Our state lawmakers passed the budget today and our governor praised them:

I am extremely proud of the members of the Legislature, both Republicans and Democrats, who had the courage to stand up and put the needs of Californians first,

I think it's great that they did it.  I just wonder why they needed "courage" to "put the needs of Californians first."  For some reason, I thought that was their job.  I should have paid more attention in civics class I guess.  I posted a list of the people you should thank for their courage if you see them walking down the street.