Well, Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI) is either pulling a fast one on us, or he’s an indecisive dope. Three years ago, this Michigan Republican worked with a California Democrat to add a contingent to the "bi-partisan" Energy Independence and Security Act that phases out (makes illegal!) traditional incandescent light bulbs, in favor of the curly-Q, mercury-laden CFLs.
It’s funny: when only 3 of 198 cosponsors are Republican, and when only 35 House Republicans and 18 Senate Republicans vote in favor, a bill is declared "bi-partisan".
Apparently, he has now "seen the light" (or, read the Tea leaves), realizing that the grassroots have spoken, and don’t favor the CFLs – and he wants to un-do the law. Oh, and he wants to be the next chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.
This is a Republican? Call this the most pathetic mulligan request of all time. He worked with Democrats while they were in power, and is now backtracking with Republicans, and pandering to Conservatives, who are about to be in power. Did this guy room with Charlie Bass in college?
I guess Michigan is as whack as Massachusetts. Throw this bum out, and keep him out of ANY committee chair seats. We don’t need this type of Republican in Washington and we prefer he just mess up his own state – the same goes for Charlie Bass….uh…wait…
I wonder which other Republicans supported that Energy Act (House, Senate)? Thanks for supporting this Progressive boondoggle, Judd Gregg and John Sununu! You were in good company with fellow-RMSP RINOS Lisa Murkowski, Ted Stevens, Olympia Snowe, Susan Collins, Jefferson Sessions, Larry Craig, Lamar Alexander, Bernie Sanders and Joe Lieberman. Don’t worry, Charlie, you’re safe….for now.
File this one under the "Rule of Unintended Consequences" and "DC Dopery".