Here are a few Virginia (and national) news headlines, political and otherwise, for Monday, February 25. Also, check out the video of Gov. McDonnell arguing that putting 50% of the cuts in the sequester on defense is wrong. Of course, I’d add that the cuts on the domestic side would be equally wrong, or even more so, as they cut into crucial programs that keep our economy going, that keep Americans safe, and that make crucial investments in our future. I’d also add that Gov. McDonnell would be well served to spend his energies telling his own party to stop being absolutists and to agree on a balanced approach to our federal budget issues.
*White House details impact of cuts on states
*The miracle on guns (“Will sensible firearm regulation finally come to pass?”)
*Editorial: Immigration compromise (“A leaked plan from the White House is the best or worst thing for real reform.”)
*GOP govs to Hill Republicans: ‘Step up’
*How federal budget cuts will affect the state (“The White House outlines cuts to funding for education, law enforcement, public health, national parks and environmental protection if a deal is not struck by Friday.”)
*Governors warn budget cuts would ‘wipe out’ D.C.-area jobs
*McDonnell’s post-adjournment letter to the General Assembly
*Some delegates on Medicaid panel skeptical of expansion (This is worrisome. For starters, why on earth is super-conservative “Democrat” Johnny Joannou on this commission?!?)
*In Virginia and Washington, Republicans back tax hikes (“The state transportation plan just passed. Congress backed a deal with Obama on a boost for the wealthy.”)
*McDonnell, Kaine Urge Congressional Action on Sequester
*McDonnell to Review ‘Hybrid Tax’
*A Cavalier Fiasco (“Virginia Republicans try to elect the next Democratic Governor.” Also, see the quotes from Sen. Chap Petersen on what he calls a “grotesque” deal.)
*Editorial: Playing doctor again in Richmond (“Legislators are once again inserting themselves between you and your doctor.”)
*Two Dem legislators urge McDonnell to nix $100 hybrid fee (“The centerpiece of the effort from Sen. Adam Ebbin of Alexandria and Del. Scott Surovell of Fairfax County, both Democrats, is the NoHybridTax.com Web site with a petition for people who oppose that surcharge.”)
*State is told “complex issues” surround new U.S. 460
*Parking space spat built into Virginia budget (How petty can you get?!?)
*When plates are bumper stickers
*Review: At the Oscars, the same old song and dance (I’m happy to say I didn’t waste a minute of my life watching this.)
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