GusWatch

Rep. Bilirakis: Stop Taxpayer Funding of ACORN

2009-09-26T17:49:00.001-07:00

Capitol Offense: Where Is Congress on the Public Option

2009-06-17T08:39:00.000-07:00

Today, I'm joining with Democracy for America, Health Care for America Now and Open Left in supporting the Stand With Dr. Dean Campaign. The idea is to put pressure on our members of Congress to find out where they stand on health care reform and whether or not they support Dr. Howard Dean's call for a reform that includes a public option. See Dean's statement here:

Chris Bowers has suggested that we use crowdsourcing techniques to find out where everyone in Congress stands, which also helps pressure them to take the right stand. So here's the plan:

1. Contact your member of Congress via e-mail and ask them the following questions:

1--Do you support a public healthcare option as part of healthcare reform?
2--If so, do you support a public healthcare option that is available on day one?
3--Do you support a public healthcare option that is national, available everywhere, and accountable to Congress?
4--Do you support a public healthcare option that can bargain for rates from providers and big drug companies?

Don't call, do this via e-mail because we want a written response. If they are vague in answering these questions, contact them again and ask for clarification. If they don't answer you, keep contacting them (and have your friends and family contact them) until they do give you the answers.

2. Forward the responses to me at quinnelk@hotmail.com. We're going to publish an official response from as many of our members as possible so we know where everyone is. And we'll keep a track of who isn't responding so we know who to put pressure on. Similarly, once we find out who is on board and who isn't, we know who to put further pressure on down the road.

3. If you have your own blog, post the responses there, too. The more public pressure we can put on Congress, the easier we make it for them to do the right thing.

Here is the public contact info for each of our Florida members of Congress:

Rep Gus Bilirakis R FL-9 http://bilirakis.house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=212&Itemid=44

Rep Allen Boyd D FL-2 http://www.house.gov/boyd/zip_authen.html

Rep Corrine Brown D FL-3 http://www.house.gov/corrinebrown/IMA/issue.shtml

Rep Virginia Brown-Waite R FL-5 https://forms.house.gov/brown-waite/IMA/issue_subscribe.htm

Rep Vern Buchanan R FL-13 http://buchanan.house.gov/contact.shtml

Rep Kathy Castor D FL-11 https://forms.house.gov/wyr/welcome.shtml

Rep Ander Crenshaw R FL-4 https://forms.house.gov/wyr/welcome.shtml

Rep Lincoln Diaz-Balart R FL-21 http://diaz-balart.house.gov/index.cfm?FuseAction=Offices.Contact

Rep Mario Diaz-Balart R FL-25 http://www.house.gov/formmariodiaz-balart/ic_zip_auth.htm

Rep Alan Grayson D FL-8 https://forms.house.gov/grayson/contact-form.shtml

Rep Alcee Hastings D FL-23 http://www.alceehastings.house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=104&Itemid=

Rep Ron Klein D FL-22 klein.ron.web@flsenate.gov

Rep Suzanne Kosmas D FL-24 https://forms.house.gov/kosmas/contact-form.shtml

Rep Connie Mack R FL-14 http://mack.house.gov/index.cfm?FuseAction=ContactConnie.ContactForm

Sen Melquiades Martinez R FL http://martinez.senate.gov/public/?p=EmailSenatorMartinez

Rep Kendrick Meek D FL-17 http://kendrickmeek.house.gov/contact1.shtml

Rep John Mica R FL-7 http://www.house.gov/mica/messageform.shtml

Rep Jeff Miller R FL-1 http://jeffmiller.house.gov/index.cfm?FuseAction=Contact.Home

Sen Bill Nelson D FL http://billnelson.senate.gov/contact/email.cfm

Rep Bill Posey R FL-15 http://posey.house.gov/Contact/

Rep Adam Putnam R FL-12 http://adamputnam.house.gov/contact.shtml

Rep Tom Rooney R FL-16 https://forms.house.gov/rooney/contact-form.shtml

Rep Ileana Ros-Lehtinen R FL-18 http://www.house.gov/writerep

Rep Clifford Stearns R FL-6 http://www.house.gov/writerep

Rep Debbie Wasserman Schultz D FL-20 schultz.debbie.web@flsenate.gov

Rep Robert Wexler D FL-19 http://wexler.house.gov/email.shtml

Rep C. W. Bill Young R FL-10 bill.young@mail.house.gov

We'll also post the results of these at the WatchBlogs dedicated to each Republican member and at the Florida Democratic News blog.

You can also sign the petition on health care here.

I'm Kenneth Quinnell and I approve this message.

Read more on Florida politics at the Florida Progressive Coalition blog (http://flaprogressives.org) and the Florida Progressive Coalition Wiki (http://quinnell.us/sspb/wiki/).

Another Priority of Gus Bilirakis

2009-05-25T12:37:00.000-07:00

Don't have healthcare? You lost your job? On your 3rd tour to Iraq because George Bush lied us into war? House in foreclosure?

Don't worry. Gus Bilirakis is looking out for your interests. He has his priorities in order. He is going to make sure the statue of Che Guevara in New York's Central Park comes down ASAP!!

From Bloomberg (via Deseret News)

"Che Guevara's likeness shouldn't stand at an entrance to New York's Central Park, say 10 Republican U.S. lawmakers who urged Mayor Michael Bloomberg to immediately remove the artwork they say honors the Marxist revolutionary.
...

The Argentine-born Ernesto "Che" Guevara — who has been depicted in films, posters and books — abandoned a medical career and middle-class upbringing to join the Fidel Castro-led revolution that overthrew Cuban dictator Fulgencio Batista in 1959 (uncle of Mario Diaz-Balart).
...
A letter sent today by U.S. Representative Dan Burton (R-Watermelon) of Indiana and co-signed by nine members of Congress, including four from Florida, where hundreds of thousands of Cuban emigres reside, describes Guevara as "an outspoken enemy of the United States" who embraced "the totalitarian, repressive policies of the Soviet Union" and once threatened to fire nuclear weapons on New York. Bloomberg News obtained a copy of the letter from Burton's office.
...
The statue is one of three artworks that "are not monuments to historical figures, but rather combine real and imaginary characteristics," inspired by Barcelona street performers who imitate real people, Fisher said. The city, which gave permission for the display, contributed no public funds for the exhibit, she said.

"The purpose of public art is to create dialog," Fisher said.

Public Art, which joined the city in sponsoring the widely acclaimed "Waterfalls" exhibit by artist Olafur Eliasson in the East River in October, has been hailed by Bloomberg for attracting visitors to New York and for giving residents fresh ways of experiencing and viewing their environment. The mayor is founder and majority owner of Bloomberg News parent Bloomberg LP.

"It is not a statue of 'Che'; it is a statue of a street performer acting as if he were 'Che,'" said Jason Post, a spokesman for the mayor.

...

Burton and other U.S. lawmakers heard about the statue last week, when a group of Cuban-Americans met with them to discuss human rights issues in Cuba, Burton spokesman John Donnelly said.

...

In addition to Burton, the Republican lawmakers signing the letter are: Joe Wilson of South Carolina; Ted Poe of Texas; Thaddeus McCotter, Michigan; Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Gus Bilirakis, Connie Mack and Mario Diaz-Balart, all of Florida, and from California, Dana Rohrabacher and Ed Royce."

The brain trust of the Republican party.

Gus Bilirakis Has Priorities

2009-05-25T07:54:00.000-07:00

Got sleep apnea? Then Gus Bilirakis is YOUR representative!

As the sister-in-law of a man with severe sleep apnea, I'm very sympathetic to this serious health issue, but wouldn't Congressman Bilirakis' time be better spent making sure that people are actually able to see a doctor, no matter what the problem? We have 45 million Americans for whom routine healthcare is not available. THAT should be the priority, and not some pointless resolution.

Priorities

2009-05-19T10:55:00.001-07:00

Gus Bilirakis' recent votes from Congress.org:

21st Century Green High-Performing Public School Facilities Act - Vote Passed (275-155, 3 Not Voting)The House passed this bill that intends to modernize, renovate, and repair public school facilities.Rep. Gus Bilirakis voted NO

(AP File Photo)

Supplemental Appropriations, FY 2009 - Vote Passed (368-60, 5 Not Voting)The House approved this bill to provide funding for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, security improvements in Pakistan and the national pandemic flu response.Rep. Gus Bilirakis voted YES

(Photo from The Times of London Online)

Is This Stupid or What???

2009-05-18T07:32:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted here for quite sometime because I thought I could be more effective doing other things, however, THIS couldn't pass without being documented at GusWatch:

Lawmakers Introduce Bill Naming 'Incitive' Satellite Broadcasters as 'Terrorists'
May 18, 2009
Reps. Gus Bilirakis (R-Fl) and Joseph Crowley (D-NY) have introduced a bill to U.S. Congress, which would label satellite operators who broadcast “encitive stations” as associates of terrorists, according to a May 15 report in The Jerusalem Post.

The bipartisan bill asserts that certain satellite television stations were helping foreign terrorist organizations in their objectives, including recruiting fighters, collecting funds and disseminating propaganda.

The bill says that U.S. policy should implement legal and punitive measures against satellite providers that transmit terror-related channels.

In 2007, Arab broadcast stateion A-Zawra was taken off the air by both NileSat and ArabSat. In a statement, NileSat officials explained the move was necessary because of technical problems. In response, A-Zawra claimed the move was politically motivated by U.S. pressure on the Egyptian government.

I deplore terrorism as much as the next person, but WTF? Is this worthwhile? Is it feasible to do it? Or, as usual for Gus, is it a merely a gesture aimed at making him seem like a serious legislator?

Tell the Party of No - "Yes We Can"

2009-04-07T17:23:00.000-07:00

Thank You from DCCC Chair Chris Van Hollen

2009-01-02T10:57:00.000-08:00

Fla. Dems Good on Environment, Reps Not So Much

2008-10-18T21:49:00.000-07:00

The League of Conservation Voters released their scorecards for Congress. Can you guess what the pattern is? Of Florida Republicans, only Ileana Ros-Lehtinen does as good as any Democrat and that's only one person. Beyond that, all Democrats do way better than all Republicans. No shocker there.

Alcee Hastings (D), 92%
Ron Klein (D), 92%
Timothy Mahoney (D), 92%
Kendrick Meek (D), 92%
Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D), 92%
Bill Nelson (D), 91%
F. Allen Boyd (D), 85%
Corrine Brown (D), 85%
Kathy Castor (D), 85%
Robert Wexler (D), 69%
Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R), 69%
Vern Buchanan (R), 62%
Gus Bilirakis (R), 38%
Ginny Brown-Waite (R), 38%
Mario Diaz-Balart (R), 38%
C.W. Bill Young (R), 38%
Mel Martinez (R), 36%
Lincoln Diaz-Balart (R), 31%
Ander Crenshaw (R), 15%
Ric Keller (R), 15%
Connie Mack (R), 8%
John Mica (R), 8%
Adam Putnam (R), 8%
Dave Weldon (R), 8%
Tom Feeney (R), 0%
Jeff Miller (R), 0%
Cliff Stearns (R), 0%

Republicans Don't Support Troops As Well As Dems

2008-10-12T17:29:00.000-07:00

Check out the latest scorecards from Disabled American Veterans and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America...

DAV:

Bill Nelson, 100
Allen Boyd, 100
Corrine Brown, 100
Kendrick Meek, 100
Robert Wexler, 100
Debbie Wasserman Schultz, 100
Alcee Hastings, 100

Mel Martinez, 60
Jeff Miller, 66
Ander Crenshaw, 66
Ginny Brown-Waite, 66
Cliff Stearns, 66
John Mica, 66
Ric Keller, 50
C.W. Bill Young, 66
Adam Putnam, 66
Connie Mack, 66
David Weldon, 66
Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, 66
Lincoln Diaz-Balart, 66
Tom Feeney, 66
Mario Diaz-Balart, 66

Notice a pattern here? All of the Dems have 100%, while none of the Republicans has anything better than a mid-range "D." So much for supporting disabled troops.

IAVA:

Bill Nelson, A+
Allen Boyd, A
Corrine Brown, A
Kathy Castor, A
Timothy Mahoney, A
Kendrick Meek, B
Robert Wexler, A
D. Wasserman Schultz, A+
Ron Klein, A+
Alcee Hastings, A

Mel Martinez, B
Jeff Miller, B
Ander Crenshaw, B
G. Brown-Waite, B
Cliff Stearns, B
John Mica, B
Ric Keller, A
Gus Bilirakis, A
C.W. Bill Young, B
Adam Putnam, C
Vern Buchanan, B
Connie Mack, B
Dave Weldon, C
I. Ros-Lehtinen, A
L. Diaz-Balart, B
Tom Feeney, B
M. Diaz-Balart, B

Republicans do a little better on this one, with Keller, Bilirakis and Ros-Lehtinen all getting an "A." Dems still do better, Meek has the lowest grade on our side of the aisle, and he still has a "B." The only "A+" grades amongst Florida's delegation are Dems and the only grades below "B" are all Republicans. Again, which party actually supports the troops?

Bilirakis in Trouble

2008-09-25T15:30:00.000-07:00

A recent poll by Momentum Analysis has Gus Bilirakis in trouble in his re-election bid in FL-9. Gus only hits 45% in the poll. Newcomer Democratic challenger Bill Mitchell currently sits at 22%, but as the campaign moves forward and his name recognition increases, he's likely to take a large chunk of the 34% undecided vote. Undecided voters tend to break for the challenger, particularly in a Democratic year such as 2008. Additionally, the undecided voters lean Democratic, 46%-37%.

Polling in the District on generic terms gives a 47%-38% Republican advantage with 15% undecided at this point, meaning Mitchell has a legitimate shot at making a move here if he has a strong campaign. Bilirakis is unpopular and polls lower than a generic Republican, meaning once people learn his name, they are less likely to vote for him. On top of that, he has little record to run on and is an inept campaigner. This race could well be in play.

(400 likely voters were surveyed September 20-22, 2008 and there is a margin of error of +/-4.9%.)

Gus Bilirakis Does NOT Believe Women are Equal to Men

2008-08-04T14:29:00.000-07:00

Recent House VotesPaycheck Fairness Act - Vote Passed (247-178, 9 Not Voting)

The House passed this bill to increase penalties for pay discrimination and protect employees who share salary information.

The House passed H.R. 1338, to amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to provide more effective remedies to victims of discrimination in the payment of wages on the basis of sex, by a recorded vote of 247 ayes to 178 noes, Roll No. 556.

Rep. Gus Bilirakis voted NO

Congress.org Vote Statistics

(Congress.org is the group that ranked Congressman Gus Bilirakis less effective than even the non-voting members of the House.)

Let's Rape Someone Else's Neighborhood

2008-07-12T04:16:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since we checked in with mini-Mike. I wonder what Gus is up to...

Accepting an award for being Greek?

Honoring Eagle Scouts?

Feigning interest in elderly veterans (while letting our active duty soldiers boil in the Iraqi sun?)

Inserting chips in seniors citizens so they won't get lost from their caretakers?

Nope. He's headed to ANWR with his GOP brethren to figure out how we can continue to feed our oil habit by drilling in the Arctic Refuge. I suppose he would prefer raping someone else's neighborhood in hopes that he won't have to flip-flop on his Florida off-shore drilling position. (Flip-flopping on that one comes a little easier when the VP spot is being dangled before you as in the case of our newly-enGAYged governor.)

What a loser.

Gus Bilirakis Re-election DOWNGRADED by Cook Political Report

2008-07-03T14:03:00.000-07:00

Four GOP seats: Getting squishy?

Story from The BUZZ: http://blogs.tampabay.com/buzz/2008/07/four-gop-seats.html

Today, July 03, 2008, 59 minutes ago Wes Allison

The non-partisan Cook Political Report today shifted its ratings of four Republican-held U.S. House seats in Florida, including the seat held by Gus Bilirakis of Palm Harbor.

The seats held by Bilirakis, who facing former Plant City Mayor John Dicks, and Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen of Miami were moved from "Solid Republican" to "Likely Republican."

Cook's House editor, David Wasserman, also moved the seats held by Republican Reps. Lincoln Diaz-Balart of Miami and Rep. Ric Keller of Orlando from "Likley Republican" to "Lean Republican."

"While it's not likely that a majority of the races moved from 'Solid' to 'Likely' Republican will become competitive by November, the poor national climate for the GOP and the DCCC's unprecedented financial edge makes even very difficult districts for Democrats worth keeping tabs on," the publication noted.

Gus Hates America and Its Values

2008-06-26T11:51:00.000-07:00

It's clear that Americans generally favor more progressive values most of the time. Not Gus. With a lifetime Progressive Punch voting score of 9.92%, it's clear he hates Americans and their values.

Gus is Wasting Your Time in Washington

2008-06-26T11:34:00.000-07:00

According to Congress.org, Gus is the 429th most powerful member of the House and as part of the hugely ineffectual Florida Republican delegation in Washington, helps make Florida one of the least powerful states in Congress. Thanks for the great work!

Gus Bilirakis VOTES NO - Amtrack Improvements, IMPEACHMENT, Unemployment Benefits - Gus voted NO

2008-06-17T07:35:00.000-07:00

Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act - Vote Passed (311-104, 18 Not Voting)

The House passed a measure reauthorizing $14.4 billion in funding for Amtrak over the next five years.

Rep. Gus Bilirakis voted NO

_________________________________________________________

Articles of Impeachment - Vote Passed (251-166, 16 Not Voting)

The House voted to refer 35 Articles of Impeachment against President Bush to the Judiciary Committee.

Rep. Gus Bilirakis voted NO

_________________________________________________________

Emergency Extended Unemployment Compensation Act of 2008 - Vote Passed (274-137, 23 Not Voting)

The House voted to extend unemployment insurance benefits for workers who exhaust the current 26-week period of eligibility.

Rep. Gus Bilirakis voted NO

Gus Hates Gay People, Unmarried People, Common Decency

2008-05-22T12:32:00.000-07:00

So says his endorsement of the Hate Amendment.

Gus Hates Motherhood.

2008-05-11T04:23:00.000-07:00

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/congress/110/house/2/votes/275/

...but surely some mothers are Greek??

Gus Bilirakis finally makes American News

2008-04-08T12:27:00.000-07:00

Oops! My bad. I meant to say "Greek" news and it looks like he was just tagging along with the biggie boys.

AT THE CONGRESS
Kyprianou who arrived in the US capital on Wednesday, met with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, President of the House Committee of Foreign Affairs, Joe Biden, Senator Robert Menendez and Congresswoman Olympia Snowe. All members of congress expressed interest over the latest Cyprus developments and offered to help in efforts to solve the Cyprus problem.

He also met with eleven members of the Hellenic Caucus, the ranking member of the House Foreign Affaires Committee Ileana Ros Lehtinen and European Affaires Subcommittee Chairman Robert Wexler.

Congressman Frank Pallone, a member of the Hellenic Caucus said the US should persuade Turkey to help the Cyprus procedure. Amongst the Hellenic Caucus members were John Sarbanes, Patrick Kennedy, Gus Bilirakis, Donald Payne, Shelley Berkley etc.

http://www.greeknewsonline.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=8383

Wouldn't want to offend the Fundies...

2008-04-03T03:46:00.000-07:00

Pander Gus

Gus Not Only Hates the Environment - He Voted Against It

2008-03-03T15:51:00.000-08:00

BILL TITLE: Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation Tax Act of 2008

http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d110:h.r.05351:

H R 5351
On Passage

To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide tax incentives for the production of renewable energy and energy conservation

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

Gus Hates the Environment

2008-02-24T19:33:00.000-08:00

The League of Conservation Voters recently released scorecards for Congress. How did Gus do? Poorly:

Gus Bilirakis (REP), 15%

Not only did all of the Democrats do better than all of the Republicans, With one exception, all of the Democrats did more than twice as good as all the Republicans. And most of the Democrats voted in favor of the environment more than four times as frequently as most of the Republicans.

I wonder how many of these Republicans own property that will be beachfront property when most of Florida is under water because of global warming? I'm just saying...

And Gus is Still Voting NO - Miners this time

2008-01-21T18:05:00.001-08:00

H R 2768
16-Jan-2008

QUESTION: On Passage

BILL TITLE: S-MINER Act

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

To establish improved mandatory standards to protect miners during emergencies, and for other purposes.

Gus Bilirakis Supports Torture

2007-12-19T04:44:00.000-08:00

Gus supports torture. He voted "NO" on the Intelligence Authorization Act which would have banned "waterboarding, mock executions, and other severe methods of interrogation."

I sure hope he is held accountable for this vote when he runs for re-election next year.

Gus Bilirakis LOVES being dependent on Middle East oil (No wonder he supports the immoral war in Iraq!)

2007-12-11T18:30:00.000-08:00

How else to explain Gus' NO vote on H. R. 6 to "Create Long-Term Energy Alternatives for the Nation Act" which would:

"...move the United States toward greater energy independence and security, to increase the production of clean renewable fuels, to protect consumers from price gouging, to increase the energy efficiency of products, buildings, and vehicles, to promote research on and deploy greenhouse gas capture and storage options, and to improve the energy performance of the Federal Government..."

Be Afraid, Very Afraid....So Says Gus Bilirakis

2007-12-11T17:34:00.000-08:00

Predictable fear-mongering from Gus Bilirakis.

In response to the arrest on terror charges of two students from the University of South Florida, Gus wants to further crack down on foreign students by requiring more vigilance on the part of university officials. Just think, pretty soon, if we pander enough to the fraidy-cat Americans, there won't be any brown people coming to our shores to study! Oh, how happy Lou Dobbs will be!! (Or is it only Mexicans that Lou hates? It's so hard to keep up...)

Seriously folks, isn't this getting ridiculous? Every time I go through airport security and have to remove my clogs, I realize how the stupid (and inept) actions of one purported shoe bomber have terribly inconvenienced a multitude of travelers.

It makes me realize that the terrorists have truly won.

Don't Worry, Gus Is On the Job

2007-11-14T18:31:00.000-08:00

Problem solved! Don't Republicans make you feel safer?

U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Palm Harbor, has a few questions for the Transportation Security Administration about pipeline safety after a trio of teenagers drilled into a pipe carrying ammonia in the Riverview area of Hillsborough County, causing evacuations.

...

“I want to let you know that I am going to be contacting TSA about the security of these pipelines, especially in the Tampa Bay area," Bilirakis told Hawley. He plans to follow up with a letter. He added, “I hope that you will ... take this matter very seriously and respond to my inquiry expeditiously.”

Wow, a letter. I guess the terrorists out there are shaking their boots. Expeditiously.

Gus on Veterans Day

2007-11-13T03:01:00.000-08:00

Armistice Day, The War to End All Wars. That was the original message of Veterans Day. The 11th Hour of the 11th Day of the 11th Month. The end of World War I.

When Gus Bilirakis spoke to the assembled veterans and their families at Curlew Cemetary to mark the day, he and fellow Bush enabler, retired U.S. Air Force Col. Jerry F. Custin, used the solemn occasion to pimp their immoral war in Iraq on the back of a dead soldier. Nothing like a good Internet tome to stir up and confuse as you appeal to the patriotic feelings of the veterans. These guys are masters at it. Custin shared the story of Army Sgt. Eddie Jeffers, whose essay "Hope Rides Alone" has been circulated on the Internet

The 23-year-old soldier from Alabama addressed the criticism he heard against the Iraq war.
"Even thousands of miles away, in Ramadi, Iraq, the cries and screams and complaints of the ungrateful reach me," Jeffers wrote. "In a year, I will be thrust back into society from a life and mentality that doesn't fit your average man. And then, I will be alone."
Said Custin: "Unfortunately, Sergeant Jeffers won't get to walk down the streets of America next year. On September 19th, he was killed in Iraq

Nice to know that these war enablers have missed the point of Armistice Day completely, isn't it? Just more of the same from Bush's gang. Offer platitudes to the veterans while supporting policies that continue to put our military in harm's way. And of course, don't bother to take care of our veterans when they return home. God forbid we should raise taxes on the rich to pay for the GOP folly.

Gus Bilirakis - Another Shameful Vote

2007-11-07T19:09:00.000-08:00

Veterans and Greeks - Thumbs Up!
Poor Children and Gays - Thumbs Down!

First the S-CHIP bill (NO to healthcare for poor children), and now Gus Bilirakis joins the hateful, homophobic caucus and votes a big NO on H.R. 3685, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act of 2007.

Something to ponder--
What would Gus say to a gay Greek veteran about government healthcare or employment discrimination?

Hmmm.....

Where's Gus Bilirakis?

2007-11-06T03:54:00.000-08:00

From Greek News :

"Accompanied by US Regional Coordinator for SAE Theodore Spyropoulos, Tamvakis also met with US House of Representatives members John Sarbanes, Gus Bilirakis and Zachary Space to discuss the promotion of Greece's national issues in the US Congress and the strengthening of relations between the Greek expatriates and the motherland."

S-CHIP? Healthcare for poor children? Ending the war? Holding the Bush administration accountable for lies and incompetence?

Gus Bilirakis in the News

2007-11-03T05:13:00.000-07:00

In order to do our jobs here at GusWatch, we are signed up for "Google Alerts." For those of you not familiar with Google Alerts, they are a way to be notified, via email, whenever a certain name or phrase appears in the news. Google Alerts for Gus Bilirakis usually come into my email box, on average, three days a week. On those days, I may get three or four alerts of the same story when it is published in different media outlets or on blogs.

For the past two weeks, Gus Bilirakis has been in the local news for hosting a couple of workshops on identity theft. Good for him.

But much more common are stories like the one I got today. I would say 60-75% of the coverage of Gus is on Greek-related issues. Here is the link to the latest, along with an excerpt:

"Friday a Kiev issue of the Kommersant daily reported that Denisenko met with Republican Senators George Voinovich and Sam Brownback, and Gus Bilirakis, the head of the support group to the Greek Orthodox Church in the House of Representatives."

A few thoughts came to mind as I read this:

"...head of the support group to the Greek Orthodox Church in the House of Representatives." WTF? Support group for a church in Congress? Is this the best use of Gus' time in Washington?
If Gus Bilirakis puts that much time and energy into supporting the Greek Orthodox Church in Congress, shouldn't his votes reflect his religious values? If so, then why did he vote against giving more poor children healtchare through the S-CHIP program?
Is this another example of Gus pandering to one of his two big constituencies (Greeks and veterans) while ignoring the rest of us?

Gus Bilirakis: No Healthcare for Poor Children

2007-10-29T20:22:00.000-07:00

Gus Bilirakis shows his real values again. He'd rather spend American tax dollars on a pointless war in Iraq than on healthcare for poor children in our country. Gus Bilirakis voted "NO" on the bipartisan S-Chip bill when it came up for another vote.
http://www.congress.org/congressorg/issues/votes/?votenum=1009&chamber=H&congress=1101&tally=1

Will he have the political courage to change his vote and override a veto this time? Don't count on it.

Gus Bilirakis & GOP family values: Trapped in the men's room

2007-10-22T05:42:00.000-07:00

GOP Values:

Don't think of sick children.
We torture but it's okay as long as we say that we don't use or condone torture.
War is patriotic but our kids make other choices.

Gus Loves Bush

2007-10-05T12:50:00.000-07:00

Pushing Rope notes the percentage of the time Florida Republicans vote in line with President Bush, one of the worst presidents in American history. Not surprisingly, Gus loves Bush:

2007 - 75%

Bilirakis aide's daughter gets government healthcare

2007-10-03T13:34:00.000-07:00

Susan S made a trip to see Gus Bilirakis' aide today,Wed Oct 03, 2007:

Without even seeing that he was proving my point, an aide to Congressman Gus Bilirakis told me this morning that his own daughter gets government healthcare.

Here's the scenario: Democracy for America and the Democrats in NW Hillsborough County, FL, have collected healthcare stories from citizens around the state which we have delivered to our Congressional representatives. The delivery to Rep. Bilirakis' (FL-9) office was delayed because we wanted to give them to an aide during his monthly "Community Outreach" event. This morning, I took the stack of stories to the library where the event was held. The 40-something male aide was browsing the bookshelves when I got there.

We went into the private meeting room and I gave him the stories and asked that the Congressman sign on as a co-sponsor of HR 676 for single-payer healthcare. I also asked him to pass along the word that we would like to see Congressman Bilirakis vote to override George Bush's expected veto of the S-CHIP bill.

He then told me that the Congressman was against the bill because it would be giving healthcare to children whose families earn more than $80,000 dollars per year. I told him that had been taken out of the bill, but that it didn't matter, because ALL children, in fact, all Americans, deserve healthcare.

He then said "...children in this country are not denied healthcare. My own daughter, who is in her twenties and makes minimum wage, gets her healthcare at the County Health Department. So no one has to go without healthcare in this country."

My response was, "So your daughter gets government healthcare." He was a bit flustered.

"No," he said. "She goes to the health department and gets care."

"But that's government healthcare, paid for by the taxpayers."

I'm not sure if it ever registered that his daughter is taking advantage of a program exactly like S-CHIP. (Would you call that hypocrisy or stupidity?)

We talked in circles for awhile longer, but he was having none of it. There's no way that Gus Bilirakis (legacy congressman) will ever override this veto, despite the fact that his own aide's family can't afford healthcare. He follows White House marching orders and in the words of this morning's St. Pete Times editorial, "this is about ideology and politics, not money."

Crossposted on dailykos: http://www.dailykos.com/story/2007/10/3/121949/040

Gus Bilirakis Puts Politics and Ideology over Children

2007-10-03T05:57:00.000-07:00

Today the St. Pete Times weighs in on the SCHIP bill:

This is about ideology and politics, not money. Bush would limit the capacity of a successful program and instead push tax credits to pay for health care, which won't work and has little support in Congress. The low-income families who need SCHIP the most are not going to get their child into the doctor with tax credits.

In the Tampa Bay area, a veteran and a freshman sided with sound policy over partisan politics. Reps. C.W. Bill Young of Indian Rocks Beach and Vern Buchanan of Sarasota were among 45 Republicans who voted for the bill, but that's not enough to help Democrats override a Bush veto. If only Republicans Gus Bilirakis of Palm Harbor, Ginny Brown-Waite of Brooksville and Adam Putnam of Bartow had been as open-minded and could see the light.

Gus Under the Radar?

2007-10-01T18:50:00.000-07:00

Is Gus Bilirakis doing Bush/Cheney dirty work to help set the stage for war with Iran? Looks like it. Why else would he move out of his veterans' hearing aids/Greek issues-comfort zone to propose the following bill?

On September 25, H.R.3653, sponsored by Rep. Gus M. Bilirakis (R-FL), to hold the current regime in Iran accountable for its human rights record and to support a transition to democracy in Iran, was referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. The bill makes a direct link "between the state of freedom and democracy within Iran and the efforts of the current regime of Iran to acquire nuclear weapons and the long-term success of the global war on terror." Senator Brownback (R-KS) introduced the Senate version of the bill, S. 1534, on May 25, 2007 and it was referred to the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.

Read more on this blog.

Something's not right here folks. Gus Bilirakis can barely pronounce "Iran," let alone come up with an idea like this on his own. It would be laughable if it weren't so deadly serious.

Btw, another laughable thing (pointed out by someone on Daily Kos) is the U.S. having the nerve to criticize someone for human rights abuses. Sadly, we lost all moral authority on that one years ago.

Worth Mentioning Again (and Again and Again)

2007-09-27T08:12:00.000-07:00

There is no clearer indication of Republican idiocy and immorality than Tuesday's vote against the SCHIPS bill. How on earth do you vote against health insurance for poor children? If there were ever any doubt about which is more important to Gus Bilirakis and his fellow GOP House members: continuing to follow White House marching orders or thinking about the needs of their constituents, then let's remove that doubt once and for all. Gus and his cronies have followed George Bush over the cliff.

Let's hope that Gus' Democratic opponent hammers him with this every single hour of every single day until November 2008. For this, Gus must pay dearly.

(Several Democrats, including Kathy Castor, also sold us out on this one. If they don't come around and vote to override Bush's promised veto, then let's make sure they suffer the same fate as the Republicans. If we can't count on their support for this, then what good are they?)

Gus Bilirakis: Poor Children Not Worth a Few Days of War in Iraq

2007-09-26T04:24:00.000-07:00

We here at GusWatch have long questioned the priorities of Gus Bilirakis, but with his "nay" vote yesterday on expanding healthcare for poor children through the SCHIPS program, Gus has removed all doubt. His concern for the health and welfare of American citizens begins and ends with wounded and ailing veterans, a big voting block in District 9.

Gus, who heard "encouraging news" in the pathetic shilling of General Petraeus before Congress a couple of weeks ago, would rather continue pouring money down Bush's Iraqi shithole than take care of America's uninsured poor children. Has there ever been a more disgusting example of pandering: pandering to failed Republican policies on healthcare, to Bush's attempt to salvage his legacy, and to laughable claims of Republican fiscal responsibility?

From Congressman Rahm Emanuel:

"This week, the President asked for $200 billion more for the war in Iraq. In the same week, the White House said the bipartisan plan to give 10 million children health care included ‘excessive spending’ and threatened to veto the plan. For this President who helped rack up three trillion dollars in new debt, it is not about the spending, it is about priorities and the President has made his clear.”

Gus has shown us once again what his priorities are. He stands first and foremost with George Bush, and not with American families. Remember that on Election Day 2008.

Cheney again links 9/11, Iraq war

2007-09-14T20:20:00.000-07:00

So I guess this is the time to take the Dick, GI Joe and the 9-11 Two-Step Show on the road.

Vice-president Dick Cheney waves as he greets military personnel at MacDill Air Force Base. (Chris Zuppa | Times)

TAMPA --

Vice President Dick Cheney invoked images of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks in New York and Washington, D.C., in an address at MacDill Air Force Base today in which he again linked the war in Iraq to the war on terrorism.

"Our world really did change six years ago," Cheney told more than 500 military members gathered in an auditorium not far from CentCom, which overees the war in Iraq and the war in Afghanistan. "They have inflicted great harm and have a taste for more."

To read more about the hypocrisy of the Bush/Cheney Administration:

http://blogs.tampabay.com/breakingnews/2007/09/central-command.html

I wonder if Lil' Gussie's mommy was available to drive him to this GI Joe and Barbie play time. You know the drill...slap some medals on 'em, invoke 9-11 and "fearism", pat them on their heads and send them to certain death. Think about it. It is the perfect scam. They will create more funerals so they can make their quick "cameo" appearances where they can talk about brave soldiers, 9-11, Iraq, fearism and terrorism. It is the perfect scam that keeps on giving more dead soldiers, more grieving families and more money in the war profiteers pockets.

I saw Gus Bilirakis at the Memorial Day ceremony at a local cemetary. He read from a script and slithered away during a Memorial ceremony. He didn't even have the balls to stay for the whole thing.

Gus will continue to vote our soldiers to their deaths while his mommy and daddy teach him how to drive. I hope that they remember to bring his booster seat for each lesson. In the meantime, my military family members are dedicated and over worked patriots who deserve better treatment than this. And they are the lucky ones. They are still alive and well...for now.

He singled out U.S. Rep. C.W. Bill Young of Indian Shores for praise. The congressman, who was sitting in the front row during the speech, is one of the president's strongest allies, Cheney said.

Well there goes another little boy playing GI Joe. Let's stroll down memory lane, shall we? Rep Bill Young visited Walter Reed countless times yet never did anything about the conditions there when he had the power to do so.

So many fake patriots, so little time.

Gus Bilirakis, Live and In Person

2007-09-05T20:42:00.000-07:00

You gotta hand it to our boy Gus. He walked right into the lion's den on Monday when he made a brief appearance at the West Central Florida Labor Day Picnic at the fairgrounds. Take my word for it, labor is not crazy about Republicans these days.

I was working at the tri-county Democratic booth (Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough) when I looked up and there he was (only my second Gus sighting, btw). Of course, he was surrounded by handlers, including an older woman who might have been (and probably was) his mother. We've written of her before here at GusWatch. I'm too lazy to find the link, so trust me on this one.

Anyway, one of the handlers brought Gus over to meet us. I surprised myself when I immediately told him that I didn't want him to give Bush any more money for the war in Iraq, and that I wanted him to do what he could to bring our soldiers home from Iraq now. Gus tried to counter with the tired, "But what will happen if we pull out?" To which, I replied, "What will happen if we don't?" Gus was then left to convince me of how very seriously he takes the war in Iraq.

Before he moved on, I also told him that I hoped he would support House Resolution 676, which calls for single payer healthcare, and then I told him we would be delivering healthcare stories to his office in the very near future.

Here are my impressions:
(In my best southern accent) Bless his heart. He is so obviously in over his head. He can only talk in the vaguest of generalities, and he has the most pathetic and creepy handshake. Why did his family let him run for office? They won't be able to protect him from the vultures (us) forever.

Does Gus Bilirakis support our troops? Then bring them home alive and well!

2007-08-30T19:03:00.000-07:00

Gus Bilirakis: Sorrow for Katrina victims?

2007-08-30T18:04:00.001-07:00

Although some of my best friends are of Greek heritage, I must admit that it seems that Gus Bilirakis represents the citizens of Greece instead of Americans. Of course we care about the fires in Greece but does Gus Bilirakis care about the Americans still suffering in New Orleans? Does he care that the levys are not ready for another hurricane? Does he care that victims are still homeless? Does he remember the people who died in New Orleans?

Maybe Gus Bilirakis should hire me to do his press releases. After all, I have to correct them almost daily now:

"As a member of the ~~House Subcommittee on European Affairs~~ Congress, Congressman Bilirakis expressed his sincere sorrow over the devastation in ~~Greece~~ New Orleans by stating, “My heartfelt condolences and prayers go out to the families and friends who have lost loved ones in this horrific tragedy. I ~~commend~~ condemn myself and the Bush Administration for allowing this tragedy to continue and recognize ~~Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis and the Greek government in their~~ that efforts to rebuild the levys and homes, especially in the 9th ward, have been shamefully mismanaged and unevenly funded." ~~get these blazes under control.”~~ Congressman Bilirakis added, "The unity and solidarity of the brave people of ~~Greece~~ New Orleans that has arisen from the ~~ashes of these fires~~ flood waters is representative of the ~~Greek~~ American spirit and pride that so clearly defines this nation."

Will Gus Bilirakis sign the petition?

http://whenthesaints.org/

We, the undersigned, urge the United States Senate to pass Senator Dodd's Gulf Coast Recovery Bill of 2007 (S1668) to assist the Gulf Coast region in rebuilding the infrastructure lost after the Katrina and Rita disasters.
Passage of this bill is an important step towards returning the Gulf Coast residents to their homes.

Gus Bilirakis Shows Sympathy for Victims! Why are we not happy?

2007-08-30T12:36:00.000-07:00

While we here at GusWatch have nothing but sympathy for the Greek citizens who have lost so much during the recent wild fires, we're a little upset over this:

"As a member of the House Subcommittee on European Affairs, Congressman Bilirakis expressed his sincere sorrow over the devastation in Greece by stating, “My heartfelt condolences and prayers go out to the families and friends who have lost loved ones in this horrific tragedy. I commend and recognize Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis and the Greek government in their efforts to get these blazes under control.” Congressman Bilirakis added, "The unity and solidarity of the brave people of Greece that has arisen from the ashes of these fires is representative of the Greek spirit and pride that so clearly defines this nation."

Why are we not happy? It was the second anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. Couldn't Gus have mentioned that?

Gus Bilirakis' blog: No comments all the time.

2007-08-28T13:03:00.000-07:00

Of course, comments are closed. Gus'supposed blog doesn't allow comments because he is a coward.

Again, I feel compelled to tweak Gus' latest press release because it is full of errors and disinformation.

The departure of Attorney General Gonzales will allow the Justice Department to move beyond the ~~distractions~~ illegal actions ~~faced~~ committed under his leadership. I support a full investigation into Alberto Gonzales'illegal activities and I encourage him to be forthcoming in his testimony. If his memory is as bad as it seemed when he last testified, then he should be Baker-acted for his own safety.

The Justice Department is vital to our nation’s safety and security. Today’s announcement has created an opportunity for new leadership to embrace a refocused and bipartisan agenda that will enable the Department to effectively and faithfully restore the balance of power and undo the outrageous attacks on the U.S. Constitution so that we can enforce our nation’s laws including the Separation of Church and State.

Only then will our Justice Department be once again free to enforce our nation’s laws.

http://bilirakis.wordpress.com/2007/08/27/bilirakis-comments-on-gonzalez-resignation/

Call at National Guard conference for U.S. withdrawal from Iraq greeted with standing ovation

2007-08-26T08:58:00.000-07:00

My grandfather earned a purple heart medal the hard way and although medals are one way to honor our troops, the time has come for Gus to stop playing GI Joe with medal ceremonies. Our troops need real health care benefits. They need strong leaders who have the political courage to bring them home. If one of Bilirakis' sons was the last one asked to die for lies, war profits and oil, would Gus offer him up for the "surge"? I doubt it.

It is time for Gus to honor our troops by supporting health care for all. It is time for Gus to vote to end the immoral occupation of Iraq. It is time for Gus to really start talking to our troops. My military family members need real representation. Medals don't keep our troops safe or bring them home to their families. It appears that our troops agree with me:

Call at National Guard conference for U.S. withdrawal from Iraq greeted with standing ovation DAVID McFADDEN, Associated Press Writer

August 25, 2007 6:08 PM

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) - A call by Puerto Rico's governor for a U.S. withdrawal from Iraq earned a standing ovation Saturday from a conference of more than 4,000 National Guardsmen.

Gov. Anibal Acevedo Vila said the U.S. administration has ''no new strategy and no signs of success'' and that prolonging the war would needlessly put guardsmen in harm's way.

''The war in Iraq has fractured the political will of the United States and the world,'' he said at the opening of the 129th National Guard Association general conference. ''Clearly, a new war strategy is required and urgently.''

Acevedo said sending more troops to Iraq would be a costly blunder.

To read the rest of the article, click on:
http://www.newspress.com/Top/Article/article.jsp?Section=WORLD&ID=565075331141468233

Gus Bilirakis Resources

2007-08-19T06:48:00.000-07:00

For those interested in learning more about Gus, here are a list of relevant resources:

FPC Wiki Page

Official House Site

Official Campaign Site

Wikipedia Page

Congresspedia Page

WaPo Voting Database

FEC Report

On the Issues

Open Secrets.org

Project Vote Smart

Gus Bilirakis Goes to Iraq for "Dog and Pony Show"

2007-08-18T05:50:00.000-07:00

Unless you've been living under a rock for the past week here in District 9, you know two things about Congressman Gus Bilirakis -- He just went to Baghdad on his summer vacation, and he's getting his head buzzed to draw attention to the need for funding for cancer research.

I am certainly not going to knock cancer research, but I would like to point out that 44+ million Americans might not be able to reap the benefits of that research because they can't get healthcare in America. And some of that 44+ million are children that Gus voted against covering with the SCHIPS bill a couple of weeks ago.

Now about that trip to Baghdad. Is anyone but me noticing some eerily similar stories coming out of the mouths of those returning from Iraq these days? From war cheerleading think-tankers like Michael O'Hanlon and Kenneth Pollack to Rep. Shelley Moore Capito to our very own Rep. Gus Bilirakis, things are still bad, but (surprise, surprise) there is progress being made! (links will be provided later)

In today's paper, Washington Post reporter Jonathan Finer pens an op-ed that spells out what these trips really are. Finer thinks Congressional Reps have a duty to visit the wars they are funding, but denies the importance of these trips for determining what is actually happening on the ground. Here's his recounting of a recent back and forth between Sen. Lindsay (Goober) Graham and Sen. James Webb on Meet the Press:

Last month on "Meet the Press," Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham, a supporter of the war, chided his Democratic colleague James Webb. "Have you been to Iraq?" asked Graham, who has visited seven times.

"I've been a member of the military when the senators come in," replied Webb, who has not visited Iraq but fought in Vietnam during a long military career. "You know, you go see the dog-and-pony shows."

Well, our Gussie saw himself a dog and pony show.

In conclusion, Finer warns:

As Washington anticipates a September report assessing the troop surge, there is good reason to be skeptical of such snapshot accounts.

UPDATED - From Sunday's New York Times - Returning soldiers give us their thoughts:
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/08/19/opinion/19jayamaha.html

Gus Bilirakis has another opponent - DCCC Chimes in With Opinion on Bilirakis Leadership

2007-08-16T11:23:00.000-07:00

In article by William March today in the Tampa Tribune - Gus may have another new opponent.

http://www.tboblogs.com/index.php/news/story/dicks-considers-run-against-bilirakis/

But, one of the most interesting things in the article is the following quote form Kyra Jennings of the DCCC:

'DCCC’s Southern Regional spokeswoman, Kyra Jennings, confirmed that (John) Dicks met with Van Hollen about the race, and that “We are excited that he is considering a possible challenge. Bilirakis “has only been in Congress a short time, but already has shown he’s not going to be an effective leader.” '

Gus Hates Children and the Elderly

2007-08-15T20:54:00.000-07:00

Congress recently had a chance to help out children and seniors across the country. Guess which way the Florida delegation voted?

FL-1: Jeff Miller (R) - Nay
FL-2: Allen Boyd (D) - Yea
FL-3: Corrine Brown (D) - Yea
FL-4: Ander Crenshaw (R) - Did not vote
FL-5: Ginny Brown-Waite (R) - Nay
FL-6: Cliff Stearns (R) - Nay
FL-7: John Mica (R) - Nay
FL-8: Ric Keller (R) - Nay
FL-9: Gus Bilirakis (R) - Nay
FL-10: CW Bill Young (R) - Nay
FL-11: Kathy Castor (D) - Yea
FL-12: Adam Putnam (R) - Nay
FL-13: Vern Buchanan (R) - Nay
FL-14: Connie Mack (R) - Nay
FL-15: Dave Weldon (R) - Nay
FL-16: Tim Mahoney (D) - Yea
FL-17: Kendrick Meek (D) - Yea
FL-18: Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R) - Nay
FL-19: Robert Wexler (D) - Yea
FL-20: Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D) - Yea
FL-21: Lincoln Diaz-Balart (R) - Nay
FL-22: Ron Klein (D) - Yea
FL-23: Alcee Hastings (D) - Yea
FL-24: Tom Feeney (R) - Nay
FL-25: Mario Diaz-Balart (R) - Nay

Let these people know what you think about them. Go to their page at the FPC Wiki to find their contact info.

Temporary Permanent Post on Gus' Votes

2007-08-11T13:10:00.000-07:00

~~Till I have time for a more complete post:~~

On second thought, what more is there to say?

Gus Bilirakis voted against giving more children healthcare in order to spend Medicare dollars on privatization.
Gus Bilirakis voted for the FISA bill in order to give George Bush and Alberto Gonzalez more power to spy on American citizens.
Gus Bilirakis was in the news for sponsoring another bill to keep the veterans' vote (if only he cared about the active duty soldiers who are currently spilling their blood, sweat and tears in Iraq.)
When Gus Bilirakis isn't pandering to veterans, he's sucking up to the Greek community. He seems to be more concerned with the occupation of Cyprus than he is with the American occupation of Iraq.

Gus Bilirakis Votes Against Transportation Bill - Hurts Airports, Roads & Housing

2007-07-25T04:36:00.000-07:00

H R 3074 Recorded Vote
QUESTION: On Passage
BILL TITLE: Departments of Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development and Related Agencies Appropriations for FY 2008

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

H.R. 3074:
making appropriations for the Departments of Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008, and for other purposes

White House Threatens Veto of Transportation-HUD Bill
CQ TODAY MIDDAY UPDATE

July 23, 2007 – 2:17 p.m.

As expected, the administration issued a veto threat Monday against the fiscal 2008 Transportation-Housing spending bill, denouncing its “irresponsible and excessive” spending level.

The $104 billion bill funding the Transportation and Housing and Urban Development departments (HR 3074) is $4.1 billion more than Bush requested and $5.9 billion more than enacted in fiscal 2007 (PL 110-5).

Bush has threatened to veto any spending bill that exceeds his fiscal 2008 budget request.

But members of the House Appropriations Transportation-HUD Subcommittee say the cuts the administration wants in this bill would mean underfunding the 2005 surface transportation law , which mandated specific spending levels each year.

Debate will begin Monday, but a vote on final passage is not expected until Tuesday.

Under the bill, highway programs would receive $40.2 billion, $1.1 billion more than enacted last year and $631,000 more than Bush requested. The Federal Aviation Administration would receive $14.6 billion, $140 million more than last year and $545 million more than requested.

The community development fund, which helps localities build housing in low-income areas, would receive $4.2 billion, $408 million more than last year and $1.1 billion more than Bush requested. HOPE VI, which funds revitalization of deteriorating public housing projects, would receive $120 million, which is $21 million more than last year; the administration had sought to eliminate the program.

Source:
CQ Today Midday Update

Political Clippings compiled from BNN Frontrunner and CQ Politics.com.

© 2007 Congressional Quarterly Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Congressmen Gus Bilirakis and C.W. "Bill" Young Have a Funny Way of Showing Support for Veterans

2007-07-24T19:28:00.000-07:00

At some point, don't the most deluded GOP supporters understand that their party is all talk when it comes to helping those who have served our country?

Check out this headline:

"Injured Iraq vets sue VA over health care delays"

Can we please stop giving these false patriots credit for supporting the military?

Frustrated by delays in health care, a coalition of injured Iraq war veterans is accusing VA Secretary Jim Nicholson of breaking the law by denying them disability pay and mental health treatment.

The class-action lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, filed Monday in federal court in San Francisco, seeks broad change in the agency as it struggles to meet growing demands from veterans returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan.

Suing on behalf of hundreds of thousands of veterans, it charges that the VA has failed warriors on several fronts — from providing prompt disability benefits, to adding staff to reduce wait times for medical care to boosting services for post-traumatic stress disorder.

...The lawsuit also accuses the VA of deliberately cheating some veterans by allegedly working with the Pentagon to misclassify PTSD claims as pre-existing personality disorders to avoid paying out benefits. The VA and Pentagon have generally denied such charges.

Please read the entire article. The Republican Party is morally bankrupt.

Occupation is as occupation does

2007-07-23T18:21:00.000-07:00

I believe that the Congressman who represents the Republicans in my district has strayed off course. It seems to me that Gus Bilirakis needs to refocus his attention on our American military crisis and our fellow Americans dying in Iraq. So, for the sake of my military family members and the rest of our brave American troops, I felt the need to tweak and improve his latest press release. I am proposing that he re-submit his bill to Congress after he includes my corrections, adaptions and/or ammendments.

Remarks as edited and adapted by thefos for a reality check on our American military crisis due to the U.S. led Iraq Occupation:

Gus Bilirakis Commemorates the ~~33rd~~ 4 ½ Anniversary of the ~~Turkish~~ U.S. Led Invasion of ~~Cyprus~~ Iraq

WASHINGTON (20 Jul.) -- Last night, U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-Fla.), member of House Foreign Affairs Committee ~~and co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues~~, delivered the following remarks on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to commemorate the ~~33rd~~ 4 1/2 anniversary of the invasion of ~~Cyprus~~ Iraq by U.S led ~~Turkish~~ military forces.

Gus Bilirakis' press release:

http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/fl09_bilirakis/pr_statement_33rdanniv_turk_cyprus.html

Mr. Speaker, I rise today not only as a privileged member of this body, but particularly as a Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. ~~and Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Hellenic Issues~~ I want to use this honorable position to truly support our troops by ending the U.S. led Iraq occupation and bring them home safely to their beloved families. I also admit to my constituents and fellow American patriots, that we never should have taken our eyes off the ball. We never should have allowed the Bush Administration to divert our attention from Bin Laden and the terrorists who attacked us on September 11, 2001.

I stand before you today to recall an anniversary that has racked the ~~Cypriot~~ Iraqi and ~~Hellenic~~ American communities for the past 33 4 ½ years.

Mr. Speaker, even though the tragic events of the ~~Turkish~~ U.S. led invasion of ~~Cyprus~~ Iraq took place so 4 ½ long years ago, the pain and suffering of this tragic occasion still ripples throughout the ~~Greek~~ Iraqi and ~~Cypriot~~ American communities.

This anniversary is a time for America to solemnly remember the ~~Turkish military~~ U.S. led invasion of ~~the Island of Cyprus~~ Iraq, to mourn those who lost their lives, and to condemn the continued occupation.

On ~~July 20, 1974~~, March 20, 2003, in blatant violation of international law, ~~Turkey~~ the U.S led coalition violently invaded ~~Cyprus~~ Iraq and ~~captured the northern part of the island~~ declared “Mission Accomplished on May 1, 2003. As a result of the invasion, approximately ~~5,000 Cypriots~~ 60,000+ Iraqis were killed ~~and more than 1,400 Greek Cypriots, including four Americans of Cypriot descent, who still remain missing~~ along with 3632 American soldiers.

Since the invasion, ~~Turkey~~ the Bush/Cheney Administration has established a heavily-armed military occupation that ~~continues to control nearly 40 percent of Cyprus~~ is failing to control the civil war in Iraq. ~~Forced expulsions of Greek Cypriots on the occupied land, have left more than 160,000 displaced persons.~~ An estimated 1.6-2.0 million people have fled Iraq.

Another tragic result of this 33 4 ½ year occupation is the divisions among ~~Greek~~ Sunni and ~~Turkish Cypriots~~ Shi’a factions who ~~since have forcibly lived their lives separated along ethnic lines~~ are also targeting and killing brave American troops. This cracking of the ~~Cypriot~~ Iraq nation is a crime against society and the people of ~~Cyprus~~ Iraq that can only be resolved by ending this occupation.

Since the invasion, international governing bodies and human rights groups have condemned ~~Turkey’s~~ the Bush/Cheney Administration’s flagrant abuse of international law and violation of ~~Cyprus’s~~ Iraq’s national sovereignty. Mr. Speaker, 33 4 ½ years is just too long.

The international community and the American people have expressed their support for has helped shepherd a peace process and settlement that will unite the island, its people, institutions and economy. The United Nations Security Council, the European Union and the United States have all played key roles in trying to bring a practical and fair resolution of this 33 4 ½ year nightmare.

On the occasion of this anniversary, America needs to take a long and hard look at its own commitment toward helping the ~~Turkish Cypriot~~ Sunni-Shi’a ~~crisis~~ factions reach a lasting and enduring peace – free from occupation, division and oppression.

~~As a new member of the European Union, the Republic of Cyprus has proven a committed and~~ America and Iraq must reach out to influential ~~partner~~ neighboring countries in ~~Europe~~ the Middle East. ~~Despite having a~~ Because a large portion of its land is illegally occupied, ~~Cyprus’s~~ Iraq’s ~~successful~~ social and economic integration into the ~~European~~ Global community ~~is a testament to its focus and dedication to democratic values and regional cooperation~~ has been violently deterred.

The Republic of Cyprus has also worked alongside its European neighbors to bring about a stronger integration of Turkish and Greek Cypriot interests for the good of the Island. This has included a partial lifting on restrictions of movement across the cease fire line that continues to forcibly divide Cyprus.

As a result, since April 2003, more than 13 million Greek and Turkish Cypriots have crossed without incident. Additionally, the per capita income of Turkish Cypriots has nearly tripled in the last three years because of an aggressive integration policy by the Republic of Cyprus and its European neighbors.

Mr. Speaker, I believe that because of this continued ~~integration~~ civil war between ~~Turkish~~ Sunni and ~~Greek Cypriots~~ Shi’a factions, and the economic and political ~~successes~~ failures of the democratically elected Iraqi government, ~~that the Republic of Cyprus so readily wants to share with its neighbors, it is possible to~~ we must bring closure to this 33 4 ½ year occupation.

Indeed, according to: http://archive.gulfnews.com/articles/07/07/15/10139330.html, on July 8, 2006, the President of the Republic of Cyprus Tassos Papadopoulos and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat agreed to formally begin consultations with the ultimate aim of a peaceful reunification and an end to Turkey’s military occupation.

the White House appeared resigned to the fact that the Iraqi parliament is going to take August off, even though it has just eight weeks to show progress on military, political and economic benchmarks prescribed by the United States.

My understanding is at this juncture they're going to take August off, but, you know, they may change their minds,

White House press secretary Tony Snow said on Friday.

You know, it's 54 degree Celsius [130 degrees Fahrenheit] in Baghdad in August,

he said, sympathetically.

Our own US Congress plans to be on vacation from August 3 to September 4, 2007. ~~Despite the early successes of what has since been known as the “July 8 Agreement,” and the best efforts of the Cyprus government, the Turkish Cypriots~~ Our own government has ~~have~~ not followed through on ~~their~~ its commitment to continue this dialogue and path toward peace.

In fact, Mr. Speaker, only last week, President Papadopoulos attempted to jumpstart the Island’s reunification efforts and resume the July 8 Agreement process. Though he initially accepted this gesture, Turkish Cypriot leader Talat ended up cancelling the proposed meeting. the president of the United States, and this Congress, along with the Iraqi government, should demonstrate its commitment and support for ~~the July 8 Agreement as a way toward ending the Turkish Cypriot divide on the Island of Cyprus~~ our troops and the Iraqi people by voluntarily sacrificing any and all vacation time until a peaceful resolution has been reached. I have introduced legislation, H. Res. ~~405~~ Stop the Surge 3632, which expresses strong support for the implementation of ~~the July 8 Agreement.~~ ending the occupation in Iraq.

I urge all of my colleagues to act and help this body put our own stamp of support on the ~~July 8~~ peace process by supporting this resolution.

Cyprus has long been a strong and faithful ally of the United States. It continues to work with us in the Global War on Terrorism and has supported our efforts in both Afghanistan and Iraq. Aside from providing over flight rights and port access, the government of Cyprus has joined only a handful of nations who have acted on their commitment to cancel Iraq’s outstanding debt.

Mr. Speaker, 33 4 ½ years is long enough. It is not impossible to conceive one-day having a ~~Cyprus~~ Iraq that is unified under bi tri-zonal, bi tri communal federation with a single sovereignty, single international personality and single citizenship with respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all ~~Cypriots~~ Iraqis, but the Iraqi government must bring these factions to the table using diplomacy instead of violence and oppression.

America, a friend of the ~~Cypriot~~ Iraqi people, owes it to them to do everything in their power to support peace and an end to this illegal occupation.

http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/fl09_bilirakis/pr_statement_33rdanniv_turk_cyprus.html

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/fallen/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Refugees_of_Iraq

http://icasualties.org/oif/

http://www.iraqbodycount.org/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sectarian_violence_in_Iraq

http://www.cnn.com/2003/ALLPOLITICS/10/28/mission.accomplished/

Grooming Cowards 101

2007-07-22T08:45:00.000-07:00

Generation Chickenhawk: The Unauthorized College Republican National Convention Tour, Now On Youtube

Just posted it on Youtube. It’s yours:

http://www.maxblumenthal.com/

Bilirakis Blog open for business...PSYCH!

2007-07-18T20:16:00.000-07:00

http://bilirakis.wordpress.com/2007/07/18/al-qaeda-continues-to-eye-us-targets/

This entry was posted on Wednesday, July 18th, 2007 at 1:25 pm and is filed under DHS, bilirakis, counterterrorism, GWOT, homeland security, al-qaeda, terrorism. You can subscribe via RSS 2.0 feed to this post's comments. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

It is now 11:19 PM. Were any comments permitted?

While Gus tries to instill fear in his constituents, what is Gus afraid of?

Maybe he is afraid of a mother of 5 or maybe Dramatic Chipmunk found Gus in the shower...

Gus Bilirakis Thinks the Iraq War Is Worth More American Lives

2007-07-13T17:47:00.000-07:00

In a 223 to 201 vote, the US House voted to begin redeploying our troops from Iraq within 120 days. Not surprisingly, Congressman Gus Bilirakis voted with the minority, proving once again that he cares more about protecting the Bush administration's failed policies, and a delusional president, than he cares about our American troops!

From the web site Congresspedia:
http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Responsible_Redeployment_from_Iraq_Act

The Responsible Redeployment from Iraq Act (H.R. 2956) was introduced by Armed Services Committee Chair Ike Skelton (D-Mo.) on July 10, 2007. The bill, similar to the Levin-Reed Senate measure, would require that the U.S. begin redeploying troops from Iraq within 120 days of the bill's passage. It would also require that the U.S. have a "limited presence" in Iraq by April 1, 2008. President Bush would need to submit a report to Congress outlining the specific goals of the remaining troops in Iraq, along with timetables for their completion.

Bush enablers like Gus Bilirakis deserve to be forever haunted by their continued support of this pointless war.

We can only hope that the voters in FL-9 will see through Bilirakis' superficial acts of kindness to veterans, and in 2008 demand a Congressman who will give our military the real support it needs. Bring the troops home NOW, Gus!!

Dramatic Chipmunk is watching Gus!

2007-07-13T09:06:00.000-07:00

Dramatic Chipmunk is not happy that Gus Bilirakis is voting against our troops.

Dramatic Chipmunk will continue to keep his eyes on Gus Bilirakis' votes.

Gus Bilirakis Votes Against College Students & Middle Class Families

2007-07-13T05:42:00.000-07:00

H R 2669 RECORDED VOTE
College Cost Reduction Act of 2007

QUESTION: On Passage

BILL TITLE: College Cost Reduction Act of 2007

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

And, of course, the White House Threatens to Veto:

Student Loan Reform Still Faces Obstacles

By Kimberly Palmer
US News and World Report

Posted 7/12/07

With House passage of the 2007 College Cost Reduction Act, student loan reform has moved one step closer to reality, but significant obstacles remain.

The House bill approved Wednesday would increase the maximum Pell grant for low-income students by $500 over the next four years to $5,200 in 2011, cut interest rates on need-based federal loans to 3.4 percent from 6.8 percent, and provide tuition breaks for students who commit to teaching in high-need public schools once they graduate. It would also partly forgive loans of graduates who take public-service jobs, including nurses, first responders, and school counselors.

The bill is the biggest change to college education financing since the 1944 GI Bill, says its sponsor, Rep. George Miller, a California Democrat who chairs the House Education Committee.

The Senate is likely to vote soon on a similar bill, which got committee approval in June. The Senate bill, sponsored by Ted Kennedy, a Massachusetts Democrat and chairman of the Senate Education Committee, would raise the Pell grant an extra $200 by 2012 to $5,400 and doesn't include an interest-rate reduction on federal loans. Nor does it include tuition assistance for those who become public school teachers.

Both bills would cap the amount graduates pay on student loans each month at 15 percent of their discretionary income. Like the House version, the Senate bill would slash subsidies to lenders to pay for the changes.

Senate passage could land a version of the reform bill on President Bush's desk by September, but resistance to the proposed policy changes is growing. Bush's senior advisers said in a statement Tuesday they will recommend that the president veto the bill "because it fails to target the neediest students currently in college and creates new mandatory federal programs that are poorly designed and would have significant long-term costs to the taxpayer." The statement released by the Office of Management and Budget also says the proposed loan-forgiveness policies are an inefficient way to encourage graduates to go into certain professions.

America's Student Loan Providers, an industry group, opposes many of the reforms. It argues that the subsidy cuts would force lenders to wipe out interest rate discounts they now provide to borrowers. Kevin Bruns, the group's executive director, warns that the reduction in profits for loan companies would force some lenders to close up shop, reducing competition and options for students. Republican members of Congress have called the House bill fiscally irresponsible.

At the same time, student and other groups have backed the proposed reforms. The Project on Student Debt praised the House bill: "The combination of additional grant aid, increased availability of federal loans, and payment caps will help students avoid costly private loans and allow them to graduate from college less burdened by debt."

Gus Bilirakis Responds--Avoids Hypocrisy Charge!

2007-07-09T11:10:00.000-07:00

From the St. Pete Times:

"I do not agree with President Bush's decision to fully commute Lewis Libby's prison sentence," Bilirakis said in a statement. "While commutation is perfectly within the President's constitutional discretion, Mr. Libby was tried by a jury of his peers and was convicted of a felony.

"The fact that Mr. Libby committed this crime while serving as a public official makes it all the more egregious. Excessive or not, Mr. Libby's sentence should be respected."

http://blogs.tampabay.com/buzz/2007/07/gus-bilirakis-s.html

I guess Gus Bilirakis was caught between a rock and a hard place on this one. I think that our phone calls brought it to his staff's attention that he couldn't support Scooter Libby's "Get out of jail free card" so soon after his no amnesty statement about immigration.

I applaud Gus for his statement about Scooter Libby even though he buffered it with a nod to Bush's ability to abuse the U.S. Constitution any time he wants to.

My Call to Congressman Gus Bilirakis' Palm Harbor Office

2007-07-03T06:22:00.000-07:00

I just got off the phone with Patty in Congressman Bilirakis' office. I asked her if he had made a statement about George Bush's communtation of Scooter Libby's prison sentence. Her response was that he hadn't made a statement yet. She then asked me, "What organization are you with?" I replied that I was a member of many organizations but that I was calling as a resident of Congressional District 9. I told her that I would like a call back when he made a statement. She took my contact information and again asked, "So you are calling for yourself?"

I got the feeling that Patty was expecting the call. Please let us know what response you get when you call the congressman's office.

Gus Bilirakis and Double Standards

2007-07-02T18:14:00.000-07:00

Here's a statement that Congressman Gus Bilirakis made about the failed immigration bill last week:

“As an American, I do not accept this line of thinking. The reality is that amnesty is not an answer to this complex and endemic problem. As a nation of laws and a nation of legal immigrants, it is simply wrong to reward unlawful behavior with amnesty.
(http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/fl09_bilirakis/pr_070301_senill.html

I wonder what Gus Bilirakis thinks about George Bush commuting the prison sentence of Scooter Libby. Is there a double standard at play here? Is there one standard for those who break the law by entering our country to seek a better life, and another standard for White House cronies who have broken the law at the behest of the administration? I urge you to call Congressman Bilirakis' office tomorrow and ask him.

Washington DC Office
ph: 202-225-5755

Temple Terrace Office
ph: 813-985-8541

Palm Harbor Office
ph: 727-773-2871

Gus Bilirakis Update - Blocking the Road to Homeland Security

2007-06-28T03:38:00.000-07:00

H R 2638
YEA-AND-NAY
15-Jun-2007

QUESTION: On Passage

BILL TITLE: Department of Homeland Security Appropriations for FY 2008

H.R. 2638:
making appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008, and for other purposes

Vote Passed
Bilirakis - YES

Here's How Gus Voted Down Both Party Lines:

(Bold = Voted With Democrats/Against GOP)
(Italic = Voted Against Democrats and GOP)

Date	Vote	Position	GOP opinion	DEM opinion
6/15/07	Vote 491: H R 2638: Department of Homeland Security Appropriations for Fy 2008	Yes	No	Yes
6/15/07	Vote 490: H R 2638: Department of Homeland Security Appropriations for Fy 2008	Yes	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 489: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 488: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 487: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 486: H R 2638	No	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 485: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 484: H R 2638	No	No	No
6/15/07	Vote 483: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	Yes
6/15/07	Vote 482: H R 2638	Yes	No	No
6/15/07	Vote 481: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 480: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 479: H R 2638	No	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 478: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 477: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 476: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 475: H R 2638	Yes	No	No
6/15/07	Vote 474: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 473: H R 2638	No	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 472: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 471: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 470: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	Yes
6/15/07	Vote 469: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 468: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 467: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	No
6/15/07	Vote 466: H R 2638	No	Yes	No
6/13/07	Vote 465: H R 2638: Department of Homeland Security Appropriations for Fy 2008	Yes	Yes	Yes
6/13/07	Vote 464: H R 2638: Department of Homeland Security Appropriations for Fy 2008	Yes	Yes	No
6/13/07	Vote 463: H R 2638: Department of Homeland Security Appropriations for Fy 2008	Yes	Yes	No
6/13/07	Vote 462: H R 2638: Department of Homeland Security Appropriations for Fy 2008	Yes	Yes	No
6/12/07	Vote 461: H R 2638: Department of Homeland Security Appropriations for Fy 2008	Yes	Yes	No
6/12/07	Vote 460: H R 2638: Department of Homeland Security Appropriations for Fy 2008	Yes	Yes	No
6/12/07	Vote 459: H R 2638: Department of Homeland Security Appropriations for Fy 2008	Yes	Yes	No
6/12/07	Vote 458: H R 2638: Department of Homeland Security Appropriations for Fy 2008	Yes	Yes	No
6/12/07	Vote 457: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	Yes
6/12/07	Vote 456: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	Yes
6/12/07	Vote 455: H R 2638	Yes	Yes	No
6/12/07	Vote 454: H R 2638	Not Voting	Yes	No
6/12/07	Vote 453: H R 2638	No	No	Yes

Stem Cell Round 2 - Another Chance for Gus Bilirakis to Help Veterans - And Gus Votes No

2007-06-07T12:36:00.000-07:00

S 5
YEA-AND-NAY
7-Jun-2007
QUESTION: On Passage
BILL TITLE: Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act

Vote Passed
Bilirakis - NO

S. 5:
to amend the Public Health Service Act to provide for human embryonic stem cell research

Is Gus Bilirakis for Human Cloning?

2007-06-07T12:28:00.000-07:00

H R 2560
2/3 YEA-AND-NAY

QUESTION: On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass
BILL TITLE: Human Cloning Prohibition Act

Vote FAILED
Bilirakis - NO

H.R. 2560:
to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to prohibit human cloning, and for other purposes

Gus Bilirakis Has a Blog!

2007-06-05T14:59:00.000-07:00

It's true! Here's the link to a post on the JFK terror plot:
http://bilirakis.wordpress.com/2007/06/05/hillblog-bilirakis-comments-on-thwarted-jfk-terror-plot/

So far, I am underwhelmed.

I've been meaning to write about Gus' co-sponsorship of a VERY IMPORTANT BILL. I'll have to come back later with the particulars, but for now just know that Gus is on the case. Is he trying to help bring the Iraq War to an end? NO! Is he trying to help the people of the Gulf Coast as they continue to struggle nearly two years after Katrina? NO! Is he trying to solve our healthcare crisis? NO! Is he working to fix No Child Left Behind or improve the dropout rate in American schools? NO! What is it that is so deserving of Gus' attention? Turns out the new dollar coin has "In God We Trust" on the side instead of on the face, and that, my friends, is what is bothering your rubber stamp Congressman. Heaven help us.

GusWatch spots Gus on Memorial Day

2007-06-01T19:42:00.000-07:00

Susan S. and I attended Curlew Hills Memory Gardens Annual Memorial Day Service on May 28, 2007. We attended the memorial service to honor our military, especially those who gave their lives while serving our country. We attended with thoughts of Andy Aviles, who was killed in action on April 7, 2003. We were also thinking about Andy's grieving parents, Norma and Oscar Aviles and how easily we could be in their tragic position. Andy was the same age as my oldest daughter. He would be just 23 years old if he were alive today.

I was also thinking about my military family members and how thankful I am that even though my brother in law only gets to see his 5 month old and 6 year old sons via a web cam once a week, at least both he and my sister are alive and well.

I wasn't sure what to expect but I wasn't prepared for the pompous partisan package decorated to impersonate patriotism. I knew we were in trouble when the Master of Ceremonies, Colonel Jerry F. Custin USAF, (Ret) gushed about Congressman Gus Bilirakis' glowing accomplishments, when in reality, his power ranking is in the basement:

http://www.congress.org/congressorg/power_rankings/overall.tt

So as I post this video of Gus Bilirakis reading the GOP script, his words ring painfully hollow as I heard that 10 more U.S soldiers were killed in action on Memorial Day. In my mind is the wounded Iraq War veteran who was interviewed by Anderson Cooper on Memorial Day. Although Anderson Cooper interviewed more than one wounded soldier, this one Iraq veteran's story was particularly heartwrenching. He was not expected to live, but survived in spite of losing most of his blood. His forearm is a mangled mess but he was only receiving a small percentage of his rightful disability benefits. He lost his home and was living in his car. Thankfully by the end of the show, CNN's influence had helped him finally receive the benefits he earned on the battlefield.

With that in mind, I give you the Congressman who represents the Republicans in my district:

Where's Gus?

2007-05-29T12:14:00.000-07:00

When Gus Bilirakis was running for congress last year, we couldn't find him anywhere. We searched but we never were successful in our quest to actually hear him speak in person.

Then suddenly, last February, I accidentally stumbled upon Congressman Gus Bilirakis speaking on C-Span. Yep, I spotted Gus actually delivering a speech. Correction - I watched him read the White House talking points verbatim. At the time, he was reading the GOP party line against the resolution against the Iraq escalation.

I thought to myself, "Honestly, shouldn't he know them by heart now?"

Even though he should know them by rote, Gus read the usual Luntz speak and got louder as he climaxed with a list of terrorist attacks beginning with the World Trade Center in 1993 and ending with a big finale of September 11th. As Lil' Gussie read the usual crap, I was struck about how awkward and bizarre his delivery was. No wonder he was never available for speaking engagements before election day. Would any voter really have voted for him if they heard him read in person? Gus repeated a chopping motion with his hand as he read his script. Gus Bilirakis indeed voted no but I don't remember hearing about his service to our country. Where did he serve?

On Memorial Day, May 28, 2007, we finally spotted Gus in action. Susan S and I attended the Curlew Hills Annual Memorial Day Service in Palm Harbor, FL.

448 Soldiers' Deaths at the Feet of Gus Bilirakis

2007-05-27T06:32:00.000-07:00

It's been one week since we posted the number of US troop deaths that can be directly laid at the feet of Congressman Gus Bilirakis since he was sworn into office on January 3, 2007. Today that number stands at 448. 30 more precious lives have ended because my member of Congress would rather protect the ego of George Bush and the tattered remains of the Republican party's reputation than accept the fact that the Iraq War and occupation have failed, and that remaining there will only result in the deaths of more of our troops.

This week, Gus Bilirakis voted with the majority to keep funding this disastrous occupation. Because his party (and some spineless Democrats) would rather prop up George Bush than make him accountable for the failures in the war, we will stand by helpless as more of our brave men and women die for nothing.

Keep calling Congressman Bilirakis' office to express your disgust with his rubberstamping of Bush's policies. Here are the numbers:
Here are the numbers:
1(202) 225-5755
1(813) 985-8541
1(727) 773-2871
(Casualty figures from www.icasualties.org)

418 Deaths on Gus Bilirakis' Watch

2007-05-20T16:48:00.000-07:00

We here at GusWatch are fed up. Our congressman was sworn into office on January 3, 2007. Since that day, 418 precious American lives have been lost in George Bush's disastrous war in Iraq. (We can't even convey to you the number of Iraqi deaths because no one deems that worthy of an official count...Another reason to be upset!)

As a member of the 110th Congress, Gus Bilirakis has done nothing to end this quagmire. He is "rubber stamping" Bush's folly, just as his father did. It's time to DEMAND that Gus Bilirakis follows the will of the American people and not the will of George Bush. Please call his office and make your voice heard. DO NOT STAND BY AND ALLOW ONE MORE SOLDIER TO DIE FOR NOTHING. Gus needs to support the Democratic efforts to bring our troops home.

Here are the numbers:

+ 1(202) 225-5755
or
+ 1(813) 985-8541
or
+ 1(727) 773-2871

Budget Passes House and Senate - Gus Bilirakis Votes NO

2007-05-17T16:44:00.000-07:00

S CON RES 21
YEA-AND-NAY
17-May-2007

QUESTION: On Agreeing to the Conference Report

BILL TITLE: Setting forth the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2008 and including the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2007 and 2009 through 2012

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

S. Con. Res. 21:
setting forth the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2008 and including the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2007 and 2009 through 2012

Where Is the Oversight?

2007-05-16T08:08:00.000-07:00

Reps. Gus Bilirakis and C.W. "Bill" Young, as well as Gus' daddy Mike, claim to support veterans. As a matter of fact, that is the hallmark of their service in Congress. So they say. Unfortunately, commemorative coins for disabled vets and anecdotal testimonials aside, here is evidence of whom they've really been supporting.

More cronyism, no oversight.

"Nearly two dozen officials who received hefty performance bonuses last year at the Veterans Affairs Department also sat on the boards charged with recommending the payments.

Documents obtained by The Associated Press raise questions of conflicts of interest or appearances of conflicts in connection with the bonuses, some of which went to senior officials involved in crafting a budget that came up $1.3 billion short and jeopardized veterans' health care.

.....

Rep. John Hall, D-N.Y., has introduced legislation that would freeze 2007 VA bonuses for "senior politically appointed officers" — such as assistant secretaries or deputy undersecretaries — until the agency pares its disability claims backlog to under 100,000 cases. The VA says deputy undersecretaries are career employees, and a committee spokeswoman acknowledged that was the case.
"It is simply unacceptable that veterans are waiting longer and longer for benefits they desperately need while senior staff members in charge of bad policy are rewarded so-called performance bonuses," Hall said."

Until the Democrats took control of the Congress in January, there was no oversight. Where was Daddy Mike Bilirakis on whose coattails Gus rode into office? Where was Rep. Young? Will Gus Bilirakis do a better job? So far, he's been more concerned with protecting an inept, corrupt administration than in protecting our veterans AND the American people.

Gus Bilirakis, Protect Americans Not George Bush

2007-05-15T04:21:00.000-07:00

As we read about Gus Bilirakis' recent appointment to the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and as we hear about his request for an increase in military pay, let's not overlook the fact that when it comes to protecting our troops in Iraq, Bilirakis' loyalty lies elsewhere.

With his Republican rubber stamp votes, he shows that his military support goes only so deep. He proposes "no brainer" legislation that will win him praise from military veterans here in District 9 (e.g., commemorative coins for disabled vets, reduced fees for veterans entering national parks, better vision care for vets) but on the big votes, the ones that will really protect our soldiers in the field and keep us safe here at home, he would rather shield and protect George Bush.

Gus Bilirakis would rather support the Bush-Cheney debacle in Iraq than bring our soldiers home from a war that is putting all of us in more danger. Just as General Eaton challenges Senator Collins of Maine in the latest VoteVets ad, we at GusWatch challenge Representative Bilirakis to protect the citizens of our country, not George Bush!

(http://www.americablog.com/2007/05/second-general-blasts-bush-and-gop.html)

http://www.hellenicnews.com/readnews.html?newsid=6751&lang=US

Some Votes Gus Forgot to Mention

2007-05-13T09:02:00.000-07:00

Touting 101 accomplishments on his website, Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-9th CD) stands not only with the minority party of Congress, but with the minority of Americans.

In a recent press release, Congressman Gus Bilirakis touted his "101 Accomplishments During the First 100 Days." Most were uncontroversial, and some were hardly worthy of the designation "accomplishment" (e.g., caucus memberships, committee appointments, etc.) What the Congressman's press release DIDN’T mention is that regarding the major, important issues of the day, he voted against the will of the American people, time and again.

GusWatch thinks that the Congressman’s performance exceeds 101 actions, and would like to continue the list as follows:

#102 - Congressman Bilirakis voted AGAINST citizens who suffer from disease and injuries, including our troops, when he voted NO on the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act.
A recent poll of 1,000 Americans showed a clear majority favored Stem Cell Research (Source: Opinion Dynamics / Fox News). Here are the results of that polling:

Approve 63%
Disapprove 24%
Don't know 14%

#103 - Congressman Bilirakis voted AGAINST senior citizens when he voted NO on the Medicare Prescription Drug Price Negotiation Act.
1,000 Americans were polled on Drug Price Negotiations (Source: AARP), and this is what the polling found: 87% favor allowing Medicare to negotiate with drug companies

#104 - Congressman Bilirakis voted AGAINST energy independence when he voted NO on the Long Term Energy Alternatives.
Polling by Pew Research (February 2006), Gallup (April 2006), and the LA Times (July 2006) showed that a clear majority of Americans support the development of alternative energy sources, with more emphasis on conservation and regulation of energy use and prices.

#105 - Congressman Bilirakis voted AGAINST the troops when he voted NO on the Iraq Accountability Act (funding the troops and setting deadlines for bringing them home from Iraq.)
According to an NBC/WSJ poll conducted April 20-23:

56% agree with the Democratic plan to begin withdrawing troops by October 1, 2007
37% agree with George Bush and Gus Bilirakis that no deadline should be set

#106 - Congressman Bilirakis voted AGAINST open government and accountability when he voted NO on the Freedom of Information Act Amendments of 2007.
No polling available, but the final vote in the House of Representatives was 308 to 117.
80 Republicans voted with the majority for more openness in government. Gus Bilirakis voted with the minority for more secrecy.

#107 - Congressman Bilirakis voted AGAINST working families when he voted NO on the Employee Free Choice Act.
Again, no polling available, but Gus Bilirakis voted with the minority on the bipartisan bill that would protect workers and strengthen the middle class by allowing workers to form, join, and assist labor organizations.

Gus Bilirakis is not representing the will of the American people. He is rubber-stamping George Bush and the minority in Congress. He must be held accountable for these votes at election time.

Round 2: Intelligence Authorization Act Passed - Gus Bilirakis Votes NO

2007-05-11T06:22:00.000-07:00

H R 2082
11-May-2007
QUESTION: On Passage

BILL TITLE: Intelligence Authorization Act

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

H.R. 2082:
to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2008 for intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the United States Government, the Community Management Account, and the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, and for other purposes

Recap from Washington Post:
House Approves Revised War Bill - Two-Part Funding Faces Veto Threat
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/05/10/AR2007051000104.html?nav=rss_print/asection

_______________________________________________________________________

Quick Recap of Day's Events that Ended at 1:30AM with Passage:

1. H RES 388
RECORDED VOTE
10-May-2007
QUESTION: On Agreeing to the Resolution

BILL TITLE: Providing for the consideration of H.R. 2082, Intelligence Authorization Act

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

H. Res. 388:
providing for the consideration of the bill ( H.R. 2082) to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2008 for intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the United States Government, the Community Management Account, and the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, and for other purposes

2. H RES 387
10-May-2007
QUESTION: On Agreeing to the Resolution

BILL TITLE: Providing for the consideration of H.R. 2237, H.R. 2206, and H.R. 2207

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

H. Res. 387: providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 2237) to provide for the redeployment of United States Armed Forces and defense contractors from Iraq, providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 2206) making emergency supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes, and providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 2207) making supplemental appropriations for agricultural and other emergency assistance for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes

3. MOTION
RECORDED VOTE
10-May-2007
QUESTION: On Holding A Secret Session

VOTE FAILED
Bilirakis - YES

PRIVILEGED MOTION - Pursuant to clause 9, of rule XVII, Mr. Flake moved that the House resolve itself into a secret session. The Chair put the question on adoption of the non-debatable motion and by voice vote announced that the noes had prevailed. Mr. Flake demanded a recorded vote.

4.H R 2237
RECORDED VOTE
10-May-2007
QUESTION: On Passage

BILL TITLE: To provide for the redeployment of United States Armed Forces and defense contractors from Iraq

VOTE FAILED
Bilirakis - NO

H.R. 2237:
to provide for the redeployment of United States Armed Forces and defense contractors from Iraq

5. MOTION
YEA-AND-NAY
10-May-2007

QUESTION: On Holding a Secret Session

PRIVILEGED MOTION - Pursuant to clause 9, rule XVII, Mr. Issa moved that the House resolve itself into a secret session.

VOTE FAILED
Bilirakis - YES

6. H R 2206
YEA-AND-NAY
10-May-2007

QUESTION: On Passage

BILL TITLE: Making emergency supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

H.R. 2206:
making emergency supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes

7. H R 2207
YEA-AND-NAY
10-May-2007
QUESTION: On Passage

BILL TITLE: Making supplemental appropriations for agricultural and other emergency assistance for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

H.R. 2207:
making supplemental appropriations for agricultural and other emergency assistance for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes

8. 1:30AM - Vote Passes (See #1)

Gus Bilirakis Votes Yes on Homeland Security - Supports Democrat Rep. Castor on Tampa Safety

2007-05-11T06:13:00.000-07:00

H R 1684 RECORDED VOTE
9-May-2007
QUESTION: On Passage

BILL TITLE: Department of Homeland Security Authorization Act

Vote: Passed
Bilirakis: Yes

H.R. 1684: to authorize appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security for fiscal year 2008, and for other purposes

Tampa Tribune Article -
Port Workers Won't Need 2nd ID Under Security Bill
http://www.tbo.com/news/nationworld/MGBZZ4OMI1F.html

(Congressman Biliarkis Supports Congresswoman Castor's Views on Tampa's Port Security Measures)

Gus Bilirakis Votes Against Funding to Prosecute Hate Crimes

2007-05-03T12:47:00.000-07:00

H R 1592
3-May-2007
QUESTION: On Passage

BILL TITLE: To provide Federal assistance to States, local jurisdictions, and Indian tribes to prosecute hate crimes.

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

H.R. 1592:
to provide Federal assistance to States, local jurisdictions, and Indian tribes to prosecute hate crimes, and for other purposes

Gus Bilirakis Votes Against Ending War & Funding for Veterans

2007-04-26T03:32:00.000-07:00

H R 1591
25-Apr-2007 9:27 PM
QUESTION: On Agreeing to the Conference Report
BILL TITLE: Making emergency supplemental appropriations for fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

H.R. 1591:
making emergency supplemental appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes

From the St. Pete Times, April 26, 2007:

House OKs Iraq Pullout

The $124 billion measure funds the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan through the end of the year, and provides billions for veterans' health care and other nonmilitary programs.

"How many more suicide bombs must kill American soldiers before this president offers a timeline for our troops to come home?" asked Rep. Patrick Murphy, D-Pa., a freshman Iraq war veteran who lost nine fellow paratroopers this week in one of the deadliest attacks of the war.

"How many more military leaders must declare the war will not be won militarily before this president demands that the Iraqis stand up and fight for their country? How many more terrorists will President Bush's foreign policy breed before he focuses a new strategy, a real strategy? This bill says enough is enough."

The Democratic plan allows some U.S. troops to remain to train Iraqi forces, protect American interests and conduct limited counterterrorism operations.

Highlighting the growing readiness crisis facing the military, the plan also requires Bush to explain why military units are being deployed if they have not met standards for training and rest at their home bases.

"This bill supports our troops, honors our commitments to our veterans, rebuilds our military and holds the Iraqi government accountable," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said on the House floor. "It winds down the war by providing for the responsible redeployment of our combat forces."

_________________________________________________________________

DC Doesn't Count - According to Gus Bilirakis

2007-04-19T17:51:00.000-07:00

Today, Congress passed the three items below.

The first lays out the ground rules for two bills that would create a new legislative district in Washington, DC. and allow Congress to provide for the 'Pay as you Go' (Paygo) promise the Democrats made when they took over the majority.

In order to fund the new legislative district (H.R. 1905), there will be a tax of 1/10 of 1% on individuals who make $5,000,000 or more a year (H.R. 1906)

Congressman Bilirakis voted AGAINST all three motions.
Is it because he'll move down to the 439th least powerful congressman, instead of just being 438th??

__________________________________________________________________________________

H RES 317
QUESTION: On Agreeing to the Resolution
BILL TITLE: Providing for the consideration of H.R. 1905 and H.R 1906

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

H. Res. 317:
providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 1905) to provide for the treatment of the District of Columbia as a Congressional district for purposes of representation in the House of Representatives, and for other purposes and providing for consideration of the bill ( H.R. 1906) to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to adjust the estimated tax payment safe harbor based on income for the preceeding year in the case of individuals with adjusted gross income greater that $5 million

_____________________________________________________________________________

H R 1905
QUESTION: On Passage
BILL TITLE: District of Columbia House Voting Rights Act

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

H.R. 1905:
to provide for the treatment of the District of Columbia as a Congressional district for purposes of representation in the House of Representatives, and for other purposes

__________________________________________________________

H R 1906
QUESTION: On Passage
BILL TITLE: Adjustment of Estimated Tax Payment Safe Harbor for Individual Taxpayers with Adjusted Gross Income Greater than $5 Million

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

H.R. 1906:
to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to adjust the estimated tax payment safe harbor based on income for the preceding year in the case of individuals with adjusted gross income greater than $5 million

Helping Victims of Katrina - Gus Bilirakis Votes NO

2007-04-18T16:20:00.000-07:00

H R 1361 RECORDED VOTE
QUESTION: On Passage
BILL TITLE: Relief for Entrepreneurs: Coordination of Objectives and Values for Effective Recovery Act

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

H.R. 1361

to improve the disaster relief programs of the Small Business Administration, and for other purposes

The Congressman did vote YES on the following Amendments to limit the amount of relief offered by the government and the SBA (amendments failed):

An amendment numbered 1 printed in House Report 110-97 to strike section 211, thereby requiring anyone receiving both a grant and a disaster loan to use the grant to repay the disaster loan thereby preventing the government from compensating the same person twice for the same disaster.

An amendment numbered 2 in House Report 110-97 to strike section 210, thereby eliminating the authority of the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to offer grants to certain small businesses that were severely affected by Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, or Wilma but that were denied disaster loans.

And he voted YES to Recommit the bill with the following instructions (motion failed):

The instructions contained in the motion seek to require the bill report the same back to the House with an amendment that says if a person or small business is convicted of a crime under the Federal or State law, the person or small business shall not receive assistance under the Small Business Act.

___________________________________________________________

Cost Estimate from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) found here:
http://www.cbo.gov/ftpdocs/79xx/doc7973/hr1361.pdf

INTERGOVERNMENTAL AND PRIVATE-SECTOR IMPACT:
H.R. 1361 contains no intergovernmental or private-sector mandates, as defined in UMRA,
and would impose no costs on state, local, or tribal governments.

Bill Summary -

SUMMARY AS OF: 3/17/2005--Introduced.
(May be some changes on today's passed bill - full text hasn't been posted yet)

International Security Enhancement Act of 2005 - Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to authorize the President to provide assistance for stabilization and reconstruction operations in a country or region that is in, or is in transition from, or is likely to enter into, conflict or civil strife.

Amends the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to direct the Secretary of State to establish within the Department of State an Office of the Coordinator for Stabilization and Reconstruction, which shall: (1) be headed by the Coordinator for Stabilization and Reconstruction; and (2) have primary responsibility for planning and administering stabilization and reconstruction operations in a country or region that is in, or is in transition from, or is likely to enter into, conflict or civil strife.

Establishes within the Foreign Service Institute an International Stabilization and Reconstruction Training Center.

Directs the Coordinator to establish within the Office: (1) a Stabilization and Reconstruction Corps of up to 250 persons; and (2) a Stabilization and Reconstruction Reserve of volunteers. Authorizes presidential deployment of Corps and Reserve members.

Establishes in the Treasury the Department of State Stabilization and Reconstruction Operations Support Fund. Authorizes the President to provide Fund amounts to the Office for a country of impending or immediate risk.

Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) funds appropriated to carry out the amendments made by this Act should be offset by reductions in redundant or duplicative functions and foreign assistance programs of the Department of State; and (2) increased staff levels required by the amendments made by this Act should be offset by the transfer of staff within the Department of State, and the elimination of resultant redundant Department of State functions.

The 101 Accomplishments of Gus Bilirakis

2007-04-15T15:18:00.000-07:00

(I apologize for the delay in updates to Gus Watch. Too many meetings on my calendar!)

Gus has a new posting on his website in which he touts his 101 accomplishments in 100 days. Notice that many of his accomplishments are committee assignments (Is that fair?) I also see he's following in daddy's footsteps by paying special attention to veterans. It's a shame he doesn't care about the active duty soldiers. If he did, wouldn't he have supported the legislation that requires them to be properly armed, trained, and rested before being sent to possible slaughter in Bush's Iraq Occupation? Oh, well, maybe he has a yellow magnet on the back of his car to show his real support for the troops.

Here's the link and the text from the post (I started to summarize but wanted to share the entire thing):

http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/fl09_bilirakis/pr_070301_101.html

Bilirakis Touts Accomplishments

101 accomplishments during the first 100 days

Washington, D.C. – With the 100th day of the 110th Congress approaching, Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-Palm Harbor) released a list of his first 101 accomplishments in Congress. This includes legislation he has sponsored and co-sponsored, caucuses joined, positions he has attained and amendments he has successfully included in legislation (full list below).

To date, Bilirakis has introduced 12 pieces of legislation, along with five amendments, many of which are targeted at helping veterans and their families. The average Freshman Member in the 110th Congress (including defeated and reelected Members) has averaged two pieces of introduced legislation, with the median being one bill. Nine Freshmen Members have yet to introduce legislation and three have introduced six bills – which is the next closest to Bilirakis.

Bilirakis has also been selected as the Chairman of the Veterans’ Affairs Task Force for the Republican Conference, as-well-as Senior Freshman Republican Whip. Additionally, he is a Co-Chair of the Congressional Hellenic and Congressional Military Veterans Caucuses – along with memberships in 22 other Congressional caucuses.

“When the people of the Ninth District of Florida elected me to Congress I promised them that I would work hard on their behalf,” Rep. Bilirakis said. “I have done my best to stay true to this promise by never resting and aggressively pursuing an agenda that best serves them and the country. This is only the beginning, more work still needs to be done on behalf of my constituents as-well-as Americans in general – especially the brave men and women that serve this country in uniform and our veterans.”

1. H.R. 89 Combat-Related Special Compensation Act. (Sponsored)

2. H.R. 303 Retired Pay Restoration Act. (Sponsored)

3. H.R. 446 Christopher and Dana Reeve Quality of Life for Persons with Paralysis Act. (Sponsored)

4. H.R. 704 Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) Remarriage bill. (Sponsored)

5. H.R. 722 Increasing Access to Higher Education Act. (Sponsored)

6. H.R. 843 Employer tax credit of 50% for compensation paid to employees on active duty. (Sponsored)

7. H.R. 844 Employer tax credit of 10% for value of service not performed while employees are performing duties as member of Ready Reserve or National Guard. (Sponsored)

8. H.R. 913 The Hurricane and Tornado Mitigation Investment Act. (Sponsored)

9. H.R. 1197 The Prisoners of War Benefits Act. (Sponsored)

10. H.R. 1313 To direct the Joint Committee on the Library to obtain a statue of Constantino Brumidi for display in the Capitol Visitor Center. (Sponsored)

11. H.R. 1436 To amend title 10, United States Code, to permit certain retired members of the uniformed services who have a service-connected disability to receive both disability compensation from the Department of Veterans Affairs for their disability and either retired pay by reason of their years of military service or Combat-Related Special Compensation. (Sponsored)

12. H.R. 1580 To create a Department of Defense-wide Ombudsman Office. (Sponsored)

13. H.AMDT.79 Amendment to the Wounded Warrior Assistance Act (H.R. 1580 was incorporated as an amendment to this legislation). (Sponsored)

14. H.R. 25 Fair Tax Act of 2007 (Co-Sponsored)

15. H.R. 82 Social Security Fairness Act of 2007 (Co-Sponsored)

16. H.R. 91 Homeowners Insurance Protection Act of 2007 (Co-Sponsored)

17. H.R. 111 Community Choice in Real Estate Act (Co-Sponsored)

18. H.R. 137 Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act of 2007 (Co-Sponsored)

19. H.R. 211 Calling for 2-1-1 Act of 2007 (Co-Sponsored)

20. H.R. 327 Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide Prevention Act (Co-Sponsored)

21. H.R. 330 Homeowners' Insurance Availability Act of 2007 (Co-Sponsored)

22. H.R. 418 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to permit military death gratuities to be contributed to certain tax-favored accounts (Co-Sponsored)

23. H.R. 432 Seniors' Tax Simplification Act of 2007 (Co-Sponsored)

24. H.R. 493 Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2007 (Co-Sponsored)

25. H.R. 511 To pledge the faithful support of Congress to members of the United States Armed Forces serving in harm's way (Co-Sponsored)

26. H.R. 514 To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 16150 Aviation Loop Drive in Brooksville, Florida, as the "Sergeant Lea Robert Mills Brooksville Aviation Branch Post Office" (Co-Sponsored)

27. H.R. 579 Military Retirees Health Care Protection Act (Co-Sponsored)

28. H.R. 599 To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to streamline the SAFETY Act and anti-terrorism technology procurement processes (Co-Sponsored)

29. H.R. 634 American Veterans Disabled for Life Commemorative Coin (Co-Sponsored)

30. H.R. 652 Veterans Eagle Parks Pass Act (Co-Sponsored)

31. H.R. 689 To amend the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 to provide for the expedited consideration of certain proposed rescissions of budget authority (Co-Sponsored)

32. H.R. 690 To amend title 10, United States Code, to reduce the minimum age for receipt of military retired pay for non-regular service from 60 to 55 (Co-Sponsored)

33. H.R. 731 National Small Business Regulatory Assistance Act of 2007 (Co-Sponsored)

34. H.R. 768 To provide that Executive Order 13166 shall have no force or effect, and to prohibit the use of funds for certain purposes (Co-Sponsored)

35. H.R. 769 To amend title 4, United States Code, to declare English as the official language of the Government of the United States, and for other purposes (Co-Sponsored)

36. H.R. 784 To amend title 10, United States Code, to change the effective date for paid-up coverage under the military Survivor Benefit Plan (Co-Sponsored)

37. H.R. 797 To amend title 38, United States Code, to improve compensation benefits for veterans in certain cases of impairment of vision involving both eyes, and for other purposes (Co-Sponsored)

38. H.R. 895 To take certain steps toward recognition by the United States of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel (Co-Sponsored)

39. H.R. 900 Puerto Rico Democracy Act of 2007 (Co-Sponsored)

40. H.R. 995 To amend Public Law 106-348 to extend the authorization for establishing a memorial in the District of Columbia or its environs to honor veterans who became disabled while serving in the Armed Forces of the United States (Co-Sponsored)

41. H.R. 1065 To streamline the regulation of nonadmitted insurance and reinsurance, and for other purposes (Co-Sponsored)

42. H.R. 1091 Save Our Shores Act (Co-Sponsored)

43. H.R. 1093 Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2007 (Co-Sponsored)

44. H.R. 1110 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow Federal civilian and military retirees to pay health insurance premiums on a pretax basis and to allow a deduction for TRICARE supplemental premiums (Co-Sponsored)

45. H.R. 1112 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide individuals relief from the alternative minimum tax (Co-Sponsored)

46. H.R. 1284 Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2007 (Co-Sponsored)

47. H.R. 1314 Photo Identification Security Act (Co-Sponsored)

48. H.R. 1370 To amend title 38, United States Code, to establish in the Department of Veterans Affairs an Office of National Veterans Sports Programs and Special Events (Co-Sponsored)

49. H.R. 1402 To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 320 South Lecanto Highway in Lecanto, Florida, as the "Sergeant Dennis J. Flanagan Lecanto Post Office Building" (Co-Sponsored)

50. H.R. 1421 To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to increase tax benefits for parents with children, and for other purposes (Co-Sponsored)

51. H.R. 1456 To amend the International Claims Settlement Act of 1949 to allow for certain claims of nationals of the United States against Turkey, and for other purposes (Co-Sponsored)

52. H.R. 1522 One-stop Student Financial Aid Information Act of 2007 (Co-Sponsored)

53. H.R. 1577 To create a Department of Defense-wide program of patient navigators for wounded members of the Armed Forces (Co-Sponsored)

54. H.R. 1578 To establish and monitor medical holdover performance standards (Co-Sponsored)

55. H.R. 1579 To create a standard solider patient tracking system (Co-Sponsored)

56. H.R. 1609 To award posthumously a Congressional Gold Medal to Constantino Brumidi (Co-Sponsored)

57. H.R. 1679 To protect the environmental integrity of coral reefs and other coastal marine resources from exploration, development, and production activities for petroleum resources located in a maritime exclusive economic zone of the United States that is contiguous to a foreign exclusive economic zone (Co-Sponsored)

58. H.R. 1722 To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 601 Banyan Trail in Boca Raton, Florida, as the "Leonard W. Herman Post Office" (Co-Sponsored)

59. H.R. 1727 To enhance and further research into paralysis and to improve rehabilitation and the quality of life for persons living with paralysis and other physical disabilities, and for other purposes (Co-Sponsored)

60. H.R. 1832 To establish the National Hurricane Research Initiative to improve hurricane preparedness, and for other purposes (Co-Sponsored)

61. H. Res. 44 Congratulating the Florida Gators on their NCAA Football title (Co-Sponsored)

62. H. Res. 72 Recognizing the work and accomplishments of Mr. Britt "Max" Mayfield, Director of the National Hurricane Center's Tropical Prediction Center upon his retirement (Co-Sponsored)

63. H. Res. 106 Affirmation of the United States Record on the Armenian Genocide Resolution (Co-Sponsored)

64. H. Res. 111 Establishing a Select Committee on POW and MIA Affairs (Co-Sponsored)

65. H. Res. 119 Supporting the mission and goals of National Crime Victims' Rights Week in order to increase public awareness of the rights, needs, and concerns of victims and survivors of crime in the United States during such week and throughout the year (Co-Sponsored)

66. H. Res. 131 Recognizing and honoring the lifetime contributions of Rafael Jose Diaz-Balart on the dedication of the Rafael Diaz-Balart Hall at the Florida International University College of Law (Co-Sponsored)

67. H. Res. 134 Recognizing and honoring the employees of the Department of Homeland Security for their efforts and contributions to protect and secure the Nation (Co-Sponsored and managed floor time for the Republicans)

68. H. Res. 148 Recognizing and appreciating the historical significance and the heroic human endeavor and sacrifice of the people of Crete during World War II and commending the PanCretan Association of America (Co-Sponsored)

69. H. Res. 273 Supporting the goals and ideals of Financial Literacy Month, and for other purposes (Co-Sponsored)

70. H.J. Res. 1 Proposing a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution of the United States (Co-Sponsored)

71. H. Con. Res. 71 Commemorating the 85th Anniversary of the founding of the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA), a leading association for the Nation's 1.3 million American citizens of Greek ancestry, and Philhellenes (Co-Sponsored)

72. Senior Freshman Republican Whip

73. Chairman Veterans’ Affairs Task Force for the Republican Policy Committee

74. Co-Chair of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus.

75. Co-Chair of the Congressional Military Veterans Caucus.

76. Member of the Congressional Armenian Caucus.

77. Member of the Congressional Italian-American Caucus.

78. Member of the House Community Health Center Caucus – First Freshman Member of the 110th Congress to join the caucus.

79. Member of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus

80. Member of the Air Force Caucus

81. Member of the Congressional Travel and Tourism Caucus

82. Member of the Coast Guard Caucus

83. Member of the Renewable and Energy Efficiency Caucus

84. Member of the National Guard and Reserve Caucus

85. Member of the Special Operations Caucus

86. Member of the Community College Caucus

87. Member of the Congressional Vision Caucus

88. Member of the Congressional Hearing Health Caucus

89. Member of the House Law Enforcement Caucus

90. Member of the Bi-Partisan Congressional Pro-Life Caucus

91. Member of the House Republican Israel Caucus

92. Member of the US/Israel Security Caucus

93. Member of the Task Force on Terrorism and Unconventional Warfare

94. Member of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus

95. Member of the Congressional Human Rights Caucus

96. Member of the US-Afghan Caucus

97. Member of the Zero AMT Caucus

98. Amendment to H.R. 1401, the Rail and Public Transportation Security Act. Requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct physical testing of rail cars to determine the most likely successful means of attack against them. Included in legislation during committee mark-up. (Sponsored)

99. Amendment to H.R. 1401, the Rail and Public Transportation Security Act. Requires the security coordinator positions required under the legislation to be filled by U.S. citizens. Included in legislation during committee mark-up. (Sponsored)

100. Provision in H.R. 1684, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008, which will require DHS to fully implement US-VISIT requirements at airports and seaports by December 31, 2008. Also requires DHS to develop a comprehensive strategy for implementing biometric exit capability at all land, air, and seaports. Passed by Committee on Homeland Security on March 28. (Sponsored)

101. Amendment to H.R. 1685, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008, which will establish a pilot program for the collection of biometric information on interdicted aliens in the maritime environment. Passed by Committee on Homeland Security on March 28. (Sponsored)

Gus Bilirakis gets kid glove treatment while Castor is subtly slammed

2007-04-03T04:13:00.000-07:00

Check out the way intrepid Tampa Tribune reporter Billy House paints Gus as the affable, self-deprecating, hard-working freshman Congressman while subtly slamming Kathy Castor in this article from last week. I'm not sure which line was funnier to me, the one where Gus claims that one-party, Jeb-controlled Tallahassee wasn't as partisan as Washington, or the one relating an incident of an eight-term Congressman not realizing that Gus was Mike's son. Give me a break.

http://www.tbo.com/news/politics/MGBETJ54WZE.html

Passing a Sensible Budget - Do We Even Have to Report How Gus Bilirakis Voted?

2007-03-30T14:16:00.000-07:00

H CON RES 99 YEA-AND-NAY
29-Mar-2007 2:35 PM

QUESTION: On Agreeing to the Resolution

BILL TITLE: Congressional Budget for the U.S. Government for Fiscal Year 2008

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO
(Bilirakis did vote Yes on the Proposed Ryan Amendment to Cut Medicare and Financial Aid - Vote Failed)

H. Con. Res. 99:
revising the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2007, establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2008, and setting forth appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2009 through 2012

Gus Bilirakis not only doesn't want to bring the troops home - He doesn't want to pay them either

2007-03-23T16:58:00.000-07:00

H R 1591
U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Health, and Iraq Accountability Act, 2007

YEA-AND-NAY
23-Mar-2007 12:43 PM

QUESTION: On Passage

BILL TITLE: Making emergency supplemental appropriations for fiscal year ending September 30, 2007, and for other purposes

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

An Historic Day

"Benchmarks without deadlines are just words, and,
after four years of this war,words are not enough."
- Speaker Pelosi

Today, the House of Representatives passed the U.S. Troop Readiness, Veterans' Health, and Iraq Accountability Act by a vote of 218 to 212. We made a critical choice—a choice to hold the Bush Administration and the Iraqi government accountable, and to set a responsible timeline for the redeployment of U.S. troops.

Our legislation fully supports our troops and ensures they have the tools and resources they need to do they job they have been asked to do. It prohibits the deployment of troops who are not “fully mission capable” – fully trained, equipped, and protected. It also honors the promises made to our veterans, funding our obligation to the new generation of veterans.

By requiring the Iraqi government to meet key security, political, and economic benchmarks that President Bush himself has laid out, we are holding the Iraqi government accountable. Failure to meet these benchmarks will mean the beginning of U.S withdrawal from Iraq and will restrict economic aid to the Iraqis.

The redeployment of our troops will allow us to focus more fully on the real war on terror, which is in Afghanistan. This bill takes giant steps toward putting resources into that war, which has been nearly forgotten by the Bush Administration.

President Bush continues to offer an open-ended commitment to a war that cannot be resolved militarily. Today, the House of Representatives passed legislation that will, for the first time, set a date for the withdrawal of our troops from Iraq and begin to end the war.

Will Gus Bilirakis be a "troop killer" like C.W. Bill Young?

2007-03-22T07:47:00.000-07:00

The vote on the Iraq spending bill is being debated in Congress as I type. I called Gus' office yesterday to find out if he will support the bill, and of course, he hasn't made up his mind yet.

Will Gus be a "troop killer" like local Congressman C.W. Bill Young, who is now famous for ignoring the conditions at Walter Reed in order to save the Bush administration from embarrassment? Young voted against the bill when it came before the Appropriations committee last week, which makes him a "troop killer." Will Gus join him in saying NO to adequate armor, training, and rest for our soldiers?

Stay tuned...

Want something done in FL District 9? Call Guam.

2007-03-14T02:45:00.000-07:00

#438 out of a Class of 439 -

From FLAPolitics.com:

Congressman Gus Bilirakis was ranked last in the House Freshman list of power by Congress.org. (Finishing 2nd to last overall) -

Full List Here

In Florida, (Kathy) Castor was ranked sixth overall with the top six being Democrats (Hastings, Wasserman-Schultz, Wexler, Meek, Boyd and Castor). The top Republican was Bill Young of St. Pete.

But the least powerful congressperson in Florida is (drum roll....) Gus Bilirakis - who placed last in the state, last among all incoming freshmen and next to last out of the ENTIRE HOUSE.

Only indicted Congressman Jefferson of LA was lower. With Bilirakis's overall ranking of 438, it also means that the non-voting Delegates from the Virgin Islands and Guam are bigger players in Congress than Bilirakis.

In any case, congrats to Castor. Good thing for Florida that Castor is as good as Bilirakis is bad.

Gus votes against workers

2007-03-01T17:28:00.000-08:00

Are we surprised? NO!

Gus Bilirakis voted against the Employee Free Choice Act today. What a shock! Here's a link:

http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2007/roll118.xml

With this bill, workers will gain the ability to join unions - and unions bring higher wages, better pensions, and health insurance. Unions will be more able to organize workers, leading to higher union density, which in turn raises the benefits of unionization still more.

Forgot to post last week when Gus rode on a Big Brown UPS truck. He was "excited" about it. I'll try to find a link if I'm not too lazy.

If Gus really understood the working class, he wouldn't have voted against the Employee Free Choice Act. I hoped his ride on the Big Brown truck would have enlightened him but I guess not.

Gus Biliarakis Streaming Video - Iraq Debate - February 19, 2007

2007-02-19T10:19:00.000-08:00

Gus Bilirakis Iraq Debate - February 19, 2007

Debate Clip

If the link above doesn't work, click here for a full list of Representative Clips

Speech Transcript: http://guswatch.blogspot.com/2007/02/gus-bilirakis-is-for-sending-more.html

Gus Bilirakis is for sending more troops into Iraq's civil war

2007-02-19T06:53:00.000-08:00

On February 15, 2007, shortly after 11:00 PM, Rep. Gus Bilirakis spoke on the floor of the House (full text below) against the resolution on Iraq "disapproving of the decision of the President announced on January 10, 2007, to deploy more than 20,000 additional United States combat troops to Iraq."

His floor statement and his vote put him squarely in favor of President Bush's escalation of this war. This is his defining moment as a new member of Congress - Gus Bilirakis is for sending more troops into Iraq's civil war.

Here is the full text of his idiotic, misguided and irrational floor statement (apparently "status quo" was his word of the day):

(Mr. BILIRAKIS asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, failure in Iraq is not an option. We enjoy our freedom today only because we have been willing to fight for it in the past. We must win the war on terror that has been thrust upon us.
Before going any further, let me first clearly state that I do not believe we should have an open-ended commitment in Iraq. I believe a new strategy is needed. America has a proud history of promoting and fighting for democracy around the globe. I don't believe now is the time to abandon that commitment.
While a new strategy is needed, the resolution that we are debating does not present us with any new policy options. Instead, we are voting on a nonbinding status quo resolution which will not do anything to change the situation in Iraq. It smacks of political posturing. Americans expect more of the world's greatest legislative body.
Let us not debase the honor and tradition of the great men and women who have served before us. We are duty bound to serve the public and engage in serious
lawmaking, not political pandering. This resolution does nothing. Worse, it endorses the status quo of the violence and bloodshed. Maintaining the status quo is what ultimately resulted in the situation we find ourselves in today.
The debate before is more consequential than the question of should we engage in a troop surge or not. None of us want to see Americans unnecessarily be put in harm's way. The debate before us is about the global threats facing the United States and how we choose to respond to them. Failure to forcibly respond to previous acts of terrorism has undermined America's credibility around the world and projected us as weak to our enemies.
Some examples of these attacks include: the World Trade Center in 1993; U.S. troops in the barracks in Saudi Arabia; sailors on the USS Cole; and the bombings of the U.S. embassies in Kenya and Tanzania. Unfortunately, Americans were too quick to forget these terrible acts.
Like many Members of Congress, I believe there should be strategic benchmarks that are designed to hold both the administration and the Iraqi Government accountable for success in Iraq. These benchmarks should measure whether sufficient progress is being made.
Unfortunately, under the restrictive rules imposed upon this debate, we will not have an opportunity to vote on other proposals which would institute benchmarks for success.
I am compelled to vote against this status quo resolution. Americans deserve a real debate with multiple options for success in Iraq, not closed proceedings that are intended to be a political ploy.
I would rather America fight the terrorists on the streets of Baghdad, instead of allowing the terrorists to attack our homeland.
I am concerned that the resolution we are debating this week is a precursor to cutting off funds for our troops. The Democrats have even called it a first step. I have heard it several times tonight. Our troops must have all the resources they need to accomplish their mission. I support our troops in the field. Therefore, I will vote ``no'' on this resolution.
General Petraeus has indicated that reinforcements will hasten the end of the Iraq battle, allowing us to direct our efforts elsewhere in this greater war on radical Islamic terrorists.
The national commander of the VFW, the Nation's largest organizations of combat veterans, issued a statement earlier this week which says, ``We need to send a message to our troops that America wants them to succeed in Iraq by giving the buildup a chance to succeed.''
As a Member of Congress, I will always do whatever possible to support our brave men and women in uniform.
As such, I will actively oppose efforts to cut off funding to our troops.
I cannot support this resolution, but I am committed to working with the President and my colleagues in Congress to ensure that the actions taken in the war accomplish the following: Moves Iraq closer to a peaceful and stable democracy; improves America's security; ensures the utmost safety and best equipment for our soldiers; and provides the shortest feasible time frame for their return to their families.
Failure in Iraq will lead to Iraq becoming a training and staging ground for terrorist groups intent on destabilizing the entire Middle East and destroying the United States and our allies.
In closing, I thank and offer my prayers for all our troops, including those brave men and women in the Ninth Congressional District and throughout the State of Florida who have answered their Nation's call to duty.
God bless our troops, and keep them safe.

And it's Wishful Thinking - You Heard it Here First in January

2007-02-16T19:33:00.000-08:00

H CON RES 63 YEA-AND-NAY 16-Feb-2007 3:22 PM
QUESTION: On Agreeing to the Resolution
BILL TITLE: Disapproving of the decision of the President announced on January 10, 2007, to deploy more than 20,000 additional United States combat troops to Iraq

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

Again - January

Is Gus Going to Stand Up - or wishful thinking?

2007-02-14T03:16:00.000-08:00

According to interpretations by Pushing Rope, who sources Think Progress, who sources
The St. Pete Times

- Gus is 'leaning opposed' to the Surge.

(Note: St. Pete Times article is from January, and was already definitively covered by GusWatch)

Where is that YouTube Clip????

Committee assignments, Legislation and Sunshine

2007-02-13T08:06:00.000-08:00

Gus Bilirakis had a letter in the Tampa Tribune on February 9th listing his committee assignments and the legislation he is introducing. Here's the link:

http://www.tbo.com/pasco/MGBDTDRZXXE.html

He also introduced a bill last week which would give tax breaks to businesses that hire reservists. Here's a link:

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2007/02/TNSreservejobs070207/

We need to follow up with Gus' office and find out how he feels about the president's budget which will hurts veterans in several ways. Sorry I don't have a link. I heard Congressman Jack Spratt discuss the budget on C-Span last week.

Also on February 9th, Bill Adair had a column in the St. Pete Times on the Tampa Bay Congressional delegation making their schedules public. Here is a blurb from that column followed by the link:

Rep. Ginny Brown-Waite, R-Brooksville, is opposed because of personal safety. She said she did not want to give locations of her meetings for fear that she could be a victim of a stalker.

"I'm not against sunshine, I'm for safety," said Brown-Waite. "You need to be very careful when you're in the public eye."

Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Palm Harbor, raised the same concerns until I explained that Tester and Gillibrand posted their schedules at the end of the day, after the meetings have been held. Bilirakis said he would consider the idea.

http://www.sptimes.com/2007/02/09/Worldandnation/Some_lawmakers_let_a_.shtml

Gus' Committee Assignments

2007-02-10T08:54:00.000-08:00

FYI-According to his Congressional website (www.bilirakis.house.gov/committees), our ol' pal Gus Bilirakis will be serving on the following committees for the 110th Congress:
Homeland Security: Border, Maritime & Global Counterterorism Subcommitte, Transportation Security & Infrastructure Protection Subcommittee
Veterans' Affairs: Disability Assistance & Memorial Affairs Subcommittee

Gus Bilirakis odds and ends

2007-02-08T08:53:00.000-08:00

None of us Gus Watchers were able to attend the Meet and Greet yesterday but hopefully we can begin attending next month. If anyone who stumbled onto this site was there, please let us know how it went.

Please call Gus's office again to see if he has taken a position on the troop escalation in Iraq. When I called a few days ago, he had not yet decided where he stood. In a follow up letter (which I have to say was less condescending than his father's always were) I was told that he was still studying the situation. Sounds to me like he's hedging his bets in the hopes that his party will come up with some strategy that doesn't totally suck (lots of luck with that!) With a resolution set to come before the House next Tuesday (February 13th), he can't keep his finger in the air much longer.

On another note, Gus has joined the Immigration Reform Caucus:

http://www.fairus.org/site/DocServer/IRC_Membship2007.pdf?docID=1381

a blog entry on the subject:

http://oneoldvet.com/?p=1090http://oneoldvet.com/?p=1090

Bilbray and Tancredo are both idiots in my mind, so this bears watching.

Gus Monthly Meet and Greet

2007-02-03T15:18:00.000-08:00

FYI - If you have questions for the Rep:

What: Community Outreach
When: First Wednesday of Every Month – Beginning February 7 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Where: Hudson Library 8012 Library Road, Hudson FL

Office Contact: Palm Harbor Office (727) 773-2871 Library
Contact: Denise Vanacore (727) 861-3020 denisev@pasco.libraries.org

How responsive is Gus??? Not so much....

2007-01-29T18:12:00.000-08:00

From Dr. Alvin Wolfe:

I wrote (fax and email) to Gus Bilirakis on January 17 about Insurance Problems in Florida. I have received no response from him as of January 29.
Below is my letter:

January 17, 2007

The Honorable Gus M. Bilirakis
1630 Longworth Washington, D.C. 20515
Tel. (202) 225-5755 Fax (202)225-4085

Dear Congressman Bilirakis:
Although you are now in Washington, I am sure that you have not forgotten Florida's homeowners' insurance problems. They have become even more critical following the legislature's actions of last spring.

My analysis of this complex situation has led me to the conclusion that our problems cannot be resolved at the state level. Having been elected to represent us at the federal level, you are now in an even better position to help Florida. Only Congress can repeal the anti-trust exemption that was given to the insurance industry, years ago, in the mistaken belief that unfettered communication among the companies would somehow be helpful to consumers.

Much, probably most, of the public discussion begins from a premise that market forces should operate in the insurance industry as they do in so many other parts of our economic life. A Tampa Tribune editorial entitled "Market Forces Blown Away By Sky-High Insurance Premiums"(Jan 14, 2007) is typical in expressing that belief.

Actually, market forces produce an optimal or fair price only where buyers and sellers all have equivalent information. That balance is almost never achieved in any market, and it certainly does not exist in the insurance market.

Even the average local insurance company knows much more about risks, etc., than the average homeowner. The re-insurers, the parent companies at the national level and international levels, have a lot more information than anybody else has. Even the states, who are expected in our system to "regulate" the industry, cannot get access to all the information that those collaborating insurance firms have.

Because the federal McCarran-Ferguson Act of 1945 exempted the insurance industry from anti-trust regulation, the major firms that handle reinsurance can and do collude on risk assessment and rate-setting in ways that would be illegal in any other industry.

That is why, as the Los Angeles Times reported, "The companies that provide Americans with their homeowners and auto insurance made a record $44.8-billion profit last year even after accounting for the claims of policyholders wiped out by Hurricane Katrina and the other big storms of 2005, according to the firms' filings with state regulators(Los Angeles Times, 4/5/06).

A 2006 report of the insurance industry financial situation states, "Over the past seven years, 1999 through 2005, the insurance industry has seen its profits nearly double, while adding almost $100 million to its surplus reserves. According to data provided by the Insurance Information Institute, industry profits increased from $22.2 billion in 1999 to $43 billion in 2005. The data also indicates that the insurance industry has seen its surpluses grow by a third – from $336.30 billion in 1999 to $427.1 billion in 2005" (p.11, in Pattern of Greed: How Insurance Companies put Profits over Policyholders, available at

http://www.beasleyallen.com/publications/Pattern%20of%20Greed.pdf

Instead of trying to correct the natural imbalance in the insurance market to protect consumers and local governments, the United States government years ago came down on the side of the insurance companies. Our state legislators cannot fix that, but you, as our representatives in congress ought to at least make a start by repealing the unique exemption of the insurance industry from antitrust laws.

Sincerely,
Alvin W Wolfe, Ph.D.
Lutz, FL

Scientology - Here Comes Gus

2007-01-22T09:07:00.000-08:00

Travolta, Gus and Greco

Before taping an interview for Sunday's "Political Connections" on Bay News 9 this morning, former Tampa Mayor Dick Greco shared with us that he got to sit with John Travolta and Kelly Preston at the big Scientology shindig the other night in Clearwater. Among the numerous politicos there was U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis.

Will Gus "Stay the Course"??

2007-01-20T17:41:00.000-08:00

In a recent St. Petersburg Times article (January 14, 2007-Robin Stein) the elder "B" reflects on his career & comments on his replacement in Congress, his son. Will Gus the Lesser follow in his father's footsteps, when it comes to taking junket trips on the taxpayer dime? The elder statesman says, "let's not get into all that", when asked about his travel records (2005 story), which included 8 trips to 'Sin City' since 1997 (all paid for by private organizations). Thankfully, the new Democratic-led House passed ethics & lobbyist reform last week!
More noteworthy in the article, the recently-retired Congressman says that Gus "tends not to take criticism particularly well." I'm sorry Gus, but, get ready!!
By the way, his real (Greek) name is Costa.

Creating Long-Term Energy Alternatives for the Nation Act

2007-01-18T15:53:00.000-08:00

H R 6 YEA-AND-NAY 18-Jan-2007 6:09 PM
QUESTION: On Passage
BILL TITLE: Creating Long-Term Energy Alternatives for the Nation Act

VOTE PASSED
Bilirakis - NO

And, that's it, right?? They did it.