I. Tax Day Tea Parties Sweep the Nation

Thousands attend Tax Day Tea Parties in and around the 24th District
On Wednesday, April 15th, I attended the Southlake Tea Party in front of nearly 2,000 people at Town Square Pavilion along with Mayor Andy Wambsganss and WBAP’s Mark Davis. More than anything, it was great to hear from enthusiastic constituents vigorously speaking out against wasteful government spending and the tax increases that will inevitably follow. Despite what some may claim, even if you taxed everyone making over $250,000 at 100%, you would still not be able to pay for the spending in the recently passed budget.

As someone with a long record as a tax cutter and deficit hawk, I found the passion of the crowd inspiring. And let me assure you that your voices were heard loud and clear. I look forward to carrying the torch for small government, restrained spending, low taxes, and traditional values as Congress reconvenes in Washington this week.

Unfortunately, due to scheduling conflicts with the Southlake Tea Party, I was unable to attend the tea parties in Hurst, Duncanville and Coppell/Carrollton/Farmers Branch. You can hear my brief remarks at 6:15 of this clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K8REgLj2Ekg.

II. Marchant receives “Taxpayers’ Friend Award”

Only 39 House members received this coveted distinction
In recognition of my 2008 voting record of opposing tax increases, supporting tax cuts, reducing the debt, and controlling federal spending, I was proud to received the “Taxpayers’ Friend Award” from the National Taxpayers Union with an “A” rating and a rank of 17th in the House. 2008 ratings can be accessed here: http://www.ntu.org/main/page.php?PageID=170

“Given today’s economic climate, fiscal discipline is more important now than ever,” NTU President Duane Parde said. “Fortunately, taxpayers have a staunch ally in Congressman Marchant. His pro-taxpayer score of 85 percent was one of the best in the entire Congress,” Parde said. “By voting time and again to reduce federal spending, taxes, and debt, Congressman Marchant has led by example in the fight to defend overburdened taxpayers across the country. If every Member of Congress were as principled as Congressman Marchant, current and future generations of Americans could enjoy much lower taxes and a less wasteful government,” Parde concluded. “Hard-working families in Texas’ 24th District and across the nation owe Congressman Marchant a debt of gratitude for his effort on their behalf. He has truly earned the title ‘Taxpayers’ Friend.’”

III. No Earmarks Requested for FY 2010

Comprehensive Reform/Overhaul of System is Needed
I have decided against requesting any appropriations earmarks for FY 2010. I believe at this time, when government spending is more out of control than ever, it would not be prudent to request any earmarks. I am not categorically opposed to funding for worthwhile projects in the 24th District, and it is true that some earmarks serve a good public purpose and benefit; however, at a time when the American people are concerned (and rightly so) about the explosion of federal spending, I believe we ought to reexamine the earmarking process. The American people deserve both transparency and accountability that can only come with a complete overhaul of the process whereby funds go to projects based on merit, not seniority. Being one of two or three dozen members not requesting earmarks this year, I am happy to announce that my decision was recognized by Taxpayers for Common Sense, Citizens Against Government Waste, and the Club for Growth. 

IV. Great Quotes in History

“Inflation is taxation without legislation.”
-Milton Friedman, 1976 recipient of Nobel Prize in Economics

“Europe was created by history. America was created by philosophy.”
-Margaret Thatcher, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (1979-1990)

"A strict observance of the written laws is doubtless one of the high virtues of a good citizen, but it is not the highest," [...] "The laws of necessity, of self-preservation, of saving our country when in danger, are of higher obligation. To lose our country by a scrupulous adherence to written law, would be to lose the law itself, with life, liberty, property and all those who are enjoying them with us; thus absurdly sacrificing the end to the means." [...] "The line of discrimination between cases may be difficult, but the good officer is bound to draw it at his own peril, and throw himself on the justice of his country and the rectitude of his motives."
-Thomas Jefferson, President of the United States (1801-1809)

I am honored to represent the 24th District of Texas, and appreciate your interest in my e-newsletter.  Please contact my District or DC office with any further questions you may have or visit my website at www.marchant.house.gov.