April 15, 2009 06:06 PM UTC

Spiking The "Tea Party?"

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• by: Colorado Pols

We hearing that there is likely to be a little counter-protest activity for today’s “Tea Party” at the state capitol. Not a lot of details yet, of course, but there is an opposition press conference scheduled for 10AM (advisory follows), and some talk of “creative” countermessaging at the event itself.

You’ll recall that last time a similar event was held, a fellow they call “Swastika Guy” more or less emerged as the story (unwittingly, the guy was evidently sincere), upstaging the ‘pork roast’ in a way that ought to have event organizers more attentive this time. Or not, at their peril…

Press Advisory: Press Conference to Support Obama’s Budget at the State Capitol

Contact: Michael Huttner

            ProgressNow Colorado

            (303) 931-4547

What: Press Conference Supporting President Obama’s Budget and putting an end to eight disastrous years of failed policies.

When: Wednesday, April 15th, 10:00 am MST

Where: 3rd Floor Press Room, Colorado State Capitol Building, Denver

Why: President Obama’s budget will close offshore tax loopholes for corporations that cost hardworking taxpayers billions in uncollected revenue, makes critical new investments in clean energy, education and health care, and combined with investments in Colorado’s transportation infrastructure through the recent economic stimulus bill, roads and bridges that are falling apart without adequate funds for their upkeep will finally be brought up to standard.

Organizational Statements:

“The budget resolution presented by President Obama not only prioritizes fairness and accountability in the tax code, it also represents a clear and transformative road-map for prioritizing the concerns of American families over those of Washington’s entrenched special interests.  It’s a plan for responsible investments in affordable and dependable health care that will pay us back over time; it’s a plan for necessary investments to make college accessible for millions of high school graduates; and it’s a plan for smarter investments in an infrastructure for the 21st century, stated Ben Hanna, Colorado Director of ACORN

“It’s long overdue that our President and Congress invest strongly in the public structures that make America work,” said Jessie Ulibarri, with Colorado Progressive Action. “As the budget process moves forward, we are optimistic that our elected leaders will prioritize the critical needs of hardworking people over tax cuts to the wealthiest in our country.”

“President Obama’s budget presents a prime opportunity to change the tone of the debate over reproductive rights by uniting Americans behind commonsense, common-ground policies that will improve and protect women’s health and privacy,” said Toni Panetta, political director of NARAL Pro-Choice Colorado. “Across the country and here in Colorado, women not only have lost their jobs, but also the health insurance those jobs provided. As the budget process moves forward in Washington, we look forward to working with President Obama and our pro-choice allies in Congress to ensure these women don’t have to forego access to basic health care, including birth control and annual exams.”

“After eight years of failed economic policy, it is time we close corporate tax loopholes and reduce the deficit with a balanced tax code that facilitates renewable energy development,” said Gavin Clark, field organizer for Environment Colorado. “In the face of economic challenges, Colorado’s ability to shine through with technological know-how and innovation will allow us to rise to the top”

“Right-wing obstructionists will gather at the Colorado Capitol Wednesday to protest the President’s recently-passed budget proposals,” stated Michael Huttner, Founder of ProgressNow Colorado. “While right-wing obstructionists demand we go back to George W. Bush fiscal recklessness, President Obama’s budget plan will help save Colorado’s economy. We’ve got a lot of cleaning up to do,” he added.

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