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Budget - Business - Campaign Finance - Capitalism - Congress - Conservatives - Elections - GOP - Government - House of Representatives - Illinois - Paul Ryan - Peter Roskam - Republicans - Taxes - Warner Todd Huston

Rep. Paul Ryan To Headline Roskam Fundraiser

October 21, 2011 by

-By Warner Todd Huston

Representative Paul Ryan (R, Wis) will be headlining a fundraising event next week for Peter Roskam’s re-election campaign. Ryan is the Chairman of the House Budget Committee.

Rep. Ryan is best known for his A Roadmap for America’s Future, a budget proposal favored by many Republicans and conservatives. Ryan has become something of a rock star among conservatives.

Roskam is the Representative of the Sixth Illinois District and is running for reelection. No challenger has announced an effort to face him.

Only in his third term, Roskam rose quickly in the ranks of the GOP and is now the third in line of the House GOP leadership serving as the Chief Deputy Whip.

Tickets for the Oct. 29 cocktail reception and private dinner at Naperville’s Hotel Arista range from $100 (reception) to $2,500 (reception, dinner, photo with the congressmen and “preferential seating”) a piece.

For more information see Roskam’s campaign website: http://www.roskamforcongress.com/.
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Rep. Paul Ryan To Headline Roskam Fundraiser”

Atlanta - Budget - Business - Capitalism - Cities - Democrats/Leftists - Economy/Finances - Free Trade - Georgia - Jobs - Liberals - PCism - Society/Culture - Taxes - Tea Party - Warner Todd Huston

Bi-Racial Tea Party Group Harassed by GA Capitol Police, Occupy Wall Streeters Given Pass to Break Laws

October 21, 2011 by 2 Comments

-By Warner Todd Huston

There has been a lot of talk comparing and contrasting the Tea Partiers and these Occupy-Whatever people. But in Georgia we can see a stark difference. Tea Partiers are law-abiding citizens while the Occupy Atlantans are law breakers. Sadly, Capitol Police in Atlanta have sided with the Occupiers and against Tea Partiers.

At the very least the Capitol Police in Atlanta have definitely been treating these two groups unequally. These officers of the law have turned a blind eye to law breaking by the Occupy folks allowing them to do anything they want but did not extend that courtesy to those Tea Party groups that also protested at the Georgia Capitol House.
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Bi-Racial Tea Party Group Harassed by GA Capitol Police, Occupy Wall Streeters Given Pass to Break Laws”

Budget - Business - Capitalism - Congress - Conservatives - GOP - House of Representatives - Illinois - Illinois State Government - Jobs - Randy Hultgren - Republicans - Taxes - Warner Todd Huston

Hultgren Statement on September Illinois Jobs Report

October 21, 2011 by

From the office of Rep. Randy Hultgren (R, Illinois 14th District)…

Geneva, IL – U.S. Rep. Randy Hultgren (IL-14) today released the following statement regarding the September unemployment report released by the Illinois Department of Employment Security.

“Today’s report that unemployment has increased to 10 percent is a clear sign that the state’s private sector has lost faith in the tax-and-spend policies espoused by leaders in both Washington, DC, and Springfield,” said Hultgren. “At the state level, I encourage leaders to work quickly to address the ever-growing pension crisis, the budget deficit, and late payments to state contractors.

“In Washington, I urge Harry Reid and the Senate to pass their first budget in more than 900 days and for them to act on the more than a dozen pro-growth, pro-job bills that have been passed by the House. We must restore the confidence of the private sector so small businesses will begin to grow and hire once again. ”

http://hultgren.house.gov/

Budget - Business - Capitalism - Illinois - Illinois Policy Institute - Jobs - Taxes - Warner Todd Huston

Ill. Policy Institute: A Direct Encounter with Occupy Wall Street Protesters‏

October 21, 2011 by

From the Illinois Policy Institute…

I had a direct encounter with the Occupy Wall Street protesters as I was on my way home the other night. The Illinois Policy Institute’s office is a block north of their Chicago base at Jackson Boulevard and LaSalle Street, so I’ve been walking through the crowd almost daily as I go about my business. But I recently stopped and had a real discussion.

It was delightful.

I asked what it is they were upset with and why were they vilifying corporations, noting that their umbrellas, cardboard signs and the ink used to write their anti-corporation messages all were made by corporations.

Like others, I’ve seen the news reports about their supposed demands: a $20 minimum wage, forgiveness of all debt and a socialist-style health care system. As the leader of a free market think tank, it will come as no surprise that I do not support those solutions; they are not economically sound.
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Ill. Policy Institute: A Direct Encounter with Occupy Wall Street Protesters‏”

Bible - Catholicism - Chicago - Christianity - Crime - Democrats/Leftists - Ethics - Gays - Illinois - Liberals - PCism - Religion - Society/Culture - Warner Todd Huston - Western Civilization

A Hate Crimes Double-Standard‏ in Illinois

October 21, 2011 by

From Liberty Counsel…

Pro-Family Leaders Question Double-Standard on Hate Crimes – Homosexual Attackers Threaten More Violence against Illinois Christian School

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Illinois – A coalition of ministers and pro-family advocates is questioning the double-standard on “hate crimes” in the wake of an attack Saturday against Christian Liberty Academy (CLA) – which was threatened with more violence if it continues to host conservative groups like Americans For Truth About Homosexuality (AFTAH).

Assailants threw two large paver bricks through the glass doors of CLA with a note, “This is just a sample of what we will do if you don’t shut down Scott Lively and AFTAH.” On a left-wing Chicago website, the alleged attackers took credit for the crime and wrote:
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A Hate Crimes Double-Standard‏ in Illinois”

Bobby Schilling - Congress - Conservatives - Crime - GOP - Government - House of Representatives - Illinois - Republicans - Warner Todd Huston

Assassination Threat Against Illinois Congressman?

October 20, 2011 by

-By Warner Todd Huston

Why would anyone want to kill 17th District, Illinois Congressman Bobby Schilling? The shocking threat against Schilling’s life was revealed this week as the FBI has been called in to investigate.

The Hill reports that Schilling received an email threat that featured an offer of $75,000 reward for his assassination.

The email threat against Schilling states, “I will pay $75,000 for ASSASSINATING Illinois Congresswoman (sic) Bobby Schilling and any US Congressman, US Senator and FBI, CIA and NSA DIRECTORS and their FAMILY MEMBERS regardless of their age,” according to local news reports.

Schilling is the father of ten children and owns a successful pizza business in Moline, Illinois. This is his first term in office.
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Assassination Threat Against Illinois Congressman?”

Budget - Business - Congress - Free Trade - GOP - Government - House of Representatives - Illinois - Republicans - Robert Dold - Taxes - Warner Todd Huston

Dold Announces the Creation of an Economic Innovation Zone at Naval Station Great Lakes and Lovell Center

October 20, 2011 by

From the office of Rep. Robert Dold (Ill., 10th District)…

NORTH CHICAGO, IL – Today, U.S. Congressman Robert J. Dold (IL-10), Lake County Board Chairman David Stolman, members of Lake County Partners and Naval Station Great Lakes, announced a new project at Naval Station Great Lakes and Lovell Center that would create an innovation zone designed to address the high unemployment throughout the region.

“I am pleased to announce today that with the help of Lake County Partners, North Chicago will be at the center of an economic innovation zone,” said Dold. “This will help to address the high unemployment throughout the local community and be a resource in which local officials, businesses, and community leaders can come together and implement an effective strategy to bring jobs to North Chicago residents.”

Rep. Dold is a third-generation resident of the 10th District of Illinois. As a small business owner, he has faced many of the challenges confronting business leaders today and is using that firsthand experience in Washington to help find ways to create more jobs and strengthen the economy. For more information on his work in Congress, visit: http://dold.house.gov/

Conservatives - Elections - Government - Herman Cain - Illinois - Mitt Romney - Newt Gingrich - Republicans - Rick Perry - Rick Santorum - Ron Paul - Tea Party - Warner Todd Huston

Herman Cain Leading in Palatine Straw Poll

October 19, 2011 by

-By Warner Todd Huston

A gathering of Tea Partiers in Palatine, Illinois held a straw poll of 38 attendees and Herman Cain came out on top. The group met to watch Tuesday’s GOP debate.

38 Republican primary voters attended a “viewing party” in Palatine, IL on Oct. 18, 2011 for the Republican presidential candidate debate in Las Vegas on CNN. Compare these results to the straw poll for a very similar group last week after the debate in New Hampshire. Herman Cain expanded his lead with this group. Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich remain close to each other, and Michele Bachmann picked up some support. Rick Perry continued to decline.

This poll of a small group of Tea Partiers may seem sort of meaningless. Maybe on its face it is but this poll seems to reflect what Tea Partiers and conservatives are feeling throughout the movement, so this is a pretty good snapshot of where we stand today.
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Herman Cain Leading in Palatine Straw Poll”

Budget - Democrats/Leftists - Education - Ethics - Government, Ill. County - Illinois - Illinois State Government - Liberals - Pat Quinn - Pensions - Public Employees Unions - Taxes - Teachers Unions - Unions - Warner Todd Huston

Reform Illinois Pensions Now!

October 19, 2011 by

-By Warner Todd Huston

Springfield must reform pensions now or our children will pay.

According to Illinois Is Broke, “The 30-second spots, in English and Spanish, will begin airing on Tuesday, October 18th and are scheduled to run through the veto sessions, which begin October 25th. The television campaign will be supplemented with a billboard, print and radio campaign, timed to coincide with the legislative sessions. In addition to nightly newscasts, the spots will run during sporting events, and programming such as 60 Minutes.”

Connect with Illinis is Broke on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/IllinoisIsBroke

Follow them on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/IllinoisIsBroke
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Reform Illinois Pensions Now!”

Arizona - Democrats/Leftists - Liberals - Selwyn Duke

Political Persecution in Maricopa County

October 19, 2011 by

-By Selwyn Duke

When we think of political persecution, places such as Tiananmen Square may come to mind. Increasingly, however, this tool of tyranny is coming to our shores – and it is not made in China. It is, in the case I’ll discuss today, made in Maricopa County.

Every avid news reader knows about the battles between Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio and the federal government; Leviathan has targeted him because of his principled stand against illegal immigration. What is not quite as well known, however, is that the sheriff and his supporters – most notably, former Maricopa County Attorney Andrew Thomas – have long been battling a corrupt local political machine bent on thwarting the rule of law and benefitting itself. Not surprisingly, as in the film Walking Tall, Arpaio’s and Thomas’ attempt to end local corruption has come at a price: the State Bar of Arizona (SBA) has begun prosecuting Thomas and two of his deputies in a move that reeks of political retaliation.

One of these underlings is ex-deputy county attorney Lisa Aubuchon. The other is ex-deputy county attorney Rachel Alexander, whom some readers may recognize as the proprietor of the website Intellectual Conservative. Alexander, despite having played only the smallest of roles in a racketeering case against the Maricopa County Supervisors, now faces suspension of her law license and significant career damage. And outrageously, Alexander’s supervisor, Pete Spaw, has not been charged despite having played a far larger role in the RICO case. This has led many to conclude that Alexander is the victim of selective prosecution.
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Political Persecution in Maricopa County”

Campaign Finance - Congress - Elections - GOP - House of Representatives - Illinois - Randy Hultgren - Republicans - Warner Todd Huston

Hultgren Out-Raises Walsh in 3rd Quarter, Receives Major Endorsement

October 19, 2011 by

From the office of Rep. Randy Hultgren (R, Illinois 14th District)…

Geneva, IL – U.S. Rep. Randy Hultgren (IL-14) today announced that he out-raised U.S. Rep. Joe Walsh (IL-8) during the 3rd quarter fundraising period and that he has received the endorsement of a local
Pro-Life group.

“Joe Walsh’s support is clearly eroding as marked by his worst fundraising quarter of the year,” said Andrew Flach, campaign spokesperson. “It’s also no coincidence that we were able to out-raise Mr. Walsh in the same quarter that he announced his intentions to run against Congressman Hultgren.”

According to recent filings with the Federal Election Commission, Hultgren reported raising $186,945 during the months of July, August, and September, compared to only $156,099 for Walsh.

Also over the weekend, Hultgren was endorsed over Walsh by The Right to Life McHenry County Pro-Life Victory PAC. In a press release issued on Friday, the group stated, “Randy Hultgren should not have to face opposition in the primary from U.S. Rep. Joe Walsh. We continue in our efforts to encourage Joe to run as the pro-life candidate in the 8th Congressional District.”

“We are very proud and honored to receive the endorsement of The Right to Life McHenry County Pro-Life Victory PAC,” said Flach. “Congressman Hultgren has been and will continue to be a leader and a tireless fighter for the sanctity of human life.”

http://hultgren.house.gov/

Business - Chicago - DuPage County - Electric - Energy - GOP - Government - Illinois - Illinois State Government - Kirk Dillard - Republicans - Senate - Warner Todd Huston

Citing Elmhurst Dillard Calls for Pressure on ComEd

October 19, 2011 by

From the office of Ill. State Senator Kirk Dillard (24th District)…

In a Friday, October 14, 2011 interview on WLS radio’s Don Wade and Roma Show, Illinois State Senator Kirk Dillard (R-Westmont) outlined his concerns about the SmartGrid legislation being pushed by Commonwealth Edison.

Voicing concerns relayed to him by local citizens and elected officials, Dillard said on the radio station that the SmartGrid legislation needs improvement. “The status quo is not enough,” Dillard said. “Cities like Elmhurst, which is right in my area, have had severe power outages. We need reliability. We’ve got to do something and we need to look at our electrical grid. In some places it’s old and decaying, so the status quo is not acceptable.”

In response to a question about how Quinn thinks raising electric rates are bad for businesses but thinks a 66% increase in income tax is okay, Dillard said, “I don’t believe in guaranteed rate increases [for utilities] by the Commerce Commission.”

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Citing Elmhurst Dillard Calls for Pressure on ComEd”

Budget - California - Democrats/Leftists - Economy/Finances - Ethics - Government - Liberals - Regulation - Taxes - Warner Todd Huston

Another California Tax Hike to Fund a Boondoggle Program

October 18, 2011 by 2 Comments

-By Warner Todd Huston

As a result of years of budget deficits and wasteful spending by the state legislature, California faces difficult budget challenges for the next ten years. This bad news is courtesy of a recent analysis of the state’s long-term debt obligations by state Treasurer Bill Lockyer (Download .pdf of Lockyer’s Report). The analysis adds to a growing list of bad fiscal news for California, a state already struggling under the nation’s worst credit rating not to mention suffering the highest unemployment in the country at 12%.

Even as California deals with this financial crisis, a career politician is pushing a ballot measure that would raise taxes by nearly $1 billion — but doesn’t allocate one penny to balance the state budget, pay down its debt, or to fund existing critical programs like education and public safety. This measure, the so-called California Cancer Research Act, would mandate a new bureaucracy with six political appointees that can spend tax money on buildings and salaries and benefits. This includes $16 million spent on overhead and $117 million on new buildings and facilities. These are no one-time expenditures as such spending will continue year after year.

The Golden State is already on the verge of bankruptcy, to be sure, and California can’t afford this kind of spending right now. Californians should expect their legislature to fix the deepening budget deficit and fund existing programs before starting new costly spending programs like this.
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Another California Tax Hike to Fund a Boondoggle Program”

Aaron Schock - Adam Kinzinger - Bobby Schilling - Budget - Business - Congress - Democrats/Leftists - GOP - Government - House of Representatives - Illinois - Joe Walsh - Liberals - Mark Kirk - Peter Roskam - President - Randy Hultgren - Republicans - Robert Dold - Stimulus - Taxes - Warner Todd Huston

GOP to Illinois State Leaders: There Will Be No Federal Pension Bailout‏

October 18, 2011 by

This morning, Chief Deputy Whip Peter Roskam (IL-06), 8 House GOP Committee Chairs, and the entire Illinois GOP Delegation sent a letter to Illinois’ legislative leaders and Gov. Quinn in advance of next week’s Veto Session. Gov. Quinn wrote in his FY 2012 Budget earlier this year that his Administration was considering “seeking a federal guarantee of the debt” for Illinois’ $85 billion unfunded pension liability.

They write, “we urge you to seize the opportunity to appropriately reform the State’s public pension systems to address their massive unfunded liabilities,” but “we can say with clarity: there will be no legislative bailouts from the U.S. House of Representatives.”

Roskam was joined by the Illinois GOP congressional delegation and Appropriations Chairman Hal Rogers, Budget Chairman Paul Ryan, Education & Workforce Chairman John Kline, Energy & Commerce Chairman Fred Upton, Financial Services Chairman Spencer Bachus, Judiciary Chairman Lamar Smith, Oversight Chairman Darrell Issa and Ways & Means Chairman Dave Camp.
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GOP to Illinois State Leaders: There Will Be No Federal Pension Bailout‏”

Congress - Elections - GOP - House of Representatives - Illinois - Randy Hultgren - Republicans - Warner Todd Huston

The Hultgren Huddle – October 16, 2011‏

October 18, 2011 by

From the office of Rep. Randy Hultgren (R, Illinois 14th District)…

I’m back in Illinois after another busy, but also productive, week working on your behalf in Washington, DC.

The biggest news out of the Capitol this week is that, after a long delay, Congress finally ratified three Free Trade Agreements. These FTAs, with Colombia, Panama, and South Korea, promise to open valuable new markets for American manufacturers and farmers. They will also help create jobs in Illinois and across the country.

In Illinois alone, exports support almost 146,000 jobs, with 26,000 of those in our 14th District. Free trade is also hugely beneficial to our farmers: in 2010, the state’s agricultural exports were estimated at $5.8 billion, supporting almost 49,000 jobs statewide. To learn more about these FTAs, and what local stakeholders have to say about them, read my statement applauding their passage.
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The Hultgren Huddle – October 16, 2011‏”

DuPage County - Elections - GOP - Government - Illinois - Illinois State Government - Republicans - Senate - Warner Todd Huston

Downers Grove Republicans Endorse Dillard

October 18, 2011 by

From the office of Rep. Tom Cross, Ill GOP House Leader…

After tallying the ballots, the Downers Grove Township Republican Organization (DGTRO) voted to endorse Illinois State Senator Kirk Dillard (R-Westmont) in his bid for re-election to the 24th Senatorial District.

Held at Ashyana Banquets on 75th Street in Downers Grove, the vote took place after extensive presentations by Dillard and his opponent. Citing his opponent’s lack of experience and inability to work within the Republican caucus and with Democrats across the aisle, Dillard called for Republicans to unite to bring Illinois back to fiscal responsibility. There were almost 100 Precinct Committeemen from throughout the township voting, and over 30 elected officials from around DuPage County attending. To endorse, the DGTRO required an extraordinary75% of committeemen to agree.
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Downers Grove Republicans Endorse Dillard”

Campaign Finance - Congress - Elections - GOP - Government - House of Representatives - Illinois - Joe Walsh - Republicans - Warner Todd Huston

Another Strong Fundraising Quarter‏

October 18, 2011 by

From the office of Rep. Joe Walsh (R, Illinois 8th District)…

Rep. Walsh on another strong fundraising quarter
“This continued support tells me that people are happy that I have kept my promises to cut the size of government, cut taxes, cut red tape and kill Obamacare.”

McHenry– Last night Congressman Joe Walsh released his third quarter fund-raising numbers. As of September 31st, Congressman Walsh has now raised over $800,000 dollars. This latest quarter now puts him on pace for raising over one million dollars for the year. These numbers contrast with his potential opponent Randy Hultgren who has only raised roughly $650,000 for the year. Other highlights from this reporting period are:
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Another Strong Fundraising Quarter‏”

Business - California - Capitalism - Economy/Finances - Larry Sand - Public Employees Unions - Teachers Unions - Unions

Steve Jobs vs. Wall St. Whiners and Teachers Unions

October 17, 2011 by

-By Larry Sand

Steve Jobs knew how to create wealth. The parasitic Wall Street protesters and teachers unions want to destroy it

There are many theories as to who is orchestrating the “Occupy Wall Street” protests – known in some circles as “Kamp Alinsky” and “Kamp Kvetch” – in lower Manhattan and elsewhere throughout our country. George Soros? President Obama? Could they possibly be spontaneous?

No matter. The protesters and their message of social justice, socialism and general hatred of all things corporate will not affect the great majority of Americans. The average Joe and Jill are just trying to pay their bills, raise a family and live a decent life. Hence the Wall Street rabble, a motley combination of bored teenagers, old guard lefties and hard core partiers, many armed with iPhones, digital cameras and many other luxuries produced by corporations, are badly missing the mark. As usual, the protesters’ signs tell the story – none more so than the one that says, “A job is a right. Capitalism doesn’t work.” Could any serious types associate with this fringe mentality?

Enter Michael Mulgrew – the United Federation of Teachers president. Speaking “truth to power,” his tax-the-rich talk at a Wall St. rally fit right in with the angry mob that thinks wealth is evil and that if A has more money than B, A owes B some of it. It’s the mentality that thinks that there is no moral difference between Bernie Madoff and Bill Gates.
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Steve Jobs vs. Wall St. Whiners and Teachers Unions”

Chris Lauzen - Elections - GOP - Illinois - Republicans - Senate - Warner Todd Huston

Ill. State Senator Chris Lauzen Friends: We Need your Survey Vote Now!‏

October 17, 2011 by

From the office of Ill. State Senator Chris Lauzen (24th District)…

Can you help us out? There is an online “non-scientific” poll being conducted for the next few hours. Here’s what you need to do: cut and paste www.geneva.patch.com, and you’ll see the “Patch Poll: If GOP Primary were today who would you vote for in the Kane County Chairman race?” VOTE for CHRIS LAUZEN.

On August 13, before more than 850 friends and supporters at our annual Porky Picnic, I announced that I would run for Kane County Board Chairman. I explained that my State Senate responsibilities will continue for the next year and a quarter and my focus remains on representing the 350,000 constituents within the 25th Senate District.

Just as I pledged in my first campaign, I promise to continue to “work hard, stay honest and use the same common sense that you do in your home and business.” My top three priorities, if elected to the Chairman role, will be to Freeze the County Property Tax Levy; Treat People Respectfully; and Honest Competent Administration through Innovation and Austerity.

Our campaign momentum continues to build. Email us at campaign@Lauzen.com to volunteer for a yard sign, telephone calls or Friend-to-Friend cards. There’s still time to help circulate Nominating Petitions, too.

Chris Lauzen
Ill. State Senate, 24th District

http://www.lauzen.com/

Adam Kinzinger - Business - Capitalism - Congress - Democrats/Leftists - Economy/Finances - GOP - Government - House of Representatives - Illinois - Jobs - Mark Kirk - Republicans - Senate - Taxes - Warner Todd Huston

Senator Kirk, Congressman Kinzinger Respond to Super Committee’s Spectrum Question: “BRAC” the Spectrum

October 17, 2011 by

From the office of Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R, Illinois 11th District)…

Proposal Would Use Successful Military Base Closure Process to Identify and Auction Federal Spectrum for Deficit Reduction

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, four members of the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction (Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI), Sen. John Kerry (D-MA), Rep. Xavier Becerra (D-CA), and Sen. Patrick Toomey (R-PA)) sent a letter to President Obama, requesting a review of how Federally-owned spectrum can be used more effectively to increase public broadband access while paying down our debt.

In response, U.S. Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL) and U.S. Congressman Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) urged the Joint Select Committee Chairmen Patty Murray (D-WA) and Jeb Hensarling (R-TX) to establish a process similar to the successful Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) procedure in order to identify which Federal spectrum should be auctioned for use by the private sector.
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Senator Kirk, Congressman Kinzinger Respond to Super Committee’s Spectrum Question: “BRAC” the Spectrum”

Budget - Business - Congress - GOP - House of Representatives - Illinois - Jobs - Republicans - Robert Dold - Warner Todd Huston

Video Spotlight: Rep. Dold on Helping Small Businesses

October 17, 2011 by

From the office of Rep. Robert Dold (Ill., 10th District)…

WASHINGTON, DC –U.S. Congressman Robert J. Dold (IL-10) released a video on five bills that passed through the Financial Services Subcommittee that will empower small businesses to gain more access to capital, which will in turn help them to expand and create jobs.

http://dold.house.gov/

Campaign Finance - GOP - Illinois - Republicans - Senate - Warner Todd Huston

Albracht for Senate Fundraising Success

October 17, 2011 by

From the Albracht for Senate campaign…

Raises $33,048.05 in 3rd Quarter Campaign nearly triples 2nd quarter fundraising totals

MOLINE, IL–The Albracht for Senate campaign bolstered their momentum with an impressive third quarter fundraising haul.

After kicking off the campaign with an $11,043.01 fundraising total in the second quarter, the Albracht for Senate campaign nearly tripled that in the third quarter, raising $33.048.05.

Bill Albracht, Republican candidate for Illinois Senate in the 36th District, said he remains focused on winning next November.

“Once again, our campaign has shown impressive fundraising numbers,” Albracht said. “We will continue to work hard to raise money, but frankly, I’m prouder of the outreach we’ve done this quarter. We’ve met hundreds of people across the district, and they are begging for new representation in Springfield. They’re tired of high taxes, high unemployment, and fiscal irresponsibility. When I’m elected to the Illinois Senate next November, I will bring common sense leadership to Springfield so we can finally tackle these issues and save our state.”

Jon Schweppe, campaign manager for Albracht for Senate, said Albracht connects with voters on many different levels.

“I never cease to be amazed by how well Bill connects with the folks,” Schweppe said. “His message of job creation and fiscal responsibility speaks to both Republicans and Democrats alike, and his record of courage, leadership, and integrity is very impressive. I’m confident that if our campaign continues to put in the hard work of raising money and meeting the people of this district several times over, we will win this race next November.”

Schweppe also pointed out that Albracht has incredible grassroots support.

“The support for this campaign is very organic and real,” Schweppe said. “The vast majority of our donations come from individuals, while Senator Jacobs received nearly all of his money this quarter from special interest groups. It’s clear that while Springfield lobbyists may be fighting for Senator Jacobs, the people of the 36th District are behind Bill Albracht.”

For more information about Bill Albracht, visit our website at http://www.albrachtforsenate.com.

Budget - Business - Coal - Congress - Energy - GOP - House of Representatives - Illinois - Peter Roskam - Republicans - Taxes - Warner Todd Huston

Roskam Applauds House Passage of the Coal Residuals and Management Act

October 16, 2011 by

From the office of Rep. Peter Roskam (R, Illinois 6th District)…

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Peter Roskam (IL-06), Chief Deputy Whip, issued the following statement after the House passed H.R. 2273 – the Coal Residuals and Management Act – a bill with bipartisan support that will allow coal combustion residuals to be used effectively and efficiently while protecting jobs:

“This bipartisan legislation is another commonsense solution to restore confidence in American businesses and workers. This is a regulatory solution that would protect jobs, keep electricity costs low, and keep construction material costs low. The construction and energy industries can’t grow and expand with regulations as these excessive these.

“Americans are looking for answers on how we can turn this economy around, and excessive regulations from Washington are only adding to that frustration. It is initiatives like these that will provide for the kind of certainty and pro-growth environment needed to get businesses hiring again and move our economy in the right direction.”

http://roskam.house.gov/

Budget - Illinois - Illinois Policy Institute - Taxes - Warner Todd Huston

Ill. Policy Institute: Nearly 1/2 of IL teachers contribute nothing toward pensions‏

October 16, 2011 by

Did you know that when it comes to public school teachers in Illinois, paying their own way to retirement isn’t the norm? We took on the task to find out just how much taxpayers can save if all teachers were to pay their required share into the state pension system.

An investigation by the Illinois Policy Institute found that as the state grapples with a public pension shortfall in excess of $86 billion, teachers in nearly half of the state’s 867 public school districts contributed nothing from their weekly paychecks to their pensions. Instead, school districts – and by extension, taxpayers – paid the entire 9.4 percent employee contribution toward these teachers’ pensions, as well as the required employer contribution.

During the 2009-2010 school year alone, taxpayers across Illinois could have saved more than $400 million if teachers had paid their legally required share. Taxpayers deserve to have this $400 million back in their pockets. If you agree, go to our facebook page and like our latest post and leave a comment too. Click here and it will take you there.
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Ill. Policy Institute: Nearly 1/2 of IL teachers contribute nothing toward pensions‏”

Budget - Business - Congress - GOP - House of Representatives - Illinois - Jobs - Randy Hultgren - Republicans - Taxes - Warner Todd Huston

Hultgren Statement in Response to President Obama’s Refusal to Acknowledge House GOP Jobs Plan

October 16, 2011 by

From the office of Rep. Randy Hultgren (R, Illinois 14th District)…

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Randy Hultgren (IL-14) issued the following statement today in response to President Obama’s claim that he has yet to see the House Republican Plan for America’s Job Creators.

“I was surprised by the President’s claim tonight that he has not seen a jobs plan from House Republicans; clearly, he hasn’t been paying attention. Long before the President introduced his American Jobs Act – which members of its own party are keeping at arm’s length – we unveiled our Plan for America’s Job Creators.

“Unlike the President’s proposal – which is far too much of failed ‘stimulus’ recipe of more spending and higher taxes – we’re focused on cutting red tape to unleash the potential of America’s private sector, and that’s been our focus since Day One.

“If the President is serious about getting Americans back to work, he should refrain from taking baseless, juvenile potshots and instead work with Senator Harry Reid to get the dozen pro-growth, pro-jobs bills we’ve passed through the Senate.”

http://hultgren.house.gov/

Budget - Business - Capitalism - Congress - GOP - Government - House of Representatives - Illinois - Jobs - Peter Roskam - Regulation - Republicans - Taxes - Warner Todd Huston

Roskam Applauds House Passage of the EPA Regulatory Relief Act

October 15, 2011 by

From the office of Rep. Peter Roskam (R, Illinois 6th District)…

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Peter Roskam (IL-06), Chief Deputy Whip, issued the following statement after the House passed H.R. 2250 – the EPA Regulatory Relief Act – legislation that will stop the EPA’s excessive Boiler MACT regulations from burdening employers and replace them with common-sense rules to protect jobs:

“The House has taken an important step to relieve an excessive regulatory barrier to job creation. Sensible regulations are important but the EPA’s Boiler MACT rules would force businesses to comply with unnecessarily difficult and complex standards and tests. That would cost American job creators billions and put tens of thousands of jobs at risk.

“That’s no way to get our economy moving again. We need to create an environment that promotes private-sector job creation, innovation, and growth. I strongly urge the Senate to take up this legislation and help instill confidence in American businesses.”

http://roskam.house.gov/

Budget - Business - Capitalism - Economy/Finances - GOP - Government - House of Representatives - Illinois - Jobs - Regulation - Republicans - Taxes - Tom Cross - Warner Todd Huston

Ill. House GOP Update

October 15, 2011 by

From the office of Rep. Tom Cross, Ill GOP House Leader…

After we filed bills to address some of the gross abuses being reported by the media in regard to the Chicago Pension funds, there have been many media outlets following the story. In the last few days I’ve talked to many reporters including Roe and Roeper on WLS radio, Mike McConnell on WGN radio and Brian Byers and Co. on WSOY in Decatur. The Chicago Tribune and Chicago News Cooperative have been following the story closely as well.

If you have a few minutes, check out the media clips below. We will be working hard to pass this legislation as soon as possible.

Chicago News Cooperative: Pension Fund Bill Causes Uproar

Click here to listen to my conversation with Mike McConnell on WGN, Thursday.

‘Insane’ even by Illinois standards? Union official to get $500,000 in pensions, http://news.ilhousegop.org/

Adam Kinzinger - Budget - Business - Capitalism - Congress - GOP - Government - House of Representatives - Illinois - Republicans - Taxes - Warner Todd Huston

Kinzinger Supports Bipartisan Regulatory Relief Legislation to Prevent Job Loss

October 15, 2011 by

From the office of Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R, Illinois 11th District)…

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Adam Kinzinger (IL-11), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, welcomed House passage of H.R. 2250, the EPA Regulatory Relief Act of 2011.

Kinzinger, a co-sponsor of H.R. 2250, says the legislation would provide businesses with adequate time to comply with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new rules in order to prevent rising costs and destroying jobs or sending jobs overseas.

“Enforcing these current rules could endanger hundreds of thousands of jobs and tens of billions of dollars in additional costs to manufacturers during a time of great economic uncertainty,” said Kinzinger. “The EPA Regulatory Relief Act does not repeal regulations that protect our economy or our environment. Rather, these bills extend deadlines to provide manufacturers with the time they need to comply with new regulations so they are not forced to shut down, which would in turn destroy jobs.”

In February, Congressman Kinzinger led a group of 61 freshmen in sending a letter to the EPA, expressing concern over the Maximum Achievable Control Technology rule for industrial boilers (Boiler MACT). The letter reiterates concerns expressed by a bipartisan group of 114 Representatives during the 111th Congress on the EPA’s proposed Boiler MACT.

“The retrofitting requirements necessary for operators to comply with these stringent standards, at facilities from universities to food processors, and a wide range of industries across the spectrum, will undoubtedly cause the shuttering of domestic manufacturing capacity and associated job losses,” said Kinzinger.

The EPA estimates that capital costs for implementation of these rules would amount to $9.5 billion. According to IHS Global Insight, however, the final Boiler MACT rules could mean more than $14 billion in compliance costs with over 230,000 jobs at risk.

http://kinzinger.house.gov/

Budget - Business - Congress - Economy/Finances - GOP - Government - House of Representatives - Illinois - Republicans - Robert Dold - Taxes - Warner Todd Huston

The Dold-Championed ‘Supporting Economic and National Security by Maintains U.S. Leadership in Multilateral Development Banks Act’ Advances through Committee

October 15, 2011 by

From the office of Rep. Robert Dold (Ill., 10th District)…

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, during the Financial Services Subcommittee on International Monetary Policy and Trade, the “Supporting Economic and National Security by Maintaining U.S. Leadership in Multilateral Development Banks (MDB) Act” advanced through the committee. U.S. Congressman Robert Dold (IL-10) has helped lead this effort to ensure that the MDBs enact policies that are aligned with American interests, to encourage economic growth in developing counties, and to aid in U.S. national security.

“I am pleased to see this bill pass through Committee with bipartisan support,” said Dold. “Maintaining our nation’s leadership with Multilateral Development Banks is vital to promoting American export markets, job growth, and economic prosperity. Furthermore, our involvement ensures these MDBs implement policies that are aligned with our economic and humanitarian values while enhancing global and national security by helping to create stable countries throughout the world.”

Background Information on the Multilateral Development Banks Act:

  • By maintaining our MDB leadership, our nation’s priorities and policies will remain influential in the global economic and security system while allowing our nation’s entrepreneurs to continue playing a critical role in financial and natural resource development abroad.
  • MDBs also promote corruption-free projects in developing countries, which allow American businesses the opportunities to invest abroad and access new markets. This helps to create new jobs here at home as job creators can expand into growing markets.
  • America’s MDB leadership also strengthens global and national security by helping to other nations improve their own political stability, institutions, infrastructure, and general economic prosperity.
  • The MDB Act will increase transparency and accountability, enhance anti-corruption measures, and maintains strong standards for international competitive bidding on projects while ensuring that American favorably influences foreign country policies, including policies relating to national security, representative government, human rights, and the environment.

http://dold.house.gov/

Adam Kinzinger - Budget - Business - Congress - Democrats/Leftists - Ethics - Government - Illinois - Illinois State Government - Liberals - Republicans - Stimulus - Taxes - Warner Todd Huston

Kinzinger Joins Willis Report to Discuss Solyndra Loan Guarantee Developments‏, Applauds Passage of the Protect Life Act

October 15, 2011 by

From the office of Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R, Illinois 11th District)…

Congressman Adam Kinzinger joined the Willis Report on the Fox Business Network to discuss the developments over the Solyndra loan guarantee and the upcoming hearing on the House Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations.

“You have Solyndra that restructured a loan so that in case it goes bankrupt the first $75 million in assets are paid to two investors and not the American taxpayers. So the chance of us getting our money back is not looking good. The chance of us getting any of the billions of dollars we pushed out the door, coming back, is not looking good. And, we’re not even getting the jobs that the Administration promised.”

Also today Congressman Adam Kinzinger (IL-11), a member of the House Energy & Commerce, applauded passage of H.R. 358, the Protect Life Act. Kinzinger is a cosponsor of this legislation to amend the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, to ensure no health care reform funds are used to pay for abortions.

“In a time of economic hardship, I intend to do everything in my power to ensure Congress is using American taxpayers’ money efficiently and effectively. The use of our tax dollars to subsidize abortions and abortion providers is simply unacceptable. Additionally, the Protect Life Act also prohibits the federal government from requiring private insurance companies to cover abortion and protects health care providers from discrimination for refusal to participate in abortions. This legislation makes certain that taxpayers will not foot the bill for abortions or abortion coverage under the President’s health care law.”

The Protect Life Act is modeled after the bipartisan Stupak-Pitts amendment, which was added to the the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in the House in 2009, but was excluded from the final law.

http://kinzinger.house.gov/