With polls and public reactions indicating considerable opposition to Snyder’s tax and budget plans, Macomb Republicans have noticeably backpedaled away from the GOP governor.
The tax on pensions seems to be a particular sticking point, though the voting patterns yesterday indicated that Macomb has become a hotbed of Republican opposition to Snyder.
On the key Senate vote to approve Snyder’s tax shift – the tilt to benefit business and raise taxes on seniors and the working poor – both Macomb Republican senators, Jack Brandenburg and Tory Rocca, voted “no.” They were two of seven GOP senators who balked, forcing Lt. Gov. Brian Calley to break a 19-19 tie and keep the bill alive.
Rocca, of Sterling Heights, also voted against the Snyder cuts in K-12 education and university funding.
And when the final vote was held in the House last night on the tax plan, the five Macomb Republicans, except Rep. Jeff Farrington of Utica, participated in the GOP mutiny and joined Democrats in opposition.
So, four of the six maverick Republicans were from Macomb. Just like the old days.
The bill passed on a 56-52 vote, with Reps. Tony Forlini of Harrison Township, Ken Goike of Ray Township, Pete Lund of Shelby Township and Andrea LaFontaine of Richmond voting against the governor.
So, four of the six maverick Republicans were from Macomb. Just like the old days.
The bill passed on a 56-52 vote, with Reps. Tony Forlini of Harrison Township, Ken Goike of Ray Township, Pete Lund of Shelby Township and Andrea LaFontaine of Richmond voting against the governor.
I don’t know if the EPIC/MRA poll exerted any influence here, but if these reps are practicing finger-to-the-wind politics, Snyder may have some serious political problems here in Macomb County.
I don't think it is a "hotbed of GOP opposition". It is quite possible that during those caucus meetings it was determined which of the (R) senators would be allowed to oppose the bill. Calculated opposition with the understanding that there would still be enough votes to push the vote through. Just sayin'.