GOP branded hypocrites for stance on stimulus

Democrats helped mark yesterday's one-year anniversary of the $787 billion federal stimulus package by criticizing Republicans who opposed the package but are taking credit for stimulus-funded efforts.

During a White House event, President Barack Obama said, "There are those, let's face it, across the aisle who have tried to score political points by attacking what we did, even as many of them show up at ribbon-cutting ceremonies for projects in their districts."

Republicans overwhelmingly opposed the stimulus package, questioning how the money would be spent at a time of skyrocketing deficits. They also question whether it has worked, noting that unemployment has risen since last February.

But Democrats say the stimulus has helped the economy and point to reports about Republicans -- including Rep. Pat Tiberi, R-Genoa Township -- who opposed the stimulus but supported stimulus projects.

"Those who waved their fist with the left hand and accepted funds with the right are just more evidence that the Republicans are the party of no -- no to new ideas and, apparently, no shame," Ohio Democratic Party Chairman Chris Redfern said yesterday.

Last week, Gov. Ted Strickland said that among those who attended a Jan. 18 event to announce a $175 million expansion at DuPont's Circleville plant was U.S. Rep Steve Austria, R-Beavercreek.

But Austria voted against the stimulus bill, and the expansion was possible only because of $50.7 million in tax credits funded by the package, Strickland said.

"It wouldn't have been possible if he had gotten his way," Strickland said. "I think it should be a little embarrassing to people who opposed it, voted against it, then to show up in a public way, as is happening across the country." ...

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