RSSDoc revs up GOP troops for 2012 campaign
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YAKIMA, Wash. -- U.S. Rep. Doc Hastings told Republicans at their annual Lincoln Day banquet Friday night that the event marks the beginning of the 2012 campaign season.
"I can't tell you I'm ready to announce my candidacy for 2012," the Pasco Republican and longtime U.S. representative told the crowd of 270 at the Clarion Hotel. "But I can tell you I can't see myself not being a candidate."
Hastings' speech centered on domestic energy production and federal budget cuts, in particular where they concern a proposal by House Republicans to reform entitlement programs such as Medicaid and Medicare. Over the last month, the congressman has been making the rounds in the 4th District touting Republican proposals on the two issues.
Critics of the plan to reform social entitlement programs say it will take assistance from those who need it and turn it into tax breaks for the wealthy. Hastings said it gives state officials, those most in tune with the local population's needs, the power to use the funds responsibly.
"We (Republicans) in the House have decided to do the leading on that, and rightfully so," Hastings said.
He said President Barack Obama also hasn't done enough to promote domestic energy production and reduce the nation's reliance on foreign resources. Hastings, the chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, has proposed legislation that will promote more exploration and production of fossil fuels domestically.
Fredi Simpson, a committeewoman representing the state on the national Republican National Committee, also spoke with a message calling for unity among Republicans in 2012.
"There is nobody in this room that is the enemy," Simpson said. "The true enemy is the liberal progressive agenda."
The speakers were followed by a "Musical Tribute to America," featuring famous songs in American history such as "Yankee Doodle Dandy" and "The Star-Spangled Banner."
* Contact Mike Faulk at 509-577-7675 or mfaulk@yakimaherald.com. Follow him on Twitter at @Mike_Faulk.
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