National Political Climate Change

The national political dynamic is changing - that's the conclusion from a round of new public opinion data released in the last several days. Barack Obama's approval rating has dropped below 50% for the first time, reflecting the fact that his was seemingly the shortest "honeymoon" of anyone outside of Hollywood.

Normally this fact alone wouldn't constitute a change in the political dynamic. But, it comes at the same time Republicans have moved into the lead in the national Congressional generic ballot test. In the same test Republicans were behind by as much as seven points just a few weeks ago.

The Democrats in Washington are overreaching, using the current economic climate as an excuse for a massive expansion of government, taxes and public debt. For example:

Taxes and budget. Obama's $3.6 trillion budget proposal contains what would be the largest tax hike in American history, with the new energy tax alone costing each American family $3,128 annually and a $9 billion tax on charitable giving. Higher energy prices, less disposable income, and less support of charity. Not the "change" Californians voted for. Even some Congressional Democrats are balking at the unprecedented level of debt called for in Obama's budget.

Cap and Tax. The Democrats' proposal for combating "global warming" is typically called "cap and trade." But with data released this week it became clear the Democrats' proposal really amounts to "cap and tax," producing a sharp spike in electricity prices and a drop in GDP if adopted. Call it, anti-stimulus.

I'm particularly proud of California's Republican Congressional delegation and their leadership in framing the national debate against new taxes, debt and new government spending disguised as "stimulus." They're doing a great job.