Gov. Bobby Jindal of Lousiana on Friday became the first governor to officially refuse part of the federal stimulus money, saying he would reject a portion of expanded unemployment benefits that would eventually require his state to raise taxes on businesses.
At least five other Republican governors are saying they also may spurn portions of the federal payout.
That’s raising objections from lawmakers, mayors and other critics who say the governors are putting political ideology before the interest of their constituents who need help.
Jindal is widely considered a strong contender in the Republican Party’s 2012 presidential sweepstakes. A rising political star, he’s been tapped to give the GOP response to President Obama’s address to Congress Tuesday.
Do you think this is all political posturing? Or is Jindal actually looking out for his constituents’ long-term interests?
Candy Crowley digs deeper on Monday.
Have a great weekend and see you Monday at 10 p.m. eastern
At least five other Republican governors are saying they also may spurn portions of the federal payout.
That’s raising objections from lawmakers, mayors and other critics who say the governors are putting political ideology before the interest of their constituents who need help.
Jindal is widely considered a strong contender in the Republican Party’s 2012 presidential sweepstakes. A rising political star, he’s been tapped to give the GOP response to President Obama’s address to Congress Tuesday.
Do you think this is all political posturing? Or is Jindal actually looking out for his constituents’ long-term interests?
Candy Crowley digs deeper on Monday.
Have a great weekend and see you Monday at 10 p.m. eastern
-Cate Vojdik, AC360° Writer
