Jim Jeffords
Former Vermont Senator Jim Jeffords died today. He was the hero who, in May 2001, left the Republican Party and became an independent, taking control of the Senate away from the Republicans. He did this because the party refused to fund education programs promised by George W Bush, specifically the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. He also disagreed with the Bush tax cuts for the wealthy.
Jeffords was upset with the rigged game of Republican politicians campaigning on popular social programs but their party in Congress later refusing to fund them.
I'm breaking out the Jonnie Walker and drinking to a good American who did his part.