House Passes Billionaire Relief Bill
Republicans took their first step toward removing the jackboot of fair taxation from the necks of America’s billionaires today when the House of Representatives voted 227-205 in favor of the House tax bill. Though 13 Republicans defected, most were from New York, New Jersey and California (including three of Jersey’s most vulnerable Republicans). Pat Meehan of nearby Pennsylvania voted for it, which could spell trouble for him with his suburban voters.
Remember, this is now a Gut Obamacare measure, so the usual rules apply: Phone calls from outraged voters are needed.
Also, a mistrial has been declared in the corruption trial of N.J. Sen. Bob Menendez because the jury couldn’t reach a unanimous verdict. One of the jurors said that 10 of the 12 panel members wanted to acquit, noting that there was “no smoking gun” in the evidence the government presented.
10 of 12 wanted to acquit? If true, it makes little sense to retry.
Still think the guy is sleazy, though. Every bit as much in thrall to Big Pharma as Carper.
As crooked as McDonnell, but the Supreme Court’s high demand for quid pro quo corruption allowed for this verdict. Remember, the investigation started back when this was still illegal. It’s not the FBI’s fault that the rules changed in the middle of the game.
He’s a fucking crook. But he’ll stay in the Senate while SJWs concentrate on Franken’s crimes.
This is the first big post-Governor Robert McDonnell (VA – R) bribery verdict and I’m not at all surprised there was no conviction.
The McDonnell precedent completely rewrote the rules on bribery. Now, instead of simnplyproving that money was given, the government has the tougher job of proving that money was given AND the bribe maker revived some value in return.
Not even just something of value — something SPECIFIC in value. History will rank Roberts with Roger Taney.
So, if you buy his vote, and the legislation doesn’t pass, you’ve got nothing of value, so it’s not a bribe, just a campaign contribution?
“Normal constituent service” was the phrase Gordon’s judge used.
I’m paraphrasing here, because I can’t find the original, but there was this great Ralph Moyed story quoting legendary dealmaker John Matushefske saying something like “if you take the money before the vote, it’s a bribe. If you take it a day later, it’s a campaign contribution.”
That belongs on a plaque at Leg Hall.