CA: Democrats propose more spending for schools, new taxes on wealthy

Bakersfield Californian ^ | 5/31/05 | Tom Chorneau - AP

[tom h]

I like it. The Dems are acting on impulse and not thinking. Of course, given that their intellect still runs at an IQ of about 75 I am not surprised.

Why do I say this? If they had an ounce of sense they would not take any acts this year, in parallel withe special election this fall, that would anger the electorate any more. But tax hikes? That will tick off normal Californians and deliver more votes to Arnie's causes come October.

The California liberals still seem to think that class warfare works. But it doesn't. Even the average Joe knows that upper class taxes are too high. The maximum rate used to be 12% (yes, 12% !!!) before it was reduced several years ago. That's 12% on top of maximum federal rates of 38%. Again, even middle-class ordinary folks think 12% state taxes is too high.

Now if only they would propose a tax hike on gasoline...

[SpinyNorman]

I am torn: I would love to see better education for children, if for no other reason than to reduce the number of ignorant Democrats-to-be, but the only way to improve school performance is to get the libs out of education and kick out the teacher's unions.

Here in MA, the teachers fight statewide student performance testing tooth and nail, while constantly crying for more and more money "for the children."

[dmanLA]

Let's get the title correct. It's more money to the UNIONS not the schools.

[goldstategop]

How original! We already imposed a millionaires' tax last year to fund mental health care. Oh well, looks like the Democrats think another trip to the well will produced the needed money. And there are no budget cuts elsewhere. In Sacramento, spending NEVER gets cut! I think we live in a Monty Python sketch. Its surreal.

(Denny Crane: "Sometimes you can only look for answers from God and failing that... and Fox News".)

[Mr. Jeeves]

I propose we zero out the education budget, close the entire state school system for a year, and revamp everything. The kids wouldn't have learned anything this year, anyway, and they'll appreciate the time off.

Next year: entrance exams. Bottom 30% don't get back into high school, and are redirected to vocational courses. Also, teachers have to re-interview for their jobs and take a test - bottom 30% are not rehired.

Do it, Arnold. Otherwise, you're a girly-man. ;)

[Mr. Jeeves]

Morning bump. ;)