This week, state Democratic parties responded to Jeb Bush’s presidential announcement. Here’s what they had to say:

“Iowa Democrats fight every day to ensure our country is an inclusive place, accepting of all backgrounds and families, where everyone can have access to the ladder of economic opportunity. But Bush’s policies as Governor of Florida and his campaign rhetoric leading up to this announcement give us a clear preview of who Bush would fight for: people like himself, not working Iowans.” – Andy Mcguire, Iowa Democratic Party

“From the middle class to seniors, from women to the LGBT community, Bush’s record of exclusion is nothing but a page from the failed Republican policies of the past. While Bush lays out his backwards and failed policies today, just remember all those he’s left behind.” – Lizzy Price, New Hampshire Democratic Party

“We know what to expect from Jeb Bush because we’ve seen it before – policies that wreck the economy, giving massive breaks to the wealthy and corporations while leaving the rest of the country behind, A third Bush presidency would marginalize so many hard-working Virginians, from single mothers to public school children and LGBT people. Jeb has consistently put himself and people like him over everyday Americans, which Virginia just can’t afford.” – Morgan Finkelstein, Democratic Party of Virginia

“Texas and the rest of the country are still suffering from George W. Bush’s failed economic policies. Jeb Bush is no different than his brother. He opposes policies that help level the playing field for our middle class families. Texas needs a president that will help all Texans and all Americans receive a living wage and have access to affordable health care. Texans deserve a candidate that will champion a strong middle class, quality health care, and smart investments in our children’s future. Jeb Bush is not that candidate.” – Gilberto Hinojosa, Texas Democrats

“His views are vastly out-of-touch with mainstream America and Mainers who believe in equality and empowering all women and families. His policy beliefs aren’t much better. He’s actually endorsed budgets and policies that would slash early childhood education programs, college affordability and Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid. Bush’s agenda would be disastrous for hard working Maine families, students and seniors.” – Phil Barlett, Maine Democratic Party

2016 election · 2016 elections · 2016 Republican presidential candidate · Jeb Bush

Texas Governor Rick Perry is looking at a 2016 presidential run. Why should that concern us?

Check out the quote to the left. And, then compare it to what has happened in Texas.  Under Perry, Texas has seen a significant rise in income inequality:

The top 1% in Texas eared 26.3 times more than the bottom 99%.

A study found that Texas ranks 7th worst in the country in the gap between rich and poor.

Four of Texas’ major metro areas — San Antonio, Houston, Dallas-Ft. Worth and Austin — in in the top 10 nation-wide for large, metro areas most segregated by income.

The reality is Prick Perry has created a different Texas for different people. The system works for those with the most, and is paid for by those with the least while everyone in the middle gets the squeeze.

2016 Republican presidential candidate · Gov. Perry · income inequality · Rick Perry