Are Blue Dogs a solution or part of larger problem?
Geographically distributed from Maine to Hawaii, 35 Democratic congressmen/women meet every Wednesday morning as Blue Dog Democrats to develop moderate and pragmatic solutions to national problems. More importantly, Blue Dogs build the necessary alliances with Republicans to impact legislation. They are not the Clintonian-flavored "New Democrats" (liberal on social issues/centrist on economic matters) but are conservative on fiscal affairs and most maintain anti-gun control, pro-defense and pro-life voting records. Although there are differences (i.e., labor and free-trade issues), the Blue Dogs stick together. "We are the most cohesive caucus in Congress today," observes Matheson. Consequently, the Blue Dogs are often the swing votes on important legislative items and can mediate compromises between the political extremes.
Political pundits have noticed this emergence of power.
Conservative organizations, frustrated with irresponsible Federal budgetary practices, heap praise upon Blue Dog proposals. The Heritage Foundation (whose members, it is rumored, are not allowed to use their left hand or make left-hand turns) complimented the Blue Dogs for articulating a "strong, serious proposal to restrain runaway spending." Even that mercenary of the far right, Paul Weyrich (chairman of the Free Congress Foundation) was forced to endorse common-sense suggestions from these practical Democrats. The Blue Dogs are demanding audits of government agencies, a mandatory roll call vote on legislation exceeding $50 million and elimination of the automatic increases to the national debt without accountability.
Left-wing groups are worried about the Blue Dog influence. Web sites and PACs have been established with the sole purpose to defeat these "problem children" Democrats in primary elections. Obviously, the Blue Dogs are a constant source of irritation to House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. However, she still courts the mavericks because she needs their votes and campaign assistance. The Blue Dog PAC raises over $1 million every election cycle to help compatriots.
The origin of their label is subject to dispute. Some claim they derive their name from artist George Rodrigue famous for using a small blue dog in his paintings that were hung throughout the offices of two Blue Dog charter members, Representatives Billy Tauzin and Jimmy Hayes. Others believe the name describes the reaction of Democratic hard-liners, "who choke until they turn blue," to these moderates.
Comments
- Plenty of fantasy films for families 7:22 p.m.
- So you think you're the next Rowling? 7:21 p.m.
- 'Bomber' is about more than candy 7:21 p.m.
- Tips for getting published 7:21 p.m.
- Galleries 7:21 p.m.
- Duet of artists at Meyer Gallery 7:21 p.m.
- Spain's armor on view in D.C. 7:21 p.m.
- Stage auditions 7:21 p.m.
- 'As You Like It's' Parrett is a joy 7:21 p.m.
- 'Star spangled Girl' among openings 7:21 p.m.
- Jazz brass debate Millsap match
- LDS seminary principal arrested
- 2 men cited on LDS plaza
- Jazz finances not quite so bleak
- Logan canal breaks; 3 to 4 missing
- Utahns among Texans' investors
- Reactions on Boozer speculation
- Millsap offer: $10.3M up front
- Cash for Clunkers to get rolling soon
- HBO defends U. logo use in 'Love'
- LDS seminary principal arrested
332 - Jazz brass debate Millsap match
193 - 2 men cited on LDS plaza
165 - Jazz talking Boozer trade?
141 - Bronco collecting a galaxy of recruits
141 - Blazers may offer Millsap a contract
124 - Stadium of Fire flag burning was fake
101 - Fairness of BCS debated
83 - Letters: Single-payer system best
76 - Services bids farewell to Jackson
70
By now you've probably read about the investigation that showed just how...
Sen. Scott Jenkins was name-checked by Jay Leno Monday night during his...
Jerry's system doesn't win championships. Phil's triangle Offense does. 10...
Glad your not coming to visit us-- we have enough radicals and shallow people...
2 or more years, Millsap is not worth more than the MLE. If you look at the...
We have been praying for you ever since we heard. We are so sorry for you.
I don't believe the Jazz will sign Price. They didn't want him last year....
Why does everyone think that Portland signed Millsap to hurt Utah? Makes no...
Why does everyone think that Portland signed Millsap to hurt Utah? Makes no...
This began as an issue of private property rights. In response to a request...
How ignorant so many people are who continue to make comments here. No one...
Ultra Dem--I don't see eminent domain wouldn't work--unless you mean...



You can be the first to comment on this story.