Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour joins the program to discuss his background and political career (he’s only the second Republican governor of MS since Reconstruction), the current political climate (“unprecedented power in the federal government”) and how he was one of few federal officials to have higher poll numbers after Katrina.
When it comes to spending, Gov. Barbour argues that you can’t spend yourself rich. America’s problem is not the deficit, it is spending. Salvation won’t come through tax hikes, rather taxpayers need more taxable income. This isn’t just conservative happy talk for Gov. Barbour. He got rid of the deficit in Mississippi even when up against a predominantly Democratic state legislature. How? Communicating with the people that the choice is clear: increased taxes or controlled spending. 75% preferred controlled spending.
Political handicappers often include Barbour when listing potential Republican candidates for 2012. He does have impressive credentials and strong positions on everything from ObamaCare and entitlements to immigration to the Ground Zero Mosque. Nevertheless, many agree that being from Mississippi, having a deep southern accent, and likely most challenging, a career in lobbying could hurt his electability.
Gov. Barbour’s response to such criticism?
“Maybe by 2012 they’ll be ready for the anti-Obama.”
Watch the full episode below:
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