Democrats Target GOP Pols on Recovery Act 'Hypocrisy'

The Democratic National Committee is observing the one-year anniversary of the $787 billion stimulus package, formally known as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, by creating a "Recovery Act Hypocrisy Hall of Fame." So far its honorees include 93 Republicans cited in various media reports.

Those on the list, DNC chairman Tim Kaine said, have attacked the act as socialism, a failure, and a waste of money. They have said it created no jobs, or have called for its repeal. At the same time, he said, they have been appearing at ribbon cuttings, claiming credit for projects, or asking for funds in letters that say the money will help create jobs in their states and districts. He said the offenders include GOP leaders in the House and Senate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, and "the list goes on and on."

Kaine said the recovery act, supported by a grand total of three Republicans when it passed a year ago, has stopped the economic "free fall" created by GOP policies. On a conference call with reporters, he cited 5.7 percent GDP growth in the last quarter, job losses down from 700,000 to 20,000 per month, and other encouraging signs.

"They know that the recovery act is doing the trick," Kaine said of Republicans. "Their actions are consistent with their understanding, but in their words they're playing politics."

President Obama signed the recovery act on Feb. 17, 2009. Republicans accused of contradicting themselves on it have said it is their responsibility to help constituents get a fair share of the money now that it has passed. House Minority Whip Eric Cantor, one of those cited by Kaine, released an anniversary assessment saying the stimulus had fallen far short of projected job growth.