The NY Post editorial is as disappointed – for all the right reasons – as we are with the new NYS budget. 

The Buffalo News explains how promises for high-paying jobs – part of the state’s Buffalo Billion economic development initiative – is a work in progress — promises yet to be filled, but optimistic they will be in a few months.  Time will tell. 

Bill Hammond writes in the NY Torch on the Healthcare Budget Roundup.  

All of the tax dollars that are poured into economic development help make New York State the number one state for high taxes, yet again.  24/7 explains its reasoning here.

National Review examines Tucker Carlson’s Men in America segment.

Narrowly written, but still, California Supreme Court lets stand controversial law allowing DNA collection upon arrest.  And to sweeten the decision, it was written by one of Governor Moonbeam’s appointees. 

Baltimore is the latest to lose population due to progressive leadership.

Matt Vespa has a reality check for Mrs. McCabe. 

It’s good to be king of New York City.

Larry Horist opines on unspinning the bad news.  

Conrad Black is optimistic; let’s hope he is not overly optimistic!

DACA program grows after judges ordered restart. 

Rand Paul on the migrant caravan: ‘They should be stopped at the border’.

Trump’s Idea of Using Military Resources for Border Wall Isn’t Unprecedented

It is perfectly clear that Governor Andrew Cuomo and the Members of the Legislature were more interested in passing a budget on time instead of actually working out the fiscal problems that face New Yorkers.  It is no wonder that experts claim Cuomo’s tax plan is a ‘stretch of imagination’.  Karen Dewitt writes about the  ‘Fixes’ to federal tax overhaul part of new state budget.  The short version of what the plan is:  the state will create two state run “charitable funds” for health and education.  New Yorkers would be able to pay the equivalent of their property taxes to the funds, and then deduct the donation from their federal taxes.

Who ever concocted this solution is in the wrong business; writing fiction books pays better than government work – and people are forewarned that it is fiction.     

Unfortunately, this is not the only bad news for taxpayers in the budget.  Members and the Governor distribute many positive spins – the reality is: this budget is a disaster.  The spin misters claim no new taxes…okay, there is some truth to that.  But what about the fees?  (Uber and taxis – for the MTA)  And the new word for tax —  assessment.  The state will evaluate annual opioid sales in the state by manufacturer/distributor, then set an assessment rate intended to generate around $100 million per year.  Some may hail this, however, only about $20 million will go for treatment – the rest to the general fund.  Am I wrong in saying 20% to those who need it; 80% for those who running for re-election?

As bad as the spending is in this budget, the Senate Majority deserves some praise.  They stopped some of the more egregious progressive plans (across the board tax increase stands out and Gov. Cuomo’s push to move away from cash bail) and they did not expand the right to abort almost born babies.  Without the Republicans in the Senate, it will be far worse than it is now; that doesn’t mean give them a pass – it means keep their feet to the fire. 

Christopher Thomas is a free man – the cold-blooded killer of 8 children and two moms – was released from prison about 3 months ago and is currently living in Queens near  two day-care centers.  As Assemblyman Kieran Lalor said, “This is criminal justice reform in 2018.”

Why isn’t the main stream media reporting this?  

National Review explains why the left is so upset about the proposed question about citizenship on the 2020 census.  Liberals’ Reaction to the Census Citizenship Question Is Why We Should Push For It At All Costs.  

Elections have consequences, this judge proves it.   Where in the US Constitution does it say anyone, let alone an illegal immigrant, is entitled to an abortion? 

More on elections have consequences:  The Democrats’ Plan to Transform America.  

News on the political front from County Executive Mark Molinaro and Senator John DeFrancisco.

Robert Knight opines on wonders that never cease.  

There’s a ridiculous snit erupting over plans for a citizenship question on the upcoming Census. President Trump is for it, so of course Nancy Pelosi and the liberals are against it – guilty, once again, of ignorant fearmongering – and naturally a frivolous lawsuit has been filed. 

Tucker Carlson is on hand to school the left, as is Michelle Malkin.

There are plenty of good reasons for asking about citizenship in the Census – which do you think is the best? That’s the first question in our new Weekly Poll. 

Speaking of Tucker Carlson, we’ve been highlighting his “Men in America” series for the past several weeks, and last night was the final chapter. You can watch it here.

Is Andrew Cuomo in for the fight of his life thanks to Cynthia Nixon? Kudos to her for taking on “Andrew the Bully,” but it’s going to cost taxpayers. And once again, the liberals’ hypocrisy is showing. 

What do you think is the most interesting aspect of Ms. Nixon’s gubernatorial campaign? That’s the second question in our new Weekly Poll.

The revival of the sitcom “Roseanne” earned huge ratings, and is seen by as progress by Rush Limbaugh and as a wake-up call for Hollywood – though Ben Shapiro is not convinced (and some of the shows stars are parroting liberal talking points). At any rate, why is a show enjoyed by conservatives automatically portrayed as a new battle in the culture war? 

Whether you’ve watched “Roseanne” or not, it’s clear that there’s a divide between America and Hollywood. What do you think is the biggest problem with America’s entertainment culture right now? That’s the third and final question in our new Weekly Poll.

As this week draws to a close, let us not forget the true meaning of Good Friday and the powerful message of Easter.

Have a wonderful weekend!
 

The current leaders of the Democratic Party has gone so far to the left that they have forgotten that America’s US Constitution is the law of the land.  Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi actually thinks it violates the Constitution.  Here is a Pod Cast that on breaking down the 2020 hysteria (along with some other news of the day.)  Michele Malkin calls the hysteria a power grab.  In true ultra-progressive style, New York’s AG joins the fray on the wrong side. 

Here is the latest news from the two candidates running for Governor on the NYS Conservative Party line.  Here is Sen. DeFrancisco’s Press Release and here is Marc Molinaro’s latest announcement.

The Daily Signal lays out 4 Steps to Better School Security. 

Governor Cuomo adds a “breathtaking” proposal for Penn Station into budget negotiations.   Tom Precious writes in the Buffalo News on what is in and out — for now.

Sometimes loyalty goes too far, Mr. Mayor.

The city doesn’t care how many kids get robbed of an education.

Beware: Hospitals think ‘do not resuscitate’ means you don’t want to live.

Guy Benson has a must read on the aftermath of the February 14 tragedy in Florida.

BREAKING: DOJ Inspector General Will Investigate Obama Administration FISA Abuse.  

Wednesday’s with Walter E. Williams  

Governor Cuomo, would you please explain this:  Del Lago casino, struggling with revenue, seeks state bailout.  Governor Cuomo did a good job of “pulling the wool over voters’ eyes” when he presented them with a heaping plate of malarkey in order to bring more casino gambling to New York.  Voter beware … his budget offers the same plate of malarkey this time around.

Why is this (and many other non-fiscal items) in the NYS Budget? 

First it was Christopher Columbus, now it is Thomas Jefferson. 

Trump administration to add citizenship question to 2020 census – almost immediately California sues.

Gun Benson has more on the March for our Lives rally. 

Edwin Messe, III opines on the solemn duty of government and the military. 

The left is so ecstatic with headlines that say John Paul Stevens, ex-SCOTUS justice, shocks with call to repeal 2nd Amendment.   They can hardly contain their “coup” of a Republican Justice saying this.  Republican or RINO?  Yes, President Ford appointed him, however, Justice Stevens is not known for his republican decisions, rather he is described as “maverick” and liberal.  His Op-Ed appeared in the New York Times.  At age 97, I’m impressed that he would be submitting his thoughts to the NY Times, but I am not surprised that the Justice that broadened the core holding of Roe v. Wade, upheld affirmative action and  dissented in Bush v. Gore, took the position that the 2nd Amendment should be repealed.  All I will say is that I’m just as happy as the left is –only my happiness is because that he resigned from the US Supreme Court and no longer has the power to restrict my 2nd Amendment rights. (Justice Stevens may think of himself as a conservative, so do some Members of Congress.  Just because one describes themselves as a conservative – doesn’t make them one – a true conservative would never find the right to an abortion in the US Constitution.)

George J. Marlin opines on the Mangano trial: Scenes from the death of a GOP machine.   

Then there is this:  Star witness: I funneled illegal campaign cash to de Blasio.

Cynthia:  Corruption is Corruption no matter what office you are running for.  One should not single out just the person they are running against — and be blind to what their friends do.  When someone does that, it tells me, the corruption isn’t the problem, the person is. 

Charles Hurt writes in the Washington Times Next up (The Swamp hopes): The really truly final end of Trump.  

They Didn’t Get Reagan Then and Washington GOPers Don’t Get Trump Now. 

Kirsten Gillibrand will do almost anything for a vote as she proves her chameleon ways again. 

Couldn’t this money be put to better use?   Does NYC really need to create a new “School of Urban and Labor Studies” at the City University of New York that will offer more courses to union workers and other students wanting to learn about labor issues.  Governor just keeps spending your money by placating the progressive leftist in New York.  Tell your state legislator:  NO MORE!

Why is it that a man who is worth an estimated $20 billion, needs a hand out from us – New York taxpayers?  Why do we allow Musk to risk our money — when he is unwilling to risk his own?  Tell your state legislator:  NO MORE!

And while we are on the subject of wasted money, why is it that hypocrite Cynthia Nixon, never complained about the $13.6 million in tax credits and subsidies received  for her two romantic comedy films filmed in the Empire State.

Seth Barron has an explanation as to why New York pols get away with corruption.  

Politico NY reports: Settlement reveals decades long medical malpractice scheme involving some of state’s largest hospitals.  

Gun safety expert: push to ban guns for those under 21 would have little or no effect on mass shootings.   This is a direct result of “dumbing down” or our students.  While discussion is good; the fact is that these students are not properly prepared for a real discussion.  Some students, however, do understand and will not march.  Do some of the students even realize this?     John R. Lott, Jr. on March for Our Lives: Gun control ideas sound good but are deeply flawed and won’t save lives.  Jarrett Stepman:  I Went to the March for Our Lives Protest. Here Are My 7 Takeaways.   Despite Being Trashed By David Hogg, Rubio Offers Classy Response to Gun March.  

Really?  NC Democratic Sheriff Candidate Jokes About Killing Gun Owners.

Meet Manny Alicandro, the unofficial candidate for Attorney General on the Conservative and Republican lines.

This is, without a doubt, the scariest thought of the year:  Obama wants to ‘create a million young Barack Obamas’

Republicans still don’t “get” President Trump, and in many ways this week’s massive “only-in-Washington” spending bill is the latest example. It’s a “bipartisan” affair, meaning both parties are spending like there’s no tomorrow. 

By the time you read this we’ll probably know whether or not the President was serious about vetoing the bill, but there’s no question that the legislation is loaded with wasteful spending and broken promises (and what’s not in the bill is equally exasperating).  And I hate to see the military being used as cover for all this excess spending.

What frustrates you the MOST about the newly-passed GOP spending bill? That’s the first question in our new Weekly Poll. 

More shakeups at the White House, as John Bolton will take over as the new National Security Advisor. This is being seen as a win for America, and a loss for Iran and Russia, and for White House leakers.

Bolton says the White House leaks are “completely unacceptable,” and the most recent, involving President Trump’s briefing papers for a phone call with Vladimir Putin, is being described by the White House as “fireable,” and rightly so. 

What do you think is the worst thing about the leaks coming from the White House? That’s the second question in our new Weekly Poll.

With a manufactured march for gun control this weekend, here are some of the most common gun control arguments debunked. Which of the gun-grabbers’ talking points do you find most ridiculous? That’s the third and final question in our new Weekly Poll. 

Here in New York, Andrew Cuomo never fails to find opportunities to raise taxes. 

Is the Governor in for an unexpected fight from the celebrity left? 

More fake news exposed: President Trump did NOT scare off tourists from New York. 

And in Albany, we could use a little sunlight to fight Cuomo Era corruption.

Have a great weekend!

The NY Post editorial has a message to the Albany legislators:  Say no to Cuomo’s NYC tax grab.  The editorial references  Nicole Gelinas’ and Carl Weisbrod column on Monday as “using this tool as a sledgehammer causes huge injustices.”

David Keene opines on guns, youth, and misguided marches in the Washington Times.

Upstate, downstate NY flatlining in latest annual Census estimates.   While the headline indicates NY is flatlining, the latest estimates show that 42 of 50 upstate counties have lost population since the last decennial census; in all but one of the losing counties, the decline exceeded 1 percent of base population in 2010.  

PBA demands parole board redo hearing for cop killer’s release.   Governor Cuomo, you said you disagreed with the ruling – despite the fact that the parole board members are all you appointees – and the fact that you say your hands are tied – the PBA request is a way to review the matter and at the very least postpone Harman Bell’s release.  Keep this coldblooded cop-killer in prison – send the right message to all:  if you kill an officer of the law, you will spend the rest of your natural life in prison.  We stand with the PBA and Sen. Martin Golden. 

Why do government officials behave like ostriches then decry deplorable conditions as if they had nothing to do with the abject decline of the very agency they are responsible for?  There are no legitimate, logical, or honest excuses for the deplorable conditions in NYCHA.  Grandstanding, Governor Cuomo, and Mayor de Blasio, is disgraceful and shows the world that you are more interested in bringing attention to yourself, rather than actually helping those who desperately need it.

Cuomo’s ‘cancer tax’ is the wrong way to fight opioid abuse.

Kudos to Congressman Jim Jordan for speaking out on the 3 Major Problems Conservatives Have With the Government Spending Bill.   In the end, 90 Republicans voted against the bill, but it still passed 256-167.

Wait, What? Andrew McCabe Launched an FBI Investigation Into Attorney General Sessions Because Dems Asked Him To?

As a short reminder:  Why men need fathers .  Part 3 of Tucker Carlson’s Men in America.  

Luke Parsnow begins his opinion piece in The Syracuse New Times with this “On May 22, 2010, Andrew Cuomo publicly announced his first run for governor while speaking to a crowd next to the Tweed Courthouse. The location was symbolic: The building was constructed by William “Boss” Tweed, the 19th-century politician who became the most notorious face in New York’s history of public corruption.

“Cuomo said at the time that the recent corruption in the state government had become “disreputable and discredited” and that “Albany’s antics today could make Boss Tweed blush.” Cuomo made corruption a centerpiece of his campaign. Eight years later, it has become the centerpiece of his tenure as governor.”  You can read the rest of the article here.

Speaking  of corruption, Shelly Silver heads back to trial in April.

Then there is this:  De Blasio’s wife falsely claimed the couple doesn’t own any NYC properties.  Seriously, how do you not know you own properties and are collecting rent on them? 

Some things never change:  De Blasio’s discrimination against charter school kids.

Conrad Black opines in the NY Sun.

I’m guessing former Vice-President Biden has not heard about the campaign to end bullying. 

Thank you, Ben Shapiro, for shinning a spotlight on a difficult subject.

Oh my.  Does Senator Kirsten Gillibrand really know or understand anything about the history of our country?  If she did, why, more importantly, how could she possibly believe this is a good idea?  This misguided woman sits in the US Senate and writes/votes on legislation that affects every aspect of American lives and this is how she thinks.  How did America become the greatest country in the world, Ms. Gillibrand?  Would you prefer that entrepreneurs like Henry Ford, Walt Disney, Andrew Carnegie, Steve Jobs, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, Caterina Fake had been guaranteed a government job and never had the drive to create a business that employees hundred of other people?  What a pathetic belief you are pushing — a government job guarantee – surely a way to stifle the need to create ideas which is far more important than just getting a job for themselves.  How pathetic to push a destructive progressive idea for a few votes.

You can file this under “Birds of a Feather, Flock Together.”

The Senate Must Not Confirm Chai Feldblum.  

Ben Shapiro writes:  Stop Making Children Into Moral Authorities. 

Larry Horist reminds us that kids are not leading the protests.

And be aware that the ‘March For Our Lives’ is now operating under a dark money nonprofit advocacy group.   

Fortunately, some HS students can think for themselves.  I’m a High School Senior. We Can Make Schools Safer Without Curbing Gun Rights.

Wednesday’s with Walter E. Williams.  

Kudos to Los Alamitos, California:  ‘We Pick the Constitution’: CA City Council Votes to Opt Out of Sanctuary State Law.   Maybe, just maybe, other cities and towns will follow their lead. 

Some advice from Kay Cole James to our Governor and Legislators:  Don’t Tax the Net.

The Daily Signal looks at Putin’s re-election. 

Supreme Court Ruling Could Mean Life or Death for Her Pro-Life Pregnancy Center.    One News Now is reporting that it is likely the Supreme Court will strike the California law.  

Political Guru, John Gizzi, thinks the late Congresswoman Louise Slaughter’s seat could go Republican. 

The Gatestone Institute has a disturbing article here.  And then there is this.  What is going on in Germany? 

6 Reasons Gun Control Will Not Solve Mass Killings.

Former President Obama and former AG Holder you may want to hire a few good lawyers.

Poor Mark Zuckerberg has lost over $9 billion in the last few days; but, don’t feel sorry for him yet, is he still worth about $66 billion – for now.   By the way, where is Mr. Zuckerberg these days? 

Dennis Prager writes a poignant article to comfort parents who have lost their precious children. 

Facing the Facts About Violence and the Mentally Ill.  

How de Blasio’s ‘equity’ push is driving up jail violence. 

Governor Cuomo – look at what is happening in California; this is your legacy also. 

Is Governor Cuomo losing it?

Bob Hardt of NY1 explains the long road Cynthia AKA Miranda has to overcome Mr. Big. 

The New York Times calls out Governor Andrew Cuomo’s “forgetfulness.”   When the Governor was asked if the Joe Percoco trial would reflect badly on him, he discounted the assertion calling to “political garbage” and went on to say he had not be implemented in Percoco’s schemes and suggested his name “was never mentioned” in the 8-week trial.  It was.  136 times.

The headline bellows that Governor Cuomo disagrees with parole of ex-radical who killed cops.  Well then Governor — do something to change it!  Fire the Parole Board Members, have Herman Bell appear before all the Parole Board Members to see if the three members that you appointed uphold the decision.  Do something to keep this wanton, cold-blooded, “I can fool the Parole Board” cop-killer in prison where he belongs until he dies.  Governor Cuomo don’t just say you disagree with the decision – do what is right and overturn it.

Tom Precious writes about the latest polling on Governor Cuomo and his job as Governor.  It is an honest clarification of Cuomo’s polling numbers. 

Cuomo’s ‘pro-woman’ agenda is all about gifts to abortion extremists.   If you do not know just how far Governor Cuomo is trying to expand abortion, in the budget, you must read this article and take the appropriate action – call your legislator and tell them 1) this proposal is appalling policy and goes too far in expanding abortion in New York State and 2) it certainly is not a budget item.

Unfortunately, this happens all too often in New York State.

NYCHA’s union problem.  

Giambra: NYS Conservative Party dragging Republicans down.   Mr. Giambra, many years ago, a very wise person explained to me that we carry our shortcomings/faults in our back pockets.  We never see our own yet instantly recognize them in others.  Think about that for a while.  If, as you say, your run for Governor is real, why did you leave the democratic party where your political views are in sync with the majority of its membership?

According to Laura Ingram’s PoliZette’s blog, James Kallstrom, the respected former FBI executive, that high-ranking Department of Justice officials had a ‘backup plan to basically frame Donald Trump’. 

Charles Hurt has this to say:  This trap was set well before Trump won.

Congressman Peter King calls on Mueller to give timetable for investigation. 

“Stop, Hillary. Just stop.” That’s the message from the New York Post after Hillary Clinton’s latest post-election analysis – Trump won, Hillary believes, because those who dared to oppose her are weak and bigoted. Well over one year later, Hillary is still obsessed with us deplorables.

How would you describe Hillary Clinton’s endless effort to blame her 2016 loss on “backwards” American voters? That’s the first question in our new Weekly Poll.

Election-wise, this was not a good week for Republicans – but was it really a good week for Democrats, either? 

It’s not over, but the GOP can learn from this week’s race in Pennsylvania, and however it ends up the Democratic Party can hardly hope to replicate this campaign – not unless they want to elect a full slate of Representatives who claim to support the Second Amendment. 

Newt Gingrich warns that if the GOP doesn’t shift gears before the midterms, we’d better get used to the idea of once again having Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. 

How concerned are you about the possibility of a Democratic takeover of Congress this year? That’s the second question in our new Weekly Poll.

I see many potential pitfalls ahead for Republicans – from bailing out Obamacare and caving in to the overwrought gun control zealots to spending like Democrats. 

So how about one more question on this topic – what do you think is the BIGGEST mistake Republicans can make as the try to keep control of the U.S. House? That’s the third and final question in our new Weekly Poll.

Finally this week, the conviction of Andrew Cuomo’s right-hand-man, Joseph Percoco, is yet another stain on Albany and the corrupt Cuomo Administration, and even after this bit of justice we’re left with more questions than answers – but don’t expect any answers from Cuomo. 

Have a great weekend!