Senator Bunning's Universe ...Paul Krugman NY Times

[Stuart G]

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/05/opinion/05krugman.html

So the Bunning blockade is over. For days, Senator Jim Bunning of Kentucky exploited Senate rules to block a one-month extension of unemployment benefits. In the end, he gave in, although not soon enough to prevent an interruption of payments to around 100,000 workers.

But while the blockade is over, its lessons remain. Some of those lessons involve the spectacular dysfunctionality of the Senate. What I want to focus on right now, however, is the incredible gap that has opened up between the parties. Today, Democrats and Republicans live in different universes, both intellectually and morally.

Take the question of helping the unemployed in the middle of a deep slump. What Democrats believe is what textbook economics says: that when the economy is deeply depressed, extending unemployment benefits not only helps those in need, it also reduces unemployment. That’s because the economy’s problem right now is lack of sufficient demand, and cash-strapped unemployed workers are likely to spend their benefits. In fact, the Congressional Budget Office says that aid to the unemployed is one of the most effective forms of economic stimulus, as measured by jobs created per dollar of outlay.

But that’s not how Republicans see it. Here’s what Senator Jon Kyl of Arizona, the second-ranking Republican in the Senate, had to say when defending Mr. Bunning’s position (although not joining his blockade): unemployment relief “doesn’t create new jobs. In fact, if anything, continuing to pay people unemployment compensation is a disincentive for them to seek new work.”


also...here at Du..at another forum...General Discussion Presidency..posted by babylonsister
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=433x208151

[Jim__]

1. It's interesting who the republicans do worry about.

Consider, in particular, the position that Mr. Kyl has taken on a proposed bill that would extend unemployment benefits and health insurance subsidies for the jobless for the rest of the year. Republicans will block that bill, said Mr. Kyl, unless they get a “path forward fairly soon” on the estate tax.

Now, the House has already passed a bill that, by exempting the assets of couples up to $7 million, would leave 99.75 percent of estates tax-free. But that doesn’t seem to be enough for Mr. Kyl; he’s willing to hold up desperately needed aid to the unemployed on behalf of the remaining 0.25 percent. That’s a very clear statement of priorities.

People having to pay taxes on estates over $7 million; but not people out of work and out of money.

[Stuart G]

2. Jim is correct...Republicans worry about themselves. and only themselves and

, their view, and their view is always correct, and keeping their money for them.

We really do care about sharing with others.. Deep down we really do.

(also our view might be wrong, we are willing to change)

As Krugman said.."...it's moral."

and that's it..


I believe this article by Krugman is very important.
It clarifies and emphasizes what is really different about us and them.

[CanonRay]

3. Bunning brilliantly reduces Republican policy to two words: Tough Shit

Very succint

[Stuart G]

4. and all they care about is their shit.