I noticed that Plunderbund had some comments about the Ohio members of Congress who voted against the 9/11 First Responders Health Bill. I thought I'd do some digging to see what these "NO!" voters may have said in the past about those who risked their lives to respond to the tragedy of September 11th.
As noted by Plunderbund and the Clerk of the House, Rep. Bob Latta voted against the bill. From Latta's congressional website, we have this statement released by Latta on September 11, 2008:
“Today is a day of prayer as we remember those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. As we mourn the tragic loss of life seven years ago today, our thoughts and prayers go out to the families still grieving. We also recall the heroic acts of patriotism on that day and those who died in service to their fellow man. The memory of those individuals will always hold a special place in the hearts of all Americans.”
Apparently, their memory and sacrifice doesn't hold such a special place for Bob Latta (OH-5th).
Wait! Rep. Bob Latta isn't the only hypocrite. Republican Rep. Jim Jordan (OH-4th) has also offered empty support for 9/11 first responders (see 9/11/08 statement by Jordan).
There is more! Republican Rep. Steven LaTourette also voted against the James Zagroda 9/11 Health and Compensation Act. LaTourette sponsored a resolution on October 2, 2002 in the 107th Congress (see Congressional Record H. Con. Res. 495: Supporting the goals and ideals of National Safety Forces Appreciation Week) to honor "....the selfless dedication of police and other law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel..."
We can conclude that LaTourette is great at creating resolutions, giving speeches, and saying that the honors the work, dedication, and sacrifice of our first responders. Latourette is unwilling to vote to help these first responders.
And finally......
Rep. Jean Schmidt (OH-2nd) recounted the events of September 11th in a speech in Sardinia, Ohio (NewsDemocrat):
...Americans responded courageously to the attacks and the rescue and recovery efforts that followed. She made a point to compliment police, firefighters and EMS workers, as well as the men and women who make up the voluntary military charged with protecting the US and ensuring it continued security.
"They are our heroes," Schmidt said....
Once again we have an example of a Republican hypocrite who supports first responders only in speeches, not in voting for legislation that actually helps them. If she really believed they were heroes should would have honored them with action instead of just empty rhetoric.
>>>>>>> Wow! No one must want those "free" tickets for the Kasich inauguration ceremony. Kasich has to have his ceremony inside to (1) protect himself from the cold elements, (2) keep unsavory members of the public away, (3) limit the number of people who will actually hear him speak. Various websites have been declaring that the tickets will go fast, but they are still available.
The Kasich extravaganza will have a special event honoring his wife. Tickets are $500 each and will benefit a charity. Unfortunately, the name of the charity has not been disclosed. I'm hoping that someone in the media asks.
The inauguration balls are very expensive and there has been whispering about the Kasich elitism on display already.
With Lt. Gov.-elect Mary Taylor holding an event at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, is this an indication that she will once again work near home in a "satellite office" like she did as State Auditor?