fiscal cliff debate, it could very well be a grueling victory.

If tax increases take effect, how will Washington spend this flood of new cash? This should give you an idea.

This is the system the Obama liberals envision for America. 

Leading the news in New York this week is the new Republican/Democrat “coalition” leadership of the State Senate. 

“Will the newreality work?” asks the Albany Times-Union. What do you think – will this Senate coalition change “politics as usual” in Albany? Or will it just open the door for liberal bills that hike the minimum wage and “reform” campaign financing? Vote today in our new Weekly Poll.

And have a great weekend!

Governor Andrew Cuomo penned an Op-Ed in today's Albany Times Union and stated "From 1966 to 2009, the Republican Conference led for 42 years and blocked much progressive legislation, including last year's efforts to increase the minimum wage, enact campaign finance reform and end the controversial "stop and frisk" policy."  Governor Cuomo is a progressive liberal and those that think he isn't should read his words.  The apple does not fall far from the tree, no matter how much the left criticizes him, his policies are the same as his Father's and those who want you to think he has not done enough.    His policies will cost you, in both money and moral values as we learned when he passed New York's same sex marriage bill.  He will try to expand New York's abortion laws, already the most liberal in the nation, and GENDA legislation, in addition to the ones he highlights.  Yes, Governor Andrew Cuomo is a progressive liberal, but we already knew that.  And we will be here to educate New York citizens as to the dangers of such legislation.

C3PO and R2D2 will take your order now. 

The case for hydrofracking is being made as crude-oil production is at its highest level in 15 years due to hydrofracking. 

President Obama seeks tax advice from a tax dodger.  What did you expect after Tim Geithner, someone who understands economics?  If President Obama is really serious about the fiscal cliff and the economy he would be meeting with  Heritage Foundation and the business leaders in today's Morning Bell.  Alas, as Wall Street Journal's Dan Henninger points out President Obama is on a ruinous course because President Obama has never learned the art of compromise.

George Will's take on the fiscal cliff:  Fiscal Cliff Is No Accident; It's The Left's Agenda.

Congratulations to Senator Jim DeMint, albeit his voice is needed in the Senate, he will continue to make a difference at Heritage Foundation.

The Heritage Foundation shows how President Obama is trying to grab unprecedented power for himself and future Presidents.  How times changes, he certainly did not hold this position in 2006.  It really is time to remind him he was elected President of America, and not Venezuela and his name is Barack Obama,not Hugo Chavez, albeit sometimes it is hard to distinguish the two.

Renowned economist, Thomas Sowell, expands his Fiscal Cliff Notes in another column today.

Conrad Black, writes in the New York Sun, how President Obama could yet emerge as a transformative President, yet what he would like President Obama to do, will not happen.  "If a Damascene bolt of lightning galvanizes the incumbent president and he, even after all the false starts, makes a comprehensive compromise proposal for entitlement reform — including a radical overhaul of Obamacare, stretching out entitlements to correspond to actuarial expectations and means-testing the payments, keeping income taxes down but closing down some of the free rides and raising sales and transaction taxes on non-essential spending, and tax-incentivizing work that adds value and does not just indulge society’s self-important disdain for work in primary and secondary industry — he will be acclaimed as the transformative president he seeks to be and his party will reap the benefit for years to come.  If you think this line of thinking could come form the man who wants to raise the debt limit by himself, I have a bridge to sell you.

A Detroit Councilwoman explains quid pro quo.

Rove is back with a new commercial to inform Americans (this used to be the job of journalists) of the tax-heavy proposals put forward by President Obama.

The O'Reilly Factor should read this, maybe then Bill O'Reilly will acknowledge what the world knew, there really were weapons of mass destruction. 

There is an alternative to Obamcare, read about it here.

This paper outlines the true cost of regulations.

If the new State Senate coalition gets its way, one of their goals is to raise the minimum wage.  This will hurt New York's economy and would "kill" 22 thousand jobs.

One of the other issues that the new coalition will be pushing hard for is "medical" marihuana.  We are opposed to this idea also.  Here is an audio clip of Sen. Savino who is the prime sponsor of the medial marihuana legislation and our position.  Both begin about midway in the clip.  

As the New York Post aptly puts it Here come the clowns.

Wednesdays with Walter E. Williams.

Speaker Boehner is caving and apparently is not the Leader he believes himself to be.  He is purging fiscal conservatives from leadership positions and he is caving on entitlement and tax reform.  Charles Krauthammer is right when he says "He (the President) wants to break the back of Republicans. This is a continuation of his campaign. He thinks he won it and now he wants to drive a stake through the Republicans. It’s all about politics; it’s nothing about economics.”  And Speaker Boehner is now giving him the stake.

This chart explains part why we are in such a fiscal battle to regain fiscal sanity as government handouts replace work ethics.

Once Speaker Boehner and the Republican Congress cave into the Administration demands with the media demonizing them when they try to stand strong, we know it is just the beginning of lasting redistribution until there is nothing more to distribute because no one is willing to work.  John Ransom writes in his column that Grover "Norquist  is telling the truth when he points out that the Democrats aren’t interested in real reform, entitlement reform or otherwise. They just want to grow government and need more money to do it."

Senator Jeff Sessions sees more spending and no cutting in the future. 

Thomas Sowell gives us his view of the fiscal crisis here. 

Will our Congressional delegation support New Yorkers or Obama?

Governor Cuomo is doing what is right by nixing his Public Health and Planning Council's plan.

Coalition governments do not work.  It doesn't work for constituents, but it does let politicians keep their perks.

RIP Stage Deli.

The Fiscal Cliff is still dominating the national news and the Heritage Foundation explains the fiscal cliff in terms even the main stream media can understand.  Of course the Sunday News programs had a lot of discussion on the fiscal cliff by both sides, and if you happened to watch Tim Geithner on Fox News Sunday, it is surprising your television still works.  The request to give the President unilateral authority to lift the limit on the national debt is arrogance on steroids.  Let's just hope the Republicans are not suckered into the administration's rhetoric the same way voters were.  Grover Norquist is right to remain unwavering on no new taxes because we have been through this before.  Help him keep the Republican Congress strong by signing the petition against raising taxes.  Congressmen.  like New York's Chris Gibson,  are more than willing to forgo their pledge to not raise taxes, remind them, we have been down this road before and have never been given the cuts in spending we were promised, don't let it happen again. 

Any quick deal to avoid the fiscal cliff will be detrimental to New York State.  Read what E. J. McMahon has to say here. 

Another idea put forward by Governor Cuomo who is now seems to be adopting Mayor Bloomberg's Nanny-State mentality, is to recommend an increase in "sin" taxes and limiting new businesses that serve liquor.  And what makes matters worse is that at the same time serious consideration is being given to allowing "medical" marihuana in New York State.  The Daily News came out strong against "medical" marihuana and we couldn't agree more with the last sentence of their editorial.

And here is another ill-conceived idea being put forward by Governor Cuomo's appointed team to reduce  Medicaid costs.

Jim Finch wants to know if Governor Cuomo will ever lead in the hydrofracking debate?

One would think that all the national talk of a fiscal crisis, that the White House would show some restraint in Christmas decorations and Christmas vacations.  Do you think 54 Christmas trees borders on the excessive?  Or their vacation (which you are paying for) from December 17 until January 6 is just a tad too long?  I suppose we should just be happy the 54 trees are still considered Christmas trees....

Weekly Wrap-Up

Here it is, your “Weekly Wrap-Up” – the Fiscal Cliff Edition! Has there been anything else in the news this week?

Charles Krauthammer wonders why Republicans are playing along with the Democrats’ latest crusade for tax hikes.

George Will explains how the fiscal cliff fits perfectly in the Democrats’ agenda. 

The GOP is getting a stern warning from conservatives.

And National Review has a message for Republicans: Don’t be lemmings.

The Heritage Foundation offers “Six Fixes to America’sFiscal Crisis.”

A lesson from Great Britain on what happens when you “tax the rich.”

The Wall Street Journal explains Obama’s real fiscal problem– the lack of growth in our economy.

According to Kimberly Strassel, also writing in the Journal, with his initial “compromise” proposal, “The White House this week finally explained just how serious it is about averting a fiscal cliff that could throw the country back into a recession. The answer: not serious at all.”

What do you think is the most important part of avoiding the “fiscal cliff” and preventing another recession? Vote today in our new Weekly Poll.

And have a great weekend!

The NY Post  is absolutely right in questioning what Governor Cuomo is thinking regarding his plans to close Indian Point nuclear  power plant.

Another revenue set back for New Yorkers.   This is the problem with finding "new" revenue streams, they dry up and the expenditures don't.  What worries me and should worry every New Yorker, is what will Legislators dream up to replace the dwindling cigarette tax revenue....guaranteed it will be another dangerous and bad idea.


What will the Senate look like if there is a coalition?  The Daily News wants to know and Liz Benjamin looks at the constitutional questions.

Read what Chairman Long has to say about the probability of a coalition.

Natural Gas developers are fighting back in New York, finally.

Senator Tom Coburn has a plan to save money, obviously Senator Reid does not have a plan, nor does he bother to read Senator Coburn's plan.  (Here's a video for Sen. Reid, this way he just has to listen.)Over three years and the Senate still has not passed a budget, but voters continue to let them get away with it.  Three quarters of the voters in New York gave both New York Senators a pass and continue to do so every day by not demanding they do their JOB!  Senator Reid, while unable and unwilling to pass a budget even with the majority wants even more power for his chamber......the Heritage Foundation says we can make his power grab work for us.

Once again, Senator Reid and the rest of you who want to tax the rich:  tax hikes will only fund 8 days of government.

Listen up President Obama, Senator and Congressmen:  Americans do not want government run health care.  Another win, albeit it may be temporary, for religious freedom.  Read what Great Britain is doing when sick babies are born.  This could be our future, if we remain silent.

GOP beware:  Obama is setting a trap for you.  Let's hope his fellow GOP'ers  listen and understand  what Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner is saying because he gets it....remember make a fool of me once, shame on you, make a fool of me twice, shame on me.

How many times must it be said, Washington does not have a revenue problem, it has a spending problem.  Republicans must stand strong!  Grover Norquist is right!  The pledge (a solemn promise or agreement to do or refrain from doing something:) that Members or future Members signed was not about him, it was and is about the future of America.  Compromise and believing that spending cuts will come later is the exact reason we are facing the fiscal crisis' of today.  If the Republicans who signed the Americans for Tax Reform pledge abandon the pledge they made, for example Congressman Chris Gibson and Congressman Richard Hanna here in New York, rest assured they will be hoodwinked by the left and the Lefts agenda will turn America into Greece.  Frankly, I thought the battlefield in Washington would be easier than the Middle East battlefield, and Congressman Gibson wouldn't  have given  up on America so easily.  If he abandons his pledge to his constituents, he obviously is abandoning the fight for the American Dream.  By the way, last time I checked, a pledge does not have an expiration date.

The British are leaving  England due to the high taxes.  A while back we posted how the French were leaving France for the same reason.  Californians are leaving California, New Yorkers have left New York and yet some Congressman believe abandoning their pledge will solve the problem.  Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me.  Ronald Reagan regretted agreeing to higher taxes in the belief that spending cuts would be adopted.  The spending cuts never came and neither did the immigration reform promised if he would just this once allow for amnesty.  Democrats are good at making promises then abandoning them, now unfortunately Republicans seem to be following the same path.

And apparently it is not only in Washington that Republicans are forgetting what they stand for.  The New York Times reports today that Senator Jeff Klein and his Independent Coalition favors a GOP Coalition in the State Senate.  This is not good news for conservatives  and those who think fiscally conservative.  A coalition means I'll give you what you want if you give me what I want.   Trust me, Senator Klein isn't forming a coalition without getting the groups most favored legislation.  Since the latest articles on the still open 46th Senate District looks like it will remain in the democratic column,  this coalition is not going to be good for the taxpayers  and conservatives in New York state.

Take a look around America and look at the changes happening:  Marriage is in decline, dogs are protected by domestic violence orders, and a person who killed a puppy goes to jail while a woman who demands free birth control and the morning after pill  is celebrated by TIME magazine as a possible person of the year.

It doesn't surprise me that most Americans do not even take the time to vote.  It certainly disappoints me that most Americans are allowing our elected officials to quickly bring about the demise of the greatest nation ever created by men who understood the value of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Wednesdays with Walter E. Williams and bonus Thomas Sowell column. 

When you think of someone or a family as being poor, what is the image that you see?  Homeless? Unable to afford health insurance?   Certainly not a family with a plasma television.  Prepare yourself as you learn the new definition of poor according to our government.  Poverty, and the government programs dedicated to eliminating poverty, are here forever more.

That explains why Congress and this Administration is determined to hike  the tax rate on the "rich".  The Heritage Foundation explains why Warren Buffett is wrong on tax hikes. 

The debt is even worse than we have been told, far greater than the $16 trillion. 

With all of the debt and talk of changes, is your mortgage interest deduction safe?

And just in case you think the world is against Grover Norquist, you should  read these two articles;  here and here, in fact the  NY Sun calls it Norquist's Finest Hour.  Grover Norquist can obviously defend himself.

Let's hope that Governor Cuomo truly understands what he says when he says “Put it simply,” Cuomo said. “The people of this state cannot afford to pay any more taxes — period.”

It isn't  a secret that New York is considering expanding Casino Gambling by having voters decided in the voting booth by amending the State Constitution.  Currently 7 casinos are being considered, will the number expand because of the economic losses suffered as a result of Superstorm Sandy's devastation?  Is this any way to solve economic problems?

This is not good news for New Yorkers!   Governor the State needs money and people need jobs!  Seriously, do you think Casinos are better than becoming energy independent?

Wise words written by David Limbaugh. 

More wise words from Dennis Prager.

Tuesday's with Thomas Sowell.

The Heritage Foundation writes about Egypt's President Morsi's lunge for dictatorship, not much of a surprise to us nor anyone who is aware of the goals of the Muslim Brotherhood.  The timing was the only surprise, the praise of Hillary Clinton were still echoing when Morsi declared that all his decisions were not subject to the laws of Egypt.  Freedom loving Egyptians have made their voice heard in the streets of Cairo and today, there may be a glimmer of hope that Morsi will rescind his declaration.

The Cabinet shuffle begins.

Since 1966 a cigarette package has carried the warning "Cigarette smoking may be hazardous to your health" and in the last 46 years that message has become a mantra about just how dangerous smoking is to ones health.  Cigarette taxes have increased, smokers can't smoke indoors, and in some outdoor areas, yet people continue to smoke despite the 46 year campaign to enlighten people to the danger of smoking.  Enter Blair Horner, vice president for advocacy for the American Cancer Society for New York and New Jersey, who is defending a program that uses your tax dollars to give to medicaid patients up to $250 on a debit card to get healthy.  The inmates are running the asylum and using your money to do so.  Chairman Long calls the program outrageous, as should every New Yorker and American.

While government is trying to micromanage our daily lives, it often does so with many programs that duplicate the same goals.  While the Conservative Party does not believe in government's long term programs to provide untold benefits to otherwise healthy individuals, it makes sense to combine New York's programs.  Some of New York's families who are truly in need, would benefit by unifying the delivery system under Medicaid.  Read what Russell Sykes has to say here.  Normally, anything the federal government proposes is something to run far away from, but Sykes makes a pretty good case for streamlining. But, Sykes' idea  is also tied into the health exchanges that have their own problems.

Obamacare/Tax back in the news and this may be good news for those of us who want to see Obamacare defeated.

New York needs jobs, New Yorkers need jobs, why is the Governor stalling on hydrofracking?

Some New York Judges say 27% pay raise is insufficient.  Some New Yorkers would just like to have a job!

Obviously President Obama is not concerned about spending, nor does want to end spending on failed ideas.  According to CNS News, he is giving away our hard earned tax dollars to Asia to promote clean energy. 

The Administration unveils Obamacare/tax regulations here. And the Manhattan Institute examines the "Pre-existing Condition Problem."

Diana Furchotgott-Roth writes how unions and environmentalists came together to damage the US economy, while the Heritage Foundation asks' the question "Should We Pay Government Employees More?"

The Obama Administration continues to  over-regulate; 102 new proposals yesterday.

How ironic is this?  In California (be aware of the fact that New York and California elected officials are very similar in thought processing, so this idea may be heading for New York) in many retail stores you have to show your ID in order to return items, yet you are not required to show ID when voting? 

Governor Andrew Cuomo likes to say "New York is open for business", yet the greatest legitimate business boom, one that helps us become more energy independent and is helping other states is being kept out of New York, by the decisions or lack of decisions being made by Governor Andrew Cuomo.  The very same Governor that apparently will not have a problem forcing small businesses to raise the minimum wage which results in fewer jobs.  New York is open for business?  Sorry Governor, actions speak louder than words.

This could be good news for criminals, not for the rest of us.

The meaning of Thanksgiving Day. 

Michelle Malkin writes about the generosity of Americans. 

The Wisdom of Upholding Tradition!  (An absolute must read)

Thomas Sowell's lighthearted look at travel and staying in hotels.

Wednesday's with Walter E. Williams.

Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving!   CPNYS Salutes our Veterans for keeping America Safe and Secure,our Law Enforcement, First Responders and all those who have given and continue to give to those in need.  God Bless America. 

We will post again on Monday.

Federal disability payments now exceed Pentagon Procurement Payments, and the really disturbing news is that the number of people receiving disability payments has increased 29% over the last four years with no slowdown in the increasing rate in sight.

Also disturbing is an article in C/NET that Sen. Patrick Leahy has  rewritten his Bill on Americas' email privacy that now gives 22 federal agencies the ability to access accounts without a search warrant. (By the way, the accounts in postings on Facebook.)

CBS News is reporting that the Office of the Director of National Intelligence cut the al Qaeda reference (any reason why we should believe CBS News who has been derelict in reporting the truth?) The  DesMoines Register wants the Obama Administration to come clean on Benghazi.  The Weekly Standard opines on Larry Bell's summary of unanswered questions.  And the Heritage Foundation asks the question:  Who altered the Benghazi talking points.  Maybe Leahy's new rewritten bill (if passed as proposed) will get us the answers Americans deserve regarding the cold-blooded murder of 4 Americans; actually it may be the only way to get honest answers since this Administration is quite incapable of doing so.  (This does not mean that Senator Leahy's proposal is acceptable or should be passed, the very last thing Americans need is a government with free reign to spy on its citizenry; in fact, call Schumer and Gillibrand to urge a no vote:  202-224-3121.  While your at it, tell Senator Leahy to withdraw his Bill or click here.)

Law enforcement has been able to thwart terrorist plots without free reign to spy on all citizens and have been doing an excellent job keeping us safe.  Kudos to them for being able to protect us within the confines of personal liberty. 

The NY Post Editorial shares our concerns with a post-election legislative session, nothing good will be achieved in post-election sessions. 

Tuesdays with Thomas Sowell.

The Daily Caller is reporting that our government is promoting welfare to new immigrants in welcoming material distributed by them.  This fact in itself is difficult for hard working Americans to embrace (after all doesn't everyone who comes to America legally want to live the American Dream and become rich by working hard) but when you read what welfare is costing hard working Americans, your reaction, understandably, will be to demand that this effort to promote welfare cease immediately.  Call Senators Schumer and Gillibrand at 202-224-3121 and let them know you want this practice to end.  But alas, it will most likely fall on deaf ears since they approve of giving away our money  and the election cycle is over for now.

More information on entitlement spending is here. 

Who will pay the brunt of Obamacare/tax?   According to Stephen Moore  those with incomes less than $120,000.

President Obama says interesting things when outside of the United States, does he forget that in today's world we will know immediately what he is saying.  Mr. President,  you really don't have to worry about imposing your will on Congress, you have demonstrated that you do what you want via Executive Orders. 

George J. Marlin assess the Catholic Vote. 

The Heritage Foundation examines the  conflict between Hamas and Israel.

Ralph Peters:  It's Not Adding Up.

The NY Post Editorial makes some very good points, regarding Sandy's aftermath...government must help but cannot be wasteful.  Help getting peoples lives back together, with essentials, then take a long hard look at what governments role should be.

Weekly Wrap-Up

Now they’ve done it: Big Labor has killed the Twinkie.

Maybe the “War on Women” theme of the Democrats 2012 campaign didn’t convince all women. Even a liberal Democrat like Kirsten Powers is getting fed up. 

Meanwhile Richard Grenell offers a serious look at SusanRice’s record – and finds it lacking. 

President Obama has dared Republicans to “go after me” on the Benghazi scandal, as the New York Post points out. Here’s hoping Republicans will accept the challenge.

Do you think the truth will ever come out about what happened in the Benghazi debacle? Vote today in our new Weekly Poll. (This will be the question for the next two weeks, as we take a break next Thursday and Friday for Thanksgiving.)

More post-election recriminations, explanations and analysis...

After hearing Mitt Romney’s comments on Obama winning by offering “gifts” to his most loyal voting blocs, John Podhoretz says “Mitt Still Doesn’t Get It.”

Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal agrees, saying Republicans “need to continue to show how our policies help every voter out there achieve the American Dream.”

Rich Lowry warns that amnesty is not the answer.

As the “fiscal cliff” approaches, here is an informative take on why lower tax rates are good for everyone.

But will Republicans remember the virtues of lower taxes – or cave to Democrats’ demands for tax hikes?

We’ll see if Congress can hammer out a deal we can be thankful for. Until then, have a great weekend and a Happy Thanksgiving.