Day: September 24, 2013
Sen. Cruz Reads ‘Green Eggs and Ham’ on Senate Floor
As a headline at the National Journal put it, “Ted Cruz Is Talking Until He Can’t Stand Anymore.” The lowest point in his fake filibuster came when he compared his opponents, including fellow Republicans, to Nazi appeasers. But the most telling moment — the moment that will be repeated in comedy sketches and campaign ads against him for years to come — was his dramatic reading of “Green Eggs and Ham,” by Dr. Suess. Enjoy!
What It Takes to Be a Republican These Days
“Here’s a clue people and Courier editorial staff: Will McAvoy is a fictional character on HBO’s ‘The Newsroom’ series. The GOP Requirements letter is a direct quote from Sunday night’s episode. As a former Republican I tend to agree with the script.”
— Louisville Courier-Journal reader Mike Hammond
GOP Playing Russian Roulette in Debt Ceiling Debate
An approach to the debt ceiling that says one will not vote for its extension unless ObamaCare is defunded is the political equivalent of playing Russian roulette with all the chambers of the gun loaded. It is the ultimate no-win strategy.
— Former Sen. Judd Gregg (R-NH), writing for The Hill.
One Trader Lost Big Betting On Romney Near End of 2012 Campaign
$4 million to $7 million
Amount that a single trader lost in the final weeks of the 2012 election placing 1.2 million Intrade bets on Mitt Romney, according to a new academic paper examining presidential betting — perhaps to “make the Republican nominee’s chance of victory appear brighter,” the Wall Street Journal reports.
A Majority Believes the Federal Government Has Too Much Power
60%
Of Americans believe the federal government has too much power — a record high — while 32% now say the government has the right amount of power, a new Gallup poll finds.
Bush Says It’s OK for Obama to Golf
I think he ought to play golf… Because I know what it’s like to be in the bubble. And I know the pressures of the job. And to be able to get outside and play golf with some of your pals is important for the president. It does give you an outlet.
— Former President George W. Bush, telling the Golf Channel that President Obama should not be criticized for playing golf.
The Clintons Don’t Discuss Politics
We’re not nearly as political as everyone thinks we are. We don’t sit around all the time talking about this. We swim in the late afternoon every day. And if either one of us even mentions a political topic we will stop the other one and just talk about the weather or whatever.
— Bill Clinton, in an interview on PBS, about life with Hillary Clinton.
Home Prices Rising, Mostly
7.1%
The rate at which home prices have risen over the past quarter, but not all markets are doing well. “Walkable urban” is hot, while “drivable suburban” lags. Overbuilding in the latter category was largely responsible for the recent mortgage meltdown.
Bruisin’ for Cruz
“Tailgunner” Ted Cruz must’ve sensed he was in trouble
When McConnell and Cornyn pulled their support on the double.
Cruz’ call for a filibuster
Lost much of its luster
When the GOP’s Senate heavies burst his Obamacare bubble.
