Margolis: This isn’t the end of Dems’ income tax reform efforts
Both houses probably lacked the votes to override a Shumlin veto, and whatever the final outcome, challenging a governor of their own party to veto a tax bill risked making that party appear incompetent, if not ludicrous.
Margolis: Shumlin emerges unloved, but unchallenged
One indication of Shumlin’s political genius is how he managed to paint himself as the fiscally conservative tax-cutter when he initially proposed a bigger budget.
Margolis: Stalemate looms as end-of-session Sturm und Drang intensifies
Undeniably, this is the most acrimonious session of Shumlin’s tenure.
Margolis: In polls, sometimes ‘sometimes’ is the easiest answer
There is no reason to assume that a man who answers “sometimes” is any less concerned about domestic violence than one who answers “rarely.”
Margolis: The circle game of school spending
As Republicans are beholden to the wishes of small town educators and taxpayers, Democrats can not ignore the interests of the education establishment, including Vermont’s chapter of the National Education Association.
Margolis: Holy smoke! Poll shows Vermonters favor only one new tax
Vermonters are politically liberal, at least when it comes to social issues, the environment, and even generosity toward the poor. But this poll indicates that they are no more liberal than other Americans when it comes to taxing, especially taxing themselves.
Margolis: Consider the facts
So the standard news account is limited to quoting Side A saying this proposal will cure the common cold and unrequited love, and Side B insisting that it would destroy the economy of the state if not the nation. The quotes are usually accurate. But that’s not journalism; it’s stenography.
Margolis: Governor gives ground, more retreat likely
Despite its anti-tax rhetoric, the administration is probably going to have to accept some tax hikes.
Margolis: Reining in the language police
For thousands of years, the word “rape” has been understood to mean the violent or abusive treatment of anyone or anything.
When it comes to raising taxes, money is just the start of the debate
Why are almost all Vermont Democrats – and that includes the governor who claims to be opposed to higher taxes — proposing to raise taxes on sales, income, and gasoline? Because, they say, it’s necessary.
