It has been alleged that Assembly Republicans voted to increase taxes because they supported the Spending Cap. This is simply not true! All one has to do is to read the bill and look at the timeline.
On February 14, 2009 the Assembly voted on ACAX3 1, which approved the spending cap for the ballot. If you read the bill, you will notice that there is no mention of taxes or the fact that proposed taxes would be extended for three years, should the spending cap be approved. Even the Assembly Analysis there is no mention of tax increases, BECAUSE THEY AREN’T THERE!!! The reason why Republicans voted for the spending cap is because it was (and still is) a good idea.
Fast forward to February 19, 2009 when the Assembly voted on ABX3 3, which actually authorizes the tax increases. This measure authorizes the tax increases for five years. However, it also states that should the spending cap fail passage the tax increases will end in two years as opposed to five. And as one would expect, the Assembly Analysis also reflects that this is the case.
Now look at the vote tally for ABX3 3. You will notice that only three Republican Assembly members voted for it. Also, note that this measure was voted on five days after the spending cap was passed.
I have to admit that I am very disappointed in my fellow conservative commentators who are so quick to throw our own under the bus with little to no discussion of the facts. Is this not representative of a lynch mob mentality? Is this how we really want to be?
I understand the anger over this tax increase. Heck, I agree with it! But before we start stringing people up, should we not make sure that they are in fact guilty of the crime?
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