Nonetheless Folks Still Think Of Bill Nelson As An Empty Suit

In 1978, Bill Nelson ran for the House of Representatives on a platform of bringing a new direction to Congress and 34 years later he’s still uttering the same rhetoric.  Today he delivered a speech unveiling what he would like to accomplish in Washington.

Nelson claims he wants to balance the budget and gut the wasteful spending in Washington.  Yet just last year he voted against a balanced budget amendment.

Additionally, just a few years ago he supported the failed $825 billion stimulus where millions of dollars were given out to failed green energy companies – like Solyndra – and billions of dollars were given to tax cheats.

“Bill Nelson talks a big game, but in Washington he’s voted against the balanced budget amendment and supported the failed stimulus which was riddled with wasteful projects,” said National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) spokesman Jahan Wilcox.  “After 40 years in public office, it’s time to replace Nelson with someone who will actually vote to rein in President Obama’s reckless spending habits.” 

BACKGROUND …

In 1978, Nelson Wanted To Change The Direction Of Congress

In 1978, Nelson Ran For Congress Offering To Bring “A New Direction” To Congress. “His far-younger opponent, Bill Nelson, says he is running to bring a new direction to Congress.” (David Wilkening, “Gurney’s Contribution vs. Nelson’s New Way,” Orlando Sentinel-Star, 10/30/78)

Nelson Promised To Change “The Old Way Of Politics” And “Business As Usual.” “[Nelson] urges change. He preaches reform. ‘People are ready for change. That change does not mean just another face. What it means is the end of the old way of politics, business as usual vs. the new way: not taking special interest money, for example, and not giving simple answers to complex problems,’ Nelson said.” (David Wilkening, “Gurney’s Contribution vs. Nelson’s New Way,” Orlando Sentinel-Star, 10/30/78)

Yet Nelson Opposed The Balanced Budget Amendment

In 2011, Bill Nelson Voted Against A Balanced Budget Amendment. “Passage of the joint resolution that would propose a constitutional amendment that would require a balanced budget starting in the fifth fiscal year after ratification by three-fourths of the states. The proposal would require that total outlays do not exceed 18 percent of the gross domestic product. Under the proposal, three-fifths of the entire House and Senate would be required to approve an increase in the public debt limit. In addition, tax increases would require the affirmative vote of two-thirds in both chambers. A simple majority could waive the balanced-budget requirement in times of congressionally declared war or in the face of a serious military threat.” (S. J. Res. 10, CQ Vote #229: Rejected 47-53: R 47-0; D 0-51; I 0-2, 12/14/11, Nelson Voted Nay)

And Supported The Failed Stimulus

Nelson Voted For The “Stimulus” Bill. (H.R. 1, CQ Vote #64: Adopted 60-38; R 3-38; D 55-0; I 2-0, 2/13/09, Nelson Voted Yea)