Simply amazing how anyone could support Maryland democrats!!!

What baggage? The last time I checked, the only republican to run this state anytime in the past several decades was ehrlich and things were pretty darn good then and would have been a lot better without the socialist controlled legislature.

Before I moved to Maryland for school, I didn't know whether O'Malley was republican or democrat. I don't think it matters what he is, he just sucks.

Once again the Democratic juggernaut tolls on.

I agree with Mr Pipkin. Before any new tax is instituted there should be a review of how the money is spent that the government is already getting. Maryland needs to STOP spending money!!!! before they run the middle class right into the ground.

Each politician into their corner. O'Malley in the blue corner and Pipkin in the red corner. 18 cents per gallon is not going to kill jobs except for Democratic legislators who may be replaced.

It will hurt the lowest income groups the most. Our state budget has increased 3.5% annually since 2007. It was much higher than that under Ehrlich (26% over 4 years).

The continual need to find "new" sources of income is appalling and needs to stop. Both Ehrlich and O'Malley were guilty.

Maybe if the State didn't use hundreds of millions of our tax dollars supporting all the illegal aliens that O'Malley loves so much, he wouldn't need to raise taxes.
Maybe, if all working people had to pay some percentage of their income in taxes, not just half of the working people, he wouldn't need to raise taxes,
Maybe, if Maryland wasn't such a liberal welfare state, he wouldn't need to raise taxes to support all the social welfare programs.
Maybe if Baltimore City wasn't such a corrupt cesspool, he wouldn't need to raise taxes to help support it.
I bet all these road construction projects O'Malley wants will help employ a lot of his friends among the illegal aliens.

O’Malley has lost touch with the common working man and woman. His philosophy is screw the working middle class by taxes and fees, Spoon feed the poor with entitlement programs, bend over backwards foe ILLEGAL immigrants and kill any corporation in this state with taxes drives them away.

The States budget has increased by 5 billion over the 5 years under O`Malley. Ehrlic's spending was at 28 billion when he left office. The spending has grown by almost a billion a year since O`Malley came aboard and now stands at 32 billion. Remember O`Malley passed the larges tax increase in the history of this state! As families do the state needs to stop and control spending. When my finances are tight we pull in our belts, do without things and don't spend more then we make. I don't have the luxury of additional monies at the expense of other families. He spends, spends and spends and raises taxes to keep on spending as opposed to trimming wasteful spending. He speaks of the money spent by his admin on new school construction, yet is that not a direct result of the increase in taxes from all of us? Largest tax increase in HISTORY, doubled the amount at all tolls, raised the sales tax, doubled the fees at the MVA! So while he didn't raise our income taxes, he sure as hell had no problem raising everything else! He is planning a run for a higher office, wait and see

Put a stop to the sanctuary state policies and we would not need the tax increases. The state cannot and should not be all things to all people.

Does anyone else remember his big ad campaign against Ehrlich about "a fee is a tax"? It just goes to show that O'Malley is full of crap and he sucks. It costs me more money to get to work because I cross the key bridge and now it will cost more to put the gas in my car and cost more to go to the MVA to keep my car on the road. Thanks, O'Malley.

You asked for it, you got it Democrats. A government big enough to give you everything you want is strong emough to take it all away.

We the people need to take back control of our lives! The government has run amuck at all levels, county, state, and federal. "OWE"Malley is just showing he could be a thieving blood sucker like the majority of the politicians as he aspires for a chip in the big game in Washington. I am so sick of the same crap from the democrats and the republicans. There is no accountability and the spending spree has no end in sight! Until we stop catering to the corporations who are looking for political favors for their donations and stop the entitlements to buy votes, this mess will not end. Our only hope is written at Daniel 2:44.

Glad to have escaped from Maryland years ago. What an oppressive place to live.

Call every one of your elected officials and demand they put the E-verify in place for every single employer. . Free.. Quick and Easy .. Would guarantee a job for all our citizens in md. Right Paul?

Way too much fraud and waste in state programs. Taxes in Maryland are among the highest in the nation. Stop the fraud and waste in Maryland Medicaid and in the Earned Income Tax Credit. Millions are wasted every year.

How much more money do we have to give?? There comes a time when we just can't afford government... We are not your A.T.M ...

Even though I can’t stand O’Malley’s it’s not all his fault it is also the delegates fault for allowing to let these items pass. But until we change the politicians in Annapolis we will have the same old same old appalling politics.

In most cases, unless you're wealthy, to vote republican, is voting against yourself. Always, amazes me!

"7500 new jobs building needed roads, bridges, and public transit" in Maryland, said O'Malley. Wasn't the 4.2 Billion dollar share of the stimulus package supposed to do this? How about the 2X toll hike just implemented?

Well looks like less driving and more walking is in my future.Every time I turn around something else is being increased but a persons income either is at a freeze or DECREASING....Someone please pay attention during election time

Vote against every bond issue at the next election. Passing these bond issues gives the politicians the OK to spend money they don't have. Then they say, we don't have the money and have to get it from somewhere. The first thing they think of ...Taxes!

I know someone personally that is taking their child to Disney World with their Earned Income Tax Credit. It's a shame I can't take my family, but there's no money, I paid it all in taxes.

If the Governor wants some ideas how to cut spending how about combining the State Roads Commission and the Maryland Transportation Authority and cut out one entire department? How about a hiring freeze or only hiring one person for every three that retire? We have many baby boomers retiring, just don't replace all of them. How about stop all their expensive studies like Plan Maryland which is nothing more than about concentrating the population in heavily Democratic areas to keep control (power) in the hands of the Democrats.
How about getting the people that use the ICC pay for it instead of driving up the costs for commuters and tourists on our other toll roads?

Spending more on education will not make it better education. We need teacher accountability and those students that disrupt the classroom removed for instruction in special classes and not permitted to return to the regular classroom if they repeat their disruption. We need to stop social promotion. We also need to get rid of tenure for teachers...if they can't do the job...get rid of them.
Wouldn't hurt if we tossed most of the technology out of the elementary schools and started to teach students the basics first. Once you learn to read and write and do mathematics, you can pretty much learn anything that you want and are capable of learning. But without those basics it's pretty much a lost cause.

So what are we going to do ,living in this Lib state ???? I'm nauseous and scared to death.

Knowing what you all know now would you have voted for O'Malley again? What about the delegates you voted for?

O'Malley is lkike any high level politician: he thinks earnings don't really belong to the earners, but to those, like himself, with the power to extract those earnings to buy votes and keep themselves in clover. Instead of raising taxes, here's a suggestion: cut 5% from the budgets of all state agencies, and furlough all state employees one day in every 20. Or if 5% isn't enough, make it more.

Ridiculous....How about less pay or no government vehicle for all of the politicians that voted for this thing. Most, if not all of them, aren't concerned about higher gas prices because they all get paid a lot more than the REAL people that it will effect.

I heard the other day the mayor of baltimore takes security with her to other states? Who the hell is looking for her in another state? and if they knew who she was why would they want harm her? Would anyone know the mayor of Tempe, Arizona if they saw them on their street?

Do you realize how many supervisors the average government worker has? I will buy gas like I buy cigarettes, alcohol and pretty much any big ticket items outside this state until I've finally tied up all the loose ends to move elsewhere. Owe'Malley will be looking at his next step in Government and God Help Us All.

I'm so sick of hearing Tax, Tax and more Tax. You don't hear about the politicians taking a pay cut, do you? You see, they don't pay for their gas, you do, so they don't care about you or how much it costs. Then they say we need it to fix roads. What happened to the money you collected for the roads and didn't fix them all this time? They have their own special health insurance and you have to either give up needed meds or go broke buying them. If they really cared about you they would be on the same insurance as you, pay for their own electricity, gas, insurance, cars, meds but NO. We get what we want so there is no incentive to help you or be on your side. Their legal crooks. Lets get together people and not put up with this!! Together we can win, separate we will fall. Unite

Tim. the ole rule is no longer the rule. republicans aren't necessarily rich. We are low to middle class also. Ask any prior democrat..We were raised to believe democrats are for blue collar workers and republicans for business which makes them rich.. so they thought. So now the democrats want to tax the rich more because they own a business and must be richso more people layed off and smaller business's.. Make sense? nope..

As a Republican, I DON'T blame Governor O'Malley and the elected Democrats, I blame the people who keep putting them in office.

The scope of the thievery by the teflon leprechaun is unprecedented.

Here is a sampling

Existing or Attempted O'Malley-Sponsored Tax and Fee Increases

- Car Title fee increased from $23 to $50.
- Cigarette tax increase from $1 to $2.
- States Sales Tax Increase from 5% to 6%
- Computer services sales tax ($200 million per year), later repealed.
- State Sales tax on alcohol increase from 6% to 9% ($85 million per year)
- Corporate income tax rate increased from 7% to 8.25%
- Corporate transfer tax increased
- Income tax increased on those earning $1 million or more a year
- Vehicle titling tax increased from $50 to $10
- Vanity plate fee increased from $25 to $50
- Land recording fees increased from $20 to $40
- Birth certificate fees increased from $12 to $24
- Hospital Assessments rate increase of 2.5%
- Nursing Home Tax increased from 4% to 5.5%
- Parole supervision fee increased from $25 to $50
- 2% Premium Tax on the Injured Worker Insurance Fund (IWIF)
- New Payroll Garnishment Fee for State Employees
- New Maryland Higher Education Commission Program Approval Fee
- Maryland Historical Trust fee increases from 1% to 3%
- 50% increase in many of the fishing and hunting license fees
- Increased Home Improvement Commission licensing fees, $25 for each type of license and a new $20 fee for all initial applications.
- Increased licensure fee for a secondhand precious metal object dealer or pawnbroker from $75 to $300

I agree with you Marty!

Harry Dawson, I LIKE YOU ;-) Well put and EXCELLENT research

But wait, there is more.....

Existing or Attempted O'Malley-Sponsored Tax and Fee Increases

- New application fee of $100 and a $100 per vehicle registration fee for transporting waste kitchen grease.
- New registration and renewal fee of $1,000 for Debt Settlement Services
-5% Income Tax Increase on Incomes over $150,000 (4.75% to 5%)
- 11% Income Tax increase on Incomes over $300,000 (4.75% to 5.25%)
- 16% Income Tax increase on Incomes over $500,000 (4.75% to 5.5%)

- Toll Increases Key Bridge/Fort McHenry Tunnel/ Harbor Tunnel
50% increase from $2 both ways to $3 both ways 2011
33% increase from $3 both ways to $4 both ways , 2013
- Toll Increases JFK Memorial Highway Section of I-95/Thomas J. Hatem Memorial Bridge
20% increase from $5 to $6, 2011
33% increase from $6 to $8, 2013

- Toll Increases Bay Bridge/US 301 Bridge
60% increase from $2.50 to $4, 2011
50% increase from $4 to $6, 2013

Proposed O'Malley-Sponsored Tax and Fee Increases

- Extending 6% sales tax to gasoline ($615 million per year)
- Extending 6% sales tax to “digital products" ($300 million per year)
- Increasing Flush Tax from $2.50 per month per household to $5.00 or more.
- Increasing States Sales Tax from 6% to 7%
- Increasing emission inspection fees from $14 to $28
- Increasing vehicle registration fees from $50.50 to $75.75.
- Increasing vehicle titling tax from 6% to 6.5%

Thanks Marty Warren, That was just from the 2007 and 2011 and proposed 2012 budgets. If I added anymore it would look like I'm piling on.

See? You have to get elected twice in order to effect much-needed change. Republicans teach us that. Eisenhower. Reagan. Bush, Jr.

Governor O'Malley and President Obama will labor on and do what needs to be done to keep us on the right road.

Harry, baby, can you blame the man for paying the bills off the bonds that your sainted boy required to build the ICC, a super-highway which you probably never even get to use?

Flush tax? Again, it was your boy's signature fee-that-wasn't-a-tax.

Commuting got you down? Move closer to the job. Can't you see that the suburban version of the American Dream is over and its time to wake up?

1ke I am a Libertarian with a liberal social bias who has voted Democratic in several elections. Ehrlich was not my boy. O'Malley's tax increases eclipses Ehrlich's fees/taxes by several dozen fold. Regarding the ICC, I agree that the toll increases in other areas of the state partially derive from this. I seem to remember O'Malley standing up there taking credit for the whole ICC thing as he does with almost every issue likely to get him face time with the public. The problem with 1 party rule is the sheep who vote the party line get fleeced.

I would imagine that a lot of jobs have been created with this money...

Chuck, it's particularly bad he because he looked past/hid/covered up the problems of Baltimore city while running for Governor shortly after being elected mayor. Deja vu. He would be serving in the Obama administration if he didn't hitch his wagon to the wrong horse and is known to be threatening/hostile to those whose disagree with him ala LBJ.

Way to go Maryland Democrats! How can you continue to vote for people like Gov. O'Malley, Sen. Miller, Del. Bush, and all the other tax and spend liberals who are so far out of touch with the trials and tribulations of the citizens of Maryland.

If my notes are correct in just the few short days this General Assembly has been in session, Owe'Malley has asked for a 15 cent increase to the current gasoline tax, a 17.33% (1 cent) increase to the state sales tax, and now an expansion of the sales tax overall to include gasoline adding another 7 cents per dollar to the overall price for gasoline. They have not disclosed the other products and services the expansion of the sales tax will cover, but when they tried before it was 43 items including most "services" that have never had sales tax applied to them. Sales tax is supposed to apply to an actual product that is sold not a "fee" for a service provided that does not include an actual product.

So the Democrats who lie through their teeth about how they are the party that will look out for the poor and working class will pass not one, not two, but at least three tax increases or new taxes that will have the most negative impact on the poor and working class citizens of Maryland possible in this horrific economy. Way to put other people's money where your mouth is Gov. Owe'Malley. Then he says the taxes are needed to increase revenues to maintain schools, roads, and bridges.

These are not the droids you're looking for!

GP Paul. Here's your analysis you asked for. Next time make an effort and look for yourself. Like I said I don't lie..

http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/24000.html

Wow, you get up early. My point to you was you made a comparison of school spending by county. Clearly larger population counties spend more dollars.

I don't like the 3.5% annual increase in the MD budget since 2007 either. This kind of growth is not sustainable over the long term. What annoys me is when Republicans ignore their own. Ehrlich raised the budget 26% during his 4 years and raised "fees"as well. Which is an annual rate of 6%! Local politicians have this problem of wanting to do "new" things for us which cause them to have to find new sources of revenue. Just stop.

Check it out, a solution to erasing the debt:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JY8LKII_MNA

Lordy be! You can't fix stupid.

All of this will cost the average taxpayer less than $200, less than half what the average American family spends on Christmas. Pay the freight, folks.

Aren't you glad that government picks up the slack when imminent bank failure threatens to touch off a depression? I don't think people understand the implications of what could have happened.

Watch some of The Daily Show, Colbert & Real Time. At least, you can learn something.

Comedy and cartoons do feel better, I agree. I never miss them. Have you contributed to Better America Tomorrow, Tomorrow?

Seems like a never ending tug of war match to me..... if everyone would become independent, the rope would break, leaving the far side of each on their back side, where they belong..

Actually, Mr. Warren, construction on the first chunk of the ICC--Contract A--began in 2006, well after Ehrlich began his term. Are you defending the ICC?

Such a defense is an easy argument. But the bill comes due. Defend the ICC and pony up to pay your tolls.

Borrow money with a home equity loan; take a beating when the underlying asset declines in value.

Max out your credit cards and lose your job; pay...uh...uh... nah! Declare bankruptcy.

GP I'm really sick of how you talk to me. I don't lie.. I say it like it is and if it offends you thats your problem. As for me .. All I want is every one of our citizens *that want to work* have a job and $$ to feed and care for their family. Thats not easy in Md with employers who keeps hiring illegals for profits and politicians who cater to them with our $$.. They taking food out of the mouths of citizens and their children. They will all be exposed eventually as they should. They only think of their own greed and not the welfare of our citizens and our country. This issue did not get like this overnight but omalley's last years is a blast. I am disgusted with liberal democrats and you are one of them.. In the future if you can't take it I suggest you stay away from me and i'll do the same in Patch..

Have you even read what you write? Have a good day

Eric,its actually more then $2 billion a year spent on illegals every single year in md while many on welfare using fake or stolen id while working our jobs. We pay to educate their many kids and incarcerations, medicaid, energy assistance, food stamps and so on. . Wonder whose job they'll take next..Ever wonder why md is #2 in the country for food stamp fraud and #42 for job creation and the 4th highest taxed state in the country? Yet people won't react until it hits home..

Eric if you look back I provide many sources and why wouldn't you believe me? Do you prove your words? Most of the md media is lax on the subject but not all. The only people that think i might be untruthful are the people that have something to hide. Right GP?

Mr. Warren, the planning began more than 40 years ago. What is a liberal, o' Wise One who should never be questioned?

A Super User? You huff? I do not doubt it. I am out of my depth here.

IMO, a liberal is one who believes in "SOCIAL JUSTICE" and "SPREADING THE WEALTH", who, instead of believing in "Equal Opportunity", they believe in "Equal Results".

Part of WIKIPEDIA'S explanation:
Modern liberals value relative equality supported by institutions that defend against extreme economic inequality.

Nana,
Your $2 Billion figure has been debunked the last 300 times you posted it on your board spamming runs.

....and I should have added your claims about Mexicans averaging over 5 children per family, and that illegals have bed bugs and they are responsible for increases in crime.

All debunked hundreds of time and you keep spewing your racist crap every where you can.

he's right on armstrong and you know it.. The only one who debunks it is you as I recall..

If every Republican on this website votes in November, We may be able to cancel out some of the DEAD DEMOCRATS who will vote in November (Ha ha, ONLY KIDDING). Don't get mad, I'm only kidding.

Frank King,

I DO remember.

That's just another Republican myth that was debunked years ago.

"She never apologized for making all those wild accusations about voter fraud," recalled Glendening's lawyer, Bruce Marcus. "When she gave a deposition, all she could say was that she heard them on a street corner. It's hardly fiscally conservative to pursue rumors at taxpayers' expense."

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/local/longterm/library/mdelect/statewide/sauerbrey1012.htm

Regardless of your argument no one can deny that this state is well on its way to being California and Detroit. But I'll be long gone before that happens so I just sit back and laugh. All these clueless democrats that keep voting people like OweMalley in office will be the only people left to pay for all these taxes that they love. Most republicans will leave just like they have in California and Detroit. Maryland got what it deserved and I couldn't be happier about it.

Democratic talking points, "Blah Blah Blah Blah!" " Blah Blah Blah Blah," " Blah Blah Blah Blah," LOL

frank. that made me laugh. lol.
armstrong. Voter fraud is heavy in md whether you believe it or not. Many doing much research and we're finding deceased voting everywhere. I don't know why you have to disagree or prove to you. You have no faith in people for their word. Thats a deep issue with you. Feb 15 is voter fraud bill again in annapolis. hb 113. Hard to pass with the liberals. They want you to vote with no id in this state.. fishy huh..

amdactivist, you are right. How could anyone dare think that voter fraud could happen in the the "Free State" of Maryland? We all know that whatever O'Malley or O'Bama says is gospel. Remember, OBama had that pillar of patriotism and great lover of America, the allegedly Reverend Jeremiah Wright who taught Obama for many years how to love America.
We know that voter fraud didn't happen in Maryland since the Democrats told us it didn't happen.

You need Photo ID for everything from returning purchases at Best Buy, Looking at an apartment to rent and cashing a check where the bank doesn't recognize you. Everyone should agree, Its the democrats who don't want photo ID, but why?

It is totally absurd to suggest that requiring ID to vote would disenfranchise democrats! I totally agree that picture ID should be required to vote.

There are about six people in here who give the blue-bloods, trust fund babies, and corporate magnates fresh hope in humanity. What was it that P.T. Barnum said?

If the details of your writing and presumably your speaking were more prep school-refined, a large donation and an upscale suit would get you a thirty second press of flesh with a grateful Republican candidate. But you will never, ever be respected by them or welcome among them.

LOL This is just an attempt by the "Help Set Maryland Back" to slam tis site. They are doing it elsewhere as we type.

Rob. how can you possibly set md back? We've been going backwards for years but omalley is our worst taxed governor ever. Its so easy to google and you are so full of hatred for anybody that disagrees with you and Hope your soul finds some relief..

Paul Amirault, I don't have to supply evidence that voter fraud exists. There already is proof. You can't tell me that in the past twenty or thirty years that only one or two Republicans could be elected in this state as governor. The proof is in the pudding. I am not a Kool-Aid drinker for Democrat or Republican candidates. I vote for the person not the party. I have noticed one thing though about Democrats, they don't like the real facts to get in the way of their arguments for their positions. Usually when they start losing an argument, which is almost always, they either change the subject or they get insulting. It amazes me how some people will blindly follow party line and refuse to see the truth even when it is right in front of their eyes.
There used to be a popular Italian Democratic Baltimore City Council member who is now deceased. He was famous for a saying he had and apparently his saying is still popular with today's Democrats. In his broken Baltimore accent he used to say, "My mudder always taught me that the worst Democrat is better then the best Republican." Seems like that personal feeling is still being adhered to by today's Democrats who drink the Kool-Aid.

Paul on feb 15, 2011 in annapolis is a bill to stop voter fraud. HB 113. Try and make it and you'll see all the proof you need about voter fraud. I also research voter fraud and i'm finding 113 year olds voting and deceased. lol. How do you think the same ole losers get elected in md? Why would omalley allow *his admission* 350 illegal aliens to get a drivers license . They also got a voters card. Go here and sign on and you too can learn how to check database for voter fraud. And in the future please stop going against people who want our laws enforced while you think its ok to subcontract to illegals.. www.electionintegritymaryland.com . I hope you get over your liberalism and take it upon yourself to see the harm you are doing to your family friends and country by enticing illegals to stay illegal.

Great post Frank! I remember M.D.

We are doomed:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MHtDF-z77wk&feature=player_embedded

Scott, it is good to see there is more then one old timer such as myself on here who has common sense. Thanks!

Common sense is gone in the USA.......

MTH I also agree with your comments.

This Idiot and I mean IDIOT has spoken the same words last year,the year before that and the year before that.The Democrats are like a broken record,time and time again the same excuses the same reasons FOR THE CHILDREN,THE UNDERPRIVELEDGE,SAFETY,ENVIRONMENT.Do you really think these Law Makers care about you?Hard Working Marylanders are tired of it.I can't wait when the day comes when Maryland will look like the Mid West Ghost Towns when the working People leave and all is left are non-workers.They are robbing all of us blind and the Exodist of the Working Marylander is multiplying.

Paul, I read that article about the Indiana Republican Secretary of State on the Huffington Post. If the guy is a proven liar and a cheat as they say he was convicted to be, then he needs to pay the price for such activity. Jail time or whatever. As I think I stated before, I am an Independent who trust neither party, Republican or Democrat. They all had a hand with messing up this country, including and especially George Bush Jr. I think if John Kennedy were alive today he would be ashamed of his party's activities. We will never know what kind of President he would have been if he could have served his full term and maybe be re-elected. As far as his personal life with the ladies, I don't care about that.

Where does Maryland rank among the states in terms of prosperity i.e. per capita income, home value, educational attainment, medical care?

I have a sense of this, but I am too stupid to find the facts. Can somebody help?

Paul You got it bad. your blinded by the lies of our politicians. Your the handshake and a smile kinda voter. i truly feel sorry for people like you so blinded. You refuse to listen to all the media and are forced to believe that fox,reilly, limbaugh and other are the liars. Try listening with an open mind. Sadly many years ago I also was a handshake/smiley voter.. I woke up.. Your just stuck..

Shhh, Paul...what is you doing?

paul you don't believe in showing id at the polls but what about showing id every where else? Or maybe you know that your employees are voting and on welfare with fake id's and working jobs meant for citizens and not border jumpers who elect to stay illegal because idiots will keep hiring them for low pay and no insurance or benefits.

As of Saturday 02-04-12 at 3:26 pm there have been 177 posts on this topic. (We are going to need this passion to defeat Obama). Paul and 1ke believe requiring photo ID would supress voter turn out because, including but not limited to, cost. The rest of us demand photo ID to ensure there will be much less voter fraud. I think Paul and 1ke are UNDERESTIMATING poor people.. Anyone who thinks poor people don't have what it takes to obtain a photo ID I suggest "You stop insulting the poor people. They are as strong, smart and capable as the rest of us". Usually, when Democrats disagree with republicans, the democrats "TROT OUT A VICTIM", in this case, poor people. There are exceptions to every rule. IMO I think people being to poor to obtain photo ID is ,ABSOLUTELY, the exception and not the rule. What say you???

Paul don't seem to mind the poor people paying more for gas .. I guess $3.50 a gallon isn't enough. But when you save tons of $$ by hiring undocumented aliens in this state you get to write off your gas .. it just doesn't bother you too much..

Begging your pardon, I have not commented on the ID issue. Thinking that it is significant in any way is delusional.

All right. OK. Every voter should bring a Maryland State ID to the poll.

Where does that leave us? Back with Frank and "There already is proof. You can't tell me that in the past twenty or thirty years that only one or two Republicans could be elected in this state as governor?"

How many writers here are the children of Democrats? Tell the truth, now.

Warren, you can't communicate with a few who are truly die hard liberals and refuse to believe anyone when it goes against a democrat politician .. They are brainwashed to their propaganda.. Paul and others will not go against Obama because they like his smile. they still in the rock star syndrome. They are not an asset to their affiliation.

Can you say our parent’s Democratic Party has the equivalent beliefs of today’s Democratic Party?

Freddy. absolutely not. the dixiecrats are long gone. they had a bit more principle and took their oath serious. Most of us were democrat including myself. We were raised to believe republicans are for white collar workers and democrats were for the working man blue collar worker. somehow it's now called liberal and conservative and rich against poor. I am truly ashamed of most of our democrat leaders. I can show you how they voted and it surely don't match their words. Dutch, viva la babs, vallario, ivey, guittierez, miller, bush and so many more are corrupt and don't care who knows it. Corrupt = tax $$ for political gain..

Yes, Freddy, if it was post-FDR, it's the same thing. What is different is how the interests of today's pampered, me-first, wannabe-middle class citizens have changed? You notice how all of this hubbub is a Harford County-Baltimore County thing?

Bet your people came from the City, too. It was a great big cornfield. Might be one again when gas goes up to world prices. Imagine: $8.25 a gallon!

Sorry amd, as I said your rage has blinded you and many others. I presume you know that Fox viewers have been found to be the most uniformed of all. You frequently resort to name calling as a matter of routine. Why? Discuss an issue with facts and your real name please. Hiding is so easy.

Frank King,

The "New Black Panther" case DID NOT fall through the cracks. Eric Holder dropped the charges because he said "THE LAW WAS OUT DATED". That was the reason given for dropping the case.

I was being sarcastic when I said "it fell through the cracks." I know that our wonderful Attorney General, Eric Holder, the Justice Department purposely let the charges drop. Copy and paste this video clip then open it in your address window.

http://www.washingtontimes.com/blog/watercooler/2010/jul/6/us-civil-rights-commissioner-new-black-panthers-ha/

As a matter of fact, a US Civil Rights Commissioner who happens to be black, has accused the Black Panthers of intimidating a black Republican poll watcher at the same location. Isn't it odd that racism when practiced against white and black people seems to be overlooked by the Democratic controlled D.O.J. when it isn't to the administrations' advantage? The law was outdated? What a bunch of BS!

Frank, how critical were you of Bush's AGs? Just askin'.

Paul Bush is all gone now. throw the garbage elsewhere like the soros idiot puppet. .. As far as fox news they have been # in the nation for years because of their accuracies. Just saying. You are in a circle of propaganda and bs. I'm not raged at all but i know my stuff .. You should be proud.. When we provide your proof that you so often demand you hide.. Frank your right. Holder is one of obama's cronies. He is a poc. Look at fast and furious and the guns still being used today to kill.. He should be jailed and omalley no more a harvard grad then humpty dumpty. His wife was. His wife's thesis is all about racism how much he dislikes whites. What dorks.

Hey Paul,

I believe Iran-Contra is the way we should fight ALL wars from now on. Give money and support and arms and air support to people who want to overthrow tyrants. I apologize for being mistaken on the house/Senate statement regarding Bush, (was it only 4 years instead of 6 years under Bush), i'm not sure it has much effect on my point though.

P. S.
If I ever meet you Paul, I WILL TRY TO SHAKE YOUR HAND because your political views remind me of one of my brothers and my sister

Paul. Go ask armstrong. the poor gal seems to think i'm his nana. lol
You'll meet me eventually paul. I promise..

Paul don't you get tired of defending the democrat idiocies? I'm not the one in rage you are..your getting dimentia maybe?

Marty, I frequent Dunkin Donuts around 8 AM each day in PH on Belair Rd. And I would love to shake your hand. I have already had a 3 hour discussion with Rick Saffrey with whom I disagree on some issues and agree on others. Great conversation.

The problem here at the Patch is attempts to pigeon hole people are rampant. I am not a democrat or a republican, I look at each issue on its merits. There are things Obama and O'Malley have done that I don't like. I will and have said so.

I believe Bush had his way for 6 years and lost control in 2006.

Regarding your statement about Iran-Contra, that does worry me. Because you are justifying that illegal acts by our government can be justified by the ends they wanted. I'm sorry, but our system is based on the rule of law, end of story. Once the law rules, that's it.

Paul, not to be argumentative although I am, I suppose rule of law would not allow "water boarding." Without any shame I would allow water boarding if it meant saving hundreds or thousands of innocent peoples' lives, especially Americans. If water boarding could have prevented 9/11, I would have been in favor of it.

So as I understand what you are saying, is that under certain circumstances you would authorize torture? And probably beyond water boarding if you thought it necessary?

It would depend on the circumstances. Are you saying that if you knew you could save innocent lives, maybe even your own family you would not practice such things as water boarding?

Paul didn't 30 seconds of water boarding save a large attack in california maybe? I think its not stiff enough. Do you know how many countries are laughing at obama? They don't trust him and they laughing at his idiocy and he shows all of them they we are weak. He bows to rulers that have tortured and killed many.

Here's the change folks..
http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/217/obamaseconomicstats.jpg/

Yeah paul Bush did it. He loved this country enough to waterboard for 30 seconds. The idiot puppet in charge releases the terrorists..Give me Bush anyday. compare the stats paul. Is the country better off today then when your messiah took office? You are truly obnoxious in your way of thinking. Your not well liked for a reason.

The bottom line is that other countries do consider us to be weak thanks to Obama going around the world apologizing for being such a great and wealthy country. So he is going to do what he can to make us a third world country which is not so wealthy and powerful. Even he was surprised when he received the Nobel Peace Award. What did he do to earn that?

I am missing some of my favorite TV shows. I will go watch my shows. Then I shall ponder the worlds' problems and come up with perfect solutions for all of it......OOOH.. I just came up with a simple solution. We need to vote Obama out. Pray for a quick three remaining years on O'Malleys' stay in the governorship. Lord help us all. LOL

Paul u were right on one subject. Bush had a great 1st 6 years until 2006. what happened then? The democrat congress took over right? The nightmares in office that don't read a dang thing before they sign it. Include ruppersberger in that also. The goofs that passed the infamous stimulus that stimulated all their campaign supporters only. The omnibus that was a disaster and their pork was humungous especially Hawaii. Obama birthplace.. GE the media that lied for obama don't pay taxes and give full control of the market.. Find out whose doing md windmills..

Paul how bout calling this affair quits. I won't respond to you and you keep my name out of your mouth .. I am no fan of obama and his democrat congress or omalley .. so in the future leave me out of your conversations. I'd go to another patch but it seems like you troll often and people just don't like you anywhere. Hope you smarten up but i think your grandpa ways won't think of it...

I agree that water-boarding has resulting in preventing American deaths, and provided valueable information that lead to finding OBL. I also believe that Eric Holder is the worst AG in my lifetime. I am disgusted by my president bowing to foreign leaders!

Well, if I can't state my opinion, then let me re-phrase:
Waterboarding has saved American lives and obtained intel that led us to OBL.
Eric Holder is the worst AG in my lifetime.
Obama bows to foreign leaders.

Ehrlich raised as many fees as he could. O'Malley is raising as many taxes AND fees as he can. The Maryland state government quite obviously spends TOO FREAKING MUCH.

This might be momentarily about a Democratic governor with a stereotypical tax and spend mentality, but it's symptomatic of a larger problem: This is about government being so large and having its hands in so many aspects of our lives that it can no longer sustain itself with reasonable taxation. It's time to reverse this trend.

OMG 233 comments later and there is finally a new one that is actually about the issue of over taxation where this all began in the first place. Thank you circadia.

So Paul, you would not use waterboarding, even if it meant we could extract information to prevent an attack on an American elementary school?

I'm so glad you are not in a position of power in law enforcement or the military!

Oh wait, that's my opinion and I'm not allowed to express it here.

I would not. Your premise is that torture works. We have better means. It is a fact that torture does not work, it is simply torture and the tortured will tell you anything they think you want to hear.

You are entitled to your opinion, I was asking you for facts to support it, sadly you continue to have none. Opinions are cheap, everyone has one. They are respected opinions when supported by evidence.

My 2 cents on torture. Torture has a specific, legal meaning, Bamboo shoots (sp) under finger nails, hanging from your thumbs ect. ect. I THINK water boarding is not legally torture, very uncomfortable and psychologically disturbing, but I DON'T THINK it is legally torutre. I know standing for extended periods of time and being photographed with underwear on your head IS NOT torture. John McCain, an UNQUESTIONED war hero is against water boarding. If I could meet him I would ask "Did Torture work on you?" If his answer was YES, then I would suggest if it worked on him, it would work on almost anybody. If his answer was NO, then I would suggest most people are not as strong as him. Many people believe that if we torture our captured enemies, they will torture us. I suggest, regardless of what we do, they WILL torture us. Many people also say, "It hurts our image abroad". I'm convinced most countries in the world HATE us and I couldn't care less.

OOPS. I left out a vital part. Torture NO, enhanced interrogations ABSOLUTELY.

SPIN. Justifying torture is sad. We always think we are morally better than our enemies. Nah, opinions like these only justify what they think about us.

PS, water boarding has been defined as torture for a very long time.

Have you ever heard of a thing called the Geneva Convention?

You guys remind me of workers in the basement of a 200 year old building thats about to be restored... lookin at the cracks in the foundation , tryin to figure out where to start, knowin full well that SOMETHING must be done. Many of those great old buildings had no footers... so... until the points of failure can be agreed on and accepted, the focus needed for the restoration to begin will remain In the cobwebs of the basement...shackles and all...

What happened here we have went from gas tax to waterboarding. Really guys back to the topic

What? America is hated in the world? Pray tell, why.

You can only talk about rising taxes so much before it gets boring. I think it is good that we can diversify our subject matter in our discussions on this website. We all know that the government is spending our money without our permission on certain things. Most are a bunch of pocket lining crooks. That goes for Washington D.C. to different state governments. As far as waterboarding being torture, am I supposed to feel sorry for terrorists who have no qualms about showing an American citizen being beheaded on the Internet? Not hardly. I am not saying we should stoop to their level, but waterboarding is child's play compared to what the Muslim terrorists have done even to their own people.

The day that I hear this governor has called in his advisers and a bi-partisan (preferably NON-partisan) group including folks from outside of Annapolis (i.e. potentially honest), takes one arm and clears everything from his desk, looks at the group and tells them, “Folks, this budget is a mess. We’re spending far more than we collect and the answer is NOT to simply put the screws to already struggling Maryland workers. Nobody goes home until we figure out how to get spending under control.”… THAT will be the day I find some respect for him. Unfortunately, he only wants to concentrate on illegals in college and gay marriage. Nice that he’s looking out for a handful of people... Then again, he’s obviously a liar… I’m no genius, but if: “cuts in state spending total nearly $7.5 billion since O'Malley took office, the governor said.” -why do they need to add this or any tax? What exactly does a rich white lawyer know about “tough choices”?

You hit the nail on the head Amazed! The illegal and gay marriage agenda is for his future political plans, which is no surprise to me what it is.

He is a lame duck Gov, so whatever he decides to do now really don't matter. If everyone would educate themselves, not vote on party lines, term limits or vote out the ones who have made a career in Annapolis and lastly STOP SPENDING AND MAKE CUTS none of this would be necessary.

What is an illegal marriage? Is that like bigamy--having one wife too many? Mencken said that monogamy is the same thing.

Watch it, too, Mr. Conservative Conscience, when you start talking about nails and heads.

Andy Eisner,

If you meant "Illegal Alien" and Gay Marraige agenda, I agree completely. Govenor O'Malley doesn't have to worry about being re-elected so he can force his "Liberal" agenda on us, then include it on his resume when he takes Barb Mikulski's job or tries for a job in Washington D.C.

There it is Marty!

Yes!

Not only is O'Malley trying to force all that down our throats, now you have OBama threatening to cut off funds to Catholic hospitals which don't allow abortions to be performed within the hospital. What happened to separation of church and state? If the church doesn't want to allow abortions because it is against church beliefs and doctrine, who in the hell does Obama think he is to force them to go against their beliefs?

Obama won the Catholic vote over McCain in 2008 by 10% (55%-45%). He will back down on this before election day but I hope the Catholics "Remember in November "

The Catholic Church hierarchy surrendered the high ground when they hid and moved around child molesters and rapists
================================================
Does EVERYONE associated with The Churches, Schools and Charity Programs forfeit "The High Ground". I think your doing it again, Paul. The children molested are the exception, NOT the rule. You shouldn't CONDEMN an entire faith by the dispicable actions of a few. The Arch Dioceses was punished, (and rightly so) for what they did. They were sued, and paid for their mistakes, and are continuing to go to GREAT LENGTHS to prevent it from happening again. Everyone has to go through a training program in order to volunteer or work at a Catholic school or church. The Program is called STAND.

Marty, read what I said, the "Catholic Church hierarchy surrendered the high ground". I said nothing about anything else. You say they wre punished? Last time I checked, what certain members of the "hierarchy" did was criminal. So the Church suffered monetary damages. An untold number of the "hierarchy" should be in jail in my opinion.

I agree, some of those dispicable people should be in jail. You said hierarchy. I asked does that apply to everyone? I posted percentages about Catholic Voters + you responded about Hierarchy.

Using "Recent Headlines" as an example, I suggest "Teachers sexually assaulting children is MUCH more pevelant in public schools than in Catholic Schools". Those teachers WILL go to jail, but shouldn't the people who hired them be sued for hundreds of millions of Dollars like the Arch Dioceses was?

Human beings are human beings.... some are good, some not so good, and some bad..
Doesn't matter, the occupation or perceived calling.

Higher gas taxes are not fair... there will be many unnecessary hardships as a result.
I believe that more harm than good will come as a result.... CLEAN UP YOUR ACT GOV.

Frank, Obama has passion for the unborn, if their illegals!

Right John. Obama and O'Malley have feelings and a warm and fuzzy feeling in their hearts towards illegals. They represent more Democratic votes. To hell with the legally born American citizens.

Paul, apology accepted. O'bama needs to crack down on the illegals coming over the boarder.
To change the subject a little, what do you think of the "Fast & Furious" fiasco?

Fast & Furious although the motive was good, a simply stupid idea. Giving guns away to catch crooks? Dumb.

Reagan sold missiles to Saddam Hussein and he didn't go to jail.
ROFLYAO

Why is Obama suing Arizona; because Arizona wants to stop the flow of illegals through their state. There was an article in the Sun, telling of an illegal that as been sent back 14 times.

IMO, it is about turf, it has nothing to do with wanting to allow illegals to cross the border. I believe the federal government's position is simple, Arizona does not have the right to control immigration under the law. The logic is once the Feds give up any right under the constitution to the States that will lead to major problems. I have a feeling every President would defend that position.

Thanks JustABill!!!!!

As far as the states enforcing immigration laws which the Federal government is supposedly enforcing, why would it be a problem for the states to have similar laws prohibiting illegal immigration? Murder I would think is also against Federal Laws. So since murder is a Federally enforceable crime, does that mean if murder occurs in your state that the state government can't prosecute the murderer?
One other thing, I don't care who's feelings I hurt if I think they are intentionally trying to harm or injure our country and the American citizens. Besides, the only rudeness most politicians recognize is when they get kicked out of office by their constituents.

The Constitution is what the argument is about. The SCOTUS will rule. Immigration issues have been considered a Fed issue before.

Murder is generally considered a state rights issue, not a federal one, unless they attempt a civil rights issue. I understand what you don't care about, but rule of law is the rule of law.

Paul, This is my last reply on this article because it has clearly gone way beyond the subject of the actual article. Yes, I did read your responses to the actual topic and just as your responses to all the other topics that have been added to this thread you have brought very little more than liberal rhetoric to the table yet you accuse those who oppose you, myself included of lying or repeating spin from Fox news and such. The few links you have posted to support your opinions or false claims are not facts but simply other opinions or articles from ultra liberal sources so they hold less water than a coffee filter. You say you have no agenda when all one has to do is look at your posts in this thread along with your history of posts and they can clearly deduce you have an extreme left liberal agenda that borders on socialist.

All the liberal spin in the world cannot avoid the fact that this gas tax hike hurts the very same poor, working, and middle class citizens of Maryland that Democrats portray themselves to be working for but it is blatantly obvious that simply is not the reality. If you want to debate the actual issue feel free to have at it but if you wish to perpetuate the fallacious rhetoric that has nothing to do with the real issue then please just save it for another time.

JustABill, I applaud your sentiments. You have hit the nail right on the head with many of the thoughts you have expressed. You are clear and concise in your evaluation of certain agendas expressed on this website. I forget the actual quotation, but there is a quotation which says something to the effect about certain people being so blind because they refuse to see the truth in front of them.

I would venture to say, most of the folks that agree with O'mallys tax & spend craziness are all sucking off the teat of the government. They do not want to give up whats being handed to the for free.....

Paul, I agree with you about the two edged sword. You have every right to your opinion and beliefs and opinions. Obviously no one is going to agree with any and all opinions posted on here completely. As long as the disagreements don't reach the level of personal insults, all should be cool. I will sat that at times I can become very passionate when I feel that people are so Bullheaded that they refuse to admit when they are shown clear evidence that they may be wrong and yet try to obfuscate the truth with clever BS replies.