It's interesting to see how the budget is treated by the media and the Left when Republicans are in power. Leaving aside the advisability of many different Bush spending proposals, of which a number could indeed use some examination, the Democrats have suddenly taken over the old Republican position of "deficit hawk."

An article referenced by Drudge under the term "BLOAT," describes increasing spending 7.8 percent. I can remember not too long ago when a Federal spending increase of anything LESS than 8 percent was the cause of Democrats rending their garments, claiming that massive spending "cuts" were being proposed, declaring that the life's blood of America was being drained, and millions of dead children and elderly would soon fill the gutters.

I can also remember when the idea of a "balanced budget" was considered a looney Gingrich scheme, derided and laughed off by Democrats.

Ah, the good old days.

According to the Democrats, only tax cuts cause deficits, never spending increases.