There is no safe depository of the ultimate powers of the society but the people themselves; and if we think them not enlightened enough to exercise their control with a wholesome discretion, the remedy is not to take it from them but to inform their discretion.
To read the full column, click on the BLUE links below
March 4, 2012
SENATOR MCDANIEL: DUI, SLRP bills introduced
Created in 1989, SLRP is a special program for legislators, allowing them additional retirement benefits in addition to the regular retirement they receive under the PERS system. Pursuant to Section 25-11-309 of the Mississippi Code, the program grants lawmakers a remarkable “time and a half” retirement pay in comparison to other state employees. Put another way, legislators are the only public employees who get an additional fifty percent more in retirement. Although the size of the fund, when compared to the rest of the state’s budget, is small and the benefits paid are relatively modest, the special treatment given to legislators is difficult, if not impossible, to defend. Assuming the supplemental plan is not closed, then it is only fair that individual members be allowed to opt-out, if they prefer. I have already attempted to opt-out but discovered that present law would not allow me to leave SLRP. After the study required in SB 2680 is conducted, I plan to introduce additional legislation designed to allow individual opt-outs or even to eliminate the program, if feasible, for newly elected lawmakers.
February 26, 2012
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Tell me about Mississippi
Perhaps there is no better description of Mississippi conservatism than an unyielding desire simply to be left alone in our pursuits of joy. This is the object of our imagination, along with peace and contentment, family, church and community – the beating heart of Mississippi. Alhough we are patriotic believers in American exceptionalism, we need no super government to preside over us from a distant location; we are too proud for that. America's greatness is derived from its free citizens, not the coercion of its government. We are common people, but of good sense. Men and women of the soil, whose virtues arise from the simplicity of life. In other words, we are precisely the kind of creatures who are despised by central planners. Haters of tyranny, lovers of ordered liberty – a stubborn people, indeed.
February 21, 2012
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Obama needs reminding of our religious freedom
The administration, since 2009, has steadily chipped away at "conscience clauses" allowing medical institutions or personnel not to perform abortions or other functions contrary to their beliefs. It likewise attempted to close the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom and declined to renew a contract with the Conference of Catholic Bishops to assist human trafficking victims because the bishops refused to provide referrals for contraception and abortion services. To be completely fair, however, when it came to building a mosque at the site of Ground Zero, it did become passionate about the religious freedom of Muslims. But, I digress. In addition to its previous undertakings regarding religion, it recently also waged a battle before the United States Supreme Court.
February 12, 2012
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Religious liberty under attack
Representing yet another example of federal abuse, the Obama administration has engaged in a pitiful and wrongheaded attempt to use the force of law to impose liberal values on any institution it somehow regards as backwards or antiquated. But demanding Christian schools, hospitals, and charities to offer free contraceptives and abortion-inducing drugs to those they are providing insurance is not only offensive, it is patently unconstitutional. No right ought to be dearer to humanity than that which protects the rights of conscience against the encroachment of governmental authority. Hostility to such freedom should never be tolerated.
February 5, 2012
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Medicaid reform truly an urgent need
The unsustainable growth of Medicaid has motivated some to question whether it should be reformed. For example, in his Executive Budget Recommendations for 2013, Governor Phil Bryant proposed reform as a necessary tool, requesting workable legislation to modernize the Division of Medicaid’s method of paying claims. He should be applauded for originating discussion on such a politically sensitive, but necessary topic. Unless modifications are made, the program will continue to fuel a federal entitlement crisis and eventually impose an impossible burden on the state’s budget. If we are serious about fiscal responsibility, a revision of Medicaid from both the state and federal level should be considered.
January 29, 2012
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Reform bills merit serious discussion
Years ago, society decided that a short-term social safety net was needed for the less fortunate. But, as a struggling economy has weakened state and federal budgets, many are beginning to recognize the importance of fiscal restraint and personal responsibility. Those picking up the tab have grown uncertain and angry with a bureaucracy that is becoming more reckless with each passing day. Given the above, is it too much to ask that able-bodied individuals volunteer their time, if they wish to access public dollars? Likewise, why should taxpayer money be awarded to those with no legal right to receive it, particularly when they are citizens of a foreign country? Reform is needed, and that’s why these bills merit serious consideration.
January 22, 2012
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Change needed to improve education in Mississippi
Like most of you, I love Mississippi and would never entertain the thought of leaving. It has blessed me and my family beyond comparison. I am proud to say that no matter our religious, racial or class divisions, Mississippians are part of the same extended family — a kindred of Southerners bound together by common heritage, shared struggles, collective heartaches and a loving God. Still, despite being an excellent place to live and raise a family, regardless of our unparalleled expression of faith, art and literature, Mississippi remains at the bottom of the nation’s educational and economic ladder. And we have only ourselves to blame. It hurts to admit, but our state remains locked in a multi-generational struggle to realize our potential. Central to the struggle is the reality that we have failed and are continuing to fail our young people, as we have been unable to instill within them, generally speaking, a love for education and the benefits that result from learning.
January 9, 2012
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Balanced budged amendment needed
Amending the Constitution is not something that should be taken lightly, but the people must insist on reducing the public debt. Any reasonable approach must begin by cutting spending, not raising taxes. Not only would it require a balanced budget, it would expose congressional abuses and vote-buying, since the cost of additional spending would be readily apparent and not hidden behind a curtain of borrowed money. It would likewise guarantee a more deliberative budgeting process that avoids the destructive impulse to tax or borrow, encouraging consensus-building toward spending restraint. It's time for Congress – Republicans and Democrats – to act courageously, demanding a return to fiscal sanity. If we can't free ourselves of an excessive and growing federal debt, little else will matter.
January 2, 2012
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Success should not be punished
Government should never spread economic misery by bringing down the most capable to the level of the least capable. Forcing some to fail won't make others rise. The weakness of egalitarianism is that it demands uniformity, refusing to consider differing abilities or efforts. If financial inequality exists, it's because successful individuals outperform unsuccessful ones, prospering without government aid or resorting to force. Individuals, rather than being punished for success, should be encouraged to advance according to their abilities and achieve whatever their talents allow.
December 18, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Defenders of ‘Christmas’ must stand firm
Those defending the heritage of a Christ-centered holiday are turning the tide, thanks to constant vigilance and action. Believers are tired of being marginalized, so they are becoming more vocal. Given the above, whether or not a so-called “war” is presently being waged, many are being persuaded to ignore and devalue the very underpinnings of our republic. Representing hostility born of a radical counter-culture, they wish to turn Christianity’s public prominence into a matter of controversy, eliminating long-standing traditions under the banner of tolerance. Our nation's founders would be appalled to find a citizenry which bristles with hostility to things Christian. But our children don't have to be, if good people stand in defense.
December 11, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Character must change to restore republic
Americans have traditionally assumed responsibility for the quality of their own lives, relying on hard work and initiative to prosper. During the past few decades, however, many of our countrymen have been lured into viewing government as their source of support and hope, abdicating personal responsibilities. And those picking up the tab have grown uncertain and angry with a bureaucracy that is becoming more reckless with each passing day. This trend must be reversed, if we are to restore the republic.
December 4, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: WWII warriors had significant impact on world’s history
Though the assault on Pearl Harbor was a tactical victory for the Japanese, it derived an unintended consequence – by destroying much of the Pacific Fleet, they had also destroyed American division over the war. It unified our resolve and became a “day of infamy” that abruptly brought the United States into war as a full combatant. Heeding the call of those brave souls who suffered and died in the “Water of Pearl,” millions joined their friends and neighbors in marching off to war. Brothers, sons and fathers were called upon to fight against an imperialist empire across a great expanse of unfriendly waters known as the South Pacific. They likewise sailed to Europe to confront Nazi atrocities. With God as their ally in that great cause of freedom, they chose to fight against tyranny in a massive undertaking unparalleled in history.
November 27, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Washington: The reason we give thanks
Despite great uncertainty, Washington, like the majority of our founders, held strongly to his religious faith, with prayer representing an essential part of his distinguished life. He had a clear understanding from whence his strength arose, giving thanks to an almighty God for his continued blessings of liberty. During this season, may our struggling republic recall the lesson he imparted: when it seems despair has triumphed over hope and darkness has smothered the soul, a heavenly answer is always waiting to be found, whenever bended knees meet the cold, hard ground.
November 21, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Reform desperately needed in D.C.
The Super Committee is a gimmick fabricated to establish another layer of unaccountable government and concentrate additional power over the nation’s checkbook in the hands of the Washington elite. Not only is its goal to cut an additional $1.5 trillion in spending wholly inadequate, it violates constitutionally-based legislative practice by denying our elected representatives the opportunity for participation in the crucial areas of tax and entitlement reform. It seems destined to fail; perhaps it was designed to fail. Taking 535 House and Senate members and shrinking them down to 12 is hardly a recipe for success, especially when the 12 are handpicked by the political leadership of their respective parties.
November 13, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Never take for granted those who have sacrificed
During the hustle of modern life, it’s easy to overlook outstanding individuals and ignore heroic dreams, but we should never take for granted those who most deserve our everlasting thanks. Even when perils are past, our gratitude should never sleep.
November 6, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Laws, decisions, and mandates
Traditions such as “the right to make one’s own healthcare decisions,” “the right to abstain from entering into a contractual relationship with an unrelated private entity” and “the right to not be compelled to divulge private medical information to another private entity” are deeply rooted in American history and therefore implicated by the healthcare law’s mandate – the Due Process Clause prohibits government from infringing on such rights, unless the infringement is narrowly tailored to serve a compelling state interest.
October 30, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Eminent Domain
Mississippi families shouldn’t have to wait until their property is taken and irreversible harm is incurred. And they shouldn't be faced with threats designed to intimidate and eliminate their bargaining power, which is customarily protected by the free market. Nine state supreme courts have limited eminent domain powers, and 43 state legislatures have passed greater property rights protections. Their economies haven’t been negatively affected as a result, and neither will Mississippi’s.
October 26, 2011
WLBT: Senator McDaniel speaks on Voter ID (with video)
Recently, after citing numerous examples of abuse, a bipartisan federal commission recognized the reality of voter fraud in the elections process. It recommended that people show identification to vote, since safeguards must exist to detect fraud by confirming a voter's identity. A single fraudulent vote diminishes the value of all others cast, and it happens far too often. But the routine act of simply producing photo identification would reduce deception.
October 25, 2011
WDAM: Senator Chris McDaniel supports Prop 31
Sen. McDaniel says eminent domain has been abused by the government since 2005. He says for the first time in history after the KELO decision the government has taken land from private individuals and given the land to other private individuals. He calls that an improper use of eminent domain and says it needs to be reformed. "I believe people value their property here in Mississippi," said McDaniel. " There is no justification for taking someone's property and giving to someone else under those circumstances. If it's a true public use, that is one thing. It it's simply to give to a developer or to a corporation that's quite another."
October 24, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Make a difference by supporting Proposition 27
Since a single fraudulent vote diminishes the value of all others legitimately cast, it isn’t unreasonable to take steps to combat it, particularly with such non-intrusive requirement as asking Mississippians to prove they are who they say they are before letting them cast a vote. This is especially true when people are allowed the opportunity to obtain a free government issued ID card from the state. Identification requirements will inspire faith in the integrity of Mississippi’s elections and encourage participation, while protecting the civil rights of those whose votes would be artificially diluted by the criminal acts of others.
October 4, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Regarding PERS
Employees vested in the system should not have their promised benefits jeopardized. For example, retirees rely considerably on the so-called “13th” check, which is a cost of living adjustment needed to ensure that retiree purchasing power remains relatively the same as years progress. The “13th” check isn’t a bonus, but an adjustment added to offset the effects of inflation. Reducing or eliminating the “13th”check – a prominent feature of state government since 1966 – would cause economic calamity throughout an aging and vulnerable portion of our population, forcing thousands to seek new streams of income in the midst of an ongoing recession. PERS is presently paying annual benefits to 88,000 retirees, most of whom live in Mississippi. Since retirees have always had the reasonable expectation of receiving the check, many have planned their budgets and purchases around its continued use and are therefore rightfully dependent upon it.
September 27, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Not all jobs are created equal
The use of federal funds to create new public jobs isn’t an efficient way to stimulate economic growth because government suffers from a critical weakness – it has no money or capital of is own, except that portion confiscated from the productive members of society. When government fabricates a job, it must have money to compensate the newly-hired worker. Yet whether it raises taxes or borrows additional revenue, it subtracts needed capital from the private sector, which is the productive sector. Funds taken by the government deprive the economy of resources that might have otherwise funded investments the market determines to have greater value. Sadly, as money and resources are diverted from the private sector to the government, catalysts are displaced from the sole engine of wealth creation and job creation. When private spending declines because of elevated taxation, investor insecurity or a lack of consumer confidence caused by raging deficits, economic powerhouses sputter to a halt.
September 19, 2011
MDOC PRESS RELEASE: McDaniel speaks, receives award (no link)
Inmates at the South Mississippi Correctional Institution in Leakesville participated in a graduation ceremony Friday. The graduation ceremony was held for inmates who completed classes offered by the vocational school at SMCI. State Senator Chris McDaniel was the guest speaker at the ceremony for 90 inmates receiving educational and vocational diplomas. His speech focused on the gift of “second chances” and the importance of God in living a life of character. During the ceremony, Sen. McDaniel also received the Commissioners’ Distinguished Service Award. The award is designed to honor those who have made an outstanding contribution to their state while exhibiting qualities of positive attitude, commendable service and determined work ethic. The award is specifically for recipients who have “performed well under pressure, exude character, and command respect from their peers.” In presenting the award, Commissioner Epps remarked, “I consider it a privilege to serve with Senator McDaniel in achieving the awesome task of providing and promoting public safety to the citizens of the great state of Mississippi.”
September 8, 2011
USM STUDENT PRINTZ: Mississippi fights Obama’s healthcare law
The lawsuit, filed by State Senator Chris McDaniel on behalf of Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant and other state citizens, attacks the individual mandate provision of the law. The provision, which goes into effect starting in 2014, requires all persons without health insurance to purchase an approved policy or face a penalty. "From a Constitutional basis, the government exceeded its authority," McDaniel said.
September 6, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Ruling allows healthcare suit its journey in court
Judge Starrett’s ruling last week, a win for Mississippi’s citizens, will enable our journey through the federal court system, allowing us to join others on a track to the United States Supreme Court. We will continue our fight, because Congress does not have the unlimited power to regulate, prohibit, or mandate any or all activities in the United States. The individual mandate must be rendered unconstitutional, since its implementation would essentially abolish any limit on federal power and alter the fundamental relationship of the national government to the states and the people. The Constitution must be defended, though some wish to ignore it.
September 1, 2011
HOUSTON CHRONICLE: Judge allows health care suit to continue
A federal judge will allow a lawsuit filed in Mississippi challenging part of the Obama administration's health care law to continue. U.S. District Judge Keith Starrett, in a ruling issued Aug. 29, denied the Obama administration's motion to dismiss the lawsuit. The lawsuit — originally filed in April 2010 — argues the health care reform law's requirement that every American buy health insurance would injure them.
REAL CLEAR POLITICS: Lawsuit to continue
In his new order, Starrett said each plaintiff had now alleged that "he is making decisions to forego certain spending today, so that he will have the funds to pay for the penalties associated with his noncompliance and the associated legal costs of defending himself for noncompliance" when the law is implemented. "Therefore, plaintiffs have `alleged or demonstrated that they (are) experiencing some current financial harm or pressure arising out of the individual mandate's looming enforcement in 2014,'" Starrett wrote. "These allegations are sufficient to establish a present injury." Starrett also refused to dismiss the medical privacy claim. He wrote in his order the government's argument for dismissal of the privacy claim is not persuasive. "Defendants essentially argue that although the government may not violate the constitutional rights of its citizens, it may require citizens to give up their constitutional rights to a third party or be penalized for their failure to do so," Starrett wrote. "The absurdity of this argument is apparent.
August 29, 2011
WDAM: Obama Care law suit can go forward
United States District Judge Keith Starrett refused to dismiss a lawsuit Monday designed to dismantle the nation's health care law, ruling in favor of the petitioners. The class action lawsuit was filed by Attorney and State Senator Chris McDaniel in April of 2010 on behalf of Lieutenant Governor Phil Bryant and other Mississippians. It contends the Federal Government does not have the authority to mandate American citizens to purchase health insurance simply as a condition of lawful residence in the United States. Judge Starrettt ruled against Attorney General Eric Holder and the Justice Department finding that the Mississippi Petitioners do have standing to contest the new law's mandate.
LEADERCALL: Judge Starrett says Mississippi suit can go forward
Starrett ruled against Attorney General Eric Holder and the Justice Department in finding that the Mississippi petitioners do have standing to contest the new law’s individual mandate. According to McDaniel, the decision reaffirmed the right of citizens to challenge federal government overreaching by using the 10th Amendment to the US Constitution. When asked about the ruling, McDaniel replied, “We are very pleased with the Court’s decision. A mandate forcing American citizens to enter a contract with another private entity, including an insurance company, is unconstitutional. Congress does not have the unlimited power to regulate, prohibit, or mandate any or all activities in the United States. Such a doctrine would abolish any limit on federal power and alter the fundamental relationship of the national government to the states and the people. For the sake of our republic, the constitutional limits imposed on the federal government must stand for something.”
August 22, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: John Bob is dancing with Nell
John Wooden, the legendary UCLA basketball coach, built one of the greatest dynasties in the history of sports. Known for the youthful twinkles in his eyes, the sport of basketball loved Coach Wooden, and he loved it. But, to the surprise of many, his most significant and long-lasting obsession never revolved around the frivolity of Naismith’s creation. His unceasing gaze was always fixed, instead, upon a little tender-hearted, shorthaired girl named Nellie.
August 15, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: The difference between conservatives, liberals
Self-government and moral order are intertwined. Without moral order, notions of liberty often slide into chaotic license, and expanding government rushes in to fill the void and reestablish order. The result is a corresponding and often devastating loss of personal liberty. And yet, contrary to other political philosophies which embody the might of centralized authority, we do not propose that it should be the mission of government, by force of law, to dictate to others how they must live or to remake authority in an effort to micro-manage every individual’s whims and desires.
August, 7, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: No end in sight to nation's reckless spending
The public debt now stands at $14.5 trillion. Under a deal reached last week, the debt ceiling will now be increased to $17.7 trillion. In exchange for having the debt ceiling increased, the compromise will gain conservatives no more than $2.5 trillion in spending cuts over a ten year period, with a newly created government super-committee charged with the responsibility of outlining approximately $1.5 trillion of those cuts. But despite high-stakes drama, the estimated $2.5 trillion in cuts do little to curb trillions in deficits over the same period.
July 24, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: The debate on fiscal responsibility
The federal government is not our ultimate protector and cannot be all things to all people; liberty is the result of individuals learning to rule themselves. Since the powers of taxing and spending are the means by which the government expands, the debate over fiscal restraint is not simply one of dollars and cents; it is a debate over the role of government in our lives. Central to the debate is the question of whether we have become so obsessed with immediate gratification, comfort and ease that we would trade our hard-earned liberty for dependence on the federal nanny state. The answer to that question will control our nation’s destiny and financial security for generations.
July 17, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: We are "under God"
It is true that our government does not sanction an official religion or church, since the First Amendment forbids such intrusion. But to imply the phrase “one nation under God” was somehow constructed apart from our Judeo-Christian heritage is to ignore the certainty of past events.
July 10, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: VA shouldn’t forget nation’s Christian heritage
After an extensive study of our country, historian Alexis de Tocqueville once remarked, “Christianity is the companion of liberty in all its conflicts — the cradle of its infancy, and the divine source of its claims.” But, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs in Houston, TX apparently disagrees. Last week, veterans groups accused the VA of religious discrimination, contending they have been banned at soldiers’ funerals from saying religious words such as “God” and are having their prayers censored.
July 6, 2011
LEADER CALL: McDaniel selected to leadership program at UVA
Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) has been selected to participate in a national leadership program at the University of Virginia next week. McDaniel is one of only 50 state legislators chosen for the 2011 Emerging Leaders Program, sponsored by the State Legislative Leaders Foundation and Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia (UVA). A select group of state legislators are chosen to participate each year by the Speaker of the House, President of the Senate or Minority Leader from their respective state. Leaders are asked to nominate one or more members who by their actions have demonstrated qualities associated with leadership —integrity, compassion, intelligence, vision and common sense.
July 3, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Americans deserve practical solutions
By seeking to impose a new tax policy which targets the oil and gas industry, Washington continues to perpetuate a message of uncertainty and fear. Instead of politically-charged rhetoric, the American people deserve real and practical solutions to our financial woes. Attacking “big oil” in the middle of an economic crises may be the politically popular thing to do, but it is not the answer to recovery. Mississippians understand that the industry is not simply comprised of “selfish” corporate officers and major oil companies, despite the President’s insinuations. For every so-called “greedy” CEO of a major company, there are thousands of blue collar jobs that honest, hardworking Southerners rely upon to make a living. And Mississippi’s families are more important than his struggling poll numbers.
June 20, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Eminent Domain needs reforming
In 2005, the United States Supreme Court held that the government’s power of eminent domain may be used to take private property – one’s home, business, farm or church – based on a number of purported justifications, including the possibility of tax revenue generation or even presumably to enhance aesthetics. In response to the Court’s ruling, Mississippians fought to place the issue of eminent domain reform on this year’s November ballot, working tirelessly gather enough signatures.
June 12, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: E-Verify a help in hiring process
Though the people have long demanded federal action to find workable solutions to combat illegal immigration, the federal government has continued its refusal to protect our national integrity. In response, at least 15 states now require employers to utilize the E-Verify System as part of their hiring process.
June 4, 2011
LEADER CALL: Supporting Pro-Life
State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) also spoke at the event and called the Center for Pregnancy Choices a “Godsend.” “They are amazing,” he said. “They are on the front lines in the fight for life. They’re out there letting people know there are other options aside from just aborting the child.”
May 31, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Little Moments Make Life Worth Living
Regrettably, it has become common for many in our society to rush through the wonderful moments of life in an effort to realize others. However, spending one’s life trying either to relive the past or experience the future before it arrives leaves most feeling unhappy and exhausted. Not only are hasty departures from contentment bad for the soul, impatience can be conducive of heartache, as well as the impetus of guilt.
LEADER CALL: Bataan Death March survivor receives Purple Heart
Patriotism was ever present Monday at the Veterans Memorial Museum for the Purple Heart recognition ceremony of Arnold Flowers. Friends, family members and soldiers alike gathered outside anxiously to see Flowers finally receive his much earned Purple Heart.
May 23, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Life is precious
Last year, as part of a fund-raising event held for the Center for Pregnancy Choices of South Central Mississippi, Gianna Jessen, a 33-year-old abortion survivor, shared her touching story. During her address, she discussed her Christian faith and pilgrimage after an unsuccessful abortion attempt left her alone, injured and seeking answers to perhaps life’s most difficult question. Incredibly, in the same room where hundreds – if not thousands – of other women had delivered lifeless children, she came into this fallen world as a resilient, strong-willed and independent child who battled seemingly impossible odds to repudiate the unwelcome approach of death. Exercising an incredible will to live, it was a triumphant entry for a tiny life who would eventually grow to see the world, offering inspiration for thousands while traveling and speaking at pro-life gatherings.
May 16, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Raising debt limit and no reforms a bad idea
It has been far too common for Congress to keep raising its own credit limit, allowing itself the authority to borrow and spend even more. In 2002, the debt ceiling was a relatively low $6.4 trillion, but it has been raised nine times thereafter to its present levels. Instead of furthering policies which trap taxpayers in uncertainty and an unending cycle of debt, government must recognize that spending cuts are not simply preferred, they are required.
April 25, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: What do conservatives believe?
A number of commentators have recently encouraged discussion by asking, “What do conservatives believe?” Well, that’s a difficult one to answer, since all conservatives do not share the same beliefs. Moreover, even when there is agreement on certain principles, we often articulate varied reasoning behind our proposals. Nevertheless, a succinct explanation may be articulated, though other explanations of significance also exist.
April 18, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Recapping the 2011 Legislation Session
With the 2011 legislative session finally complete, I thought it proper to conclude my updates with brief summaries on a small number of the laws passed this year.
April 11, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Nathan's Law a legacy through loss
For months, our community — friends and strangers alike — reached out to comfort the Key family. In turn, the Keys used that support and their pain as the motivation to turn tragedy into triumph. In watching their struggles, we have all been reminded that when we face the death of a loved one, we come face to face with the power of God. Though a new law cannot replace Nathan and will never fully alleviate the heartache of his loss, it has provided some small degree of purpose. In life, Nathan would have touched many people. In death, he has touched an entire state. And through shared tears, we now know for sure: one man really can make a difference, even if he was just a little boy.
April 9, 2011
GULFLIVE: Do the right thing for children
Nathan's Law has gained national attention and its Facebook page has garnered a following as well. In fact, several other states have also passed some of the components of the bill or are considering them for adoption. Their laws will serve as tributes to Nathan Key, too. The bottom line is, Mississippi's children are safer today because of the new law. But how sad that the law emerged from such an unspeakably tragic death.
April 8, 2011
THE BOLIVAR COMMERCIAL: Nathan's Law Passes
By signing SB 2472, better known as Nathan’s Law, Gov. Haley Barbour and law makers from the state of Mississippi have taken the first step forward in making school bus travel safer for our kids. State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) first introduced this legislation to honor the memory of five year-old Nathan Key of Laurel, who died when a motorist disregarded a stopped school bus and decided to go around it on the cold morning of Dec. 11, 2009.
April 4, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Funding education critical to state's future
Though the recession has sadly forced state government to reduce spending on critical programs, it is important to maintain our commitment to classroom instruction. If Mississippians are to achieve our full potential as a people, we must work to develop generations of knowledgeable and hardworking citizens.
March 28, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: State budget picture complex
The current budget picture is complex; and if you haven’t already heard, House and Senate negotiators are at an impasse. Though there are a number of disagreements, chief among them is the question of how much the state should rely upon sources of revenue that are non-recurring, particularly in light of the ongoing economic recession.
March 27, 2011
LEADER CALL: Nathan's Law moves on to governor
The school bus safety legislation known as Nathan’s Law needs only the signature of Gov. Haley Barbour to become law. The bill, introduced by State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville), is named after Nathan Key, a 5-year-old Jones County student who died after being struck by a vehicle that illegally passed the school bus Key was exiting.
LEADER CALL: Nathan's Law ride one of celebration
The Laurel Chapter of the Blue Knights International Motorcycle Club’s ride to support Nathan’s Law became a victory ride Saturday morning. Minutes before about 40 bikers began their 93 to 97 mile bike ride to raise awareness and funds in support of a law Blue Knights Laurel Chapter President Larry Hayes said would “protect our children,” word came that the Mississippi House of Legislators passed the bill. The next step is for it to be signed into law by the Governor.
March 26, 2011
LEADER CALL: Nathan's Law passes Senate
“Nathan’s Law is going to the governor's desk for his signature," McDaniel said Saturday. "It's going to become law this year. Of all the bills we've had the honor to work, this one touched me more than any other."
WLBT-TV: Nathan's Law heads to governors desk
Nathan's father, Andy Key, received applause after the vote Saturday morning. "My hope and prayer is that no other family has to go through what Lori and I have gone through," Key says. "Hopefully this bill will not only increase awareness, but with the education piece, will also educate younger children, teenagers and adults... there's only one reason they stop and put the sign out, and that's for kids to get on, get off."
March 25, 2011
CLARION LEDGER: Senate passes school bus safety bill
The Mississippi Senate on Friday unanimously passed a compromise proposal on Nathan's Law, a measure supporters say would strengthen the state's school bus safety standards.
March 21, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: House redistricting plan unfair
Simply put, the House plan countenances a number of abuses. It systematically and intentionally uses deviation — the number of voters above or below the ideal size of a district — to promote Democrats and harm conservatives, an obvious violation of the one-man, one-vote principle. Under the House blueprint, the average deviation of districts held by Democrat incumbents is -1.0 percent, while the average deviation of districts held by Republican incumbents is +1.3 percent, amounting to a partisan deviation gap of 2.3 percent. By packing conservative districts, the House arrangement cleverly utilizes a process of upper-deviation to guarantee additional Democratic districts. Specifically, by stuffing Republican districts with more than the average district’s ideal population and keeping Democrat districts to less than the average, Republican-leaning areas were effectively ignored and districts not drawn. The end result of such a partisan approach saw conservative areas that increased in population not picking up new seats, while heavily Democratic areas that lost population either maintained seats or added new ones.
March 18, 2011
LEADER CALL: McDaniel announces reelection bid
More than 300 people attended an event Thursday night to honor State Sen. Chris McDaniel and celebrate the late President Ronald Reagan’s 100th birthday. Reagan, who would have turned 100 on Feb. 6, was a theme throughout the night as McDaniel and other speakers called on the President’s legacy and Conservatism. McDaniel, who announced his bid for re-election at the event, said it has been the “honor of my life” to serve the area as Mississippi State Senator.
March 14, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Redistricting battle continues
Complicating matters, federal law requires covered jurisdictions like Mississippi to submit proposed voting changes for preclearance prior to implementation. Presently, it is the duty of the DOJ to determine if the changes — in this instance, the drawing of new district lines — were adopted with a discriminatory intent or will have a discriminatory effect. The purpose of preclearance is to recognize that the proposed changes do not have the purpose nor effect of denying or abridging the right to vote on account of race or color.
March 12, 2011
NEWS: Lady Mustangs honored by state legislature
On Thursday March 10, 2011, Senator Chris McDaniel presented Senate Concurrent Resolution 633 to the undefeated West Jones High School “Lady Mustangs” girls soccer team, and head coach Chip Gieger for winning the Mississippi High School Athletic Association 5A State Championship in a 3-2 victory over the Ridgeland “Lady Titans” in double overtime.
March 7, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Redistricting
Though Democrats hold a slight edge in the Mississippi House, Republican strength across the naton is presently challenging their hold on power. Six other states witnessed the balance of power shift from Democratic to Republican control in 2010, including Alabama, where the GOP achieved a legislative majority for the first time in 136 years. Consequently, many political observers describe the House plan as tilted toward Democrats in a desperate attempt to preserve their evaporating influence. Nevertheless, now that the House has passed its plan, it will be transmitted to the Senate for additional consideration. The Senate must approve the House's proposal before it becomes law.
February 28, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Senate looks at open meetings, bond bills
Week eight of the 2011 legislative session was busy, as the Senate balanced committee assignments with floor actions on bills originating in the House of Representatives.
February 21, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Taking a close look at budget
Week seven of the 2011 session witnessed a slower pace, as a number of appropriation bills were presented on the Senate floor. With a February 23 deadline for original floor action on appropriation and revenue bills originating in the Senate, we began to take a closer look at the 2012 state budget.
February 14, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Senate considers animal abuse, immigration bills
Last Thursday represented a deadline for original floor action on all general bills and constitutional amendments filed by Senators. In other words, legislation originating in the Senate had to be passed out of the chamber by Thursday or it would not be considered during the 2011 legislative session. With the deadline approaching, week six of the session witnessed increased activity.
February 7, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Illegal aliens should not be collecting public benefits
Week five of the 2011 session witnessed significant floor action in the Senate. We approved SB 2152, legislation that would mandate every agency and political subdivision of Mississippi to verify the lawful presence in the United States of any adult who applies for state or local public benefits.
January 30, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Protecting our children
Week four of the 2011 legislative session witnessed a flurry of committee work, since February 1 represents a hard deadline for Senate committees to report general bills and constitutional amendments originating in the Senate. Because of the elevated amount of committee work, there were only a few floor actions commenced last week in the Senate chamber. Nevertheless, we did find time to address and pass a number of bills.
January 24, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Senate takes up complex legislation
In week three of the 2011 legislative session, the Senate considered a number of controversial issues, including a complex piece of legislation designed to crack down on illegal immigration.
January 21, 2011
LEADER CALL: Promoting Smoke-Free Mississippi
State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Miss.) said he is “sympathetic to the position” of Smoke-free Air Mississippi, but is hesitant to say that he supports the bill. “I will review the bill very carefully before I make my final decision,” said McDaniel, who notes he’s concerned about the private property rights of the business owner. “As public opinion has turned against smoking and smokers in general, there’s been more legislation introduced which would not only curb the rights of smokers, but also curb the rights of private property owners,” he said. “Though I do not smoke, and though I’m not a big fan of tobacco use, I am a greater proponent of liberty so my concern remains with telling a private restaurant owner what he must allow or what he must not allow in his building.”
January 18, 2011
CLARION LEDGER: Mississippi Senate passes immigration status bill
Mississippi law enforcement officers could be tasked with verifying the status of people they suspect are in the United States illegally if the state House agrees to an Arizona-styled immigration bill making its way through the Capitol. Senate Bill 2179 passed the Senate 34-15 Tuesday after a heated debate that lasted more than four hours while opponents and supporters, including tea party members, watched from the fourth-floor gallery.
January 16, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Work continues on Nathan's Law (Session Update)
Concluding the second week of the 2011 legislative session, the Senate’s level of activity began to increase.
January 14, 2011
COMMERCIAL APPEAL: Senators criticize bus-passing law
Angry state senators said Thursday that House members weakened rather than strengthened state law against drivers who pass stopped school buses. That triggered a dust-up between conservative senators and the chairman of the powerful House Judiciary A Committee, a hurdle that any proposed changes in criminal law must clear.
WLBT: Senate criticizes House school safety bill as weak
Thursday, Senate leaders held a press conference criticizing House Bill 551. The bill increases fines and suspends the drivers license of a motorist who passes a stopped school bus. Senate members say a bill they proposed last year would have also included possible jail time and a minimum fine for offenders. The Key family also attended the press conference. They say the house version of Nathan's Law actually reduces penalties already on the books in Mississippi.
January 13, 2011
WDAM: Two versions of Nathan's Law not setting well with Senate (w/ Video)
Thursday morning began the latest battle over legislation aimed at increasing school bus safety across the state known as "Nathan's Law." Legislation Senator Chris McDaniel says is too important for politics to get in the way of.
CLARION LEDGER: Changes to Nathan's Law Insulting
The grieving Laurel mother who has passionately pursued tougher penalties for those who illegally pass a school bus said a bill passed by the Mississippi House in her son's memory "insulted my child." Lori Key's 5-year-old son, Nathan, died in December 2009 after he was struck by a motorist while getting off a school bus near his home. "It is not the real Nathan's Law," Key said Thursday, surrounded by members of the Mississippi Senate, who promised a tougher version and took issue with some of the finer points of the House's proposal. Sen. Chris McDaniel, R-Laurel, whose own version of Nathan's Law passed out of a Senate committee Thursday, said elected leaders should "understand that certain activities must transcend politics."
LEADER CALL: Nathan's Law reintroduced
State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) has called a press conference for 11 a.m. today in Jackson to re-introduce his school bus safety legislation known as “Nathan’s Law.” McDaniel introduced the legislation during last year’s session, shortly after the death of 5-year-old Nathan Key. Key was struck and killed by a motorist who passed the stopped school bus he was exiting near his home on Houston Road in December 2009.
January 10, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: First week of session interesting
The first week of the Senate’s 2011 session witnessed some interesting moments. For a full report click HERE or on the link above.
January 9, 2011
CLARION LEDGER: Senate's First Chaplain
A natural love for politics and an unbending devotion to his Christian faith finally have come together for the Rev. Benjamin "Brother Ben" James Jr. On Thursday, James, pastor of Prentiss Baptist Church in Prentiss, was sworn in as the first appointed chaplain for the Mississippi Senate.
January 7, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: First Senate Chaplain Appointed
On Tuesday, I was pleased to author and present Senate Resolution 1 (SR 1), creating the position of Chaplain of the Senate. After debate on Wednesday morning, the Senate passed SR 1, thereby creating the new position. A copy of the resolution may be found by clicking HERE or on the link above.
January 3, 2011
SENATOR MCDANIEL: A Return to Fiscal Sanity
Due to a disappointing lack of fiscal discipline, America’s national debt is now approaching $14 trillion. To put that number in perspective, every man, woman, and child in the country would be required to cough up more than $44,000 just to eliminate it. And with Congress unlikely to stop its reckless spending, the public debt is likely to double by 2020. Because of such shocking numbers, some are – once again – pushing for a balanced budget amendment to the United States Constitution.
LEADER CALL: State legislators to return to Jackson
The Mississippi state budget weighs heavy on the hearts of local legislators as they return to Jackson Tuesday. State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) said the budget and redistricting —following the latest Census figures —will be the biggest concerns during the 2011 session. “We will probably spend a large percentage of our time (on the budget), focusing on priorities behind spending and eliminating waste wherever it exists,” McDaniel said.
December 28, 2010
WLOX: State Legislature to once again address passage of Nathan's Law
When the legislative session begins after the first of the year, Nathan's Law will once again be on the agenda for state leaders. The bill calls for tougher school bus safety laws and is named for Nathan Key who was killed by a driver who passed a stopped school bus as Nathan was getting off.
December 27, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Left continues attack on rights of gun owners
Two weeks ago, United States Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer reignited a national and legal debate over the Second Amendment’s application, reminding conservatives that the left will never tire when it comes to eroding and perhaps eradicating the Constitutional rights of gun owners.
December 22, 2010
LEADER CALL: Hundreds show up for annual turkey give-a-way
The Ellisville Police Department, along with private security, handled traffic control as McDaniel and friends distributed between 350-400 turkeys to residents as people drove up in the parking lot of the church and were greeted with the bearer of the frozen turkey and many cheers of “Merry Christmas”.
December 21, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: The "War" on Christmas
Experts disagree on whether a “war” on Christmas is actually waging within our culture. Nevertheless, no matter which side of the debate one accepts, a sad reality is becoming apparent with each passing year: despite our nation’s remarkable religious heritage, many of our citizens are now struggling with the message behind our most significant and special of holidays.
December 20, 2010
LEADER CALL: Annual turkey give-a-way Dec. 21
State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) has announced plans for the fifth annual Merry Christmas Turkey Give-a-way. McDaniel said Tuesday that he plans to give away approximately 400 turkeys beginning at 5 p.m. Dec. 21 at West Ellisville Baptist Church, 1108 B Avenue in Ellisville. “This is our fifth consecutive year,” McDaniel said. “It’s always very fulfilling to be able to give back to the community, particularly the people who need it the most.” McDaniel said that he hosts the turkey giveaway for two reasons — to give to the people that need it the most and celebrate the birth of Christ and Christmas.
December 7, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: A day that will live in infamy
Though the assault on Pearl Harbor was a tactical victory for the Japanese, it derived an unintended consequence – by destroying much of the Pacific Fleet, they had also destroyed American division over the war. It unified our resolve and became a “day of infamy” that abruptly brought the United States into the Second World War as a full combatant. “Remember Pearl Harbor” was converted into a national battle cry; the lives of thousands of American families, including my own, would never be the same.
December 5, 2010
THE IMPACT: Where do you find such men?
Local veterans were honored at the annual Veterans Day program at Stringer Attendance Center on Thursday, November 11.
November 29, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Political correctness has no place in terrorism fight
To their credit, officials have recently recognized the outrage created by enhanced security measures and have indicated that they trying to ascertain less invasive ways of ensuring airline security. By now, one would hope that TSA personnel have discovered – after literally thousands of invasive searches – that elderly grandmothers, girl scouts and little children are not aspiring to be terrorists. And hopefully they have also discovered that Americans still value their freedom and privacy, even in an age of terrorism.
November 22, 2010
FEDERAL LAWSUIT AGAINST OBAMACARE: Response filed by petitioners
Last Monday, November 15, Senator Chris McDaniel and Attorney Doug Lee filed the petitioners' Response to the Government's Motion to Dismiss. A copy of the response may be found by clicking: <HEALTHCARE LAWSUIT RESPONSE>
November 21, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Let us be thankful
In the difficult winter of 1777, General George Washington’s army was suffering from bitter cold, a lack of supplies and the obvious superiority of British forces. Many of his soldiers were in agony from severe frostbite, with feet and legs often frozen until they became black. Mandatory amputation of the injured appendages was widespread, disease was rampant and troop morale was low. With his men under distress – dying at the rate of twelve per day – and disturbing sights of crimson mixed with snow, General Washington sought divine assistance. With the weight of the world on his shoulders, he kneeled in the ice at Valley Forge. Hidden away in a grove of trees, his bended knees met the cold, hard ground.
November 16, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Government dependency wreaks havoc
The republic stands on the edge of a precipice, embracing and adoring the weight of federal power in a fashion never envisioned by preceding generations. Even worse, both major political parties are guilty of encouraging the unprecedented growth of government by demanding that it sustain and shelter us cradle-to-grave, while universally neglecting families, religious organizations, charities and others that are better able to perform needed services.
November 15, 2010
LEADER CALL: McDaniel ranked as one of state’s top 50 lawyers
Chris McDaniel, an attorney for Hortman Harlow Bassi Robinson & McDaniel, PLLC, was recently named to the Mississippi Business Journal’s “Leadership in Law.” The Jackson-based publication honored McDaniel as one of the state’s top 50 lawyers at a reception and awards celebration Nov. 4.
November 8, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Thanking our veterans
Stories of military honor and valor permeate our state, as we are instructed from an early age to revere sacrifice, salute the flag and respect soldiers. Indeed, narratives of military service and our fallen heroes supplement the state’s long literary tradition with forlorn intensity. Inspirational and tragic, chronicles of suffering have motivated and inspired the military service of our citizens in disproportionate numbers. Maintaining an unshakeable tradition born through the struggles and collective heartache of our people, Veteran’s Day represents a notable characteristic of a culture that still values selflessness.
November 7, 2010
THE COMMERCIAL APPEAL: Efforts continue to pass Nathan's Law
Sen. Chris McDaniel, R-Ellisville, who introduced the legislation, said he will reintroduce the bill during the next legislative session. "We anticipate once again that this bill will be well received in the Senate and by the great majority of House members."
October 24, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: United States remains best country in the world
Neglecting to recognize that millions of truly oppressed individuals are haphazardly rushing to our shores, risking prosecution and deportation to experience the American dream, it seems as though instigators glow with pride when they assail our nation as unduly oppressive, blaming their fellow countrymen for their own insecurities and perceived inadequacies. And yet, if the rest of the planet is used by comparison to determine our moral status, then the childish outcry that America is oppressive and unjust may be properly ignored as the delusional ranting of opportunists.
October 18, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Woman’s story is more than about survival
In the twinkling of an eye, a place of unspeakable despair was filled with the beautiful sound of a baby girl’s very first buoyant cry. That morning, on her birthday, God’s hope was the bright light that kept the darkness at bay.
October 15, 2010
LEADER CALL: ‘Obamacare’ lawsuit ruling expected soon
A ruling is expected soon in a local lawsuit challenging the health care reform known as “ObamaCare.” State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) filed the lawsuit earlier this year in the U.S. District Court in Hattiesburg.
October 11, 2010
CLARION LEDGER: Justices take E-Verify case
"Congress could have, but did not, expressly forbid state laws from requiring E-Verify participation," said Sen. Chris McDaniel, a Republican from Ellisville who co-authored the E-Verify legislation and is a lawyer. "Since federal law has traditionally encouraged federal and state collaboration regarding the enforcement of immigration law, the Supreme Court will find the act to be constitutional." The 9th U.S. Circuit Appeals Court based in San Francisco upheld the Arizona legislation in 2008, but the Supreme Court recently agreed to take it up on appeal. "The Legal Arizona Workers Act has already been upheld by federal district and appellate courts, including the very liberal 9th Circuit Court of Appeals," McDaniel said.
October 10, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Williams has made her community a better place
Growing up in the country was a wonderful experience. Just off a hardened path – an old winding road the adults referred to as “Jordan Loop” – was where my boyhood imagination ran wild. From chasing frogs to climbing trees, my friends and I embraced life with joyous conviction. We were raised, fed and often admonished by an extended family of wonderful neighbors – the Walters, Hehns, Winships, Blackwells and Clays formed the loose boundaries of our tiny corner of the world, and we bounced from house to house looking for kingdoms to explore and adventures to experience. Just up the route from where I slept as a child, next to an oddly misplaced 90-degree bend in an otherwise straight road, lived Diane Williams.
October 4, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Private investment necessary for economic recovery
Though central planners – best described as well-meaning idealists – promise utopia, they often fall short of their intended objectives. The more planners improvise to avoid the inevitable failure of their plans, the greater the disruptions are to prosperity. And as their plans fail with predictability, one intervention will inevitably lead to another, creating economic distortions which require further interventions to correct them. It is an unwelcome cycle of government action that robs citizens of their wealth and basic freedoms, undermining economic recoveries.
October 1, 2010
LEADER CALL: Heroism rewarded - Officer Stewart honored by Legislature
Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) paid tribute to Laurel officer Kim Stewart and other law enforcement during a brief ceremony Thursday in his downtown law office. McDaniel presented a commendation to Stewart for his heroism in the arrest of Jones County escapee Ira Hadley Jr. Stewart was shot in the foot during that arrest and returned to duty several months later.
September 29, 2010
CLARION LEDGER: Don't ban workers, senators warned
Others who testified Tuesday discussed potential benefits of the legislation - increasing safety and national security, lifting a burden on state resources and opening jobs to Mississippians. "I only wish we had this law at the state level back when I was doing this," said Harry Moran, a retired U.S. immigration special agent. The Arizona law gives state and local law enforcement authority to check the status of people they suspect are in the country illegally. It also restricts some forms of aiding illegal immigrants. Several Mississippi lawmakers have said they will support a similar bill during the 2011 legislative session.
September 27, 2010
LEADER CALL: McDaniel speaks at DAR meeting
Sen. McDaniel said we are living in uncertain times and that uncertainty affects everything from the economy and culture to the Constitution. “I value The Founders. They did not create a perfect document, certainly, but from the works and the minds of man, it’s the closest to perfect as anything with the exception of the good Lord’s Bible.” McDaniel also discussed lessons we as a nation can use to reestablish certainty and restore and reclaim this Republic: Believe in yourself, but more earnestly in your country; humility, selflessness, prayer, exude national self-confidence, stand for your principle’s and embrace criticism, change is not always good – maintain cultural institutions, never underestimate the importance of Judeo-Christian Ethics, empower and unleash the energies of unsung heroes, and value and trust the judgement of The Founders. “We share a vision to leave this country to our kids in better shape than we found it.”
September 26, 2010
LEADER CALL: Councilman agrees with Sen. McDaniel
Even though we may not always see eye to eye on certain political issues, I must echo the sentiments expressed by Sen. Chris McDaniel in his latest column. There are many positive things occurring in education in the city of Laurel and in Jones County, led by truly dedicated individuals in the field, but there is so much more that could be accomplished if the parents were truly involved, in a positive way.
September 20, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Everyone should be involved in education of students
South Mississippi has some of the finest and most capable teachers and administrators in the nation, but they don’t often receive the financial support, appreciation and assistance they deserve. Instead of dropping undisciplined children off at school and anticipating overworked and underappreciated teachers to work miracles, parents must make it a priority not to abdicate themselves of direct responsibility by choosing to remain involved in the process and supporting education professionals along the way.
LEADER CALL: Three inducted into JCJC Sports Hall
Sen. McDaniel said his father would be overwhelmed at the response of being chosen for the JCJC Sports Hall of Fame. “The measure of a man is not how he died – it’s how he lived. It’s not what gained – it is what he would give of himself. It is not that his name is inscribed in a stone building somewhere, but it is what is inscribed in the hearts, minds and souls of his students that he taught and the people he touched. It’s not about what the newspaper said or his obituary – it’s about how many people were sorry he passed away."
September 14, 2010
LEADER CALL: McDaniel cared deeply for JCJC
Carlos McDaniel's love for Jones County Junior College and its students was always evident. He was a standout basketball player at JCJC from 1960-62 and later became one of the school’s most popular instructors from 1967-99. “I think, the No. 1 thing for him, was his students,” said McDaniel’s widow, Charlotte. “He was a fantastic teacher and a good leader. His students loved him and he was very in touch with them. He never had a problem with them and he always had a way of talking to them, speaking with them and they usually went along with him.” McDaniel’s success as a student-athlete and instructor at JCJC has enabled him to be chosen for induction into the 2010 Class of the JCJC Sports Hall of Fame.
September 13, 2010
MSDIGITAL DAILY: Sen. McDaniel -- Congress should extend tax cuts
Whether the victim of the government’s taking is declared by the President to be wealthy or not, it is a necessary precept to natural law that a man’s earnings are his property. To the extent government intrudes on his financial property in the form of taxation, it intrudes on his freedom. History demonstrates the negative consequences of increasing taxes in periods of economic weakness; if the Bush tax cuts are allowed to expire, the nation's economic recovery will be prolonged. Instead of taking action to impede the struggling economy, Congress should extend the tax cuts for all households.
September 9, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Moratorium, double taxes on oil companies wrong
Oil and gas companies benefit from clear government policies, not the regulatory and debt-ridden nightmare that has engulfed the industry. Punitive policies are fashioning an ambiguous future and instability is rendering long-term planning speculative. Consequently, energy producers are compelled to reserve cash, limit payrolls, downsize operations and reduce investment for growth.
September 7, 2010
HATTIESBURG AMERICAN: 9/11 program set for Saturday
The Hattiesburg 912 Project will present a Remembrance and Candlelight Prayer Service from 4-7p.m. Sept. 11 in Town Square Park at the corner of Main and Buschman streets. August 30, 2010Speakers include Sen. Chris McDaniel and Christian radio broadcaster, Kim Wade. Patriotic music also will presented as well as a Color Guard to post and retire the colors.
September 5, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Politics needs more people of faith
There was a time, not too long ago, when the faith of our fathers had meaningful cultural significance. But the societal influence of Christianity has been sadly diminished. We’ve witnessed the results of its decline in academia, the entertainment industry and in government. As many remain seemingly unwilling to become involved, ignoring their responsibility to critique the culture and influence the political marketplace of ideas, our beliefs continue to slide toward the fringe of society. Fault lies with each of us, of course. When people of good conscience fail to preserve traditional values, cultural emptiness is encouraged.
August 30, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Private Property Rights and Liberty
History demonstrates that secure property rights are an indispensable condition for the preservation of freedom, economic prosperity and social harmony. Accordingly, they must be honorably defended, no matter the offered justification for abolishment. Since the Kelo decision was handed down by the Court, nine state supreme courts have limited eminent domain powers, and 43 state legislatures have passed greater property rights protections. And, yet, the State of Mississippi has not taken action to protect its property owners.
August 29, 2010
HATTIESBURG AMERICAN: Drivers keep passing stopped buses
Since Nathan's death, Mississippi Sen. Chris McDaniel has worked on a bill intended to strengthen the penalties for passing a stopped school bus. The bill, dubbed "Nathan's Law," died in the Legislature in March, after the Senate and House could not reach a compromise. McDaniel says he will re-introduce the bill when the Legislature reconvenes in January. Meanwhile, McDaniel is concerned to hear about drivers passing stopped school buses. "Is is one of the most significant problems facing the safety of our children," he said. "It happens countless times a day. And it will continue to happen until we get some teeth into this law."
August 27, 2010
LEADER CALL: McDaniel still on immigration reform
State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) will be a featured speaker Sept. 9 during an Immigration Forum at the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg. The event is being presented by the Mississippi Federation for Immigration Reform and Enforcement (MFIRE) in association with the Mississippi Tea Party. McDaniel, who has introduced immigration legislation in the past, said Tuesday he will once again offer a bill during the upcoming session. “(Immigration) certainly can be a tough issue,” he said. “But, when you condense it down to the central problem, the cost to the taxpayers of the state, it becomes far less complex. At the end of the day, someone has to stand up for the taxpayers of Mississippi.”
August 23, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: It takes more than hopes and dreams
Consumers and businesses benefit from clear government policies, not the regulatory and debt-ridden nightmare that has engulfed our economy. Unclear policies have fashioned an ambiguous future; instability renders long-term planning speculative, so businesses feel compelled to reserve their cash (as do consumers), limit payrolls and reduce investment for growth. The combined weight of the welfare state, unsustainable public spending and the loss of certainty that derives from a lack of predictability is fueling an implosion of historic proportions.
August 21, 2010
LEADER CALL: Barbour calls special session for legislature
A news release on the governor’s Website said the purpose of the special session is to consider an incentive package for a $500 million economic development project with locations around the state. The project will bring $85 million in wages and direct Mississippi purchases, as well as 1,000 direct and indirect jobs through the company and the local suppliers. Additional information will be released at a later date. State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) said revenues are “still disappointing” for the state, which began its new budget year July 1. “We have to anticipate this upcoming budget year is going to be very, very difficult,” McDaniel said. “Consequently, anything we can do to assist business development creation we should be doing.”
August 16, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Government and liberty seldom coexist
Many Americans are concerned that the republic has finally reached a tipping point where a slim majority of voters will forever guarantee a dependent populace demanding a relationship with big government, ignoring the reality that government and liberty seldom coexist within the same sphere of influence. In fact, there exists a concern in conservative circles that the republic is slowly exchanging its birthright of liberty for the comforts, however delusory, of serfdom.
August 10, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: ‘Punishing’ the oil industry only hurts the little guys
By implementing a second ill-advised moratorium, the administration is literally punishing hard-working, blue-collar business owners and employees who serve as the functional backbone of our national economy; in fact, the drilling moratorium is compounding an economic nightmare for Mississippi workers and their families – creating a second economic crisis in the Gulf of Mexico.
August 2, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Race is ‘the engine’ that drives Arizona
Demanding that Arizona’s taxpayers feed, house and educate the citizens of other countries, advocates of mass migration and open borders have found a shared residence in the last refuge of illogical thought by playing the antiquated and much-abused race card. It is their intent to downplay the real problems of immigration anarchy, focusing instead on emotional arguments designed to bolster their ugly brand of ad hominem politics.
July 27, 2010
WAPT-TV: State Senators Eyeing Immigration Legislation
Sen. Chris McDaniel, of Laurel, Sen. Michael Watson, of Pascagoula, and Sen. Lee Yancy, of Rankin County, plan to introduce new legislation next session in January that would allow legal immigration status checks after lawful contact.
LEADER CALL: Boost to Back to School
State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) is a a strong supporter of the sales tax holiday and has pushed for even more items to be added including teacher’s supplies.“People don’t realize how much money teachers spend on classroom supplies and how it hurts an educator’s bottom line,” he said. “If they could purchase their supplies tax free, it would enable them to do a better job and keep more of their hard earned money. It ultimately did not make it in this bill, but I would like to see it become part of subsequent legislation.” McDaniel said anything to help small businesses who he believes are already overtaxed is also welcome. “Anything we can do to give them a break in these times, we ought to be attempting to do,” he said. “I wish we could expand the sales tax holiday. Those businesses involved last year all experienced increased sales."
July 26, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Discontent grows along with web of deceit
In sum, although most of the mainstream press have been indifferent to the administration’s classic bait-and-switch, the President did in fact sign a massive middle-class tax increase in direct violation of his pledge to never increase taxes on anyone making less than $250,000 per year. And, consequently, as the administration’s tangled web of deceit continues to grow beyond a controllable realm, so do our feelings of discontent. Facing domestic uncertainty, record tax increases and an unsustainable national debt, the people are reminded of difficult times ahead, while the administration is being cautioned by an uneasy republic: Male parta, male dilabuntur.
July 19, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: U.S. wages legal war against Arizona
Representing a sorrowful squandering of taxpayer resources, Holder’s lawsuit is a disservice to a constitutional republic that was founded on respect for the law. Our government’s money and time would be better spent combating violent Mexican drug cartels and securing the dangerous southern border rather than obstructing efforts by the people of Arizona to protect their struggling state. After years of frustration over federal inaction, the people of Arizona had no choice but to take matters into their own hands. President Obama should respect their decision, instead of playing crass political games designed to bolster his upcoming campaign for reelection.
July 12, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Time for Change
For many in our country, it has become a generational habit to expect government to owe the public assistance it confers. But impoverished Americans deserve more than false hopes provided by government programs and the spurious promises of public sector salvation. Indeed, we have allowed the federal government to wage its ineffective war on poverty for decades; it’s time for a different approach.
July 5, 2010
CLARION LEDGER: $18M funds legislative process
Mississippi taxpayers have forked over nearly $18 million for legislative expenses for the past year, with much of the cost driven by lawmakers' salaries and travel. Sen. Chris McDaniel, R-Ellisville, was one of a few lawmakers who gave back portions of their salaries for the state's general fund. "It's just a matter of principle," McDaniel said. "We are asking people across state agencies to take a cut, I just thought it should apply to us as well." McDaniel also had one of the lowest expense budgets. Though he said he understands other lawmakers do benefit from attending special events or conferences, he chose not to go on special trips. "I'm a fiscally conservative person," he said.
LEADER CALL: Are We Still Free?
State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville), considers himself a “believer in American exceptionalism, since God has blessed this country in immeasurable ways,” noted that it’s fair to say that we are still mostly free, but there is always room for improvement. “We’re only as free as we insist, and not nearly as free or as independent as we ought to be,” said McDaniel. “Consequently, as Americans it is important to strive for the maximum level of freedom consistent with the maintenance of social order.”
July 4, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Second Amendment fight continues
Two years ago, in District of Columbia v. Heller, the United States Supreme Court rendered one of the most important legal rulings in its history by striking down Washington, D.C.’s ban on handguns. Relying on a majority opinion drafted by Justice Antonin Scalia, the Court held that adult citizens – each of us individually – enjoy the right to keep and bear arms, concluding decades of debate as to whether the Second Amendment protects the rights of all individuals (the individual rights theory) or only those who are members of a militia (the collective rights theory).
June 28, 2010
NEW YORK TIMES: Justices Say Gun Rights Apply Locally
The Second Amendment’s guarantee of an individual right to bear arms applies to state and local gun control laws, the Supreme Court ruled on Monday in 5-to-4 decision. The ruling came almost exactly two years after the court first ruled that the Second Amendment protects an individual right to own guns in District of Columbia v. Heller, another 5-4 decision.
June 27, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Moratorium threatened Mississippi
Judge Feldman’s ruling has temporarily silenced those who had the audacity to use this catastrophe as justification to impose punitive action against an entire industry, threaten jobs for Mississippi families and limit our nation’s ability to produce more of its own energy. Mississippians who rely on the oil and gas industry for their economic well-being will surely appreciate the judge’s reasoned decision.
June 23, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Lawsuit drawing unlikely comparisons
By compelling individuals to enter into a contract to purchase insurance from another entity, the law will require them to share private and personal information with the contracting party, forcing citizens to fully disclose medical conditions, treatments, habits and behaviors to corporate strangers. Not only will an insurer be privy to all past medical information, Congress’s mandate will, by necessity, grant the compelled insurer access to present and future medical information of a confidential nature. If judicially enforceable privacy rights (i.e., Roe’s zone of privacy) mean anything, then private and confidential medical details certainly merit Constitutional protection, since information regarding one’s mind, body and health is a matter that the individual is ordinarily entitled to keep private.
June 16, 2010
CONGRESS.ORG: Health care plans may change
Remember when President Obama said that Americans who liked their health insurance could keep it ? That may not be completely true after all. Most employees have health plans that will have to comply with new federal guidelines set by the overhaul — which could mean change. The revelation is the latest hiccup in the Obama administration's efforts to sell the overhaul to the American public. It came during a week when small businesses also slammed the new law, advocacy groups collected thousands of signatures calling for a repeal, and conservatives tried to apply the legal arguments of Roe v. Wade to health care.
June 15, 2010
NATIONAL REVIEW: Healthcare Lawsuit -- Roe v. Obamacare
In April, a group of Mississippi citizens, including Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant and Sen. Chris McDaniel, filed the first private class-action suit to challenge the Obama health-care law. The complaint cites all the legal precedents one would expect, but there is one big surprise: Roe v. Wade. Let us hope that Bryant v. Holder reaches the Supreme Court. If there is any logic left to constitutional law, the justices will have a narrow choice: either strike down the individual mandate or overturn the broad privacy right created by Roe and its progeny. It’s what you might call a no-lose situation.
June 14, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: The everlasting embrace of John and Nellie
John Wooden was a faithful follower of Christ, a loyal husband and person of character – a relic of another age, one defined not by material accolades but by the spiritual, intangible and eternal success of man. His personal beliefs were more important to him than basketball, embracing vision that saw far beyond the hardwood. He taught the world that marital fidelity filled with boundless love is one of the most notable lessons passed down by preceding generations, and through his dedication to God, he encouraged us to rethink our priorities, remarking, “I have always tried to make it clear that basketball is not the ultimate. There is only one kind of life that truly wins, and that is the one that places faith in the hands of the Savior.”
THE REVIEW: McDaniel elected to JCJC Sports Hall of Fame
As a freshman in 1960-61, Carlos McDaniel was an All-South Division and honorable mention All-State player. As a sophomore in 1961-62, he led the Bobcats in scoring, was named All-State and All-South Division. He was selected for the school’s Hall of Fame in 1962 and was selected Who’s Who in American Junior Colleges. He received a full basketball scholarship to Rice University in Houston, Texas. He would later receive his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Southern Mississippi
Wall Street Journal: Obama's State Aid Proposal in Doubt
Thirty-nine states say they expect lower general-fund spending for the coming fiscal year, which begins July 1 for most states, than for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2008, according to a report released last week by the National Governors Association and National Association of State Budget Officers. Most states passed their budgets assuming Congress would come through with additional funding for Medicaid, the joint federal-state health program for the poor and disabled. But the aid hasn't been approved, and its passage is uncertain. Without the supplemental Medicaid funds, states will have to cut their budgets further.
June 6, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Lessons learned from a life in government
My presentation was supposed to be an insightful venture into the political process, being asked to share advice on how to be a successful legislator. Rather than offering advice consisting merely of impractical platitudes, I worked to articulate ten lessons which have helped instruct and enlighten American leaders for more than two centuries, including my own work in the Senate.
May 23, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Calderon’s comments were inappropriate
Seeking an unbalanced and irresponsible immigration relationship with the United States, he crossed the line of decency. Though the United States spends billions in taxpayer dollars to help Mexico fight violent drug cartels posing a real threat to his government and to prop up his nation’s fledgling economy, Calderon lacks the respect to recognize our legitimate concerns regarding the porous southern border. He ought to be apologizing to American citizens instead of condemning us. The American people have long demanded federal action to find workable solutions to combat illegal immigration, drug and human smuggling and violent crime along the Mexican border. If the federal government continues its stubborn refusal to protect our national integrity, Arizona will not remain the only state to pass legislation deemed worthy of Calderon’s hypocritical criticism.
May 11, 2010
LEADER CALL: McDaniel to address Sandersville Neighborhood Watch
State Senator Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) will be the guest speaker at a Neighborhood Watch meeting in Sandersville Thursday. Neighborhood Watch Chairman Jimmy Robinson said the meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the cafeteria of the old school building on Hawkes Road.
April 26, 2010
CLARION LEDGER: Sen. McDaniel and Healthcare Litigation
Most agree that changes are needed, but freedom-loving people must insist on reform that is protective of the doctor-patient relationship, primarily state-based, centered around free-market principles and respectful of the Constitution.
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Religion Part of Our Nation's History
Despite our extensive religious history, only a fraction of which is described above, a United States Federal District Judge in Wisconsin ruled last week that the National Day of Prayer is unconstitutional, even though it had stood unchallenged for more than 58 years, including 11 presidential administrations. In an embarrassing display of judicial activism, Judge Barbara Crabb found that the wholly unforced and merely encouraged Day of Prayer somehow violates the First Amendment’s establishment clause, which prohibits the making of a “law respecting an establishment of religion.”
LEADER CALL: Shining a light on child abuse
State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) served as guest speaker for the luncheon, while Krista McKenzie of Spring Hill Baptist Church in Ellisville was the featured entertainment. McDaniel said the day served as the remembrance of the children lost to abuse and help bring awareness to the “hidden crime.”
April 16, 2010
NATIONAL RIFLE ASSOCIATION: Thank you, Senator McDaniel
Carry Reform, Park Carry Bill Signed into Law! Governor Haley Barbour (R) has signed SB 2862, NRA-backed legislation sponsored by State Senator Gray Tollison (D-9), into law! As introduced and passed by the Senate, Senate Bill 2862 will allow retired law enforcement officers to qualify to carry a concealed firearm without a permit under federal law by obtaining certification from the Mississippi Association of Chiefs of Police. State Representative Warner McBride (D-10) successfully added a House floor amendment to SB 2862 that repeals the current state ban on the possession of firearms in public parks by Mississippi Right-To-Carry permit holders. This change in state law will allow permit holders to carry in state parks and to benefit from the new federal law that removed a ban on the possession of firearms in national parks and wildlife refuges located in the state. Thanks to all of you who contacted your state lawmakers in support of eliminating this unnecessary restriction on permit holders! NRA-ILA also appreciates the efforts of State Senator Merle Flowers (R-19), State Senator Alan Nunnelee (R-6), State Senator Perry Lee (R-35) and State Senator Chris McDaniel (R-42) this session to roll back restrictions on where permittees may lawfully carry.
April 11, 2010
SENATOR McDANIEL: New healthcare law should be repealed
The new universal healthcare regime passed by Congress does too much and goes too far. Comprising more than 2,400 pages, it would require more than a newspaper column to properly express my concerns, but I would like to address a few reasons why the bill is bad public policy and perhaps even unconstitutional.
April 10, 2010
LEADER CALL: McDaniel making a difference
Generous, compassionate, patriotic, Christian. All of those words – and then some – describe State Senator Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville), who has been chosen the Laurel Leader-Call’s 2010 “Citizen of the Year.” During Thursday night’s annual “Unsung Heroes” celebration at the Train Depot, McDaniel was honored for his outstanding leadership and service to the community he calls home.
April 9, 2010
OBAMACARE LAWSUIT: Lt. Gov. Phil Byrant joins lawsuit as petitioner
Pursuing the idea that America is still the land of freedom and individual choice, Lt. Governor Phil Bryant joined with State Senator Chris McDaniel in a lawsuit to challenge the constitutionality of the recently enacted health care legislation. Filed Friday afternoon in the Hattiesburg Division of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi, Bryant said this suit is about protecting our rights as citizens. To view a copy of the First Amended Petition, click on link below:
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LEADER CALL: Sen. McDaniel named Citizen of the Year
During the Laurel Leader-Call’s annual “Unsung Heroes” celebration at the Train Depot Thursday, McDaniel was recognized for his outstanding leadership and service to the community.
April 6, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Others will join suit
“Congress is basically overreaching here,” explained McDaniel Monday. “This Health Care Act’s mandate violates the U.S. Constitution’s Commerce Clause. According to McDaniel, the Commerce Clause gives Congress the authority to regulate commerce but does not give it unlimited power. McDaniel said he and Attorney K. Doug Lee of Hattiesburg will amend the lawsuit sometime within the next 10 days to include the names of other plaintiffs. “What people don’t understand is that these people are not insured,” said McDaniel. “They just don’t feel like it’s right for the government to say they must buy insurance.”
April 2, 2010
NEWS: Petition for Injunctive and Declaratory Relief filed against Obamacare
On April 2, 2010, Good Friday, Senator Chris McDaniel and the law firm of Hortman Harlow Bassi Robinson & McDaniel in conjunction with Attorney Doug Lee of the Lee Law Firm filed a Petition for Injunctive and Declaratory Relief against United States Attorney General Eric Holder and a number of federal agencies on the issue of Nationalized Healthcare. Specifically, a classwide petition (class action) was filed on behalf of three Mississippi Plaintiffs and all other similarly situated Mississippians seeking a declaration that the individual mandate requiring them to purchase health insurance from an insurance company is a violation of the Commerce Clause of the United States Constitution. A copy of the petition may be found by clicking on the link below:
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March 22, 2010
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Now not the time for political games
I’ve recently written about shenanigans conducted by a few professional lobbyists. Regarding their inherent propensity to engage in misleading behavior, this week proved to be more of the same.
LEADER CALL: Not giving up on them
Among those on hand to witness the groundbreaking for the facility, which is scheduled to house up to 15 women, were State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) and Jones County Sheriff Alex Hodge. McDaniel told those gathered that he was talking to folks as he approached the site and discovered that the recession is taking a toll on us all. “The recession is caused by uncertainty, uncertainty in the future,” he said. This recession, he said, is centered around the economy and the environment in which we live. However, according to McDaniel, there is an even bigger recession. “It’s a spiritual recession,” said McDaniel. “This spiritual recession is the result of the lack of stability, the lack of core values.” McDaniel said the ZAC Project, and acronym for Zeal And Compassion, will bring stability and core values into the lives of those it serves. It will give them not only hope, but a second chance, he said.
HUMAN EVENTS: This Will Not Stand: Newt On the Passage of Obamacare
The American people will not allow a corrupt machine to dictate their future. Together we will pledge to repeal this bill and start over. Together we will prove that this will not stand 2010 and 2012 will be among the most important elections in American history. These elections will allow us to save America from a leftwing machine of unparalleled corruption arrogance and cynicism. Sunday was one more step in the fight against a "Washington knows best" and "Washington should run everything" attitude. Let us turn now to the Senate to continue this fight for real reform, for real self government, and for policies that create jobs, improve health outcomes, and increase freedom.
March 19, 2010
LEADER CALL: Negotiations for final version of Nathan’s Law begin
The Senate passed a version of the bill, known as Nathan’s Law, but the House passed another version that took out some key components of the bill. “Our stance is that the bill should remain in its original form,” said State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville), who filed the bill in response to the 2009 death of 5-year-old Nathan Key who was hit by a car after he got of a bus near his home in Jones County. “We know from proven research that the things outlined in the bill work.”
BLOOMBERG: Democrats Gain Support as They Move on Health Vote
U.S. House Democrats, who cleared a big hurdle in their effort to overhaul the health-care system by producing compromise legislation, are picking up fresh support for a showdown vote this weekend. Democrats need about six more votes from House members to pass the 10-year, $940 billion bill, Obama administration officials said today. President Barack Obama and Democratic leaders aim to sway some in a pool of 14 or 15 undecided lawmakers to get to the 216 votes needed to pass the measure, according to the officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity.
GALLUP: Obama's Approval Rating Lowest Yet, Congress' Declines
President Barack Obama's job approval is the worst of his presidency to date, with 46% of Americans approving and 48% disapproving of the job he is doing as president in the latest Gallup Daily three-day average.
March 15, 2010
SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONAL: Art of Healing
The South Central Health Care Foundation and the Future Leaders of Jones County hosted an Art Preview Show Tuesday at South Central Place. In addition to the business community, State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) sponsored the Art Preview Show.
SENATOR MCDANIEL: 2010 session nearing its end
The Mississippi Senate has recently been considering legislation that originated in the House of Representatives. With multiple deadlines looming, any general House bills not considered and approved by the Senate as of last Wednesday evening are now considered dead on the 2010 session’s calendar.
March 6, 2010
Nathan's law has passed the House of Representatives but in a weakened form. The bill will now to to a conference committee for further negotiations.
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Always a Supporter of Education
By standing resolute in the face of unfair criticism, we were able to fashion an even better bill which makes necessary funding adjustments and supports restorations to education. In defeating the problematic SB 2688 we secured an improved compromise for all involved. Not only did education receive a generous amount of restorations for FY10, the Department of Corrections will not be forced to take the drastic action of releasing 3,000 prisoners. Likewise, our Community and Junior Colleges will retain the $19.6 million earmarked for their future operations, while receiving an additional $4.4 million for restorations.
March 2, 2010
WPMP RADIO: Senator Chris McDaniel release on budget restoration bill
Spending down our financial reserves in less than four years amounts to feasting today knowing we will starve tomorrow. For example, every dollar SB 2688 dedicates to FY10 (which ends June 30) would come directly out of the FY11 appropriation. If we do not carefully utilize reserves, cuts would be potentially devastating in subsequent years.
March 1, 2010
MADISON COUNTY JOURNAL: Barbour Veto Wise
Mississippi's financial difficulties will only worsen as the national economy wanes and, without substantial spending restraint, the Legislature will bankrupt the state. The education lobby has been highly and unfairly critical of those urging spending restraint.
DESOTO TIMES TRIBUNE: 2010 budget in committee's hands
An agreement is in the works that restores $38 million in education reductions. A joint conference committee of three House members and three senators will work toward resolving the 2010 budget before it ends June 30.
WDAM: Nathan's Law at standstill in house
Most legislators were certain Nathan's Law would swiftly move through both chambers of Congress. "We know it works, we know the data, and we know this is a good bill," said Sen. Chris McDaniel. McDaniel introduced the bill after 5-year-old Nathan Key was struck by a driver passing a school bus in December 2009. The bill would place stricter penalties on those who break driving laws around school buses. It swept through the Senate with no opposition, but it sits still in the house.
WDAM VIEWPOINT: Nathan's Law in Danger
There must be some sort of political angle at work here for this bill not to have been released by the committee to the full House for a vote where it would no doubt have sailed through just as it did in the Senate. There is obviously to partisan issue at work here so it must be something to do with the same old back room politics and wheeling and dealing that goes on all the time. Even with the noblest of issues.
February 28, 2010
LEADER CALL: TeenPact students meet with Sen. McDaniel
Members of TeenPact visited with Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) Friday during a meeting at the Capitol. Pictured, clockwise, from left, are brothers Andrew and Patrick Callen of Laurel, Lauren Thompson of Laurel and Hickman Bynum of Jackson, and Luke Davis of Laurel.
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Voting for fiscal responsibility
Responsible long-term planning is necessary, since revenue shortfalls will continue in FY11, FY12 and beyond. The non-partisan National Governor’s Association told Congress last year that the states’ fiscal picture will continue to deteriorate over the next two years. Studies on past recessions also indicate that the future will be bleak. According to a joint report of the NGA and the National Association of State Budget Officers, state revenue will not return to FY08 levels until 2014 or 2015.
February 26, 2010
LEADER CALL: Family, school celebrate Nathan Key’s birthday
A multi-colored assortment of balloons filled the sky over North Jones Elementary School Thursday as students celebrated what would have been the sixth birthday of Nathan Key. McDaniel, who was in Jackson Thursday and couldn’t attend the ceremony, said “Nathan’s Law” has faced a serious battle in the Democratic-controlled House. “It’s still stuck in committee,” he said. “The status of the bill has not changed.” McDaniel said State Rep. Edward Blackmon, Jr. (D-Canton), chairman of the Judiciary A Committee, has not allowed the bill to progress in his committee. "He’s so seldom at the capitol,” McDaniel said. “We’ve tried to meet him in his office and tried to meet him in the committee rooms. If it doesn’t come out by Tuesday, it dies on the calendar.”
YALL POLITICS: Sen. McDaniel's statement regarding SB 2688
As part of a family of educators, I believe education must remain a top priority and have maintained a record replete with continuous support of education and teachers. But, last week -- with a single vote to send Senate Bill 2688 to conference -- I was inexplicably cast by a few as an enemy of children and of education. I suppose I've learned to expect it; such is the nature of partisan politics. Nevertheless, the reaction was perplexing; no matter how thick the battle-scarred skin of a politician eventually becomes, it's always troubling to be criticized by those one has consistently admired and defended. With that said, let's examine the facts surrounding SB 2688.
February 24, 2010
THE MISSISSIPPI PRESS: Gov. Barbour wise to stay the course
Gov. Barbour has warned that the state needs to protect its budget reserves so that it can deal with even greater revenue challenges next fiscal year. But lawmakers don't have to take Gov. Barbour's word for it. Ray Scheppach, the executive director of the National Governors Association, recently said that the current recession likely would affect state budgets for years. Mr. Scheppach told Washington Post columnist David Broder that it may be four or five years before state revenues return to 2008 levels. Gov. Barbour should be commended for sticking with the most fiscally prudent course. Mississippi will be better off in the long run.
February 18, 2010
Local REALTORS head to State Capitol
Local REALTORS made their way to Jackson for their annual REALTOR Day At The Capitol on Feb. 4. This gives REALTORS the opportunity to meet with legislators regarding legislation introduced that will directly and indirectly impact the real estate industry in Mississippi. Several REALTORS attending are pictured with Senator Chris McDaniel. Left to right, Terri Stroud, JoAnn Benison, Mark Tucker, Debbie Harper, Senator Chris McDaniel, Angie Griffin, Sue White, and Jim Johnson.
February 21, 2010
LEADER CALL: A voice for children
State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) said protecting the lives of the area’s children is very dear to his heart. Already this session, he has introduced “Nathan’s Law,” which was promoted after a 5-year-old North Jones Elementary student was run over during a routine school bus stop. McDaniel has also co-authored a “Child Protection Act” bill in the Senate. SB 2238 is known as the: “Mississippi Child Protection Act of 2010.” According to McDaniel, the bill makes certain classes mandatory reporters of who must report sexual abuse of a child (e.g., nurses, paramedics). A mandatory reporter shall report every instance of alleged or suspected sexual abuse of a child.
SENATOR MCDANIEL: A number of Senate bills under consideration
Among the bills considered and passed was Senate Bill 2056, legislation which would lower legislative pay by 10-percent during the state’s economic downturn. Considering Mississippi is currently suffering through a national recession, I supported SB 2056 and voted to reduce the pay of all legislators.
February 15, 2010
LEADER CALL: Voter ID petition headed to Jackson
State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville), who has previously introduced voter ID legislation, said he’s excited as well. “Not only have I offered voter ID legislation, I’ve led the floor charge to enact good solid voter ID legislation for the last two years,” he said. “I’m excited about this referendum, excited about the petition process, and excited to have a pure form of voter ID on the ballot. It’s great news for the state of Mississippi.”
DAILYLEADER: Educators tout school bus safety bill
Local school leaders are thrilled with proposed legislation that would encourage more awareness and responsibility from motorists and students when it comes to school buses.
MISSISSIPPI PRESS: Bill requiring prescription for pseudoephedrine
Mississippi is poised to become only the second state in the nation to require a doctor's prescription for cold medicine containing pseudoephedrine. Only four senators voted against the bill. They were Sens. John Horhn, D-Jackson; Walter Michel, R-Jackson; Willie Simmons, D-Cleveland; and Chris McDaniel, R-Ellisville.
THE UK DAILYMAIL: There has been no global warming since 1995
The academic at the centre of the ‘Climategate’ affair, whose raw data is crucial to the theory of climate change, has admitted that he has trouble ‘keeping track’ of the information. Colleagues say that the reason Professor Phil Jones has refused Freedom of Information requests is that he may have actually lost the relevant papers.
February 8, 2010
AOL NEWS: Finding Meaning -- and a Cause -- in Our Son's Death
For the sake and safety of other children, we must take action to help prevent this type of event from ever happening again. It's my prayer that something positive will come from such a senseless tragedy. I hope that Nathan's life and death will serve to inspire safety reforms all across our country. Perhaps then we will be able to see God's purpose, even in our heartbreak.
NEMS360.COM: Schools' money won't be swiftly restored
As Mississippi's legislators continue to wrangle over how much money will be restored to K-12 public education, school district leaders have moved ahead with cost-saving plans. And that's a good idea, according to the chairmen of the education committees in the House and Senate. It doesn't look as if any money is going to be quickly restored to the public education budget.
WASHINGTON EXAMINER: Recession chugs on, except in government
Among the few sectors of the economy showing net employment growth over the past year is the federal government. The federal civil service is rapidly expanding as Obama increases the size of government, with 33,000 new positions being added in January alone.
January 25, 2010
More than 300 people gathered at the Jones County Courthouse in Laurel Saturday for another “T.E.A. Party” rally to express their displeasure with the leadership coming out of Washington. Among those speaking at the rally were Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant and State Senator Chris McDaniel. They also talked about the Founding Fathers and how the nation is moving away from the principles on which it was founded.
GALLUP: Obama's Approval Most Polarized for First-Year President
The 65 percentage-point gap between Democrats' (88%) and Republicans' (23%) average job approval ratings for Barack Obama is easily the largest for any president in his first year in office, greatly exceeding the prior high of 52 points for Bill Clinton.
HERITAGE FOUNDATION: The Index of Economic Freedom
Economic freedom is the fundamental right of every human to control his or her own labor and property. In an economically free society, individuals are free to work, produce, consume, and invest in any way they please, with that freedom both protected by the state and unconstrained by the state. In economically free societies, governments allow labor, capital and goods to move freely, and refrain from coercion or constraint of liberty beyond the extent necessary to protect and maintain liberty itself.
January 22, 2010
HATTIESBURG AMERICAN: Lt. Gov. Bryant, Sen. McDaniel to speak
Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant and state Sen. Chris McDaniel will be guest speakers at the T.E.A. Party at noon Saturday on the west steps of the Jones County Courthouse at 415 North Fifth Ave. in Laurel.
January 18, 2010
MADISON COUNTY JOURNAL: This Time Next Year
And there is no dearth in ability and ambition in the legislature. Senators like Democrats David Baria (Bay St. Louis) and David Blount (Jackson), and Republicans Merle Flowers (Southaven), Briggs Hopson (Vicksburg) and Chris McDaniel (Ellisville) have caught the eyes of politicos as potential risers.
January 17, 2010
CLARION LEDGER EDITORIAL: Bus safety laws are weak
Passing a stopped school bus is against the law and dangerous. Now, a Senate bill would make that foolish choice by Mississippi drivers a possible felony.
January 15, 2010
LEADER CALL: Budget cuts impacting D.A.’s office
McDaniel said that it is key for core services such as prosecutors, prisons and law enforcement to have “all of the money that they need to operate efficiently and safely.” He noted that there have been many discussions on the state level about taxes and fees being increased. However, McDaniel said he does not support a tax increase. “You have to understand the significance of tax increases during this time,” he said. “The tax burden is already way too high. We don’t need to make it more difficult for Mississippi’s working families and businesses to be successful in this recession.” “I want everybody to understand the significance and severity of this recession,” he said. “We are going to come out of it. We’re going to be fine, but the next two years are going to be very difficult. I’m just not going to support a tax increase.”
January 13, 2010
THE IMPACT: Senator McDaniel's Report -- First Week of 2010 Session
The first week of the 2010 legislative session was a blur. On the first day of the session, the Senate approved a tax incentive package for a German pipe manufacturing company, as well as a bill that will continue the funding of workforce training programs in the state’s community and junior colleges.
January 12, 2010
WLOX: Jones County family pushes for tougher school bus laws
A bill moving through the legislature this year may become Nathan's Law, named for Nathan Key, a 5-year-old boy struck and killed as he crossed from a school bus to his home on Houston Road on Dec. 11, 2009. Clutching her son's school bag, Lori Key stood along side her husband Andy as Lt. Governor Phil Bryant made a rare political promise to the press Monday. "It is a promise personally that I will do all that I can to make certain this bill moves forward and moves forward quickly," said Bryant.
McDaniel appointed to Senate Appropiations Committee
District 42 state Senator Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) was appointed on Monday to the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee, resigning his post as a member of the Finance committee at the urging of Lt. Governor Phil Bryant. “Senator McDaniel is a man of strong integrity and a proven leader,” Bryant said. “He will be a great addition to the Senate Appropriations Committee.”
January 11, 2010
LEADER CALL: McDaniel introduces ‘Nathan’s Law’
Monday was an emotional day for Laurel residents Andy and Lori Lowe Key as the bill named in memory of their son came to fruition in the state’s capital. State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) introduced the legislation, named “Nathan’s Law,” during a special press conference Monday along with the Keys and Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant.
DESOTO TIMES TRIBUNE: New bill aims to improve school bus safety
Lawmakers have a bill before them that would increase the buffer zone around school buses and impose harsher penalties on violators. State Sen. Chris McDaniel of Jones County has introduced a bill that calls for major penalties against motorists that illegally pass school buses and tighter restrictions for school bus drivers. The death of a Jones County 5-year-old caused by a vehicle illegally passing a stopped school bus prompted this new legislation, which is being called "Nathan's Law.”
January 9, 2010
LEADER CALL: ‘Something good is going to come out of this’
Several stakeholders in possible legislation regarding school bus safety gathered at the Laurel office of State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) Friday.
December 25, 2009
HERITAGE FOUNDATION: Twelve Anti-Family Gifts from Congress
As Congress wraps up its final business for the year, there are at least a dozen detrimental policies included in the omnibus spending bill recently signed into law by the President. Taken as a whole, these policies devalue human life, weaken civil society, and undermine the family. Unfortunately, these provisions have largely gone unnoticed by the general public.
December 18, 2009
LEADER CALL: Tragedy could inspire legislation
Even before last week’s bus stop tragedy, State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) was concerned with the disregard some drivers show around those vehicles. McDaniel said he plans to resubmit a bill increasing the penalties for passing a school bus following last Friday’s incident that claimed the life of 5-year-old Nathaniel Glenn Key.
December 17, 2009
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Children are not supposed to die
Last Friday afternoon, an earthly light was extinguished when Nathaniel Glenn Key slipped into glory. He was only five years old.
December 14, 2009
LEADER CALL: Legislators evaluated on support of business
It is important to encourage economic growth, and I am proud to fight for policies that strive to make Mississippi a more business-friendly state. A successful economy depends on a tax code that rewards achievement, encourages investment and promotes growth.
LEADER CALL: ‘It’s all worthwhile’
State Senator Chris McDaniel and his team of volunteers were not scheduled to hand-out turkeys until noon Saturday, but despite the rain and cold weather motorists started lining up for turkeys as early as 5:30 a.m.
December 11, 2009
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Thank you WW II vets
Sixty-four winters have passed since the end of that war, and now with more than one-thousand World War II veterans dying daily, each year there are fewer of them to bear witness to the day the attack on Pearl Harbor changed them from children of the Depression to what Tom Brokaw called the Greatest Generation. Lest my appreciation be communicated too late, to those honorable living, the dear veterans who have prevailed since that difficult time, you have my highest admiration and gratitude for a job well done.
December 2, 2009
SUN HERALD: Bryant pushes new budgeting method
Under a proposal touted by Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant to reform the state’s budget process, the Legislative Budget Office and the Performance Evaluation and Expenditure and Review committee would be combined and charged with making sure state programs are productive, or else their budgets would suffer
UK DAILY EXPRESS: Climate Change 'Fraud'
The scientific consensus that mankind has caused climate change was rocked yesterday as a leading academic called it a “load of hot air underpinned by fraud”.
November 30, 2009
LEADER CALL: Say ‘Merry Christmas’ and get a free turkey
State Senator Chris McDaniel will continue a tradition he started four years ago by giving away from 300 to 400 turkeys to those who want one. As a conservative politician, he often points out that the government can’t solve all of the problems that exist in this society. “Yet, while the government may not be able to solve all our problems, people working together can do a lot,” he said. “Individuals can do a so much better job than the government can.” Noting that he is a supporter of conservative values that are often misunderstood by some folks, McDaniel said a part of the message of conservatism is seen in those who are “willing to live it and give ourselves to volunteerism."
November 23, 2009
THE WEEKLY STANDARD: 'Cheney: Holder Wants "Show Trial" for KSM'
Cheney said of the recent attack at Fort Hood: "I think it clearly is an act of terrorism. I don’t know any other way to define it. This is a guy who apparently motivated by some of the same sentiments and philosophy that was behind 9/11, takes a weapon and kills thirteen of our soldiers and wounds many, many others. That strikes me as an act of terror. I don’t know of any other way to call it."
MEDIA MATTERS: 'Saturday Night Live' scorches Obama policies
The NBC program featured comic Fred Armisen portraying the commander in chief at a news conference with Chinese President Hu Jintao, played by Will Forte, who spoke through an interpreter, comic Nasim Pedrad.
CNBC: The 'Real' Jobless Rate: 17.5% Of Workers Are Unemployed
According to the government's broadest measure of unemployment, some 17.5 percent are either without a job entirely or underemployed. The so-called U-6 number is at the highest rate since becoming an official labor statistic in 1994.
November 20, 2009
LEADER CALL: ‘True American living hero’
Fellow veterans and others from across the region packed the Laurel Train Depot Thursday night to pay their respects to a local hero, James Arnold Flowers. State Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Laurel) said he wanted to express thanks to Flowers and other veterans before it was too late. “I want to tell you how much we love and appreciate you,” McDaniel said. “The bravery of you men and this man, we owe so much to these veterans,” he said. “You’re special and you don’t hear it enough.”
November 18, 2009
Mid-South Magazine: McDaniel honored as Mid-South Rising Legal Star
For the second consecutive year, Senator Chris McDaniel has been recognized by Mid-South Super Lawyers magazine as one of the top young attorneys in Mississippi and named a Mid-South Rising Star for 2009. Only five percent of the lawyers in the state are named by Super Lawyers.
November 17, 2009
SUN HERALD: Barbour budget has education mergers, agency cuts
Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour on Monday unveiled a budget that includes sweeping reorganization of state government, including proposals to merge eight universities into five and reduce the number of school districts by a third.
REUTERS: China questions costs of U.S. healthcare reform
Nothing happening in Washington today should give Beijing any comfort or confidence about what may happen tomorrow. Healthcare reform was originally promoted as a way to “bend the curve” on escalating entitlement costs, the major part of which is financing Medicare and Medicaid. That is looking more and more like an overpromised deliverable.
November 13, 2009
WALL STREET JOURNAL: Theodore Roosevelt Was No Conservative
We know that Barack Obama and his allies identify themselves as "progressives," and that they aim to implement the big-government liberalism that originated in America's Progressive Era and was consummated in the New Deal. What remains a mystery is why some conservatives want to claim this progressive identity as their own -- particularly as it was manifested by Theodore Roosevelt.
HERITAGE FOUNDATION: The Originalist Perspective
Originalism does not remove controversy, or disagreement, but it does cabin it within a principled constitutional tradition that makes real the Rule of Law. Without that, we are destined, as Aristotle warned long ago, to fall into the "rule of men."
November 12, 2009
LEADER CALL: Freedom is not free
Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Laurel), who himself comes from a military family, served as guest speaker for the event. McDaniel, whose grandfather served in World War II, noted that it’s often said that we live in a post-heroic society. “To those who say we have no heroes, I remind them that they just aren’t looking in the right place,” he said. “Veterans don’t beat their chest to remind others of their heroic sacrifice. When their country asks, they lay it on the line. These noble warriors and distinguished gentlemen of courage unite. We remember you and you have accomplished extraordinary things.”
November 8, 2009
Veterans Day programs planned for Nov. 11
Jimmy Bass, president of the Veterans Memorial Museum on Hillcrest Drive in Laurel said the museum will hold a Veterans Day program at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday. State Senator Chris McDaniel will be the speaker.
November 6, 2009
LEADER CALL: McDaniel says tough decisions must be made
“I believe 2010 will be the worst part of the downfall,” he said. “Economies grow and expand and then there’s a recessionary period. Ultimately, we’ll come out of it. I believe by the last quarter of next year, but the recovery will be very slow. It will be very gradual.” McDaniel was quick to point out that he does not support a tax increase. “Not during these times,” he added. “People need to keep more of their hard earned money.”
November 5, 2009
WALTER WILLIAMS: Economic Myths and Irrelevancy
What is not taught in history books is the Great Depression was caused by a massive government failure. The most important part of that failure were the actions by the Federal Reserve Bank that led to the contraction of the money supply by 25 percent. Then, the name of saving jobs, Congress enacted the Smoot-Hawley Act in June 1930, which increased U.S. tariffs by more than 50 percent. Other nations retaliated and world trade collapsed. U.S. unemployment rose from 8 percent in 1930 to 25 percent in 1933. In 1932, the Herbert Hoover administration and a Democratic Congress imposed the largest tax increase in U.S. history, raising the top tax rate on income from 25 percent to 63 percent.
November 3, 2009
NE MS DAILY JOURNAL: Barbour says revenue continues to lag
Mississippi’s already dismal budget picture is not getting any brighter. October tax collections are $28.6 million, or 6.7 percent, below the official estimate, Gov. Haley Barbour revealed Monday.
October 30, 2009
MEDIA MATTERS: The truth about Obama's healthcare plans
Are you concerned about the possibility of nationalized healthcare? There are certain facts the media are not reporting about Obama's healthcare plans . READ MORE
SENATOR MCDANIEL: It is time for Mississippians to fight for pure Voter ID
A petition drive is currently underway to place the issue on the 2010 or 2011 general election ballot. In order to get pure Voter ID on the 2010 ballot, however, supporters will need at least 90,000 signatures by October 1. If that doesn’t happen, supporters can still get it on the 2011 ballot, assuming the signatures are approved by February. If you support the fight for pure Voter ID in Mississippi, petitions are available online at www.ms4voterid.com and at www.msgop.org. READ MORE
SENATOR MCDANIEL: Obama's policies bankrupting our nation
Unsound fiscal policies have directed our nation down an unsustainable path. President Obama’s proposed tax increases will not keep up with the historic spending increases his administration has proposed, and his policies do little to offset the crushing debt accumulated by previous administrations. READ MORE
| Monday, May 4, 2009 LAUREL LEADER CALL: Laurel Tea Party See the Laurel Leader Call's coverage of the Laurel Tea Party. |
| Friday, March 6, 2009 eVideo Update #3 - Senate Chamber Click to watch an eVideo update from Senator Chris McDaniel. |
March 3, 2009
SENATOR MCDANIEL: State Senate studying Obama’s tax-and-spend measure
Week eight of the 2009 legislative session witnessed further discussion of the federal government’s so-called “stimulus package.” Mississippi is currently preparing to receive a sizable amount of stimulus funds
