With "gaming" in jeopardy, Governor Steve Beshear displays CHUTZPA and moves for cigarette tax increase. For the record: "sin" taxes don't bother me!

With his "gaming" plans in possible jeopardy, including a new proposal to ONLY have slots at race tracks, Governor Steve Beshear has decided to go to plan B -- just in case -- and will support a 70 cent per pack tax increase on cigarettes.

Let me go on the record and explain that as a REAL Conservative, I abhor taxes.

However, taxes on "sin" -- such as on alcohol and "smokes" -- don't bother me at all, so I applaud the Governor's efforts in this regard, both for public health and for public service through raising revenue for budgetary purposes.

I hope members of the Legislature display equal chutzpa, too, and begin a MEANINGFUL discussion of this issue.

Update: Pol Watchers is reporting an update as follows:

House budget committee chairman Harry Moberly offered a stinging rebuke of Beshear's proposal, calling it "irresponsible."

He accused Beshear of "ambushing" House leaders Thursday night with the cigarette tax proposal. Moberly, D-Richmond, said Beshear's actions were "petulant" and that the Democratic governor needs an "attitude adjustment."

OUCH! That is NOT a good way to treat a Governor from one's own party!