Editorial

Party In Crony Capitalism Revolt Holds Convention at Government-Owned Hotel

But some Michigan GOP delegates may feel right at home

As Republican Party delegates head to Cleveland to nominate a presidential candidate, most are probably unaware that the convention is being hosted by a taxpayer-funded hotel, the Hilton Cleveland Downtown.

The Wall Street Journal reports that the hotel is actually a government project, owned by Cuyahoga County via an arrangement with an entity known as a port authority. (Some GOP legislators have been promoting one in Michigan as well.)

According to the Journal, taxpayers are liable for the debt this entity incurred to create the $276 million facility.

ForTheRecord says: The taxpayer-subsidized facilities won’t seem unusual to some Michigan GOP delegates. Detroit and other Michigan cities have seen flashy projects that received subsidies in the name of economic development.

For example, four years ago, Michigan’s Legislature voted to greenlight a government-subsidized hockey arena project for the Detroit Red Wings. The multi-venue venture — which also includes a hotel — is being financed with $260 million in taxpayer funds.

The facility was hailed by Gov. Rick Snyder as “a project that will help revitalize Detroit.” Previous flashy projects in Detroit also have introduced with hopeful promises.

Michigan Capitol Confidential is the news source produced by the Mackinac Center for Public Policy. Michigan Capitol Confidential reports with a free-market news perspective.

Editorial

Mark Ruffalo Wants Government to Defund the Police — But Fund His Films

'Hulk' star has appeared in many taxpayer subsidized movies

Actor Mark Ruffalo has signed on to a movement to defund local police departments that “refuse to implement the reforms needed to protect Black lives.”

On July 11, the actor who plays Bruce Banner and the Hulk tweeted, “Defund bad cops and police departments. Tell Obama: We need an executive order!”

He then linked to a site that provides a form letter to send to the President.

ForTheRecord says: Public safety is a core function of government, but subsidizing film production is not. Like most everyone, Ruffalo benefits from police protection. But he is among a tiny and privileged few who also benefit from film subsidies.

Specifically, Ruffalo has made a great deal of money appearing in films whose producers were paid millions of taxpayer dollars via state film subsidies. His subsidized movies include "The Avengers," "Iron Man 3" and "Foxcatcher." Ruffalo has recently lobbied for tax credits for moviemakers.

If Ruffalo ever finds himself in need of emergency services, maybe he should try calling a state film subsidy office for help.

Michigan Capitol Confidential is the news source produced by the Mackinac Center for Public Policy. Michigan Capitol Confidential reports with a free-market news perspective.