"Blue Dog" Caucus Gaining Influence

Modeling themselves after the "Blue Dogs" in the United States Congress, 20 Pennsylvania State Representatives who make up the States "Blue Dog" caucus are opposing Governor Rendell's proposed 16 percent increase in the State Income Tax. The "Blue Dogs" formed about a year ago as a response to some social legislation that they opposed. State Rep. and chair of the "Blue Dog" caucus Nick Kotik says the members are made up of right leaning democrats who tend to be more Conservative on social issues. Kotik says that now is not the time for any type of a tax increase and that it would hurt small business owners who tend to create the most new jobs. Kotik added that discussions on the budget are moving, but at a "Turtle's" pace.