Friday, July 23, 2010

Assemblyman Curt Hagman: Time For Democrats To Work With Republicans On Responsible No-Tax Budget

From Assemblyman Curt Hagman:


Three weeks have passed since the beginning of the 2010-11 fiscal year to pass a state budget. Yet California is still without one and people are right to ask what on earth is going on in Sacramento.

Months before the budget deadline, my Republican colleagues and I called on Democrats to work with us. We posted 100-day countdown calendars on our office doors as a reminder that the deadline was fast approaching and urged them to work with us so we would have a solution in time.

Unfortunately, the Democrat leadership rebuffed our hand of cooperation. They instead said that they would rather delay the budget process until Republicans agree to raise your taxes and reject spending reductions.

Some political observers even said that the delay could be a ploy to convince Californians that the two-thirds requirement to pass a budget was the main cause of the delay. One liberal Democrat went so far to say that his party should allow the state to reach a more desperate situation when kids go back to school in August to get Republicans to sign off on higher taxes.

In the meantime, I have been meeting with constituents and stakeholders to listen to their budget concerns. We discussed ways we can address those concerns in a difficult economy and conveyed their suggestions to my colleagues. Yet we have seen no real action from Democrats, other than press conferences to pound home the theme that the state "needs more revenue "(code for higher taxes) to protect government spending and welfare programs we cannot afford.
Even more telling, we have not seen a unified and detailed budget proposal from Senate and Assembly Democrats that can be vetted. All they have put forward is a "statement of principles" that reaffirms their commitment to big government. A statement of principles is not a serious budget that will close a $19.1 billion deficit.


As a result, without a balanced budget in place California state government spends $52 million more each day than it receives in revenues.

In contrast, my Republican colleagues and I have made it clear that we support the Governor's budget blueprint he released in May. It is a detailed plan that addresses the deficit without higher taxes.

Republicans have always been willing to work with Democrats to craft a bipartisan budget that protects taxpayers and funds essential services such as schools without raising taxes. We know that tough choices will need to be made to reduce spending, which is why we have asked Democrats for months to work with us.

Yet the Democrat leadership shows no signs of urgency and refuses to budge, hoping that weeks of delay will work to their advantage. We must get down to work on the budget now, so we can get California back on track. It is long overdue for Democrats to work with Republicans on passing a responsible no-tax budget that will move our state forward. A delay may serve the interests of a few liberal politicians and interest groups, but it hurts the state as a whole.

Passing a balanced budget is one of the most important - if not the most important - duty of a legislator. We are elected to make tough choices and I stand ready to do my part to craft a responsible, no-tax budget as soon as possible.

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Cost per vote in 42nd, Liberatore spent more than triple what Rep. Miller did.

Candidates in the 42nd recently had to file their financial reports with the FEC, which show how much money was raised and spent leading up to the June promary election. Now that the vote totals have been finalized with the Secretary of State's office we can see how much Rep. Gary Miller and Phil Liberatore spent per vote. For this I added the amount spent since January 1 divided by the total votes.

Miller: $328,966.80 spent, 32,669 votes= $10.07
Liberatore: $794,537 spent, 25,181 votes =$31.55

So Liberatore spent more than triple what Miller did per vote and more than double overall. Wow.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

San Gabriel Valley Business Journal on Bob and Mei Mei Huff

The San Gabriel Valley Business Journal has a profile on State Senator Bob Huff and his wife Mei Mei.

It starts,

One of the San Gabriel Valley’s most powerful political couples is State Senator Bob and Mei Mei Huff. The “House of Huff” represents the culmination of luck, tenacity and a lot of hard work. Together, they have influenced education, transportation and environmental policies which potentially spur economic growth for the whole state. Their story is why they are this Business Journal’s first San Gabriel Valley Decision Makers.

To best summarize the Huffs, you have to go to the matriarch, Mei Mei Huff herself. “We are put on this earth for a reason. I believe that Bob’s gifts make him suited for public service,” Mei Mei says, “and I am here to make sure he succeeds.” It is through this mindset we have seen the Huffs rise to become one of the San Gabriel Valley decision makers.

To continue reading you can find the article here.

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Assemblyman Curt Hagman: Finally Recognized, The 2nd Amendment

From the Office of Assemblyman Curt Hagman

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Californians who legally own firearms can be encouraged by last month's U.S. Supreme Court's ruling. In a landmark decision, the Court found that the constitutional right to bear arms applies not just to the federal government, but to state and local governments as well. In other words, owning a gun in the home for self defense is now officially recognized as a fundamental American right that cannot be violated by overzealous politicians on any level of government.

This is a remarkable defense of our Second Amendment right. This specific issue came about because Chicago instituted a misguided city-wide ban on handguns, which was intended to clamp down on deadly gun violence. Instead of just targeting thugs, it restricted law-abiding residents from owning guns to protect themselves in their own homes. Thankfully the Supreme Court saw it correctly, acknowledging that "Self defense is a basic right, recognized by many legal systems from ancient times to the present day," as Justice Samuel Alito wrote in the majority opinion. The Court's ruling recognizes the original intent of the Second Amendment which provides that: "...the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed."

However, this victory is only a first step, as it is still unclear where the decision will lead for the future of our current gun laws and those that could be enacted in the future. Indeed, Justice Alito wrote that the ruling "does not imperil every law regulating firearms." In the years going forward there will be significant battles over the true meaning of this ruling, and the numerous complex rules and regulations governing firearms. Particularly in California, the ruling gives Second Amendment supporters a powerful argument to challenge dubious proposals that hurt lawful gun owners. We now need to work on challenging the most restrictive laws that are already in place. While no one can predict the long-term consequences of the Court's ruling, there is a good chance it will lead to future victories over restrictions on Second Amendment rights and force lawmakers to think twice before passing more burdensome laws.

Government has a critical responsibility to help ensure the safety of our families, but it needs do act in ways that respect our rights as a free people. We can keep our communities safe by improving enforcement of existing laws that target criminals who use guns. Taking guns away from the "bad guys" and putting them behind bars will make California safer, without targeting law-abiding citizens.

With the Supreme Court's reaffirmation at the judicial level, I hope we can now move beyond debating attempts to undermine the Second Amendment in the Legislature. It is time for lawmakers to stop undermining lawful gun owners with more restrictive measures and to start working on issues that matter most to hardworking Californians, such as job creation.
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Thursday, July 15, 2010

Assemblymember Norma Torres Event this Saturday in Chino

Assemblymember Norma Torres is hosting a "Capitol in Your Corner" event this Saturday in Chino. For more information call her District Office at (909) 984-7741.

Saturday, July 17th
1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Preserve Community Center
15850 Main Street, Chino

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Candidate for State Office but no Campaign Web Site

With the primary election over and the General Election less than four months until the election there are two candidates who appear not to have campaign web sites. Campaign sites can be one of the most important tools for a candidate to communicate with voters about what they stand for and believe in.

I have not been able to find sites for Earl De Vries and Gregg Fritchle. De Vries is the Republican nominee in the 32nd State Senate district, challenging Sen. Gloria Negrete McLeod. Fritchle is the Democratic nominee in the 60th Assembly District, challenging Assemblyman Curt Hagman.

If they put up a web site just let us know and we will mention it on our blog.

Thursday, July 8, 2010

Assemblyman Chris Norby on War in Afghanistan

An editorial in the Orange County Register yesterday referenced some comments Assemblyman Chris Norby wrote on antiwar.com.

Antiwar.com claims it is "Your best source for antiwar news, viewpoints, and activities.

In his comments, titled "Steele Speaks the Truth," Norby's comments included;

"If he [Obama] is such a student of history, has he not understood the one thing you don’t do is engage in a land war in Afghanistan? Everyone who has tried over a thousand years has failed, and there are reasons for that.” In restating this obvious historical fact, Republican Chairman Michael Steele has roused a chorus of neocon critics calling for his resignation.

Instead, they should heed the words of Douglas MacArthur, who warned another young president – John F. Kennedy – in 1961: “Anyone wanting to commit American ground forces to the mainland of Asia should have his head examined.”

Those who take issue with Steele should state why he – and MacArthur – are wrong. And we Republicans who believe they should be heeded should speak up. I am one of them. There are others who question an open-ended commitment of blood and treasure to prop up Hamid Karzai and his illusory government."

Friday, June 25, 2010

Rep. Gary Miller holds Reception to Honor Service Academy Appointees

From the office of Rep. Gary Miller

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Reception Held to Honor Service Academy Appointees

Last Saturday, Congressman Miller hosted a reception for thirteen high school and college students from California’s 42nd Congressional District that have been selected to attend a Service Academy this year. These exceptional students have received Congressional or Senatorial nominations to attend these fine institutions.

Attending the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York will be Jake Pendleton of Yorba Linda, Jeff Cooley of La Habra, Apphia Kim of La Habra Heights, Brock Redondo of Mission Viejo, and Joon Eo of Brea.

Leaving for the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Marlyand will be Graham Vickers of Diamond Bar, Elaine Zhong of Chino Hills, Lucille Lu of Diamond Bar and Nathalie Pauwels of Mission Viejo.

Enrolling at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado will be Jacob Chavers of Chino Hills, Joshua Stedman of Brea, Michael Arakawa of Whittier and Trevor Cutler of Mission Viejo.

Congressman Miller extends his congratulations to all of the nominees and their families. For those interested in applying to one of the U.S. Service Academies for the class of 2015, please contact Congressman Miller’s Brea office at 714-257-1142.
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Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Site up for 72nd Assembly Candidate Esiquio Uballe

Esiquio Uballe, the Democratic candidate in the 72nd Assembly district has put up a campaign web site. Uballe is challenging Republican Assemblyman Chris Norby.

From his site,

"Dr. Esiquio Uballe is a proven leader in education, with a long history of working with the community and families to show how higher education can build better lives and stronger communities.

Staying competitive in the global economy is key for Orange County's future. Being able to win depends on how well our workforce is prepared. Tomorrow's workforce is today's student. Help keep California's dream alive by strengthening our workforce by rebuilding our education system.

At one time, California's economy and education were the envy of the world. We need the leadership in Sacramento to make that happen again.

OC needs real leadership in Sacramento. Our residents deserve better than rubber stamp "No" votes time after time.

We need an Assembly member who will bring home job creating programs to get our local economy moving again. OC needs to get our good jobs back - the jobs that let our county lead the state in economic growth and a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Uballe is that Assembly member."

Monday, June 21, 2010

Website up for 61st Assembly Republican Candidate Ray Moors

Ray Moors, the Republican candidate in the 61st Assembly District, has put up a campaign website. The 61st is currently represented by Democratic Assemblywoman Norma Torres.

Some of Moors' "platform,"

"I will research and propose legislation that will bring businesses back to California."

"I will propose legislation that will remove the boot of the state unions and lobbyists from the throats of the middle class taxpayer and small business owner."

"I will support to have a new State Constitutional Convention that will model our constitution after our nations which is 4400 words long and with 27 amendments. Presently, our state constitution is an incomprehensible 40,000 word, attorney written, legal morass of English and Latin with over 500 revisions and amendments."

"I will propose legislation to put a halt to the Eco-Economic Police bureaucrats that are destroying our economy, shutting down businesses and leaving families without employment and paychecks."

"I support legal immigration only. Giving amnesty leaves us with millions who have entered this country illegally only to live off the hard work of taxpayers. Many are criminals, and career welfare recipients. Legal immigration provides this country with the professionals, the industrious and law abiding immigrants which this country welcomes and needs."

Friday, June 18, 2010

Legislative Forum On Jobs And Regulations In California

From the Office of Assemblyman Curt Hagman.

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Legislative Forum On Jobs And Regulations In California

WHEN: Friday, June 25, 2010 (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

WHERE: Anaheim Downtown Community Center
250 E. Center St., Anaheim CA 92805

CONTACT: District Office (909) 627-7021

Hosted by Assemblymember's Curt Hagman, Jim Silva, Diane Harkey, Jeff Miller, Chris Norby, and Van Tran, the legislative forum will consist of local employees and business leaders telling their stories about how regulatory and environmental burdens have hindered them from creating jobs in California and make it difficult for local companies to compete against other states, as well as globally.

This is a public meeting and all welcome to attend.
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Thursday, June 17, 2010

42nd Election Results Updated

The results for the Republican primary in the 42nd district have been updated (3:32pm today) on the Secretary of State's web site. The result is the same but the percentages have changed slightly. Phil Liberatore has gone up 0.4%, while the other three candidates have gone down 0.1% to 0.2%

Rep. Gary Miller 48.9%
Phil Liberatore 37.6%
Lee McGroarty 10.5%
David Su 3.0%

The morning after the election we posted the following results at 10:04am.

Gary Miller 49.0%
Phil Liberatore 37.2%
Lee McGroarty 10.7%
David Su 3.1%

Chino Hills Career/Job Fair

From the Office of Assemblyman Curt Hagman.

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Chino Hills Career/Job Fair

WHEN: Friday, June 18, 2010 (10:00 AM - 02:00 PM)

WHERE: The Shoppes at Chino Hills 13920 City Center Drive, Chino Hills CA 91709

CONTACT: District Office (909) 627-7021

Hosted by the San Bernardino County Workforce Investment Board (in partnership with Assemblyman Curt Hagman and Supervisor Gary Ovitt)

No cost to employeers or attendees

For More Information please visit - SBCJobFair.com
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Monday, June 14, 2010

Robert Vaughn not re-elected

Robert Vaughn, who had claimed he was the Chairman of the Los Angeles County Republican Party until a judge ruled he was not, was not re-elected to the Party's county Central Committee. Only members of the Central Committee can hold leadership positions in it.

We first covered the controversy surrounding Vaughn after a Phil Liberatore for Congress mail piece claimed Vaughn was the Chairman of the county party and had endorsed Liberatore over Rep. Gary Miller.

Even though defeated for Central Committee, Vaughn is still a candidate for Congress. He is challenging Rep. Grace Napolitano in the General Election.

In the election for Central Committee Vaughn placed 17th out 0f 18 candidates with 2.35% of the vote. The top seven were elected.