Next on the Republican Chopping Block: National Parks

For the past 108 years, under the Antiquities Act of 1906, presidents of both parties have been able to protect America's heritage, including the Statue of Liberty, the Grand Canyon and Arches National Park.  If Congressional Republicans have their way, this 108-year-old tradition will be abolished.  Because freedom.

HR 1459 would take away the President's authority to create new national monuments.  Only Congress would have this authority. And Congress hasn't voted to protect any public lands since 2009.  That ain't what the Koch Brothers are paying them for.

The last straw was President Obama's use of the Antiquities Act last week to expand the California Coastal Monument.  HR 1459 was sponsored by Rep. Rob Bishop (R—DUUUHHH!!!), who was outraged at Obama for “making an end run around Congress.”   He said “In other words, the House was punked by the President.”

WTF???  Isn't there some sort of intelligence test that people need to pass in order to serve in Congress?   Apparently not.

Along with spectacular scenery and environmental protection, some of the newest national monuments have honored women, Native Americans and other ethnic minorities.  This will come to a screeching halt if HR 1459 passes.

Let's hear some more of that GOP rhetoric about their outreach to minorities.

This bill doesn't have a chance of getting through the Senate or being signed by President Obama.  But it's another chance for the GOP to get their base all motivated and riled up.