There is no question that Governor Paterson and members of the Legislature are confronting very difficult decisions in trying to put together a budget that doesn’t further burden New Yorkers. But the pain of these decisions is largely self-inflicted and that is the problem.
For years, and across party lines, leaders have done their best to [...]
A late state budget is better than a bad one, but Unshackle Upstate worries we might get both. Let’s work the lateness to our favor: You still have a chance to voice your concerns about the budget and make sure our elected officials hear them.
Unshackle Upstate agrees with our NYS elected officials that something must be done to lower property taxes. But we differ greatly on the solution – and think their ideas fall way short.
At its core, Unshackle Upstate is about finding solutions. Identify what the short-term needs are and back them up with sustainable, long-term reform. As the saying goes, “if you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem.” Through its policy agenda, Unshackle Upstate has supported wage freezes and payroll lags as [...]
After intensifying our social media efforts less than a year ago, we have shot past 12,000 Facebook fans and are now approaching 13,000. Since launching our 2010 Challenge last July, we’ve averaged 40 new fans a day. That’s incredible! Collectively, Unshackle Upstate is now one of, if not the, largest on-line political movement in New York. I can’t tell you how excited and thankful we are that so many New Yorkers are now engaged in the political battle to save our state.
A new week dawns in Albany, but don’t expect the state Legislature – just back from a 10-day break – to agree to a 2010-11 budget anytime during these next seven days. The budget was due April 1.
Unshackle Upstate answers some questions raised about why we are seeking contributions to fund our campaign to save New York state.
Regrettably, the lyrics have changed to the once popular “NY State of Mind” song. It’s now “NY State of Disarray” which includes new phrases such as “A state that can’t seem to stop spending increases” and “Having representatives that no longer serve the interests of the State.” Moreover, recent verses have just been added that include “Politicians that violate the citizen trust” and “Voter apathy in NYS that seems ever increasing.”
You hear everyone talking about his or her rights. Whether they’re speaking specifically about the Bill of Rights or simply thinking in terms of what the government should do for you and me. Aren’t “we the people” the government and if so then shouldn’t the government be a direct reflection of us and our wants and wishes?
The mood in the state Capitol seems refreshingly a bit different, yet disturbingly all too the same.
Elected officials do recognize the seriousness of the state’s financial situation, but don’t seem ready or willing to take action that will result in lasting change.
