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Thawing Fuel For Palin's Pipeline
Kyle and her husband moved to Brookfield in 1986. She became active in local politics and started blogging in 2004. Her focus is primarily on local issues but often includes state and national topics, too. Kyle looks at things from the taxpayers' perspective in a creative, yet down to earth way, addressing them from a practical point of view.
If images don't show up, click to view here.
I listened to and watched nearly all of last night's 1st debate between Gov. Mitt Romney and Pres. Barack Obama, and I couldn't be more pleased with Romney's performance. For many viewers, this was the first look at Mitt Romney without the Praetorian press/media* filter in place.
What a night for Republican candidate Rick Santorum--he swept all 3 primaries in Minnesota, Missouri, and Colorado. And what is even more remarkable, he did this on a shoestring. Mitt Romney's millions (and I have nothing against wealthy people) and Newt Gingrich's millionaire backing didn't seem to matter. Rick Santorum still managed to pull ahead. Santorum has won 4 states--3 caucuses and 1 primary in Missouri, the most of any candidate so far.
It is easy to see why Newt fell from favor, given his sour grapes comments lately, plus, he wasn't on the Missouri primary ballot. But Romney's fall? Romney came in 3rd in Minnesota. "Romney should have had the advantage in both Colorado and Minnesota, which he carried in the 2008 Republican presidential primaries. He awaited the returns Tuesday night in Colorado, where he spent most of the past week campaigning." At the end of the night, Santorum came in with 40% of the vote to Romney's 35%!
True, voter turnout wasn't as high as 2008, but..."Romney won fewer voters than he did in 2008, signaling that he hasn't been able to hold onto those who turned out to pull the lever for him last time. In Minnesota in 2008 he won nearly 26,000 voters in the caucuses, while on Tuesday he won fewer than 10,000. In Missouri's primary his take dropped from 172,329 votes to just 63,826. And in Colorado's caucuses he won more than 33,000 votes last time but fell 10,000 votes shy of that this year." Even in Mormon friendly Nevada, Romney's total was 25% less than his 2008 total.
Given that Romney has run before, if we compare this 2012 election cycle to 1980's, Romney's lackluster numbers should be cause for pause. In 1976, Reagan ran again for president and lost the nomination to Gerald Ford. It was at the convention, where Reagan delivered the speech for Ford, that the party realized they nominated the wrong man. Ford lost and we got Jimmy Carter instead.
So given that many of us felt (myself included) that we chose the wrong man in John McCain and would have preferred Mitt Romney, wouldn't we expect Romney to distinguish himself this go round? Instead, it seems Romney is fizzling out.
It is still early in the game, especially in this unusual election cycle where anything seems possible, but it would seem Rick Santorum is finally hitting his stride. Maybe people are finally bothering to ferret out what each candidate actually stands for.
In any event, it is refreshing to hear a candidate state what so desperately needs to be said, " 'I don't stand here to claim to be the conservative alternative to Mitt Romney,' [Santorum] said. 'I stand here to be the conservative alternative to Barack Obama.' "
A big AMEN to that.
Delegate Scorecard: Remember, 1,144 delegates are needed for the GOP nomination. Delegate estimates :Romney 86, Santorum 38+, Gingrich 29. According to RNC rules, early primary delegates should be awarded proportionately too, but in Florida, they were all given to Romney. Missouri's were non-binding and will be awarded in future.
State by State Primary Results
Behind the numbers: Romney's Tuesday disaster
Newt Gingrich shocked many 2012 election watchers by winning South Carolina's primary on Saturday. South Carolina. Newt won conservative South Carolina, big time!
Despite very negative allegations by X-wife #2 the very week leading up to the primary, Newt still managed to surge ahead to capture 41% of the vote to Romney's 27%, Santorum's 17% and Paul's 13%. In exit polls, Newt even won over the Evangelical and Tea Party voters. How was that possible?
Now, I am no Romney fan (because of RomneyCare and my preference for a mainstream Christian), but at least I felt Romney was a somewhat acceptable default candidate for Republicans--he may not be a conservative with passion, but he would go along with a conservative led Congress. Hands down, Ron Paul is my most undesirable choice. But next to Paul, Newt would be my least desirable candidate of the roster--even when there were still 9 in the running!*
That said, I do love the way Newt dishes it back to the media, and I think that is why Newt manages to evoke a positive response--even with conservatives. He really nailed it on the head at the CNN debate, " 'I am tired of the elite media protecting Barack Obama by attacking Republicans,' he said."
And he is right about the media keeping good candidates out of the mix when he fumed, "The destructive, vicious, negative nature of much of the news media makes it harder to govern this country, harder to attract decent people to run for public office..." Just look at how they have gone after Rick Santorum with questions about his wife and even his stillborn son. Or the relentless attacks on Sarah Palin and her family. Is it any wonder good people like Gov. Bobby Jindal or Rep. Paul Ryan shy away from running?
Dishing it back is the same reason people responded to Donald Trump. While I don't believe for a minute that he is a conservative, and I think he and Newt have similar problems with the women in their lives, I did enjoy his boldly responding to reporters questions and tying it back to Obama, who has been abysmal as a president.
Sarah Palin should have been a natural for running in 2012. After all, it was McCain's selection of her that brought some spark into his campaign. But the media so mercilessly attacked her and her family, they pretty much guaranteed her staying out this time.
Since I started writing this post, the 4 remaining candidates had their first debate in Florida. This time, Newt didn't knock it out of the park. While I can appreciate Newt's bold rhetoric, he is NO conservative. He has been all over the map on the issues--even in recent years--supporting the individual mandate for health insurance, supporting Cap and Tax with Nancy Pelosi, and supporting pathways to citizenship for illegals.
So as Newt and Mitt continue to bloody each other and Ron Paul is just, well, Ron Paul, Rick Santorum stands firm. They all have their flaws, but Rick Santorum to me has the least baggage and will protect American's Right to Rise. (If you agree, Santorum could use your help: ricksantorum.com)
We aren't just hiring someone who can throw a punch at the press or be good at debating. We are selecting a President, and the contrasts are clear. Look at the man and his record. The goal is defeating President Obama and his oppressive socialist agenda in 2012, not trading jabs at a debate.
I have lived in District 7 of Brookfield since 1986. In that time, we have had several aldermen serving our area, perhaps our most notable has been Tom Schellinger. None of these aldermen, however, was of the caliber of Alderman Lisa Mellone, who won in 2006 against incumbent Tom Schellinger.
Lisa Mellone elevated the job of alderman from one of just referring you to the right phone number to call to resolve your problem (which is why one neighbor dubbed Schellinger as Mr. Rolodex), to actually looking into the problem herself. Mellone keeps the district informed via emails and neighborhood/district meetings. That said, it is not too surprising that I would like to have her back* at City Hall serving our district!
My other half and I were musing the other day if our perennial candidate, Mr. Schellinger, would be applying for his old job as alderman. Somehow, I had hoped his position on the Waukesha County Board would have been enough for him. I was wrong, and I should have known better, since he once ran for 3 races at one time! As of Wednesday of this week, Schellinger was the only one who had applied for Lisa's vacancy. In checking again today, I found another man has also applied. (I didn't recognize his name.)
But whether 1 or 10 apply, I would still like to see Lisa Mellone back. Her strong work ethic, business degree and paralegal training enables her to serve our district well.
So, Lisa, please apply!
*For those of you who don't know...When City Clerk Kris Schmidt announced she was resigning, Lisa had an interest in applying for that full time position. (Lisa would have made an excellent City Clerk, by the way. Her natural bent toward dotting i's and crossing t's and analytical style, coupled with her knowledge of the nuts and bolts of the workings of Brookfield, would have suited her well to the position.) Waukesha County D.A. Brad Schimel told her she would have to resign as alderman, however, just to apply for the job. She wasn't chosen as a finalist for City Clerk. It seems a shame that someone has to resign just to apply for a job.
Past Post: How about merit pay for aldermen?
"...since Lisa Mellone replaced Tom Schellinger in 2006, we finally have an active voice at City Hall and someone down here who will look into and act on a problem. Lisa devotes a lot of time and effort toward being an alderman."
Conservatives in Wisconsin are breathing much easier this morning, because 4 of the 6* recalled Republicans won their elections! Just enough victory to keep their majority in the Senate--important because the majority controls which bills come up for vote in the Senate.
Despite this being the best election paid political operatives could muster, the Democrats still couldn't pull off a win here. To me, that is huge. For despite all the out of state Union money flowing into anti-Republican advertising, phone banks, door-to-door canvassers, and BBQ for Votes parties, the Republicans still prevailed.
Since this is the 3rd election effort against the conservative agenda, and the conservatives won, I think it is clear Wisconsinites like this new less tax and less spend direction.
The whole country was watching these recalls--Conservatives hoping Wisconsin voters would uphold Walker's return to fiscal sanity so their state could do the same; Liberals hoping a Democrat victory would make legislators think twice about cutting spending and challenging the unions. Drudge posted this as his top set of links (before 9am): "Republicans take 4 of 6 in recall elections, hold Senate... (todaystmj4 GOP maintains control of Senate)
GOP's stand could reverberate elsewhere...(Washington Times)" Drudge also characterized the Democrat loss as "Unions Lose in Wisconsin".
Well, the focus on Wisconsin's Republican victory didn't last long on Drudge. Now the headline link is More Slide. The Dow is at -377.62 at 9:20am--make that 389.58 at 9:29am. Can it be any more clear? Our nation needs to cut our out of control deficit spending lest we join Europe in their debt-fest. Maybe President Obama would like to have a chat with Gov. Scott Walker for some cost cutting pointers? ;-)
Next Tuesday, Aug. 16th, Republicans have a chance of capturing 2 more seats in the Simac and Steitz races against 2 Democrat Senators who fled the state rather than vote. I would think yesterday's results would energize their campaigns.
I want to thank talk show host Jay Weber for making a point to allow a caller yesterday make a plea for people to pray about the recall elections. Though I couldn't vote in yesterday's election, I and many others did pray for justice and fairness.
Today's TMJ4 GOP maintains control of Senate
Washington Times: Wis. GOP's stand could reverberate elsewhere
AP Vote Totals
Wisconsin GOP holds on to Senate
*These results were not unexpected: Dan Kapanke is in a Democrat district. Randy Hopper's personal problems were seen as a big negative.
UPDATE: Milwaukee to see ["at least $11 million"] net gain from state budget [The Walker budget the 6 recalled Republicans voted for] Part of Republican Alberta Darling's Senate district is in Milwaukee.
Though our area State Senators Leah Vukmir and Rich Zipperer are not facing recall elections this August, the results of these recall elections on Aug. 9th and Aug. 16th are still very important for everyone in our state. These recall elections will determine if Republicans hold their majority in the State Senate or not.
I was pleased to learn that Northwoods Patriots Tea Party founder Kim Simac won over her opponent in Senate District 16 way up north (Rhinelander, Eagle River). Her election website Kim Simac for State Senate cleverly bears the subtitle: A Leader Who Won't Run Away, in reference to her opponent, Dem. Senator Jim Holperin, who fled the state rather than take a vote.
Obviously, Simac is a conservative! I first became acquainted with her and the Northwoods Patriots when Simac spoke at the Madison Tea Party rally in 2010. With that kind of grassroots support, I would think she has a good chance of defeating Democrat incumbent Holperin on Aug. 16th.
Former small business owner and attorney Jonathan Steitz won his 22nd Senate District primary yesterday. Much like U.S. Senator Ron Johnson, who stepped forward out of the private sector to run against incumbent Democrat Russ Feingold, Jonathan Steitz has a business background. He will be running against Democrat Bob Wirch on Aug. 16th.
Jonathan Steitz has been sending me press releases since he announced his candidacy in mid May. "We need lower taxes, less government regulation, and common-sense policies that will encourage economic growth for our area," Steitz stated. And that sentiment has become the subtitle for his election website Steitz for Senate: Simplify taxes, reduce regulation and create jobs.
Wisconsin needs conservatives like Simac and Steitz in Madison. I wish them much success.
You can keep up with the latest election information at WisPolitics Election Blog
Don't forget that on Aug. 9th, 6 Republican Senators will be defending their seats in Madison against Democrat opponents. My blogging acquaintance Randy Melchert has posted an assessment of all 9 recall elections. His blog includes the vote total percentages Prosser received in April in their districts and his projections about wins and losses. Check it out.
Yesterday, was the first of the recalls with Democrat Hansen holding his seat in Green Bay against David Vanderleest, who Republicans weren't really promoting. (Republicans flubbed this recall primary big time by not submitting enough nomination signatures for John Nygren, who was the real contender. Thus it was the actual election instead of a primary.)
Aug. 9th is recall election day for Republican Robert Cowles for District 2 -- Shawano , for Republican Alberta Darling in District 8 -- Mequon (north shore, Menomonee Falls too), for Republican Sheila Harsdorf in District 10 -- River Falls, for Republican Luther Olsen in District 14 -- Ripon, for Republican Randy Hopper in District 18 -- Oshkosh/Fond du Lac, and for Republican Dan Kapanke District 32 -- LaCrosse. Kapanke is a good guy and unfortunately, he looks to be the most vulnerable.
Then there are the last 2 recalls on Aug. 16th with Democrat incumbents defending their seats against Kim Simac and Jonathan Steitz.
I am sure any one of these candidates would appreciate a donation or volunteers to make phone calls, etc. Contact them by clicking the link on their name. And if you live in these districts, Don't forget to VOTE!
So far, the field of announced 2012 Republican contenders for the presidency is abysmal.
Watch this and see if you don't agree, "Those voices don't speak for the rest of us".
As JT Harris asked the crowd of about 150 people waiting to see US Senate candidate Ron Johnson at the Waukesha County Republican Headquaters Monday night, How many of you are asking God for one more chance to turn this around? My hand shot up as did most in the room.
Then JT asked, How many have been to a Tea Party? Again, hands waved in the air.
How many have been to a Town Hall? The room was full of upraised hands.
It was pretty obvious that this crowd didn't believe the voices of the Liberal Progressives featured in the above clip spoke for them.
I believe the majority of voters tomorrow will vote to "turn this around", but one never knows until the last ballot is counted.
As I mentioned, I already cast my votes, all on the Republican side of the ballot, and voted Yes on the Transportation Fund Advisory Referendum.
Why are they all Republican? Because the Republicans are Pro-Life. They are also fiscally conservative, against wasteful spending on trains, want to reverse ObamaCare, are pro business and pro voter ID, and are more inclined to adhere to the US Constitution...to name just a few reasons.
My Sept. 7th Primary Ballot Picks post goes into more detail on why I chose the candidates I picked. Posts relating to each race will be listed below the individual race; generic ones are listed at the bottom of the post.
Here is the list of my ballot picks for Nov. 2 in the order they appear on the ballot.
Governor & Lt. Governor: Scott Walker and Rebecca Kleefisch
For shame, Tom Barrett, Scott Walker SUPPORTS Stem Cell research!
Walker rally made political hay, ad gained national attention
Lt. Gov. candidate Rebecca Kleefisch on Fox & Friends
How is Barrett "knee deep" in sewer water yet squeaky clean? JournoList?
Attorney General: JB Van Hollen
Secretary of State: David D. King I heard David King speak at the April 15th Madison Tea Party.
State Treasurer: Kurt W. Schuller
United States Senator: Ron Johnson As one of the many who encouraged Ron to enter the race back in early April, he is everything I had hoped he would be as a person and more. It is gratifying to see him run such a fine tuned campaign.
Need a reason to vote Ron Johnson? Ask Michelle Obama
Ron Johnson, Feingold virtually tied in poll" November can't come fast enough!
Ron Johnson enters US Senate race
Ron Johnson would be my ideal candidate
Run, Johnson, Neumann, Grothman, Kanavas, Leibham, RUN! Spare us from Leinenkugel
Sen. Feingold turned deaf ear to 97.5% at Listening Session
Representative in Congress District 5: F. James Sensenbrenner Jr. As Congressman Sensenbrenner mentioned at the Ron Johnson rally Monday night, When a nation goes off course, the people are there to right it. Today's Tea Party movement is a good example of the people rising up to right the ship.
State Senator District 5: Leah Vukmir Leah Vukmir has been a solid conservative voice in the Assembly, soon she will be in the State Senate!
What a whopper! "Jim Sullivan supports law enforcement, Vukmir does not" Unbelievable
How sickening. Jim Sullivan & supporters slam Leah Vukmir with untrue attacks
Wisconsin Assembly Update: Working night & day The RTA was dealt a severe blow by Rep. Leah Vukmir
Senator Jim Sullivan's Town Hall.....GRILLING! OUCH!
Representative to the Assembly District 14: Dale Kooyenga Since Dale is running unopposed, CONGRATULATIONS is in order. Cast your vote for him anyway; he will be another solid conservative voice in Madison.
Wisconsin 14th Assembly Forum tonight in Tosa with Kooyenga...
Sheriff: Daniel Trawicki
Also on November's ballot, a Transportation Fund Advisory Referendum
Dem signs conspicuously absent from known supporting households
Wisconsin's primary is 3 weeks away, who are you voting for?
Another local source for candidate info would be Randy's Picks for 2010 Nov. 2 Elections.
Do vote early in the day if you are able. Sometimes long lines develop near closing time. According to election law, under normal conditions, unless you are in line at 8pm, you will not be permitted to vote.
City of Brookfield residents in District 7, remember you now vote outside your district at St. Luke's Catholic Church on Greenfield Ave. and Davidson Road.
Tomorrow morning I am off to do some poll watching in the heart of Milwaukee. I will be interested in seeing how turnout compares there with what I am used to in Brookfield.
Tomorrow evening it's the Country Springs Hotel for me to watch the election results and hear the speechifying. It is going to be a l-o-n-g but exciting day..
"They" say the race between Jim Sullivan and Leah Vukmir will be tight. Same with Russ Feingold and Ron Johnson. Scott Walker vs. Tom Barrett seems to be more predictible, after all, The Journal Sentinel endorsed Walker. (Chalk that up to Everybody loves a winner --they don't want to be on the losing side--or they were trying to show they were not always in the tank for the Democrat.)
Democrat Wisconsin State Senator Jim Sullivan is in the fight of his life to hold onto his 5th District Senate seat this November, and the tone of his campaign shows it. Having campaigned as a moderate Democrat, Sullivan's performance and voting record in Madison these past 4 years has been anything but moderate.
Jim Sullivan fancies himself as an independent, a maverick, yet Sullivan voted with Jim Doyle 99% of the time! (Sullivan rather reminds me of another so-called maverick in the US Senate: Russ Feingold. Maybe Sullivan is a Feingold wannabe?)
To the casual observer, Sullivan did vote no on the last budget, which might make you think he is a maverick. But his NO vote was only because the Democrats didn't need his vote. (Candidates facing a tough challenger are often given permission to vote no.) Sullivan still managed to bloat the 2009 budget at the committee level--not very maverick-ish. He also voted in favor of the 2007 budget and voted for expensive and destructive bills like Healthy Wisconsin, Combined Reporting, Badger Care Plus, etc.
Every day the airwaves, billboards, and mailboxes are being assaulted with misleading and downright untrue campaign pieces against Sullivan's opponent, Leah Vukmir, from PACs and Sullivan himself. Since I just blogged about Scott Walker's support for adult stem cell research and Tom Barrett's accusations to the contrary, we will start there.
As I mentioned,"there is nothing new here" in Democrats deception when it comes to stem cell research. Obama accused McCain and Palin of being against it. Feingold accused Ron Johnson, Barrett accused Scott Walker, and now Jim Sullivan accuses Leah Vukmir.
In all of these cases, the accusations were not true. Let's call these accusations what they are: they are out and out lies. All 5 of these Republicans support Stem Cell Research. They support the kind that works--the kind obtained from adult and umbilical cord stem cells.
Jim Sullivan's campaign piece goes a step further, however. He also accuses Vukmir of voting to criminalize stem cell research! "Vukmir voted to criminalize stem cell research that could help cure debilitating diseases like Alzheimer's (AB 499, 6/23/05)", Sullivan proclaims.
Now in the days before the internet, it would have been difficult to see if these wild accusations were true. But we do have the internet. So here is the bill Sullivan is referring to: "2005 Assembly Bill 499, AN ACT to create 146.347 of the statutes; relating to: human cloning and parthenogenesis and providing penalties."
We should be used to it by now, the misleading, or to put it politely, the pants on fire campaign ads that paint the opposing candidate as being heartless and against something as wholesome as Mom and Apple Pie.
In this case, it is Gubernatorial Democrat candidate Tom Barrett wearing the hot pants. He points the accusatory finger at his opponent Republican Scott Walker. The Mom and apple pie issue here is stem cell research.
Barrett's ad is intended to tug at your heart strings in hopes that you will make the leap that Scott Walker is heartless and against helping those in need because of his pro-life beliefs. The ad wants you to believe Walker is turning a deaf ear to the pleas of the featured mother, talking about her diabetic son and how embryonic stem cell research would help cure her son.
This ad was so outrageous in its claims that it prompted Gary Nosacek to write an outstanding piece in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Oct. 7th titled, The stem cell confusion. He states he is a "father, brother and nephew of diabetics, and the husband of a doctor, I'm really upset by this ad."
I also found out that Walker's own wife Tonette is "a type 1 diabetic" and she says, "I CAN PROMISE YOU, my husband is full of hope! Hope for me, hope for our family, and hope for Wisconsin!"
Tonette goes on to say, "Regardless of what Tom Barrett has said, Scott will NOT ban stem cell research. Scott supports adult stem cell research- research which science has shown to have the most promise to cure my disease and which does not destroy innocent human life. "
So what is going on here? Democrats support government funding for Embryonic Stem Cell research instead of Adult Stem Cell research. Why? Is it that Embryonic Stem Cells work and adult ones don't? NO.
In fact, Embryonic Stem Cell breakthroughs continue to be fraught with serious side effects such as tumor growth and rejection. They have shown very little positive results. There is not one cure confirmed to date.
Contrast that with Adult Stem Cell research and treatments, which have already helped 1,000s of people. Nosacek's points out that even with moral issues aside, the Embryonic Stem Cells are a waste of money.
He writes, "There are over 167 adult cell treatments and cures being used by doctors every day. There are more in clinical trials and in animal testing phases. As for embryonic cells, there is not one cure to be found. There are only two in human trials, but so far there are no results. As a rule, embryonic cells haven't done much of anything in any lab in the world other than promised to be promising someday in the distant future. Walker isn't against stem cell research. He's against spending millions on research that hasn't worked at the expense of what is working!"
He goes on to tell us that Adult Stem Cell research on diabetes was being carried out at Harvard but it has been a painstaking process because they couldn't get funding. All the government grants were going to Embryonic Stem Cell research. Finally funding came from "Lee Iacocca, who has a diabetic grandchild. Harvard is now in human trials. They are being bankrolled by anyone who wishes to contribute."
So why isn't the proven and more promising type of ADULT Stem Cell research being funded by Government grants? Because IF the Liberal, Pro-abortion advocates can get us all on board with using embryonic stem cells, we will have lost the pro-life, life begins at conception fight.
Just this month we learned there was a Baby Born From 20-Year-Old Frozen Embryo. This leaves little doubt that embryos, even ones frozen for 2 decades, aren't human. Here we have one born to a New York woman! Would she give up her son for stem cell research? Of course not. So why are we asked to accept that these humans be sacrificed for the sake of Leftist researchers?
This is nothing new here. In the 2008 presidential campaign Obama ads accused McCain of being against helping people through stem cell research, which was not true. Like McCain and his running mate Sarah Palin, Scott Walker and other Conservatives just favor life respecting ADULT Stem Cell research.
President Bush had to endure this criticism too with his position to not allow Federal funding to go toward Embryonic Stem Cell research. The Republicans were all Pro-Life.
I asked this question in 2008:
First Lady Michelle Obama campaigned for Russ Feingold Tuesday at a Milwaukee fundraiser.
She said, "even though change hasn't come fast enough for some citizens, it would be a mistake for voters to return Republicans to power next month."
..."This election isn't just about all that we've accomplished these past couple of years," she said. "This election, Wisconsin, is about all we have left to do in the months and years ahead."
..."But my husband can't do this alone," she said. ".... He needs strong leaders like Russ to help him." (My emphasis)
The leftist Liberal Progressives just don't get it, do they.
Enough said.
Ron Johnson for Senate
Did we enter an Alternate Universe since last Thursday? Maybe Mirror Universe would be a more accurate way to describe 2 Madison publications, The Isthmus and Wisconsin State Journal, going CONSERVATIVE!
Do they still use that old typing exercise? Now is the time for all good men to come to the aid of their party? It never made much sense to me when I was in high school. It sure does now!
Well, that time, the time for all good men to come to the aid of their party, is now. With just 31 days to go until the midterm elections, we are in the homestretch.
It's time to roll up your sleeves, dig in your wallet, and prepare to hit the streets to help your favored candidates win this November. They need help distributing literature, making phone calls, manning the office desk, and doing whatever else needs doing.
For example, Representative Leah Vukmir, running against Democrat Jim Sullivan for State Senate, sent out a help request last weekend and this for literature distribution. Click her volunteer link or come to campaign headquarters on Saturday and Sunday from 9am - 6pm.
Gubernatorial candidate Scott Walker is holding a fundraiser luncheon featuring New Jersey's Conservative Governor Chris Christie at the Country Springs Hotel on Monday. Maybe you would consider attending.
Senate candidate Ron Johnson, who is leading Russ Feingold by 12 points in the latest Rasmussen poll, could use your help too. He will be at the Trinity Bar on Saturday, Oct. 2 from 2:30 - 6pm for a fundraiser. (125 East Juneau in Milwaukee) You can watch the Badger game and help Ron at the same time!
At the very least, make a donation and put up a yard sign for your candidate.
Speaking of donations, you might consider helping Conservative candidates in other states too. Here are just a few: Sharron Angle in Nevada is running against the well funded Democrat Harry Reid. Michele Bachmann could also use your help in Minnesota. Joe Miller in Alaska won the primary but RINO Murkowski won't call it quits.
If you were interested in these out of state campaigns, talk show host Mark Levin frequently interviews many of these Conservative candidates, and Senator Jim DeMint has a PAC called the Senate Conservatives Fund. DeMint has been instrumental in helping true Conservative candidates get their message out.
So get involved. This is especially true for those of you who participated in Tea Parties over the last year and a half. Protect your investment of time and energy in protesting the current government by working on the behalf of candidates who more closely represent your views.
I have worked on various campaigns over the years and it is a worthwhile investment in time. This year, it is essential, if we are to reverse the Liberal/Progressive agenda and rampant, irresponsible spending. I don't mean to be dramatic here, but our future and our children's futures depend on the outcome in November.
It is time to decide! Wisconsin's Primary Election is Tuesday, September 14th. In Wisconsin, that means one party voting--no crossing over. I voted Republican.
Here are my picks in the order they appeared on my ballot: (I am voting for all running unopposed but will not mention them below.)
Governor: Scott Walker
Scott walker has run a very positive campaign, I think. His ads were upbeat and almost had an Andy of Mayberry quality to them. His latest ad, holding Neumann's feet to the fire for his vote for a pork laden transportation bill while in Congress was more pointed however.
Walker rally made political hay, ad gained national attention
Should Mark Neumann prevail, I will hold my nose and vote for him in November, but I do not like how he has run his campaign. His latest ad about career politicians going negative is absurd considering he was the first to go negative and only recently reinvented himself as the kinder, gentler Mark Neumann. Now he seems to be back in negative mode. In addition, I have a problem with a candidate who chides government spending but owns a business that benefits from government subsidies on green technology. Hopefully I will not have to hold my nose in November. Mark Neumann opposes Vermont-style concealed carry!
Lieutenant Governor: Rebecca Kleefisch I also think Dave Ross would be a good choice, but it does not seem he has campaigned much down here--at least nothing has come to my mailbox.
Lt. Gov. candidate Rebecca Kleefisch on Fox & Friends
More concerned what Brett Davis DID than what Lt. Gov. does
State Treasurer: I have not settled on a candidate. It is not an office I have followed, so I will leave it blank. (I do not vote for people I do not know anything about.) FYI, Randy Melchert picked Scott Feldt.
United States Senate: Ron Johnson If you remember, I urged people to call up Ron to encourage him to run for Senate back in April. In one early conversation with him, I think he joked I was his first fan. He has done well in his campaign and will do well for us in Washington.
Ron Johnson, Feingold virtually tied in poll" November can't come fast enough!
Ron Johnson enters US Senate race
Ron Johnson would be my ideal candidate
David Westlake should run for a state office if he is interested in serving. He is a good conservative voice and would be a good representative at the state level.
Representative to the Assembly District 14: Dale Kooyenga Dale Kooyenga is a solid conservative and will serve us well in Madison. He has run a very energetic, organized campaign from what I can see and is spot on on the issues that matter to me.
Wisconsin 14th Assembly Forum tonight in Tosa with Kooyenga, Coon, Maurer...
Waukesha County Sheriff: Daniel Trawicki I voted for Dan. He is endorsed by many legislators that I admire, such as Leah Vukmir. I was wary of his opponent, Tom Alioto, who was off of work for over a year due to a "hostile environment". How would he manage a larger department? I stuck with Trawicki.
Check fellow Conservative blogger Randy Melchert for more races (including Congressional races in other districts) and his insights: Randy's September 14th Wisconsin Republican Primary Voter Guide
His blog stated he would have State Senate and Assembly picks in the near future.
More past posts: Wisconsin's primary is 3 weeks away, who are you voting for?
We have less than 2 weeks to go until Wisconsin's Primary Election and the campaign ads are in full swing. The Brett Davis ad I have been hearing is really something, proving that in this election cycle, saying you are a CONSERVATIVE is a must for the Republican side of the ballot. (The TV version is much the same but shorter.)
Representative Davis' ad features a glowing litany of what he did in the legislature, with a decidedly conservative, tax cutting spin. It claims he wants to transform the office of Lt. Governor into a taxpayer watchdog for the state. Great.
Trouble is, his complete voting record doesn't match his ad's promises. See what you think.
The Davis ad: In a lighthearted way, the Davis ad begins with a male voice asking a series of questions: For thousands of years, mankind has looked to answer the great questions of the day: Can we predict the end of time? When will Brett Farve retire? and What on earth does the Wisconsin Lt. Governor do?
Then a woman's voice comes on and seriously tells us the facts: Conservative Republican Brett Davis has a plan to end the days of Wisconsin's do-nothing Lt. Governor. Brett Davis will transform the job into the leading taxpayer watchdog in the state, with the chief mission of cutting wasteful spending in Madison. Brett Davis, a small businessman and legislator, who has voted 126 times to cut taxes by a total of $5 billion dollars. No one else running for Lt. Governor can say the same. Brett Davis has a 100% voting record with National Federation of Independent Businesses, is the only candidate with an A rated voting record from the NRA, and is endorsed by Wisconsin Right to Life. It ends with the usual vote Brett Davis on Sept. 14th....
Sounds good, doesn't it? Especially if you aren't familiar with Brett Davis' voting record in Wisconsin's Assembly!
When I look at a prospective candidate, I am far more concerned with what that person did in the past than the promises they make for the future. In fact, I will quote Mr. Davis' latest campaign email called "Home Strech" (Brett, you might want to make that stretch). He states, "But talk is cheap--actions speak louder than words."
First of all, since he is the only candidate that has been a legislator in Madison; obviously he is the only candidate with a legislature voting record!
And while in Madison, HE VOTED FOR THE FINAL DOYLE 2007-2008 BUDGET. Although Davis says the promise of a $4 Million dollar Soy Bean Crusher for his district (pork) to sweeten the pot on wasn't the reason, he was the "lone Republican" vote among the Democrats on an earlier compromise budget proposal just the same.
Davis' ad says he wants to "transform the job of Lt. Governor into the leading taxpayer watchdog in the state". In his email he promises, "I'm going to make the job meaningful by giving the office a purpose -- stopping wasteful spending."
Some Watchdog--seems more like a fox in charge of hen-house? Because by Brett Davis' vote in 2007, Davis approved of the $200 million dollar raid from the Patient's Compensation Fund and approved the inmates driver's license ID policy that he is now raging war against. And let's not forget his sponsorship of AB 15, a 2005 Ethanol Mandate Bill. Hardly the work of a true Conservative.
As for the endorsements, Ginny Marshman, a leader in Republican politics in Waukesha County, said this about Davis' pro life stance: "Brett Davis has a 75% pro-life record in the 2005-2006 session, voting against the Wisconsin Right to Life positions three times. His stance against the pro-life movement, including voting for Planned Parenthood's #1 agenda item in chemical abortion aka 'emergency contraception'." (Davis' voting record in 2007-2008 was 100%.)
Notice there is no Tax Hero status mentioned from Wisconsin Club for Growth as there is for real conservatives such as Leah Vukmir or Jim Ott or Glenn Grothman, to name a few.
Yup. You can dress 'em up and even call them Conservative in the ads, but their voting record remains. I can only hope voters this time around will do a little research before they cast their vote on Sept. 14th.
My vote is going for a genuine Conservative, Rebecca Kleefisch, for Lt. Governor. She is Pro-Life, Pro 2nd Amendment, and says NO to high speed rail, for example. If I were not voting for her, I would choose David Ross, Mayor of Superior.
Certainty we can do better than Brett Davis, a Madison middle of the roader for Lt. Governor.
More reading: Brett Davis doesn't want you to know THE TRUTH
Brett Davis is a grade-A hypocrite
We don't need another RINO in Madison zoo
My anti-ethanol [and Brett Davis soybean] rant
Past Posts: Wisconsin's primary is 3 weeks away - who are you voting for?
Lt. Gov. candidate Rebecca Kleefisch on Fox & Friends
Although most of us are still in summer mode and don't really want to think about politics, Wisconsin's Primary Election on Tuesday, Sept. 14th is fast approaching.
If you are inclined to donate to a campaign, do it now. This is especially true if your candidate is the underdog, such as Rebecca Kleefisch*, who is running for Lt. Governor. She needs to get the word out and advertising is expensive. Donate here.
By the way, Kleefisch just received the endorsement from Conservative Republican Glenn Grothman. There are a total of 9 candidates running for Lt. Gov.: 4 Democrats and 5 Republicans.
Governor: Some of the primary choices are easy. In the race for governor for example, only 2 major Republican candidates are on the ballot. I am choosing Scott Walker over Mark Neumann**. Though the media only mentions Walker & Neumann vs. Barrett, there are actually 9 candidates on the ballot: 2 Democrats, 3 Republicans, 3 Independents, and 1 Write-in.
For U.S. Senate, there are 4 candidates on the primary ballot: 3 Republicans, 1 Constitution Party. Hands down, I am voting for Conservative Ron Johnson (R).
In Wisconsin's 14th Assembly District (the eastern part of Brookfield, where I live, Elm Grove, and parts of Wauwatosa), there are 6 candidates to choose from. The most prominent being candidates David Coon, Dale Kooyenga, and Chris Maurer. I have met Coon and Kooyenga, and from what I see on Chris Maurer's website, they all seem to be good, conservative choices. I am strongly thinking of voting for Maurer though, because he stated at a recent forum, "This isn't a part time job". He would treat his position in the Assembly as a full time job.
Brookfield's other Assembly candidates for the 98th District (west side of Brookfield) are Republicans Paul Farrow, and perennial candidate Tom Schellinger. (Yup, the Vote Schellinger signs are popping up all over Brookfield.) Unless the planets align in a very strange configuration, Farrow will win on Sept. 14th, to face Democrat Victor Weers in November.
View the list of active candidates here. (The number of people running might surprise you. This listing includes links to the candidates' websites.)
So in the next 3 weeks, you have the opportunity to investigate the candidates for yourself. Get to know who is on the ballot and what they stand for, then vote on Tuesday, Sept. 14th.
*Lt. Gov. candidate Rebecca Kleefisch on Fox & Friends
**I heard today on Jay Weber that Mark Neumann's Kenosha Town Hall only attracted 30 people! As Weber pointed out, contrast that with Walker's more impromptu Hoan Bridge rally of 225 or so (my estimate). 2 points of contention: "Mr. Neumann promised he would stop the Milwaukee to Madison train [good, I'm glad to hear that] and return that money to Wisconsin residents in the form of a tax cut. How he can promise to give back these federal funds as a tax cut is beyond my ability to comprehend," [mine too] and in regard to Global Warming legislation, "Neumann did say he thought the free market would pass environmental breakthroughs and that he would not support any subsidies or government mandates on climate change legislation." That statement is also very puzzling since his company, Renewable Energy Solutions, accepts green energy subsidies all the time! (My emphasis)
Did you see this good news? Last week, U.S. Senate candidate Ron Johnson inched ahead of incumbent Russ Feingold in the latest Rassmusen poll of likely voters.
"The Wisconsin Senate race is still a toss-up, with Republican Ron Johnson and incumbent Democrat Russ Feingold in a near tie.
FEMA came to town yesterday; they will be assessing the flood damage over the next few days. Residents in Whitefish Bay, Shorewood, Milwaukee**, and other flooded areas, are still cleaning up (some for the 2nd and 3rd time) and hoping to get some help.
Tom Barrett campaigned for mayor "with a pledge to clean up MMSD*" in 2004. (Scroll down to 3rd entry: "Rains Bring Flood of Troubles for MMSD".) Since then, the sewers have been backing up, flooding, and sewage dumps into Lake Michigan have become more commonplace than ever, as in 2 Billion Gallons of Sewage!
I have heard horror stories of acquaintances living there. What a nightmare. A thought came to me: Since Tom Barrett is ultimately at the helm of the failed MMSD and these people from the more liberal area of the Metro Milwaukee area are justifiably fed up by the flooding and dumping, would their ire carryover to the voting booth in November?
But there doesn't seem to be any tie in to Barrett. Where is the criticism of the Mayor in the news media?
They were quick to jump on County Exec. Scott Walker for going on the campaign trail last Saturday instead of visiting the flooded as Mayor Barrett and Gov. Doyle did. No matter that Walker already visited the flooded areas and signed the documents declaring Milw. County a disaster area the day before on Friday. The Journal Sentinel article didn't mention that bit until midway down the page. No mention of Tom Barrett's pledge to clean up MMSD in his 2004 election in that article.
Why isn't Barrett held more accountable in the local news? He is in effect knee deep in the sewer water problem yet remains squeaky clean in the media and people's perception.
Nationally, Conservatives and Republicans ask this same question. They knew the news stories were skewed favorable toward Obama during the election while McCain and Palin were skewered. Nothing negative would stick to Obama, not Jeremiah Wright, Bill Ayers, his radical positions...nothing. It seemed the media was and still is in cahoots: No negative stories on Democrats--eviscerate Republicans.
Then we found out our suspicions were confirmed with the now exposed "JournoList" group. (My emphasis) Outed journalist "Dave Weigel is a portal into the dark world of hardcore liberal bias in the media. This opening gives us a deeper insight into the insidious relationship between liberal think thanks, academics and their mouthpieces in the media." These people "form the narrative used by the press to thwart conservative messages. Like a ventriloquist's dummy, the reporters on the listserv mimicked the talking points invented and agreed upon by the intellectuals..."
Barrett blamed mayoral opponent Marvin Pratt for the "overflows and inadequate sewer system" back in 2004. But we don't hear much about the mayor's responsibility regarding the MMSD from mainstream media now that the hip boot is on the other foot.
Could it be that Milwaukee's media has some sort of JournoList pact too?
*I wouldn't have remembered this because I didn't live in Milwaukee, but talk show host Mark Belling certainly does! He is one of the few media people discussing Barrett's MMSD tie in. Bloggers such as Freedom Eden have made a good case: 2 Billion Gallons of Sewage, Flood: Journal Sentinel Spins for Barrett, Slams Walker.
**The combined sewer in these areas of Milw. County are largely responsible for the dumps and sewer laden flood waters.
Last week, President Obama made an impassioned Rose Garden speech about passing unemployment benefit extensions, complete with visual aids: 3 unemployed individuals. He appealed to the Senate (Republicans), "It's time to stop holding workers laid off in this recession hostage to Washington politics...It's time to do what's right, not for the next election, but for the middle class. We've got to stop blocking emergency relief for Americans who are out of work. We've got to extend unemployment insurance."
If you didn't know anything more about this, you might think the Republicans were being heartless and unfeeling. At least that is what the President and most Democrats* hoped you would think.
In actuality, Republicans were just following what the President himself signed into law by Executive Order in February of this year. Remember PAYGO?
In case you don't, Paygo was a budget tool that simply said that Congress must pay for what it spends. In other words, if new spending is proposed, it must be offset by either cutting somewhere else or adding new taxes. (Even Paygo is pretty much smoke and mirrors as far as any real cuts go.)
In Obama's own words about Paygo (my emphasis), "Now, Congress will have to pay for what it spends, just like everybody else.... After a decade of profligacy, the American people are tired of politicians who talk the talk but don't walk the walk when it comes to fiscal responsibility. It's easy to get up in front of the cameras and rant against exploding deficits. What's hard is actually getting deficits under control. But that's what we must do."
If you dig deeper than the mainstream media into why Republicans were against extending unemployment, you find out that Republicans were in fact willing to extend benefits to 99 weeks, BUT ONLY IF THEY WERE PAID FOR!
Rep. Camp said it well, "I support, and Republicans have supported, extending unemployment benefits, but we must not do so at a cost to the deficit, to the economy and to future generations. Our inability to get our fiscal house in order isn't just damaging future generations; it is wreaking havoc on jobs today."
So we find most Republicans* wanted to utilize unused Stimulus funds to pay for the unemployment benefit extension, which was in accordance with the President's own Paygo law.
Since Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi even said that unemployment benefits were "one of the biggest stimuluses to our economy... It creates jobs faster than almost any other initiative", wouldn't this bill seem a perfect use for those unused funds? They could extend the unemployment benefits without raising the deficit, which is what the President asked for with Paygo in February and still touts as recently as the G-20 last month.
But most Democrats didn't want to use Paygo. Of course we didn't hear anything about heartless Democrats blocking the passage of unemployment benefits because they wouldn't use existing Stimulus funds.
The President himself didn't want to pass it using Paygo, which is why when it comes to Obama, don't pay any attention to what he says about controlling spending. No, it makes better political hay to slam those unfeeling Republicans for not wanting to help the unemployed by increasing the deficit (even though it could be avoided).
The President is absolutely correct when he said, "American people are tired of politicians who talk the talk but don't walk the walk when it comes to fiscal responsibility." I know I am.
I just wish he followed his own advice.
*The House and Senate version passed with some crossover votes on both sides.
Wisconsin has 5 Republican candidates on the ballot for Lt. Governor. Like the office of Vice President, Lt. Gov. is often a position that is overlooked, that is until they are needed to step into the top job! Of Wisconsin's 5 candidates, Rebecca Kleefisch is becoming my favorite; she's conservative, articulate, and seems very capable.
Rebecca Kleefisch will be featured on FOX & Friends news show this Sunday, July 25, 2010, at 8:45am Central Time. She will be joined by CeCe Heil of Tennessee and Julie Parrish of Oregon. All 3 ladies are running for office in their states. They are to discuss "the rising popularity of conservative women - particularly mothers - who are running for office and the electoral success of Sarah Palin's 'Mama Grizzlies' ".
"Mama Grizzlies" was a term coined by Alaskan Gov. Sarah Palin to describe women--mothers--who like the mother grizzly bear, rises up on her hind legs to protect her cubs. In the political arena, many women get involved in politics because of some issue that affects their children and family. Minnesota Representative Michelle Bachmann fits that description. (Locally, I would call Wisconsin's Rep. Leah Vukmir, who is running against Democrat Jim Sullivan for State Senate, a "Mama Grizzly" too. Vukmir began her involvement in politics on the Wauwatosa School Board because of some issues that affected her family.)
It would seem I am not the only one pulling for Rebecca Kleefisch, she is the top fundraiser in her field. She "raised $141,634.58 in the first six months, 27% more than her nearest competitor."
In Sunday's paper, Wisconsin Senator Russ Feingold is quoted as saying he is against the 2,300 page Finance-Overhaul bill. He "is expected" to vote against it. Wow, I thought. He must really be worried about November.
I read on to see he is against it because "It doesn't do the job", it doesn't go far enough!
Yesterday, I heard Massachusetts Senator Scott Brown, along with our other 2 token Republicans from Maine, will vote FOR the bill. (Groan) Now, don't get me wrong, I am glad Scott Brown won his Senate seat. He certainly will vote more often with the Republicans than Teddy Kennedy ever did. But he isn't a Conservative.
As for Feingold's departure from the Democrats, often vulnerable legislators are given permission to vote against the party if they are facing a tough reelection, if there are enough votes to secure passage. So 3 Republicans saying they will vote FOR the bill explains a lot about Feingold standing up and saying he will vote NO. This seems to be one of those cases.
Senate Republicans are against the bill because, "it would drive up the costs of credit and harm the U.S.'s competitiveness. They have also complained that the bill does little to address Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac"--the real Mastodon in the room. (Elephant is far too small an animal for the problems at Freddie and Fannie.)
Like the Senate Republicans, "Feingold's two GOP opponents, Dave Westlake and Ron Johnson, both have said they would vote no on the financial reforms," citing too many regulations, too much bureaucracy and concerns over the "key factor in the financial crisis - problems with mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac."
Plus, how many Senators even read, much less understood, 2,300 pages of amended amendments and regulation?
Now the last caveat is Nebraska Senator Ben Nelson who said on Monday "...he had not decided whether to vote for the bill because of concerns over whom the White House would name as head of a new consumer-lending regulator".
Since Let's Make a Deal has been going on to woo the Republicans--Brown, Snowe, and Collins each got a deal--maybe Nelson is again hoping for a special sweetener for his vote? He probably will cave in after his 5 minutes of limelight.
But I hope and pray Nelson is against the bill. Then there would be enough to filibuster. Then we would also see the true cloth Feingold is cut from.
UPDATE: Act 1 of the Opera? "U.S Ex-Im Bank Reconsiders India Coal Project." See below for details.
Senator Robert Byrd of Virginia died early this morning. He was the longest serving Senator in U.S. history. Most people remember Byrd for his early KKK membership, and as the Charleston Gazette noted, his 14 hour filibuster and vote against the landmark Civil Rights Act in 1964. (By percentage, more Republicans voted for it than Democrats.)
Still, for Democrats, he was a solid liberal vote, and recently, with close votes in the Senate, a much needed vote. When ObamaCare was on the Senate floor, there was concern that Byrd's demise might put the bill in jeopardy.
And that was the first thing I thought of this morning--what will Byrd's vacancy mean to say, Elena Kagan's approval or Cap and Trade's passage? Kagan's hearings before the Senate Judiciary Committee start today. If Republicans filibustered, "Democrats would likely have the 60 votes needed to override it," but that was written before Byrd's vacancy. The outcome will probably depend on how quickly these items come up for vote and how soon Virginia replaces Bryd.
Politico answered my question. According to Virginia law, the governor appoints a replacement, and the governor is a Democrat. The article did mention the Financial Reform bill though. It passed both houses but still needs the reconciliation vote. Although Scott Brown (R-Massachusetts) did vote for the original bill, he "said he might vote against the version that emerged from the reconciliation of the House and Senate versions because it adds a $19 billion bank tax."
You may be in summer mode, but our Congress is on full tilt. The Disclose Act bill might come to the House floor Thursday. If not, then after the July 4th recess. Yes, that means calling your Representative! Our Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner's number is (202) 225-5101.
The National Rifle Association, usually synonymous with Conservative values and protecting our Constitutional rights, seemingly had a weak moment when it appeared they crawled in bed with the Democrats to secure an exemption with the DISCLOSE Act.
The Disclose Act will circumvent the Supreme Court decision last January that allowed 501C4 groups, like NRA or 501C3 groups, like National Right to Life to communicate with their members and run political ads 90 days prior to election time.
Last night Obama declared from the Oval Office, "We will fight this spill with everything we've got for as long it takes." But it doesn't seem like many Americans are buying that sales pitch. Even Democrats and Liberals are shaking their heads over his inaction so far and hum-drum Oval Office spiel. How will he make sure this never happens again? By talking it to death? We are now at day 57.
Never one to let a crisis go to waste to implement more government control, regulation, taxes, and now even overreaching to dictate how a foreign owned company should spend its money and use its stock dividends, President Obama is using the BP oil spill to push his Cap & Trade tax agenda. He says we need "...to move forward on legislation to promote a new economy powered by green jobs, combat climate change, and end our dependence on foreign oil."
Amidst his floundering in the Gulf he is touting alternative energy like wind and solar as a way to end oil spills--as if America can thrive without oil? Since Cap and Trade deals mainly with electricity generation, how will wind and solar end oil spills? America only uses oil to generate about 2% of our electricity. Maybe he would like to lead the way by converting Air Force 1 to solar panels?
In an email he sent out yesterday, the President wrote, "Many businesses support this agenda because shifting to clean energy creates opportunities for entrepreneurship." I am betting those businesses are involved in writing the Cap and Trade legislation or will benefit from the Carbon Credit exchange or an increase in wind and solar use? Companies such as BP--Beyond Petroleum or GE?
I think it is clear that the President squandered his Oval Office clout to peddle his Cap & Trade Tax bill. Most aren't buying it. No matter, his EPA can do what the Senate won't.
As for the spill, from what I have seen, Obama's first action on the spill was to ignore the event. The 11 workers who died as a result of the explosion on April 22nd were barely noted. At last, Obama went to the gulf on May 2nd. "The visit, which White House officials said on Saturday would be within the next 48 hours, signaled Obama was anxious to be seen to be paying close attention to the cleanup and containment of one of the worst oil spills in U.S. history." "Anxious to be seen" seems to be the key phrase there.
The President has visited several times since then but does not have much to show for it. Obama did authorize the deployment of 17,500 National Guardsmen; so far, only 1,600 have been deployed. Gov. Jindal just announced he will be using Guardsmen to build a barrier.
The Jones Act still has not been lifted (as it was after Hurricane Katrina) which would have allowed the Dutch and others with their offers of containment booms and salvage tankers into the area to at least contain and suck up some of the oil. Our own government had their own disaster plan that included the use of containment booms. Trouble was, the U.S. never purchased those emergency booms! In other oil spills, booms are put in place and then tankers come in to suck the oil/water mixture into their holds. They then then separate it later. But you need to contain the oil to do this. There are some booms in place but not nearly enough.
There are some things that just are not adding up with the BP accident. I am sure there is plenty of blame to go around. Let's face it, a blow out a mile under the sea is a problem that won't correct itself. Where was the discussion by the President on how to clean up or keep the oil from the shores? The one thing that is clear, Obama will use the spill to push for green energy, regardless of its negative impact on the U.S. economy!
More reading: BP Accused of Repeated Shortcuts
Sen. McConnell: Obama 'Holding the Gulf Hostage"
Gov. Bobby Jindal Orders National Guard to Build Barrier Wall Off Louisiana Shore
Cap and Trade: A New Disaster Waiting to Happen in 2009
The Spill, The Scandal and the President, How Obama failed to crack down on corruption of Bush years and let world's most dangerous oil company get away with murder.
Obama's Uncertain 'Battle Plan'
Yesterday, 11 states held primaries for Governor and mid-term elections. For the most part, conservatives did well.
In Wisconsin, our primary is Sept. 14th, which is very late in the election season. But the Wisconsin GOP convention in May became a catalyst for thinning the herd for U.S. Senate from 4 to 2 candidates. At the convention, candidate Dick Leinenkugel only received .5% of the vote and so threw his support to Ron Johnson. Terrance Wall, who came in at 23% on the first ballot, withdrew from the race a few days later.
Wall told his supporters, "With a heavy heart, I am withdrawing my candidacy from the United States Senate race against Russ Feingold. I am so grateful for the support of Wisconsinites that are hungry for real fiscal conservatism and a change in their government.
No matter how much I want to stay in and fight, I feel the honorable thing to do is to exit...[If only Mark Neumann would do likewise!]
When I started this effort, I had two goals: first, to turn this country around before it's too late and second, to prove that Russ Feingold could be beat. ...I wish God's blessings on my two opponents, David Westlake and Ron Johnson."
Dave Westlake only received 15% of the vote, but has vowed to remain in the race because the vote represents "only a fraction of the voters in the state". [True]
Westlake said, "'If I stopped now, think about the tens of thousands of people who are Republicans, independents and Democrats who wouldn't have a voice anymore,' he added. 'I owe it to them, to all of Wisconsin to be the voice of the common guy.'" I do like Dave Westlake, his platform, and his Mr. Smith Goes to Washington persona, but because of his T-shirt fund-raising strategy, he has limited his viability.
There is also another 3rd party Constitution Party candidate, Rob Taylor*, who is being touted as the only one with experience by some conservatives. As I recently explained to a conservative friend (who was unaware of Johnson entering the race) I cannot support a 3rd party candidate in this election: 3rd party = Feingold reelected.
So who is Ron Johnson? Take a look. This video clip is from his Q&A after his announcement. When asked why he was running (at about 4:23 into clip) Johnson says,
"I'm not willing to give up hope.... This 234 year experiment we call America is just absolutely precious, and I'm watching that being squandered. So if I am fortunate enough to represent the people from Wisconsin, I would take a deep reverence for the genius for the founders of America, in terms of what they have given us in this country."
"There is a reason the U.S. that holds 5% of the world population, yet produces 25% of the worlds goods, that is really freedom. I think that kind of perspective, that kind of deep sense of how exceptional this country is, is a good perspective to take to Washington."
Johnson needs to get the word out that he is running and what his positions are on the issues. People are already in summer mode--more interested in vacations and picnics than politics. This bio video clip from Charlie Sykes will at least give you a glimpse into who Ron Johnson is as a person.
Unless something very unusual happens between now and the primary, Ron Johnson will be the Republican candidate. At the GOP Convention, Leinenkugel surprised everyone by withdrawing and supporting Johnson, "It is Ron Johnson's time, ...it is too critical, too important that at this time in our history, we unite against defeating Russ Feingold." I am hoping Conservatives, Republicans, Independents, and even Democrats will follow suit.
Oshkosh businessman Ron Johnson formally entered the GOP primary for the U.S. Senate today, a fact that makes conservatives like me breathe a little easier.
I don't know Mr. Johnson personally, but I have spoken to him on the phone and emailed him a few times. I have found him to be thoughtful, measured, responsive, and conservative.
In some respects, he reminds me of our first President, George Washington. Like Washington, Johnson is not seeking to be a career politician. Instead he is answering a call to serve as a Citizen Legislator. Being a Citizen Legislator was one theme Johnson touched on in his speech at the Madison Tea Party in April.
One of the things I asked Ron when I called to encourage him to run against Russ Feingold was, did he have any skeletons in his closet? I believe Choir Boy was the term he used to describe himself. That made me smile. (I don't think I was the only one to ask that question.) Character is a very important element of a candidate to me.
I believe Ron Johnson has a very good chance of winning in November against Russ Feingold. He certainly has a lot going for him.
From the ISTHMUS, The Scons,
"He [Johnson] apparently has money, which unfortunately often translates into legitimacy in politics. The parties love a guy with money, not only because he can contribute to his own campaign, but because it relieves them from some fundraising duties, especially in a race against Feingold, who may be vulnerable but certainly is not worth the GOP attention that the governor's race or the two House races up North deserve. He's still the favorite by a long-shot."
Being able to self-fund a campaign is very helpful, especially since it is a bit late in the game to be running. (I blame Tommy Thompson for that.) But money alone doesn't guarantee success. Terrance Wall is wealthy and has contributed to his campaign, but he has some baggage in that he has avoided paying income taxes because of depreciation allowances. He is also not as conservative as Johnson. (In the Governor's race, Mark Neumann is self funding, but he is not an ideal conservative candidate either with his pro ethanol/ renewable energy stance. Neumann also seems to be hedging on answering some very simple questions lately.) So self-funding alone does not an ideal candidate make!
The following factors do matter to voters, as pointed out by Craver, "Last but not least, Johnson doesn't have any ideological question marks on his record. He has not served in a Democratic administration or headlined a fundraiser for Democratic candidates, and he has not made any contributions to Democrats in the past, unlike Terrence Wall. Johnson actually spoke at the Tea Party rally, unlike Wall or Westlake, and he can apparently give an OK speech. All you have to do is read a few conservative blogs [hey, that's me!] to discover that many conservatives feel the current primary field is neutered, and desperately in need of some right wing testosterone."
I don't see Johnson as being just right wing, to me he represents American values like hard work and living within your means.
Whatever happens in November, I have to say a big, thank you, Ron Johnson, for entering the U.S. Senate race. Our country and state need someone like you in Washington. I appreciate the huge sacrifice you and your family are making on our behalf.
One bit of trivia, Ron Johnson is brother to Home Time's Dean Johnson.
Yes, it is true. Long-time Congressman David Obey announced today that he is not going to run for reelection. All I can say is, Thanks, David Obey, I needed that shot in the arm.
Mr. Obey is not my Congressman--I am in Jim Sensenbrenner's district--but Obey's name is known to most Wisconsinites and since the Stimulus, by many Americans.
Congressman David Obey is Chairman of the Appropriations Committee and helped craft the Stimulus Bill. One of the few areas of spending I wasn't totally against was the increase for the National Parks. What made that stimulus spending suspect was that his son, Craig Obey worked for The National Parks Conservation Association. After seeing how much time, preparation, and personnel was devoted to preparing for President Obama's visit to Yellowstone National Park last summer, the park service probably needed the increase! (Lucky us, we were there last summer during his visit--what were the odds of that?)
Obey's retirement certainly helps Republican candidate Sean Duffy. "'This move clears the way for Duffy to be the next congressman from northwest Wisconsin. His campaign has gotten national attention and he's running a very well-oiled grassroots machine,' said National Republican Congressional Committee spokesman Tom Erickson."
It also frees up National and State monies to support another Republican candidate, such as Oshkosh businessman Ron Johnson, should he decide to run against U.S. Senator Russ Feingold.
No one can say this election year has been boring!
The big question on conservative minds in Wisconsin is, Will businessman Ron Johnson throw his hat in the US Senate ring this week?
Governor Doyle's Commerce Secretary, Dick Leinenkugel, announced Monday that he IS running, get this, as a Reagan Conservative! (He couldn't be any worse than Russ Feingold, and he promises to repeal ObamaCare and be against High Speed Rail--for now.)
State Senator Ted Kanavas, as expected, announced he is NOT running against Feingold.
For the first time in a long time, Wisconsin's US Senate seat is there for the taking. All we need is a credible candidate. So where, oh where, is that candidate?
We have 2 in the running: Dave Westlake and Terrance Wall. Bless them for stepping out there but each has flaws: Westlake isn't doing fundraisers and Wall has a tax perception problem. (He is not delinquent in paying; he avoided paying state income taxes by using legal depreciation allowances.) Because Wall has run some good ads, he is better known than Westlake.
This week we learned that Dick Leinenkugel, Governor Doyle's Commerce Secretary, just announced he was throwing his hat in the ring...but as a Republican? The guy who went to Spain to buy the 2 choo-choo train engines from TALGO*, with no bids, is going to run on the more conservative side of the ticket? OH, PLEASE.
Former Gov. Tommy Thompson has been rumored to be our winning candidate for months, however, I don't consider him my ideal or even acceptable candidate. Could we have counted on Tommy, the creator of Wisconsin's BadgerCare health insurance plan, to vote against its BIG Federal brother, ObamaCare? Could we count on him to vote to REPEAL and REPLACE ObamaCare?
Thompson could win we are told, he polls at 45% to Feingold's 33% but he is NOT the conservative candidate I would embrace. Shame on him for putting his desire to bask in the lime light of will he run ? above what is good for our state and nation.
So who do we have as possibilities?
There is Ron Johnson, a 55 year old Oshkosh business man, who according to the JSOnline article is, ...president and co-founder of PACUR, a [plastics] manufacturing company in Oshkosh. He described himself as a conservative with no prior political experience who is fed up with the 'loss of freedom' in the United States, including passage of health care reforms under President Barack Obama. He said he had resources to help fund a campaign if he gets in." (My emphasis)
If Mr. Johnson is indeed as described above, I could get behind him. Maybe you would like to contact him? I found this phone number on the internet for Pacur - (920) 236-2888.
Who else? My first thought is Mark Neumann. He certainly has name recognition. Although I am not wild about his somewhat supportive ethanol stance (in that it is good for Wisconsin's corn producing farmers) and some of his campaign tactics against Scott Walker, instead of beating up Scott Walker, how about him setting his sites on knocking out US Senator Russ Feingold?
I do appreciate his petition against ObamaCare, which is both a Federal and State government issue.
Mark Neumann could really play hero here and graciously bow out of the governors race to enter the US Senate race, for the good of the people of Wisconsin.
3 State Senators also come to mind: Senator Ted Kanavas - Brookfield, Senator Glenn Grothman - West Bend, and Senator Joseph Leibham* of Sheboygan. Of the 3, Grothman is better known to me because he is often interviewed on local radio talk shows. Glenn seems very comfortable speaking out for conservative issues.
Charlie Sykes, WTMJ's talk show host was again mentioned by Mark Belling, and I don't think Belling is just trying to get rid of his competition. Instead, I think it shows how dire our lack of a real candidate is.
I would really hate to have Republican and conservative Wisconsinites snatch defeat out of the jaws of victory again by not having a great contender in this race against Feingold. The US Senate seat is ripe for the picking.
PLEASE, could someone viable run?
*Mark Belling was talking about Wall, Westlake, and Leinenkugel yesterday. I had forgotten Leinenkugel was part of the Spain enteourage. Mark also mentioned the 3 State Senators and Sykes as possibilities (though I thought of Kanavas and Grothman for some time). If no one else steps forward, I will vote for Wall in the primary.
Sorry for the late notice; I only just found out about this: Tonight from 5:30 - 7 pm, 5th District State Senator Jim Sullivan is holding a Town Hall meeting at Wauwatosa's Public Library (76th and North Ave.) (Maybe I missed Mr. Sullivan's notice of his Town Hall meeting on his blog?)
This would be your chance to ask Jim about his liberal voting record in the state senate, his most recent big vote being the expansion of BadgerCare Basic Plus --Wisconsin's own version of ObamaCare. Since this Town Hall is being held in Wauwatosa, there might be more Democrats in attendance, thus a more supportive crowd than his Town Hall last May, held in Brookfield. (I attended that one and posted my impressions of it in Senator Jim Sullivan's Town Hall.... GRILLING! OUCH!)
Voters the last time tried to pin him down on his vote that help kill Voter ID, his support of Abortion, the RTA, excuses on the $6.5 Billion deficit, etc.
This time, maybe voters will want to know why he voted for the new Sex Ed. mandates, which allows groups like Planned Parenthood into the classroom and prohibits value judgments on student sexual behavior, to name a few negatives. Or why he expanded a very under-priced health insurance plan that doesn't follow Wisconsin mandates (private insurance companies cannot possibly compete). How about his position on spending money on "high" speed rail while our infrastructure crumbles? OR, does he plan on joining Senate Joint Resolution 62 that would allow Wisconsinites to opt out of ObamaCare?
During the last campaign, Jim Sullivan came to our home, promising he would better represent us in the State Senate. So far, I have not seen it. Maybe you just want to attend so you can see why so many people are supporting Leah Vukmir for State Senate*--someone who will actually represent your views?
Have you been following the Florida Senate race between Republican Governor Charlie Christ and Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio? For some time now, I have. If your are a conservative, it is very exciting. I first heard about Marco Rubio from my favorite national talk show host, Mark Levin, who describes Rubio as a solid conservative. (When Levin is in his quiet, serious mode, he is superb.)
I finally got to watch all of Marco Rubio's speech at CPAC and I have to agree--he is a solid conservative. Rubio believes that in the United States you can become anything you are willing to work hard to be. If he remains true to his conservative Tea Party roots, I would love to see him as President some day.
But for the present, he is challenging Gov. Crist for Senate. In case you don't remember, Gov. Charlie Crist gave John McCain the blessing during the primary and we pretty much have him to thank for pushing McCain onto the ballot, so to speak. Crist also supported for Obama's Stimulus bill before it was passed. Marco Rubio's rise in popularity shows that the conservative message resonates with voters. Rubio's poll numbers have grown from just 8% back in April 2009, to neck and neck in December, to taking the lead this year.
Although Rubio didn't get the network CPAC media hype that Ron Paul* and Glen Beck received (neither of which are consistent enough in their message for my taste) even non-conservatives are paying attention to Rubio.
See if you agree. Here is a sample of his speech that I transcribed:
This coming Tuesday, all eyes will be on the Massachusetts Senate race between Democrat Martha Coakley and Republican Scott Brown. Why? A Brown victory would end the 60 vote filibuster proof supermajority in the Senate.
What should have been a slam-dunk for Democrats in the special election to fill the late Edward Kennedy's Senate seat, is becoming a neck and neck race, with Brown pulling ahead! This is truly remarkable, considering it is in the liberal haven state of Massachusetts.
The poll was conducted early in the week, of registered voters, and showed Brown ahead by 4 points. (Still within the margin of error.)
If Brown would win and be seated before the final health care vote, his no vote would sink ObamaCare. I realize that is a lot of ifs.
Also of interest, is Obama or isn't Obama going to campaign on Coakley's behalf?
"Coming off stinging election losses in Virginia and New Jersey -- not to mention Copenhagen, where he failed to win the 2018 Olympics for his hometown of Chicago -- President Obama is staying away from what could become another painful loss." He did send an email instead. Another article suggested he might still show up.
But whether the president campaigns for Coakley or not, the President and Democrats are invoking the late Senator Kennedy's memory and cause. A video piece I watched begins with Obama touting Teddy Roosevelt as the first to promote health care reform in 1912, presumably to make Republicans feel better about ObamaCare? (In 1912, however, Teddy Roosevelt was not a Republican; he was a 3rd party Bull Moose candidate--after his presidency.) The video ends with footage of Ted Kennedy.
"Yet even in the bluest state, it appears Kennedy's quest for universal health care has fallen out of favor, with 51 percent of voters saying they oppose the 'national near-universal health-care package' and 61 percent saying they believe the government cannot afford to pay for it."
Tuesday's special election will be interesting, to say the least. A Brown victory "...would send a chilling message to all Democratic candidates on the ballot in November, even those in supposedly safe seats." A Brown victory could turn the tide on ObamaCare.
Articles cited: Massachusetts 'tossup' threatens Obama agenda
Poll shocker: Scott Brown surges ahead in Senate race
Obama keeps his distance from Mass. race
Past post: Litmus test: Watching Doug Hoffman's N.Y. 23rd race with great interest
Brookfield's mayoral primary election is fast approaching on February 16th.
I spotted my first Marcello for Mayor sign mid December?
Marcello also had a color ad in the Waukesha Freeman freebie paper last week.
Curiosity won out last night, and so I went to Brookfield East's library for Sen. Jim Sullivan's Town Hall meeting. I didn't know what to expect; I have never been to one of his meetings. Would I be the lone conservative amongst liberals?
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0309/20528.html (Ryan) GOP lawmaker flips on AIG bonus tax ...House Republicans split almost evenly last week over the Democrats'
bill to impose a 90 percent retroactive tax increase on bonuses for
employees at AIG and the other biggest recipients of federal bailout
funds in a political bid to recoup the government's money.
Conservatives rejected the bill as a punitive tax, but more than 80
Republicans voted for it, fearing the populist backlash over the AIG
bonuses. ME: those recipients included Wells Fargo, which as Sensenbrenner put it, were not allowed to leave the room until signing onto receiving tarp funds. They were cooerced into signing so as to not label the ones who did take funds with a scarlet letter. Now those employees, even those who make less than $50,000 a year might get their bonus taxed at 90%. How would you like that to be you?
It is said that politics makes strange bedfellows. The lawmakers backing legislation to bring back line-item veto power to the president would be an example of that phenomena.
I don't know if the Aesop fable, The Ant and the Grasshopper is still being taught in school as it was in my school days. It wouldn't seem so based on who most younger voters chose in the last election.
The Republican Party of Waukesha County are holding their Pre-Caucus Dinner on Tuesday, February 24th at the Country Springs Hotel. The dinner and program begins at 6:30 PM. Caucus Meeting follows.
In case you did not catch this one, from the land of Truth is stranger than fiction or You can't make this stuff up, another Obama Cabinet pick confirmation was stalled yesterday.
Just heard this on WISN radio, Michael Steele was elected the new RNC Chairman: GOP elects first African American chairman, Steele of Maryland.
America may be known for its peaceful transfer of power; it has always been done according to the Constitution. But transfer of the White House residence and office space has not always gone so smoothly. Remember 8 years ago when the Clinton's moved out more than they brought in? How about the snafu with the offices and keyboards ? None of that this go round from the Bush family. Despite some in the crowd booing President Bush when he arrived at the ceremony and some singing, Na, na, na-nah, Hey, hey, goodbye, when former President Bush and Laura flew overhead afterwards, he and Laura behaved as I would have expected. With dignity.
Regardless of who you voted for, today is a historic day in America's history. It marks the first time in our history that a person of color was elected as president. In that, I can be glad because it proves the American dream. It will also make a future candidacy for men like Bobby Jindall or Michael Steele easier.
It appears Al Franken has truly turned Minnesota election law into a Franken-stein of a monster recount--something the election laws were never intended to do: enable stealing an election.
If you had to pick the 3 most important priorities of the Obama administration from the following list, what would they be?
Michael Steele Newt Gingrich? Newt seems to have lost his nerve. Sitting on the couch with Nancy Pelosi must have that affect?
All actions have consequences. Consumers living beyond their means, taking out loans for homes they couldn't possibly afford, resulted in the sub-prime crisis, Fanny and Freddie mess, and meltdown of the US economy.
Wish we had more like these 6 Republican Senators. I really don't care what party they are from, just that they have common sense.
Phew! If you have been watching these state's Senate races, you know that the Senate's filibuster proof Democratic majority hung in the balance. But Senator Saxby Chamblis easily won reelection yesterday in that Georgia runoff, 57% to 43%. So the Democrats won't get their 60 seat majority.
http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=29726 Palin Rallies Georgia's Base, Early Black Turn out Low
http://mail.google.com/mail/?shva=1#inbox/11dba87f8c336d13 Fred PAC
Thawing Fuel For Palin's Pipeline
Franken race reminds us voter fraud still going strong
We heard a lot about ACORN and voter fraud before the election. Now, we hear virtually nothing. Are we just going to let voter fraud go unchallenged? It seems so.
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
http://www.boyinthestripedpajamas.com/#/trailer Trailer
Catholic Bishops say no more ACORN funding
Conference of Bishops met, they
Insider Palin complaints, does he exist?
When I first heard about that McCain insider who told tales out of school about Sarah Palin, I immediately thought those criticisms smacked of sour grapes and jealousy. Imagine a true McCain, cross the isle, centrist campaign worker now having to help the novice, but igniter of the conservative base upstart. No matter that she was happily minding her own business in Alaska when she got the tap for VP. She clearly energized the McCain campaign, and that can create jealousy.
Odd: Left has no use for Christianity until now
http://www.mediaresearch.org/cyberalerts/2008/cyb20081111.asp#1 Time: Obama a 'Pricne' Like Jesus Born of 'Imagination and Hope'
No use for wishy-washy
Wall street journal cited Ryan succeeding in dem territory.
It made me feel better: PALIN 2012 RYAN
On election eve, I quickly made this campaign button to illustrate my hopes for the 2012 ticket. I wore it to the Waukesha Republican Victory Party.
Where did you get your news? Where will you now?
http://www.mrc.org/notablequotables/2008/nq20081029Obama.asp Notable Quotables, Campaign 2008 Review: Barack Obama's Media Groupies NOve 3, 2008
Call the RNC, tell them what you think
Ronald Reagan's 1964 speech, nothing's changed
Ronald Reagan made this speech at a Barry Goldwater campaign event. It is about 27 minutes long, but well worth the time.
Successful Republicans urge: Stand up for what works
It has become a family tradition to attended the Waukesha Republican's "Victory" party at the Country Springs Hotel. Various local candidates stop in and give a pep talk along with Waukesha Republican leaders. This year most of us hoped for good news but were braced for the bad.
Does Obama even believe in Obama?
At the end of the movie, The Candidate, Robert Redford wins the election. He then looks at his handlers and says, now what? ???
The Alinsky machine is in place, it's going to be tough
Chief of staff chosen
Jewish Emanual chosen. All is filtered through him. So much for Obama being a centrist.
Conservative? Better let RNC know that
RNC phone number 202-863-8500
Who is President elect Obama?
Well, it is a fine time to be asking that question...you just moved heaven and earth to elect him.
The morning after
It is difficult for me to square last night's election results with the fact that when polled, more people consider themselves conservatives than the 1 in 5 who say they are liberal. But the results are the results.
Candidates and ballot issues I'm watching tonight
Of course the BIG deal of the day is the presidential race and Electoral College count. Will Obama win big? McCain squeak by? Will we even know today or this week?
Obama, Are you for or against Same-Sex Marriage? Yes
Obama's I'm against same-sex marriage but against ending it's practice via California's Proposition 8 rings about as true as Wisconsin State Senator Jim Sullivan saying, he is for Voter ID but not for a state constitutional amendment referendum question requiring Voter ID. It's doublespeak for I don't want the current situation to change, but don't want to be on the record as saying so.
Forget the Bradley effect, what about the Bush effect?
I've been wondering about this for some time. Are some independents reluctant to voice support for John McCain because they don't want to take flack for supporting the Republicans? Democrats have incessantly talked against George Bush during this election cycle, as if they are running against him, even though George isn't running.
Teflon, Velcro, and Teflon II of presidential politics
President Bill Clinton was known as the Teflon president. No accusations or even cold, hard facts stuck. Monica Lewinsky was not a fabrication of a vast right-wing conspiracy as Hillary claimed. No, Monica was real. She was an intern with whom the President committed unprecedented indiscretions with right in the Oval Office. But it did not stick. He was Teflon.
Arnold Schwarzenegger-OK, Howard Dean-OK, Sarah Palin - NOT OK?
It amazes me that the question is still out there: Is Sarah Palin qualified to be Vice President or God forbid, President? Considering Senator Barack Obama has so little experience and such questionable ideas and connections, the question is laughable.
Obama, what? Women register for draft? Civilian National Security Force?
Are you ready for this? "If elected president, the Illinois senator would require women to register for the military draft. As commander in chief, he would also consider assigning women to roles in close combat, also know as 'the point of the spear,'" according to World magazine:
Obama's Auntie Zeituni here illegally, will she vote Obama?
Another interesting turn on the road of politics. We just learned that Sen. Barack Obama's Aunt Zeituni lived in a Boston tenement.
If Obama is so ahead, why all the ads and mailings?
Just a thought...If Obama is indeed such a shoe-in, especially in states like Wisconsin, why all the Obama radio and TV ads and mailings? Why the 30 minute infomercial?
Clinton says Obama asked, tell me what's right--I'll...sell it
Remember when John McCain suspended his campaign and went to Washington to work on the economic crisis?
401K down? What about govt. takeover?
Obama, JFK, technology, and the Cuban Missile Crisis--chilling
Remember last week when Sen. Joe Biden predicted an international crisis if Obama was elected? "Mark my words, it will not be six months before the world tests Barack Obama like they did John Kennedy" (Actually, Kennedy's test came 22 months after taking office.)
Obama doesn't spread HIS wealth around but wants you to
Obama wants you to spread your wealth around, but doesn't do it himself. His charitable donations are abysmal, amounting to less than 2% on average.
2 more examples of the Big Chill, a.k.a. Global Chilling?
The world must not have gotten Al Gore's memo that the earth is warming. Yesterday Record cold swept over the region Wednesday in Ocala, Florida. (My emphasis throughout)
Even janitor would know life began for some Obama said should die
No wiggling out of this question by saying it is above my paygrade. Even a janitor would know these babies were children and were alive
LA Times won't release Obama toasting "Ex-PLO Operative" video
I am almost afraid to ask, what else don't we know about Barack Obama?
Charitible contributions sink because of economy and Obama
See the New Tax Welfare Milwaukee arts group, symphony, charity,
I repeat: who is teaching our kids? Ayers & other terrorists
http://www.anncoulter.com/cgi-local/printer_friendly.cgi?article=279 AYERS: Radical Loon When Obama Was Only 47
Obama doesn't think HE should have to spread his wealth
Funny thing about Socialists and Marxists. They say everyone should spread the wealth around. quote from Marx each according to his ability but they believe they themselves are exempt from that mandate.
McCain's health plan explained, benefits are NOT taxed
Media bias so blatent even Dan Rather agrees!
When Dan Rather notes the media is biased in favor of the Obama campaign, how can you continue to deny it? (My emphasis throughout)
Catholic Church solidly against abortion
13 fewer "bogus" Ohio Obama votes--from workers + other fraud
Would these 13 be some of those campaign workers Biden was proud of? In fairness, the McCain campaign was warned too, but I have not seen details about numbers of them withdrawing their ballots. (My emphasis throughout.)
Business "officially horrified" at prospect of filibuster-proof Senate
I first heard about the U.S. Chamber of Commerce ads on Mark Levin's Friday, Oct. 24th broadcast. (About at the 40 minute mark.) Mark also discussed socialism and floated the possibility that Obama somehow considers his spreading the wealth as reparations.
A real letter from Corey the driller
http://www.eclecticwill.com/2008/10/open-letter-to-sen-obama-from-corey-miller-the-well-driller/ Open Letter to Sen. Obama from Corey Miller the Well Driller
Which candidate would you invite for coffee? Sarah, meet Silvia
Governor Palin returned to her home state, Alaska, after the convention. In watching interviews with the locals, it was pretty hard to miss that they all call her "Sarah." (She does enjoy a 68 to 80% approval rating.)
Kennedy works on Govt. healthcare with or without Obama
Frank: cut 25% on military spending, Biden: We're underprepared
U.N. hopes for Obama victory and errosion of U.S. Soverignty
Obama's Global Poverty Act not only would cost Americans nearly $860 billion??? but more importantly it would compromise America's sovereignty. Is it any wonder those at the U.N. are rooting for Barack Obama?
Equal pay for women? Obama pays women 83 cents/dollar men earn
Get your political flier on Obama wanting equal pay for women? I did .
Biden: "We've not paid them [ACORN] one single penny"
An interview of Sen. Joe Biden by Barbara West at Florida's WFTV caused quite a stir over the weekend. She asked several very blunt questions about ACORN, the international crisis Biden forecasted if Obama was elected, and is Obama a Marxist? HotAir dubbed West's interview, Comedy gold: WFTV interviews Biden: (Video link included)
Would employers still offer health insurance if govt.'s is cheaper?
Hawaii had to drop their free coverage for children. Parents who were paying for their children's coverage dropped it in favor of the freebie plan?//Look for link
The elitists don't like Palin...they didn't like Reagan eitherI've been to 2 McCain Palin rallies. Believe me, Republicans and conservatives adore Sarah Palin. Many of them would never have braved the crowds and long lines for John McCain. But for Sarah? Yes. The question, Can we reverse the ticket? (Palin, McCain) is more than a light hearted joke.
Obama wish list--Obama reality check
http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/political_commentary/commentary_by_michael_barone/a_reality_check_on_obama_s_wish_list A Reality Check on Obama's Wish List, A commentary by Michael Barone Oct. 25, 2008
Barney Frank calls for major defense cuts, Biden says we're i
http://briefingroom.thehill.com/2008/10/24/frank-calls-for-25-percent-cut-in-defense-spending-eventual-tax-hikes/ Frank Calls for Major Devense Cuts, 'Eventual' Tax Hike
I just don't get it people don't like policy, but vote for dems
Congress has the lowest approval rating of all time.
Bailouts and new govt. programs: like a shark feeding frenzy
Maybe I should say Shark Spending Frenzy? Trouble is, the government is the shark and our wallets are what they are feeding on!
What can you expect when the liberal media chose both candidates?
http://www.weeklystandard.com/Utilities/printer_preview.asp?idArticle=15718&R=13C7B8B Sarah Palin's Future Alaska's most valuable resource oct 27 Fred Barnes
Polls have a bias--they will tighten up now because they all want to be right
http://www.anncoulter.com/cgi-local/article.cgi?article=278 Eighty-Four percent say they'd never lie to a pollster, Oct. 15
Candidates had foreign policy briefing. What does Biden know that we don't?
Both parties' candidates just had a foreign policy briefing--a standard practice used to bring the next president up to speed. What isn't standard is a candidate shooting his mouth off after the briefing. Biden's warning: (My emphasis throughout.)
Yikes! Oil at $60-something/barrel, Gasoline at $2.69
Tuesday I got a tank full of gas for $2.69 a gallon. Sure wish gas prices were that low in August when we went to Yellowstone! Our trip cost us $549 in gasoline for 3,188 miles. If we made that trip now, we would have saved about $200. (Of course, Old Faithful Lodge is now closed for the winter season.)
Why would Colin Powell's edorsement matter?
The fact that Colin Powell endorsed Barack Obama late in the game doesn't surprise me at all. What does surprise me is that Democrats made so much of it.
Now Democrats are after our 401Ks?
We've invested $81 billion into 401Ks because those investments are made from pre taxed dollars! they consider those to be theirs!
**Welcome to the gulag: media investigations
State of Ohio used their data base to investigate Joe the Plumber. look for link
...with liberty and health care for all
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/04/AR2007090401623_pf.html Importing Poverty
Enough with the stimulus pkgs--Uncle Sam is broke!
The UN-Fairness Doctrine, set for comeback under Dem. majority?
http://www.nypost.com/seven/10202008/postopinion/opedcolumnists/dems_get_set_to_muzzle_the_right_134399. DEMS GET SET TO MUZZLE THE RIGHT
Biden warns of international crisis in 1st 6 months, "Gird your loins"
http://blogs.abcnews.com/politicalradar/2008/10/biden-to-suppor.html Biden to Supporters: "ird Your Loins", For the Next President "It's Like Cleaning Augean Stables"
It's not Obama's skin color I object to, it's that he leans too RED
Presidential candidate Barack Obama has used his skin color to his advantage in this election. Anytime anyone brings up his past associations with Rev. Wright, terrorist William Ayers, Father Flager, or FannieMae's Franklin Raines, etc., Obama's campaign squawks, that's racist. (Go figure, 2 of those men are white.) Referencing Obama as a community activist/organizer was deemed a code word for black too.
...with liberty, and drivers license for all (including illegal aliens)
Love that Joe the plumber, he calls Obama on tax plan
We are learning more and more about Barack Obama's tax plan--it is not a tax cut but a socialistic increase in spending.
**Obama on Partial Birth Abortion: Are you for or against? Yes
Partial Birth Abortion is a barbaric procedure in which doctors induce a late term pregnant woman to actually give birth, but before the baby is totally delivered, doctors will puncture the child's brain to kill it. If any other culture did that we would be outraged. (This procedure is to be confused with late term labor induced abortion, which occurs earlier in the pregnancy.)
It is not over yet
I remember during the 2004 election, it seemed George Bush was doomed. The results were different however: Zogby got it right. So this time around, I don't pay much attention to the other polls, which often are stacked with more Democrats than Republicans, I just check Zogby. Today, Obama is down .8% and McCain up 2.4% from yesterday; they are 3.8 % apart. Rasmussen is another poll that is respected. It shows a 5% lead for Obama nationally.
America was socialistic once, it didn't work
Bradford and Pilgrims tried communal farming. It did not work then, it won't work now
Sing it: ACORNs keep falling on my head...
Remember the song, Raindrops keep falling on my head? I'm thinking we need a new version: ACORNs keep falling on my head! (Sing along to the original song's last refrain.)
Lincoln's platform in direct contrast to Obama's
You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich.
Fed up? Where do you get your news?
I stopped watching network news long ago. I just couldn't take it anymore. CNSNews.com
The voter fraud ACORNs just keep piling up
An Ohio woman explains how ACORN workers pushed her to vote multiple times. "Even if you tell them that, 'I've already registered,' they'll be like, 'Well, just sign your name and give us the the last four of your social and we'll do the rest."
A call for emergency legislation
I was just thinking...could Congress enact some sort of emergency legislation for a nationwide voter ID requirement, and if a voter did not have one, their ballot be cast provisionally. Guess I wasn't the first.
He was for Public Financing before he ditched it
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122367340072924059.html?mod=djemEditorialPage Rich vs. Poor, Obama crushes McCain with his wallet.
California bailout: try spending less!
Indiana's ACORN operation run from Milwaukee
You cannot make this stuff up. CNN reported that Indiana ACORN office turned in half of their registrations from deceised people.
McCain & Palin up close at Waukesha Town Hall + pictures
Well, I got up bright and early on Thursday and was out in Waukesha by about 8:20 for the McCain & Palin Town Hall meeting. The morning was sunny and the crowd excited. (I should have been there earlier.)
It stinks. Why can't we ask?
Today's Washington Times piece, PRUDEN: Smells from the shadows sums up much of what's fishy about this election: the voter fraud, the biased media, and of course, Sen. Barack Obama's questionable associations. (My emphasis)
Not every vote should count, but which ones shouldn't?
The specter of voter fraud looms larger every day in the battleground states. People all over our country are wondering if the winner on Nov. 4th will be the legitimate recipient of properly registered voters or the product of massive voter fraud. There is growing fear and evidence it could be the latter.Yesterday, authorities raided the Las Vegas ACORN/Reform Now office. How many fraudulent registrations did they find? Who knows. From The Las Vegas Review-Journal:
From little ACORNs big voter fraud grows
Is ACORN Stealing the Election? That was the title of Wednesday's Investor's Business Daily's editorial. It is a long but worthwhile read (also sickening.) The connections to Obama are troubling: Obama worked for ACORN and his campaign paid ACORN.
George McGovern backs voter privacy, Obama doesn't
Would you like to go to the polls on Nov. 4th and have everyone view your ballot? Not too many people would. The right to a private ballot is important to Americans.
McCain goes to La Crosse Friday, Palin not willing to give up Michigan
On the news yesterday, I heard that John McCain and Sarah Palin will go to La Crosse Friday after their stop in Waukesha on Thursday. I think that is a good move. McCain will also be in Mosinee, WI, and Palin in Wilmington, OH later on Thursday.
Ayers Obama connection
ACORN's Las Vegas office raided. Reason? Voter fraud complaints
That's right. ACORN Vegas Office Raided in Voter Fraud Investigation this morning: (My emphasis)
Comic Relief: ABC's Match-o-Matic on Obama & McCain
Between the voter fraud issue and yesterday's stock market, sometimes a body needs a little comic relief!
Newsweek, Palin Just one of them folks?
http://newsbusters.org/blogs/warner-todd-huston/2008/10/06/newsweek-palin-too-common-too-stupid-be-vice-president-shes-dang http://newsbusters.org/blogs/warner-todd-huston/2008/10/06/newsweek-palin-too-common-too-stupid-be-vice-president-shes-dang
The Teflon, Velcro, and Teflon II of presidential politics
ACORN at root of voter fraud and mortgage mess
Someday, will they be saying Palinesque?
Governors and governors comparison.
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