[Linda Liberty]

Bloomberg inherited a deficit in the billions from Giuliani, a sizeable fraction of the budget. I believe he has cut spending significantly, making up a sizeable portion of the shortfall with cuts. As far as I can see, he's been quite responsible for a politician, and I don't often say anything positive about politicians. He's made serious efforts to avoid raising taxes any more than he had too.

I do think the amounts collected by the city in tobacco tax will go down though as the black market gets more organized, but probably never get lower than what they were collecting before this tax increase.

[Between the Lines]

As far as I can see, he's been quite responsible for a politician, and I don't often say anything positive about politicians.

Linda Liberal. You never say anything positive about a Republican politician. Perhaps since Bloomberg is a RINO or that his antismoking position is so liberal, you see fit to praise him.

He's made serious efforts to avoid raising taxes any more than he had too.

Did you read the article? From 8 cents to $1.50 per pack.

[sarcasm]

He's made serious efforts to avoid raising taxes any more than he had too.

Like the 14% income tax surcharge that just kicked in?