Sticking With Principle

I find the Republican response to the recently voted stimulus package quite interesting. They are almost unanimous in their opposition, claiming that it’s too filled with pork barrel projects. Yet, where I live all the local Republicans, who seem to control things here, are very anxious to get their hands on the money. Things are tight here in Michigan and the prospect of outside money coming in bringing smiles to even the hardest headed Republican.

What is of interest nationally, is that three Republican governors have stated they will refuse some of the money that will be made available to their states because it doesn’t properly stimulate the economy. They are sticking to their principles they claim and are willing to put their money where their mouth is. For that I give them credit. I just wish the fiscal conservative principle had prevailed during the past eight years when our government was spending money like it was going out of style.

It will be interesting to see the response in the states that are refusing to take the money. Will the Republican legislators be willing to pass up such an opportunity? And what about the voters in the state? Are they willing to take less than the rest of the nation? Each of the three governors are interested in higher office. Cynics think that this is just one way for them to energize their ultra conservative base so they can get nominated for the presidential race in 2012. If so, I say more power to them. It’s great to see a Republican that’s willing to stand up for principle.