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Joe the Plumber at Michigan Tea Party: Saying ‘In God We Trust’ Will Get You Shot In Some Places

LANSING, Mich. — Thousands of people descended on the Michigan Capitol earlier today as part of a national movement of tea parties to protest high taxes

Jul 31, 2020
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LANSING, Mich. — Thousands of people descended on the Michigan Capitol earlier today as part of a national movement of “tea parties” to protest high taxes and what they argue is an encroachment of socialism into American government and society.
Addressing the rally was Samuel Joseph Wurzelbacher, commonly known as “Joe the Plumber,” who became a household name during the 2008 presidential race when Republican presidential candidate John McCain referred to the Ohio resident as “Joe the Plumber,” and used him as a walking metaphor for the American middle class.
“I’m here for one reason and one reason only: It’s ‘I love America,’” Wurzelbacher told the crowd. “Mainstream media wants to paint us as a bunch of extremists, right? We’re in search of liberty and our freedoms. What’s so extreme about that?”
“I’m just regurgitating,” Wurzelbacher said. “I believe in common sense.”
Wurzelbacher went on to lambaste what he said was a rising tide of “socialism” across the country and laid the blame on the U.S. government.
“Let me give you another extremist view, ‘In God We Trust,’” he said to wild applause. “Say that too loud in some parts of America and you will be shot. It’s terrible.”
Hoisting signs with slogans like “Hitler gave speeches too,” “I am only 4 and I am in debt,” and “Revolution or death,” the crowd filled the lawn of the Capitol and listened to other speakers like Scott Hagerstrom of Americans for Prosperity of Michigan; Leon Drolet of the Michigan Taxpayers’ Alliance; and Wendy Day of the Howell school board.
“Take out your cell phones, we’re going to make a call,” Drolet told the crowd. “I’m going to give you a phone number, then we are all going to hit send at the same time.”
Drolet had the crowd call the congressional switchboard, which he said would be flooded by the calls. Then he had the crowd chant: “Are you crazy? Wasting Money? People are suffering? Cut your spending!” Hundreds of cell phones were in the air.
“Let this be just the beginning of a movement. Today they heard us, but we need them to feel us,” Drolet said. “And they feel us when you make a difference in the field of the political arena. When some of the politicians lose their jobs. A recession is when your neighbor losses their job. A depression is when you lose your job and a recovery is when a politician loses their job.”
A selection of signs from the rally:
Image has not been found. URL: http://michiganmessenger.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/former-state-rep-jack-hoogendyk.jpgFormer State Rep. Jack Hoogendyk (R-Texas Corners) listens intently to speakers on the steps of the Capitol.
Image has not been found. URL: http://michiganmessenger.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/congressman-mike-rogers.jpgRepublican U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers of Brighton listens contemplatively to speakers while standing on the steps of the state Capitol.
Image has not been found. URL: http://michiganmessenger.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/can-you-hear-me-now.jpgCrowd participants dial the congressional switchboard to send a message to Congress about taxes.
Anti-acorn
Anti-acorn
"Let your gun be your constant companion"
"Let your gun be your constant companion"
"Let your gun be your constant companion"
Image has not been found. URL: http://michiganmessenger.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/gm1.jpg
Image has not been found. URL: http://michiganmessenger.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/hate-speech.jpg
Image has not been found. URL: http://michiganmessenger.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/hitler.jpg
Image has not been found. URL: http://michiganmessenger.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/new-world-order.jpg
Image has not been found. URL: http://michiganmessenger.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/obama.jpg
Image has not been found. URL: http://michiganmessenger.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/prescription.jpg
Progressive-fascism
Progressive-fascism
Image has not been found. URL: http://michiganmessenger.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/revolution-or-die.jpg
Image has not been found. URL: http://michiganmessenger.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/slavery.jpg
Image has not been found. URL: http://michiganmessenger.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/stupid-question.jpg
Tax-zombie
Tax-zombie
Todd Heywood is a reporter for TWI’s sister site, The Michigan Messenger.
Camilo Wood

Camilo Wood

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Camilo Wood has over two decades of experience as a writer and journalist, specializing in finance and economics. With a degree in Economics and a background in financial research and analysis, Camilo brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his writing. Throughout his career, Camilo has contributed to numerous publications, covering a wide range of topics such as global economic trends, investment strategies, and market analysis. His articles are recognized for their insightful analysis and clear explanations, making complex financial concepts accessible to readers. Camilo's experience includes working in roles related to financial reporting, analysis, and commentary, allowing him to provide readers with accurate and trustworthy information. His dedication to journalistic integrity and commitment to delivering high-quality content make him a trusted voice in the fields of finance and journalism.
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