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Group of Democrats vote against budget without affecting the outcome

By Howard B. Owens

The Buffalo News reports this morning that a group of Western New York State Assembly Democrats "rebelled" against party bosses by voting "no" on a slate of budget bills.

But how much of a rebellion is it when the outcome is predetermined?

And 23 Democrats — nearly a quarter of the party’s conference — voted no on a massive bill involving health care spending.

What’s going on? Why would so many Democrats buck their leadership on such a crucial matter?

One answer is because Democrats control the Assembly with a highly secure 109-41 margin, leaving plenty of wiggle room to let some members avoid making a politically uncomfortable vote without affecting the overall outcome of a bill the leadership wants passed.

So some Democrats who might face a backlash back home get to play it safe and "buck" party leadership. Does it really make a difference? We still get stuck with this loser of a budget.

Wayne Speed

Don't be naive there was no "bucking" going on. They were allowed by party bosses to vote against the budget because they are in districts where it may make a difference on their re-election.

If they had been told their votes were needed - they would have voted with their party - Guaranteed!

Apr 3, 2009, 8:18am Permalink

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