What it is ain't exactly clear”…Buffalo Springfield
Something is going on with David Vitter and the Louisiana Republican Party.
Suddenly, U.S. Senator David Vitter has turned on President Bush regarding an issue of really little consequences in Louisiana—immigration reform.
He has been hitting national and local talk shows, after talk shows denouncing the Prez on immigration..
Next to the Iraq War, immigration reform is the area many national pundits have set as the marker for Bush’s legacy.The vote on compromise legislation occurs this week and Vitter is saying a loud NO.
Suddenly Senator Vitter has become the David Vitter, I once knew.He had been a master at getting the attention of the media and slamming the likes of Governor Foster, Governor Edwards, Sidney Bartholomew on a variety of issues.He was the media darling with his voice and face making almost every news show.
Very few could capture the media’s attention better than he could. But, once Katrina rolled in and destroyed house after house, infrastructure after infrastructure, he became voiceless.There were few news conferences, or media circuses which was his brand.He did not use to media to plead the case for Louisiana.Instead, he attacked those within Louisiana who were emotional about the President’s role in not following up on his Jackson Square pledge.He berated Sen. Mary Landrieu publicly.He was the author of legislation that mandated Louisiana governments to put up money as part of the federal match.He was the UnKatrina Louisiana US Senator.
Even Republican Richard Baker of Baton Rouge pleaded his case with the Baker plan.But, David Vitter, as US Senator failed to push President Bush on the most important issue in Louisiana history—rebuilding the state.He failed to call news conferences and plead the case nationally for this area to the same extent he is now doing now on immigration reform.
Why is he now so suddenly “camera-ready”?
Could it be that Vitter is eyeing for a spot as Vice President Nominee should Rudy Giuliani get the Republican Party nod?Vitter was early in supporting the The Big Rudy Apple.Giuliani could use a Southern conservative to bolster his perceived weaknesses as a conservative bonafide.Yet, very few people nationwide have even heard of the junior Senator from Louisiana, so getting face time on national programs would certainly help his own personal career.
It really just does not add up that Vitter has been so mute during Katrina, so protective of President Bush over the past two years on an issue so important to this state, yet, on legislation that means so little to Louisiana, he is now becoming a national and local media darling.
But the irony and mystery does not end here.Now, the Louisiana Republican Party is distancing themselves from Bush, but for years, Georgie could do no wrong.
The LAGOP never uttered a negative word against President Bush at any time when Louisiana teetered post-Katrina.But now, theLouisiana Republican Party is backing Vitter.Yet, instead of slamming Bush, its Chairman, Roger Villere is painting the Democrats as the “meanies” on legislation that is clearly front and center of the President’s agenda.
Yesterday, the Louisiana Republican Party sent out an email quoting Chairman Roger Villere who said, “The battle against amnesty is ongoing and Senator David Vitter needs our help. On Tuesday, Senate Democratic Leader Reid and Sen. Ted Kennedy will once again seek to jam a secret amnesty bill through the United States Senate. Despite enormous pressure to give in, Senator Vitter has been one of the courageous few fighting against the Kennedy immigration bill.
Since this fight began, we’ve received daily calls, faxes, emails and letters expressing strong opposition to any immigration bill that would grant amnesty to illegal aliens. It is clear to me that the heart of our party, the grassroots, is united in the belief that our laws must be enforced and border security is the primary concern.
I couldn’t agree more. We are nation of immigrants, but we are also a nation founded on the principle of the preeminence of the rule of law. All of our laws must be enforced fairly and equally. A self-appointed group of elite senators and special interest groups should never be able to trump this long-standing principle.
I, as chairman of the Republican Party of Louisiana, am standing strong with Senator Vitter against any immigration bill that would grant amnesty to millions of illegal aliens. I’d like to ask you to do the same. Please call Senator Vitter’s office and let him know that you are thankful for his courageous stand against the amnesty bill.
More importantly, we must contact Senator Mary Landrieu and ask her to follow Senator Vitter and stand against the Senate’s second secret amnesty bill, S.1639. The cloture vote is expected to be held on tomorrow afternoon and undoubtedly will be razor close. Any senator who votes in favor of cloture is voting to bring this legislation back to life. Call Senator Landrieu and tell her to vote against cloture. This is the vote that matters. Any contrary vote she or any other senator casts later is nothing more than dishonest political gamesmanship.
There are a number of undecided Republican Senators that need to hear from you: Richard Burr (N.C.), Kit Bond (Mo.), Gordon Smith (Ore.), Thad Cochran (Miss), Norm Coleman (Min.), Orrin Hatch (Utah), and Bob Bennett (Utah).
You are the heart of our party. I’m standing with you in this important battle. Let’s make our voice known and help Senator Vitter win this important battle.” (Italics: Bayoubuzz)
On Saturday, President Bush said “I urge members of both parties to support comprehensive immigration reform. By working together, we can pass this good bill -- and build an immigration system worthy of our great Nation”.
So, who is really playing “dishonest gamesmanship”?This is President Bush’s bill.His name is all over it.He pleaded with the Demos to bring it up for vote after it failed.In the Louisiana GOP press release and statement by its chairman, nowhere did they mention “the President”, or “Bush” or even “George”.Instead, they linked the legislation to the GOP punching bags, Ted Kennedy and Harry Reid.
Over the past two years, Louisiana clearly could have used the strong support of Senator Vitter and the Louisiana GOP to right the wrongs of the Administration concerning Katrina.It did not happen.There was no outrage from Vitter or the state GOP when Bush mentioned Katrina as a blip in his January 2006 State of the Union speech.There was no outrage from Vitter or the State GOP when Bush failed to mentioned Katrina in his January 2007 State of the Union speech.There has not been an unkind word from the US Senator or State Republicans in getting Bush off the dime to bring home the dough for a state which had been on life support and whose economy is suspect at best.
It is time for David Vitter to decide if building Louisiana is more important than national political spotlight on a non-Louisiana issue.It is time for the Louisiana GOP to stop taking orders from Senator David Vitter. It is time for David Vitter and the state GOP to put “Louisiana first” and not play national politics when our people need the basics.It is time for Senator Vitter to not play Republican Presidential politics but to help those parishes in dire need of basic infrastructure.
It is time for “honest talk” from those who represent us in Washington and those who represent the State Republican Party in Louisiana.At least Vitter has had the courage and the honesty to denounce the President on this issue of immigration reform.The state party pretends the Administration has no involvement whatsoever.
Speaking of parties, what’s going on with the Louisiana Democratic Party?Its web site sports logos for both Boasso and Foster Campbell for Governor?If it wants to be neutral on the Governor’s race, that’s their decision.Yet, the pretty face of John Edwards is posted right front center on the La Demo home page since he is the featured speaker at their major Thomas Jefferson-Andrew Jackson Dinner next month. Why Edwards?Why not Clinton or Obama or any of the other Democrats running for President?
Clearly, if their web site is an indication, the La Demos is showing no favoritism in its Governor’s pick.But, on the Presidential race, it should have invited a non-candidate such as Howard Dean, or someone else who could draw a crowd, yet, not be perceived as the state’s LouisianaDemocratic candidate of choice.On this issue too, the Louisiana Democratic Party is working in strange ways.
Again, speaking of parties, the Louisiana Republican Party will honor those Republican legislators who have served this state and who are term limited.Some incredible people will be honored.The list includes names such as James David Cain, Senator Ken Hollis, Craig Romero, Arthur Lentini, Robert Barham, Steve Scalise and many more.
The Louisiana Republican Party has come a long way over the past few decades thanks to Dave Treen, Billy Nungesser and yes, without doubt, Roger Villere.Obviously, this event is to honor the Republicans but Bayoubuzz would like to take time to thank all legislators who have served their time—Republicans and Democrats.
Representing Louisiana has not been easy for any legislator in the past few decades and particularly over the past two years.We are quick to criticize our state leaders, but every once in a while, we should remember that they do give of themselves, take plenty of political heat and work hard in serving their constituency.As the legislative session comes to a close, let’s thank those who are moving on for their services rendered.Term limits will be painful since we do lose a tremendous amount of institutional knowledge, but, the goal has been end lifelong political fiefdoms.Term limits was good move although it will not be without its pain.Ironically, the leading voice in the term limit revolution was then, State Representative, David Vitter, who got on the media soapbox and helped revolutionized our state political system.Which shows that the now US Senator was and can be a strident voice to serve the state--when he wants to be.
Destroying people and their families seem to be a sport to you. Who is the next person that you want to destroy? I hope that you don't have too many skeltons in your closet. Oops, I forgot, destroying people SELLS papers and advertisements, etc.
Written by fwp
on 7/29/2007
"Yet, very few people nationwide have even heard of the junior Senator from Louisiana, so getting face time on national programs would certainly help his own personal career."
Thay all know him NOW!
Written by AB
on 7/15/2007
Could his phone number in a certain little black book have anything to do with it?
Written by sandee
on 7/9/2007
Clearly, David Vitter is trying to run for Vice President. Why else would he endorse Giuliani? He sees a New York-Louisiana GOP ticket in his dreams! Vitter has said social conservatism is the most important issue in America, yet he supports a social liberal to be President of the United States! His involvement with the presidential contest this early may not be helpful to Louisiana. What if Fred Thompson or Mitt Romney win the nomination and get elected? What kind of influence will Vitter have when Louisiana needs something? Shouldn't our junior senator use his office for the state first, putting his own ambitions aside even for just a while?
Written by The Pelican Watchdog
on 7/6/2007
I am back had to go to Texas and see my baby brother.
Written by Ole Jarhead
on 7/5/2007
OJ - Man, where have you been? The wolves are at the door! PATRIOT WARRIOR.
Written by PATRIOT WARRIOR
on 6/27/2007
OK OK lets get back to the sbject at hand, talking about the hypocrisy of the dems and their leaders.
Written by Ole Jarhead
on 6/27/2007
You don't know just how apt that name is for me! I am an awkward bungler big-time!
Written by Tee Dub
on 6/27/2007
"DUB" - I just checked a definition of "DUB" in the new Webster's. Interesting - "awkward and unskilled". Very appropriate! PATRIOT WARRIOR
Written by PATRIOT WARRIOR
on 6/27/2007
Hi "DUB" - Then, would you say the ACLU is a friend of most Americans? PATRIOT WARRIOR.
Written by PATRIOT WARRIOR
on 6/27/2007
Why it's quite simple, really, a "tee dub" is a little dub. And while I am not a card-carrying member of the ACLU, I am not stupid enough to believe that they are "enemies" of the USA.
Written by Tee Dub
on 6/27/2007
TEE DUB........curious, what is a "TEE DUB"? Sounds like a golfing term! Thanks, I do smile a lot, but not when USA enemies such as the ACLU try and force their anarchistic ways on the majority of Americans. Are you a card-carrying member of the ACLU? You sound like a typical uptown "elitist"! PATRIOT WARRIOR.
Written by PATRIOT WARRIOR
on 6/27/2007
And PATRIOT WARRIOR, each time I read one of your posts I am reminded of puppies and kittens and sunshine and rainbows. Why, you must smile all the time, you happy fellow! And you are never angry or condescending, no. Not your style. And my, your reading list is so enlightened - "The Enemy Within: Saving America from the Liberal Assault on Our Schools, Faith, and Military" is certain to be a classic in the year 2460. Entire doctoral dissertations will have been written on it, and I can imagine that every English Department will have a Michael Savage specialist on its faculty.
Written by Tee Dub
on 6/27/2007
Have you ever taken notice, that Liberal Democrats have two main attributes - Anger & Arrogance? Their self-righteousness makes you want to "expel one's cookies". Take the ACLU's Joe Cook - have you ever detected even a tiny crease of a smile on that anarchists face? Always scowling, and never has anything positive to offer. He, and the ACLU are just as much of a threat to this nation as is - "THE TALIBAN"! Ever read the book - "DEATH FROM WITHIN"? It is a shocking expose of deep-threatening organizations such as the ACLU that are slowly helping to destroying this country's moral fiber. The worst however, are the - US FEDERAL (LIBERAL) JUDGES! They don't just interprete the laws, they make them, and then "ram" them down the throats of the majority - anarchism! Folks, you can just sit there nibbling on your little designer "bon bons", and sipping organic tea, doing nothing, or....you can make a huge difference by getting off the sofa, and doing something, anything, to overcome the "Enemy from Within". What's that old phrase - "We have seen the enemy, and it is us"? Have a good day, PATRIOT WARRIOR.
Written by PATRIOT WARRIOR
on 6/27/2007
Cajun Joe Bobby Jindal was BORN IN LOUISIANA, Baton Rouge 1974 he is a US CITIZEN and a CITIZEN of our state! Your comment about him just arriving a few years ago and about fences was WRONG and it was RACIST! SHAME ON YOU SHAME ON YOU!!!!!!!!!!
Written by Ole Jarhead
on 6/26/2007
Dear Stephen,
This note is to remind you of the article you posted not to long ago berating those of my political stripe for taking you to task item by ITEM when you say FOOLISH and well out and out WRONG things ie Moses never saw the promised land (And by the way I was wrong to say Exodus it was in Deuteronomy)YES HE DID!! DO YOUR RESEARCH!!!! You called us .. what was that?...... OHH THE EXTREME RIGHT WING. Well EXCUUUUSSSSSEEEE ME but your HYPOCRISY is showing!!! just DAYS ago you treated us to your story of having people tell you to your FACE that they can't get jobs because the Hispanics are taking the jobs, undercutting them I think is ther term you used! NOw do you think, or are you so naive to think that all those "Hispanics" are here LEGALLY? HOW DARE YOU SAY THAT THIS ISSUE IS "Of little Consequence" TO OUR STATE!! I can take you to task item by item and once again show you how wrong you are but I am done beating you like a drum, your a LEFTIE Stephen admit it and go on! Your bias shows when you call the President of the United States "Georgie.. HOW DISRESPECTFUL!
Written by Ole Jarhead
on 6/26/2007
Thanks for calling out Vitter. He has repeatedly thrown obstacles in Louisiana's path to recovery. Some, like his opposition to the construction of a new teaching hospital in New Orleans, are outgrowths of his ultra-conservative, "limited" government view. Others, like insisting that Louisiana carry a bigger burden from Katrina than any other state, past or future, were undoubtedly intended to make life miserable for the Democratic governor and open the door for Republican Jindal. As much as I may disagree with it, I can't fault him for pursuing his ideology. However, to kick Louisiana when its down in order to further the political career of himself and his pals smacks of the most despicable strain of political opportunism. Let Vitter be Guliani's VP candidate. Maybe we can end two careers with one vote, and do something good for the country while we're at it.
Written by David
on 6/26/2007
I think calling immigration reform a non-Louisiana issue is short-sighted. The bill before Congress will cost our country billions and impact every state in the union. I also agree with Mr. Hardu - you should try and report all sides on this issue. David Vitter has done a lot for our state. I believe he is currently speaking for his constituents who have let him know they are against the immigration bill.
Written by Anonymous
on 6/26/2007
Thanks Stephen for reminding us of the phony and self-promoting David Vitter. It makes me miss Russell Long and Alan Ellender. Those guys would have smashed their way through Washington getting Louisiana the assistance we needed. Instead we got David Vitter (or should I say Spanky from the Little Rascals). How awful!!! And now we are being told because Spanky has annointed Bobby Jindal, I guess that means we can now expect to see Alfalfa in our face for four years. How awful. Ahem...not yet!!! Speaking of immigration, though, I find it amazing that Bobby Jindal voted to build the fence on the border. I wonder if he was for fences when he and his parents just arrived in Louisiana a few years ago. How arrogant! No, Alfalfa...not yet!!!
Written by Cajun Joe
on 6/26/2007
Stephen:
Clearly you have developed a flawed view of Senator Vitter's leading role in directing more resources to our region. A partial list of his successes would include Flood Control, Coastal Erosion, Transportation, Greater Share of Oil & Gas Revenue, among others.....Senator Vitter failure to be in lock step with the most unpopular President in decades does not strike me as a bad thing....If you consider yourself a journalist, please make sure your left-leaning bias is less apparent.....I generally enjoy your presentation and unabashed advocacy for our troubled region, however, chiding the junior Senator from Louisiana for speaking his conscience does not seem fair.
Written by James Hardy
on 6/26/2007
Stephen, can you please contact me regarding this article - 225-336-4155
Thank you, Julie
Written by Julie Vezinot - La Democratic Party
on 6/26/2007
“There's something happening here
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