Dems emphasize objections

Leading Democratic state lawmakers are making the rounds this week, telling people what they don't like about Gov. Rell's budget proposal.

They've been loudly emphasizing their displeasure.

For example, House Speaker Chris Donovan is expected to spend some quality time in his hometown tomorrow. Word is that he will talk about Rell's proposed cuts to library services. He could also be making a stop at the Meriden courthouse. I've been told more information is coming soon.

Donovan and some others were in New Haven today.

Traveling is fun, especially around this time of year, but aren't these lawmakers suppose to be sitting down with the governor and her administration to talk about the state budget? When is that happening? The clock is truly ticking now. The new fiscal year will begin July 1.

Maybe they leave a few lawmakers behind to tend to the numbers as they travel? Maybe they come in late in the day to crunch some numbers and weigh priorities?

I guess something must be happening somewhere because Sens. Don Williams and Marty Looney canceled a press conference at a New Haven school that was scheduled for tomorrow. The reason for not going: encouraging talks with the governor's office when it comes to funding for the state's charter and CommPACT schools.

I'm glad both parties are apparently on the same page about something.