Just posted over at Active Rain - 100 Great Places to find John McCain online
Trying to build diggs too at http://digg.com/2008_us_elections/100_Great_Online_Sites_for_John_McCain_supporters help me out as we build online supporters
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Northwest Indiana
... blogger is trying to get a rise out of Mccain backers. And perhaps trying to out some foolish Obama supporters too. Obama's Record on Israel
Now, what he conveniently forgets is the Obama's key foreign policy advisor has been quoted as negative about Israel and his own minister suggested that Palestinians and American blacks are similar. Mark my words, there is no similarity unless a group of Americans want to rise up and start bombing their neighbors and demanding that their neighbors all be "pushed into the sea"
Now, what he conveniently forgets is the Obama's key foreign policy advisor has been quoted as negative about Israel and his own minister suggested that Palestinians and American blacks are similar. Mark my words, there is no similarity unless a group of Americans want to rise up and start bombing their neighbors and demanding that their neighbors all be "pushed into the sea"
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Obama and Clinton taking NW Indiana Serious
Just today the following announcements:
The Obama for President campaign has emailed supporters an announcement of Indiana local office headquarters to be opened this Saturday morning at 10 AM. This list includes an office right in Gary!
Hillary Clinton’s campaign announces that Hillary is coming to Hammond, Indiana’s Civic Center at 1 p.m. this Friday, according to a breaking news item in the Post-Tribune. Chris Hedges suggests that we should "look for Obama to follow" ... and we've heard rumors he'll be in Valparaiso early May.
So, for the first time in decades Indiana's primary actually matters. If Hillary were to win Pennsylvania and appear to be bouncing back in the polls, then Obama really needs to win Indiana to keep the momentum in the eyes of the superdelegates.
We predict that this is going to the convention. Clinton won't back down and drop out, and Fox News reported this morning that 22% of Democrats think she should, but 22% also think Barack should back out! This will go down to the wire, superdelegate to superdelegate.
They will have to choose between the winner of the most states, and the winner of the popular vote! Talk about reverse of fortunes from 2000 and the Florida election.
The Obama for President campaign has emailed supporters an announcement of Indiana local office headquarters to be opened this Saturday morning at 10 AM. This list includes an office right in Gary!
Hillary Clinton’s campaign announces that Hillary is coming to Hammond, Indiana’s Civic Center at 1 p.m. this Friday, according to a breaking news item in the Post-Tribune. Chris Hedges suggests that we should "look for Obama to follow" ... and we've heard rumors he'll be in Valparaiso early May.
So, for the first time in decades Indiana's primary actually matters. If Hillary were to win Pennsylvania and appear to be bouncing back in the polls, then Obama really needs to win Indiana to keep the momentum in the eyes of the superdelegates.
We predict that this is going to the convention. Clinton won't back down and drop out, and Fox News reported this morning that 22% of Democrats think she should, but 22% also think Barack should back out! This will go down to the wire, superdelegate to superdelegate.
They will have to choose between the winner of the most states, and the winner of the popular vote! Talk about reverse of fortunes from 2000 and the Florida election.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Clinton sends letter to Pelosi
Clinton backers warn Pelosi on superdelegate rift
Source: Reuters
By John Whitesides, Political Correspondent
WASHINGTON, March 26 (Reuters) - A group of prominent Hillary Clinton donors sent a letter to House of Representaties Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Wednesday asking her to retract her comments on superdelegates and stay out of the Democratic fight over their role in the presidential race.
The 20 prominent Clinton supporters told Pelosi she should "clarify" recent statements to make it clear superdelegates -- nearly 800 party insiders and elected officials who are free to back any candidate -- could support the candidate they think would be the best nominee.
Pelosi has not publicly endorsed either Clinton or Barack Obama in their hotly contested White House battle, but she recently said superdelegates should support whoever emerges from the nomination contests with the most pledged delegates -- which appears almost certain to be Obama.
"This is an untenable position that runs counter to the party's intent in establishing superdelegates in 1984," the letter from the wealthy Clinton backers said.
"Superdelegates, like all delegates, have an obligation to make an informed, individual decision about whom to support and who would be the party's strongest nominee," said the letter signed by some of Clinton's biggest fund raisers.
Superdelegates have emerged as likely kingmakers in the fight between Clinton and Obama. The letter was another sign of growing Democratic tension over their nominating battle.
Neither candidate is expected to have enough pledged delegates won in state-by-state contests to clinch the nomination when voting ends in June, leaving the choice in the hands of the superdelegates.
Both candidates have wooed them heavily, with Obama contending they should follow the will of Democratic voters and Clinton arguing they should vote for the candidate with the best chance of winning the presidential election in November -- which she says is her.
Among the signees of the letter were prominent Democrats and Clinton supporters like Robert Johnson, founder of Black Entertainment Television; Bernard Schwartz, former chairman of Loral Space and Communications; and venture capitalist Steven Rattner.
The signees reminded the House leader from California of their support for the party's House campaign committee and said "therefore" she should "reflect in your comments a more open view" about superdelegates.
"We appreciate your activities in support of the Democratic Party and your leadership role in the party and hope you will be responsive to some of your major enthusiastic supporters," the letter said.
The Obama campaign said the Illinois senator would support the election efforts of House Democrats no matter what the outcome of the nomination fight.
"This letter is inappropriate and we hope the Clinton campaign will reject the insinuation contained in it," Obama spokesman Bill Burton said.
Clinton spokesman Phil Singer said Clinton had made the case superdelegates should exercise independent judgment about who would be the best for the party and the country.
"Few have done more to build the Democratic Party than Bill and Hillary Clinton. The last thing they need is a lecture from the Obama campaign," he said.
Source: Reuters
By John Whitesides, Political Correspondent
WASHINGTON, March 26 (Reuters) - A group of prominent Hillary Clinton donors sent a letter to House of Representaties Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Wednesday asking her to retract her comments on superdelegates and stay out of the Democratic fight over their role in the presidential race.
The 20 prominent Clinton supporters told Pelosi she should "clarify" recent statements to make it clear superdelegates -- nearly 800 party insiders and elected officials who are free to back any candidate -- could support the candidate they think would be the best nominee.
Pelosi has not publicly endorsed either Clinton or Barack Obama in their hotly contested White House battle, but she recently said superdelegates should support whoever emerges from the nomination contests with the most pledged delegates -- which appears almost certain to be Obama.
"This is an untenable position that runs counter to the party's intent in establishing superdelegates in 1984," the letter from the wealthy Clinton backers said.
"Superdelegates, like all delegates, have an obligation to make an informed, individual decision about whom to support and who would be the party's strongest nominee," said the letter signed by some of Clinton's biggest fund raisers.
Superdelegates have emerged as likely kingmakers in the fight between Clinton and Obama. The letter was another sign of growing Democratic tension over their nominating battle.
Neither candidate is expected to have enough pledged delegates won in state-by-state contests to clinch the nomination when voting ends in June, leaving the choice in the hands of the superdelegates.
Both candidates have wooed them heavily, with Obama contending they should follow the will of Democratic voters and Clinton arguing they should vote for the candidate with the best chance of winning the presidential election in November -- which she says is her.
Among the signees of the letter were prominent Democrats and Clinton supporters like Robert Johnson, founder of Black Entertainment Television; Bernard Schwartz, former chairman of Loral Space and Communications; and venture capitalist Steven Rattner.
The signees reminded the House leader from California of their support for the party's House campaign committee and said "therefore" she should "reflect in your comments a more open view" about superdelegates.
"We appreciate your activities in support of the Democratic Party and your leadership role in the party and hope you will be responsive to some of your major enthusiastic supporters," the letter said.
The Obama campaign said the Illinois senator would support the election efforts of House Democrats no matter what the outcome of the nomination fight.
"This letter is inappropriate and we hope the Clinton campaign will reject the insinuation contained in it," Obama spokesman Bill Burton said.
Clinton spokesman Phil Singer said Clinton had made the case superdelegates should exercise independent judgment about who would be the best for the party and the country.
"Few have done more to build the Democratic Party than Bill and Hillary Clinton. The last thing they need is a lecture from the Obama campaign," he said.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Who fights best in tight quarters?
Loved this quote from Red State Conservative News
The Clintons--whatever else one can say about them--are exceedingly good in
a knife fight. Perhaps, as Jim Vandehei and Mike Allen write, that talent has
been exaggerated for the purpose of propagating an interesting storyline. But it
remains substantially true. And in the chaos of a brokered convention, he--or
she--who is good at a knife fight may be able to create an advantage. At the
very least, the knifer may be able to secure an excellent consolation prize.
Friday, March 21, 2008
McCain Strategy Comic
I would slap the comic right here, but since that's what this blogger does for a living, it just isn't right. So please do go over to this link McCain Strategy Working
Larry Kudlow on Presidential Politics
McCain Surges Ahead, by Larry Kudlow of CNBC
And also, the possibility arises that Republicans could take back the House in this election cycle:
Has anyone noticed that John McCain is surging in the polls? According to
the latest print from Rasmussen and Zogby, McCain now holds a 6 to 8 point lead
against Hill-Bama. And I doubt that Senator Obama’s speech yesterday will change
anything. It was nothing more than a non-denial denial of his fidelity to
Reverend Jeremiah Wright and Wright’s hard-left anti-American agenda.
And also, the possibility arises that Republicans could take back the House in this election cycle:
And what about Congress? Well, there’s a good article by John Gizzi in
Human Events suggesting that Republicans will actually pick up seats in the
House this November. According to Oklahoma Republican Tom Cole, chairman of the
Republican Congressional Committee, 61 House Democrats are running in districts
that President Bush carried in 2004, while only 8 Republicans are running in
districts carried by John Kerry.
Veterans for McCain - Of Course
Please contact Col. Oliver Ditch USAF (ret)and help him help further our cause today at
http://Vets4McCain.com
I'm trying to get Military & Veterans to sign up at: http://Vets4McCain.com
Please help me pass the word and provide links to my site. In 2004 I was able to rally 80,000 vets to actually sign up and comment. Bumper Stickers are also available for the asking.
O. P. DitchCol USAF (ret)
http://Vets4McCain.com
I'm trying to get Military & Veterans to sign up at: http://Vets4McCain.com
Please help me pass the word and provide links to my site. In 2004 I was able to rally 80,000 vets to actually sign up and comment. Bumper Stickers are also available for the asking.
O. P. DitchCol USAF (ret)
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Clinton: If Hillary Wins Indiana she wins Presidency
If Hillary Wins Indiana
In an effort to separate Illinois from Indiana, an effort not all that hard in all of Indiana except this ridiculous Region here in Northwest Indiana, Bill Clinton suggested that if Hillary can win the primary in Indiana she will win the nomination and the Presidency.
That puts a lot of potential issues on the table.
First, since when is Indiana a swing state? We really aren't, we have voted Republican in many if not most Presidential elections for the least couple decades. Sure, Lake County will go to Barack and then to the Democratic nominee, but the rest of the state has seen enough tax increases and liberal policy to last them a long time.
So, can Hillary win Indiana against the now leveled off Barack campaign? Will the black racisim of Barack's preacher and home church hurt him everywhere but North Lake County? Can Hillary use a big Pennsylvania win and then a series of smaller wins in off states to build a popular vote win ... allowing the super delegates the chance to vote for her as the "national" vote winner?
In an effort to separate Illinois from Indiana, an effort not all that hard in all of Indiana except this ridiculous Region here in Northwest Indiana, Bill Clinton suggested that if Hillary can win the primary in Indiana she will win the nomination and the Presidency.
That puts a lot of potential issues on the table.
First, since when is Indiana a swing state? We really aren't, we have voted Republican in many if not most Presidential elections for the least couple decades. Sure, Lake County will go to Barack and then to the Democratic nominee, but the rest of the state has seen enough tax increases and liberal policy to last them a long time.
So, can Hillary win Indiana against the now leveled off Barack campaign? Will the black racisim of Barack's preacher and home church hurt him everywhere but North Lake County? Can Hillary use a big Pennsylvania win and then a series of smaller wins in off states to build a popular vote win ... allowing the super delegates the chance to vote for her as the "national" vote winner?
Monday, March 17, 2008
Saturday, March 15, 2008
A modest proposal for the tribes of Chesterton
Although it’s not mentioned in the town’s official history, the most notable event in the history of Chesterton occurred on October 10, 1933, when a Boeing 247 flown by United Airlines was blown-up over the town. All four passengers aboard were killed—along with the three crew—in the first airline bombing in history.
That plane falling from the sky briefly interrupted a stretch of quiet in Chesterton that started with the Potawatomie—-described as “relatively sedentary” by the French-—and largely continues to this day. I suspect that this is how many of Valpo’s attic neighbors like things.
Valparaiso’s history is slightly more colorful, thanks to characters like Orville and Valpo Joe, but as long as Valpo was run by a grandfatherly mayor, not much would happen. Chesterton was happy. Indeed, Chesterton's best-known, best-educated, and most esteemed resident seemed quite enamored with Valparaiso.
Something has changed, and folks from Chesterton have begun complaining about Valparaiso. They even coined a word, “Valpocentricity,” which either relates to “eccentricity” or possibly “Afrocentricity”. Valparaiso, they say, has become the Marcia Brady of the county, and isn’t afraid to point it out. I appreciate the backhanded compliment: mature, attractive, intelligent, popular—-why not? Meanwhile Jan’s again having trouble with that inferiority complex.
Antivalpoism reached a boiling point in the South Shore debate. Such chutzpah, Valparaiso trying to bring a billion dollar rail line to their town, paid for entirely by State, Federal, and RDA money. For many years (from 1852 to 1872), Chesterton had the only rail station in Porter County, and the town’s history devotes four of its ten paragraphs to talking about railroads. A South Shore station in Valparaiso was like the sky—-or at least a Boeing 247 in the sky--falling all over again.
Yet my favorite comment was this: “We've had the Valpo bluebloods telling everyone that we should all bow down to Valpo because we hicks drive on your streets to go to your first class restaurants (the only good restaurants in the county don't ya know) and then drive back to our backwards, hick towns.” Hey, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. Thus, and in the spirit of bluebloodism, I propose the following:
That plane falling from the sky briefly interrupted a stretch of quiet in Chesterton that started with the Potawatomie—-described as “relatively sedentary” by the French-—and largely continues to this day. I suspect that this is how many of Valpo’s attic neighbors like things.
Valparaiso’s history is slightly more colorful, thanks to characters like Orville and Valpo Joe, but as long as Valpo was run by a grandfatherly mayor, not much would happen. Chesterton was happy. Indeed, Chesterton's best-known, best-educated, and most esteemed resident seemed quite enamored with Valparaiso.
Something has changed, and folks from Chesterton have begun complaining about Valparaiso. They even coined a word, “Valpocentricity,” which either relates to “eccentricity” or possibly “Afrocentricity”. Valparaiso, they say, has become the Marcia Brady of the county, and isn’t afraid to point it out. I appreciate the backhanded compliment: mature, attractive, intelligent, popular—-why not? Meanwhile Jan’s again having trouble with that inferiority complex.
Antivalpoism reached a boiling point in the South Shore debate. Such chutzpah, Valparaiso trying to bring a billion dollar rail line to their town, paid for entirely by State, Federal, and RDA money. For many years (from 1852 to 1872), Chesterton had the only rail station in Porter County, and the town’s history devotes four of its ten paragraphs to talking about railroads. A South Shore station in Valparaiso was like the sky—-or at least a Boeing 247 in the sky--falling all over again.
Yet my favorite comment was this: “We've had the Valpo bluebloods telling everyone that we should all bow down to Valpo because we hicks drive on your streets to go to your first class restaurants (the only good restaurants in the county don't ya know) and then drive back to our backwards, hick towns.” Hey, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. Thus, and in the spirit of bluebloodism, I propose the following:
The enlightened citizens of the Grand Duchy of Valparaiso propose to annex the barbarian-occupied hinterlands immediately beyond the northern borders of the Grand Duchy. The Duchy would thus extend to Indian Boundary Road, beyond which civilized people have not yet explored.
Approximately 10,000 barbarians, yeomen, peasants, and tribesmen occupy an area loosely called Chesterton, though they have not officially elected a chief. Chesterton is already under the de facto suzerainty and vassalage of the Grand Duchy. HRH the Grand Duke of Valparaiso, as well as HRH King Bob, make practically all of the important decisions for the County of Porter, such as whether the County museum should be open until 4pm or 5pm. The northern barbarians have contributed very little except small tax payments in tribute to the King.
In the present state of affairs, Chesterton plays the Svalbard to Valparaiso’s Norway—-all alone in the ice with nothing but polar bears. While some such suzerainties remain in today’s world, such as San Marino (dependent on Italy) and the Federated States of Micronesia (dependent on the USA), most were long-since eliminated by forceful merger of the barbarian state into the stronger state.
The city of Nice, annexed by the French in 1860, thrives as a part of the Fifth Republic. Had Cornwall, the poorest and least developed part of England, not been taken-over around 1066 and turned into a Duchy of its own, its inhabitants would still be speaking a Corny language, worshiping rocks, and not basking in the glow of the rule of Queen Elizabeth II. The city of Venice, independent for over a millennium, voted to join Italy in 1866. Of 642,000 votes cast, only 69 objected. Had Venice not prostrated itself to Rome, who knows if one of their citizens could have developed Venice’s greatest export, the bellini?
Closer to home, annexation of the hinterlands would provide the unwashed occupants such services as education (at a school renamed “Valparaiso North” with a mascot who would no longer inspire prophylactic jokes), white table-cloth restaurants, free participation in the Grand Duke’s fun runs, and visa-free crossing of County Road 600N. Members of the royal court will have access to the services of the Jester, Mr. Michael Essany. Of course, as the tribes of Chesterton presently lack a chief, this proposal obviates the need to choose one of their own.
This modest proposal is made despite the barbarians’ recent unruly behavior, most notably raising a small bandit army to maraud into the Grand Duchy’s sovereign territory in order to disrupt a plan to construct a modern passenger rail facility. The bandit army’s actions were taken based on the preposterous belief that the Grand Duchy intended to finance construction by raiding the northern tribes of gold, spices, and slaves.
Failing the prompt acceptance of this proposal, The Grand Duke of Valparaiso shall appeal to the Holy Hoosier Emporer, Mitch von und zu Indiana, to force annexation.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Monday in Porter County
I know many of you don't get the chance to visit the message boards at www.nwi.com, and I totally understand if you grimace due to the Web 1.0 bulletin board format. But to be frank some of the debates there are well worth a quick overview. (if you want to weigh in go to NWI Times Message Board for Porter County) or post a comment below.
Here's one on Bob Harper's address to Rotary on Monday, once again endorsing Mitch Daniels' tax caps plan, and in doing so suggesting that there are business people trying to defeat the bill. The truth is much much harder to find, though, he's good real good at playing sleight of hand.
Harper reports on state of county
by Corrective Action on Mar 11, 2008 9:25 am
VALPARAISO Commissioner Bob Harper underscored the importance of providing tax relief to residents and of keeping government spending under control while discussing the state of Porter County.Harper's comments were made on Monday as part of a Valparaiso Rotary Club meeting.The commissioner highlighted the county's work with drainage ordinances as well as an updated master plan, but acknowledged that there is still work to be done on the planning front."I think we all have to start visualizing what the roads are going to look like in the future," Harper said, noting that the Plan Commission has been working to get a corridor study approved.Harper also discussed ongoing problems with increasing property taxes and late bills. After Harper mailed homeowners a letter last month regarding the proposed tax plan before the Legislature, he received more than 200 responses.Harper became a bit emotional Monday while reading one of the e-mails he received. The note came from an elderly Valparaiso resident who explained that because of hefty property taxes she will no longer be able to afford her home when her sick husband dies."I wish she was sitting in on every one of those meetings downstate telling her story, instead of all of those businessmen and corporations lobbying against it," Harper said.Again, Harper cited his support for the legislation and urged members to contact their state representatives regarding the issue.Harper's other main concern was the need to rein in government spending. The commissioner praised the efforts of the county and Valparaiso to consolidate 911 services and save money, but expressed concern over growing departments within the county.Recounting the fiscal problems that faced the county in 2001 when Bethlehem Steel went bankrupt, Harper suggested that the county would, again, be able to function with additional belt-tightening."Everyone had to learn to live on a little bit less (when Bethlehem Steel went bankrupt)," Harper said. "And they did." -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Word is he went on a 10 minute story about how great Irvine California was and then near the end of the speech had the audacity to warn people that we can't let property taxes get out of control like they are in California! So, which is it Commissioner?How would this little old lady he cried about survive in Irvine, California?
Corrective Action
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by mrlittle on Mar 11, 2008 10:23 am
It's obvious the man loves Porter County and is passionate, as well as, sincere in his approach to defend it. Barring some unforeseen political derailment, which by the way is not likely to occur, Mr. Harper will win re-election easily in two years because he gets it....and thus far has had the courage to defend it.
mrlittle
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by currentevents on Mar 11, 2008 11:04 am
I am so sick of Harper's grandstanding. His campaign song should be its all about me. Every week the papers have some story or another on Harper, sometimes two or three times a week.Harper saysHarper saysHarper saysI mean if every candidate was allowed as much free campaigning as Harper they wouldn't need a campaign budget.
currentevents
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by daltonsbriefs on Mar 11, 2008 1:55 pm (Yes, that's one of this site's authors)
Wasn't it the Democrats railing against the tax caps, proposed by Governor Mitch Daniels, because they would bancrupt the local governments? Which is it Mr. Harper?http://reasonbellpundit.blogspot.com/2008/03/bob-harper-continues-to-endorse-mitchs.html
daltonsbriefs
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by currentevents on Mar 11, 2008 2:27 pm
"I wish she was sitting in on every one of those meetings downstate telling her story, instead of all of those businessmen and corporations lobbying against it," Harper said.I can't believe I missed that I missed that.
currentevents
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by Iam Watching on Mar 11, 2008 8:21 pm
In the newspaper article and in his letter, the king refers to "businessmen" and "corporations" that are speaking out against this tax plan. Yet, he does not call out many legislative members in his own party that are speaking out against it. I for one have not heard of any corporations or businessmen that are speaking out against this plan. Do any of you? If Harper is for the real person and "gets it" (according to mr.little) then why does he not come out against the very people in his party who are against this very important piece of legislation? One would think that corporations and businessmen would really not want any type of income formula in the property tax scheme? Which is it? Typical Class warfare Democrat tactics.Harper is a politician. If he is so about doing the right thing, you would think he would help bring his party in line. Oh that's right, he can't. The others have made a deal with the hard unions who are against anything that the Govenor is for. Would'nt want to bite the hand that feeds them, would they now. Harper is taking credit for the govenors plan. There have been good people way before Harper carrying this water.Irvine, California? Come on.
Iam Watching
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by currentevents on Mar 11, 2008 9:12 pm
Why would businessmen and corporations speak out against this? That doesn't even make sense Let's see Tallian against itOlga against itSimms against itWow sounds like politicians to me and Dem's at that. Wonder how Harper is fairing in Chidesters book considering he is for the Republican Gov's tax caps.
currentevents
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by currentevents on Mar 11, 2008 9:39 pm
Ok so I just realized why Harper is doing all these press releases and the *ss kissing.
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Lawmakers appeared close to a compromise Monday on a bill that could replace county commissioners with a single county executive — but only if voters approve the move in a referendum.http://chestertontribune.com/Indiana%20News/3113%20bill_would_allow_one_county_exec.htmSee all of us that thought he wasn't up for re-election for two years didn't realize he was already running for this one. As Gomer Pyle says: Surprise Surprise Surprise
currentevents
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by currentevents on Mar 12, 2008 6:46 am
Did anyone see the op'ed piece by the Republican Chairman?
Harper concluded his letter with contact information for the state legislators representing Porter County urging readers to contact them. Included in the list of legislators were Rep. Ed Soliday and Sen. Ed Charbonneau.What Harper neglected to point out was that Soliday and Charbonneau have vigorously supported Daniels' tax plan since its inception last October. Moreover, both legislators have fiercely defended the plan by fighting off attempts to dilute it or undermine its ability to provide lasting relief -- most importantly, property tax caps.Calls, e-mails and letters to Soliday and Charbonneau should have been those of praise and thanks given their firm stand in defense of Porter County's taxpaying citizens. Regrettably, the opposite was the case. Readers were under the mistaken impression that every legislator listed was opposed to tax caps and reform legislation.In contrast, it's members of Harper's own Democratic Party who have repeatedly introduced amendments to the legislation containing Daniels' tax plan. These legislative roadblocks have been carefully crafted to appeal to the fear, uncertainty and doubts of targeted groups of Indiana citizens.http://nwi.com/articles/2008/03/12/opinion/guest_commentaries/doc026936ca9bb2fd8086257409007f60b7.txt
currentevents
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by Iam Watching on Mar 12, 2008 7:48 am
Now I am sure that others will come on this post and claim how brilliant King Harper is politically. I think his letter and posturing is totally wrong. This shows the level of deceit that this man operates under. Based on comments I have heard about Harper's address, he came off trying to be sincere but overall a little crazy. The big thing I heard was he really does not have a vision. Just that Irvine, California is the place to be like. That is crazy. I hope the single commissioner law passes. If it is the King so be it. One thing is for sure, he won't be able to deflect things like he has. Accountability is what I want.
Here's one on Bob Harper's address to Rotary on Monday, once again endorsing Mitch Daniels' tax caps plan, and in doing so suggesting that there are business people trying to defeat the bill. The truth is much much harder to find, though, he's good real good at playing sleight of hand.
Harper reports on state of county
by Corrective Action on Mar 11, 2008 9:25 am
VALPARAISO Commissioner Bob Harper underscored the importance of providing tax relief to residents and of keeping government spending under control while discussing the state of Porter County.Harper's comments were made on Monday as part of a Valparaiso Rotary Club meeting.The commissioner highlighted the county's work with drainage ordinances as well as an updated master plan, but acknowledged that there is still work to be done on the planning front."I think we all have to start visualizing what the roads are going to look like in the future," Harper said, noting that the Plan Commission has been working to get a corridor study approved.Harper also discussed ongoing problems with increasing property taxes and late bills. After Harper mailed homeowners a letter last month regarding the proposed tax plan before the Legislature, he received more than 200 responses.Harper became a bit emotional Monday while reading one of the e-mails he received. The note came from an elderly Valparaiso resident who explained that because of hefty property taxes she will no longer be able to afford her home when her sick husband dies."I wish she was sitting in on every one of those meetings downstate telling her story, instead of all of those businessmen and corporations lobbying against it," Harper said.Again, Harper cited his support for the legislation and urged members to contact their state representatives regarding the issue.Harper's other main concern was the need to rein in government spending. The commissioner praised the efforts of the county and Valparaiso to consolidate 911 services and save money, but expressed concern over growing departments within the county.Recounting the fiscal problems that faced the county in 2001 when Bethlehem Steel went bankrupt, Harper suggested that the county would, again, be able to function with additional belt-tightening."Everyone had to learn to live on a little bit less (when Bethlehem Steel went bankrupt)," Harper said. "And they did." -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Word is he went on a 10 minute story about how great Irvine California was and then near the end of the speech had the audacity to warn people that we can't let property taxes get out of control like they are in California! So, which is it Commissioner?How would this little old lady he cried about survive in Irvine, California?
Corrective Action
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by mrlittle on Mar 11, 2008 10:23 am
It's obvious the man loves Porter County and is passionate, as well as, sincere in his approach to defend it. Barring some unforeseen political derailment, which by the way is not likely to occur, Mr. Harper will win re-election easily in two years because he gets it....and thus far has had the courage to defend it.
mrlittle
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by currentevents on Mar 11, 2008 11:04 am
I am so sick of Harper's grandstanding. His campaign song should be its all about me. Every week the papers have some story or another on Harper, sometimes two or three times a week.Harper saysHarper saysHarper saysI mean if every candidate was allowed as much free campaigning as Harper they wouldn't need a campaign budget.
currentevents
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by daltonsbriefs on Mar 11, 2008 1:55 pm (Yes, that's one of this site's authors)
Wasn't it the Democrats railing against the tax caps, proposed by Governor Mitch Daniels, because they would bancrupt the local governments? Which is it Mr. Harper?http://reasonbellpundit.blogspot.com/2008/03/bob-harper-continues-to-endorse-mitchs.html
daltonsbriefs
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by currentevents on Mar 11, 2008 2:27 pm
"I wish she was sitting in on every one of those meetings downstate telling her story, instead of all of those businessmen and corporations lobbying against it," Harper said.I can't believe I missed that I missed that.
currentevents
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by Iam Watching on Mar 11, 2008 8:21 pm
In the newspaper article and in his letter, the king refers to "businessmen" and "corporations" that are speaking out against this tax plan. Yet, he does not call out many legislative members in his own party that are speaking out against it. I for one have not heard of any corporations or businessmen that are speaking out against this plan. Do any of you? If Harper is for the real person and "gets it" (according to mr.little) then why does he not come out against the very people in his party who are against this very important piece of legislation? One would think that corporations and businessmen would really not want any type of income formula in the property tax scheme? Which is it? Typical Class warfare Democrat tactics.Harper is a politician. If he is so about doing the right thing, you would think he would help bring his party in line. Oh that's right, he can't. The others have made a deal with the hard unions who are against anything that the Govenor is for. Would'nt want to bite the hand that feeds them, would they now. Harper is taking credit for the govenors plan. There have been good people way before Harper carrying this water.Irvine, California? Come on.
Iam Watching
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by currentevents on Mar 11, 2008 9:12 pm
Why would businessmen and corporations speak out against this? That doesn't even make sense Let's see Tallian against itOlga against itSimms against itWow sounds like politicians to me and Dem's at that. Wonder how Harper is fairing in Chidesters book considering he is for the Republican Gov's tax caps.
currentevents
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by currentevents on Mar 11, 2008 9:39 pm
Ok so I just realized why Harper is doing all these press releases and the *ss kissing.
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Lawmakers appeared close to a compromise Monday on a bill that could replace county commissioners with a single county executive — but only if voters approve the move in a referendum.http://chestertontribune.com/Indiana%20News/3113%20bill_would_allow_one_county_exec.htmSee all of us that thought he wasn't up for re-election for two years didn't realize he was already running for this one. As Gomer Pyle says: Surprise Surprise Surprise
currentevents
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by currentevents on Mar 12, 2008 6:46 am
Did anyone see the op'ed piece by the Republican Chairman?
Harper concluded his letter with contact information for the state legislators representing Porter County urging readers to contact them. Included in the list of legislators were Rep. Ed Soliday and Sen. Ed Charbonneau.What Harper neglected to point out was that Soliday and Charbonneau have vigorously supported Daniels' tax plan since its inception last October. Moreover, both legislators have fiercely defended the plan by fighting off attempts to dilute it or undermine its ability to provide lasting relief -- most importantly, property tax caps.Calls, e-mails and letters to Soliday and Charbonneau should have been those of praise and thanks given their firm stand in defense of Porter County's taxpaying citizens. Regrettably, the opposite was the case. Readers were under the mistaken impression that every legislator listed was opposed to tax caps and reform legislation.In contrast, it's members of Harper's own Democratic Party who have repeatedly introduced amendments to the legislation containing Daniels' tax plan. These legislative roadblocks have been carefully crafted to appeal to the fear, uncertainty and doubts of targeted groups of Indiana citizens.http://nwi.com/articles/2008/03/12/opinion/guest_commentaries/doc026936ca9bb2fd8086257409007f60b7.txt
currentevents
Re: Harper reports on state of county
by Iam Watching on Mar 12, 2008 7:48 am
Now I am sure that others will come on this post and claim how brilliant King Harper is politically. I think his letter and posturing is totally wrong. This shows the level of deceit that this man operates under. Based on comments I have heard about Harper's address, he came off trying to be sincere but overall a little crazy. The big thing I heard was he really does not have a vision. Just that Irvine, California is the place to be like. That is crazy. I hope the single commissioner law passes. If it is the King so be it. One thing is for sure, he won't be able to deflect things like he has. Accountability is what I want.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
McCain scolds Obama and Clinton - lack of leadership
Senator John McCain talked today about Obama and Clinton sparring over defaulting on our agreement with Mexico and Canada to maintain free trade.
McCain reiterated his support for making President Bush's tax cuts permanent.
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Bob Harper continues to endorse Mitch's plan
Bucking his own state senator, Tallian, and state rep, Simms ... Bob Harper continues to explicitly endorse the tax cap plan of Governor Mitch Daniels.
Mr. Harper, are you sure it was businesses? I think the reports said it was Democrats fighting the tax caps.
Harper also discussed ongoing problems with increasing property taxes and late
bills. After Harper mailed homeowners a letter last month regarding the proposed
tax plan before the Legislature, he received more than 200 responses.Harper
became a bit emotional Monday while reading one of the e-mails he received. The
note came from an elderly Valparaiso resident who explained that because of
hefty property taxes she will no longer be able to afford her home when her sick
husband dies."I wish she was sitting in on every one of those meetings downstate
telling her story, instead of all of those businessmen and corporations lobbying
against it," Harper said.
Mr. Harper, are you sure it was businesses? I think the reports said it was Democrats fighting the tax caps.
Monday, March 10, 2008
The next governor of New York
If New York Governor Eliot Spitzer is forced to step down over his involvement in the prostitution ring Emperor's Club VIP, Lieutenant Governor David Paterson is set to become the state's 59th Governor — and the first African American to hold that position. Who is the man who may become Governor?
David Paterson was born legally blind in Brooklyn in 1954 (Wikipedia)
BA from Columbia University, JD from Hofstra Law School (Wikipedia)
Former State Senator from New York's 30th District
First elected to represent Harlem in the New York State Senate in 1985 (Paterson for New York)
Elected Minority Leader of the New York State Senate in 2002, the first non-white legislative leader in New York's history (Paterson for New York)
Ran New York City Marathon in 1999 (NNDB)
Defended himself against bias claims last month after replacing white photographer with black photographer (New York Post)
Previously tussled with Spitzer over turf wars (New York Magazine)
Asked by the League of Women voters, "If elected, what are your qualifications to serve as Governor should you be called upon to do so during your term as Lt. Governor?" Paterson responded:
Eliot Spitzer and I want to restore hope to New York. I'm running because the lessons I learned from my family, my hometown in Harlem and from working in Albany compelled me to try to address New York's critical problems. Together, we want to bring promise back to the state. (SmartVoter.org)
David Paterson was born legally blind in Brooklyn in 1954 (Wikipedia)
BA from Columbia University, JD from Hofstra Law School (Wikipedia)
Former State Senator from New York's 30th District
First elected to represent Harlem in the New York State Senate in 1985 (Paterson for New York)
Elected Minority Leader of the New York State Senate in 2002, the first non-white legislative leader in New York's history (Paterson for New York)
Ran New York City Marathon in 1999 (NNDB)
Defended himself against bias claims last month after replacing white photographer with black photographer (New York Post)
Previously tussled with Spitzer over turf wars (New York Magazine)
Asked by the League of Women voters, "If elected, what are your qualifications to serve as Governor should you be called upon to do so during your term as Lt. Governor?" Paterson responded:
Eliot Spitzer and I want to restore hope to New York. I'm running because the lessons I learned from my family, my hometown in Harlem and from working in Albany compelled me to try to address New York's critical problems. Together, we want to bring promise back to the state. (SmartVoter.org)
New York Governor In Trouble
The New York Times broke the story ... this from Reuters
There were no further details of what his involvement may have been.
Spitzer was due to make an announcement at 2:15 p.m. EDT, the Times said.
As state attorney general before being elected governor in November 2006, Spitzer was sometimes called the Sheriff of Wall Street for his prominent role in investigating financial cases.
A Democrat, he entered the governor's office promising reform but soon entered into a conflict with Republican leaders in the state Senate, slowing his agenda.
He has been married to Silva Wall Spitzer since 1987 and they have three daughters.
There were no further details of what his involvement may have been.
Spitzer was due to make an announcement at 2:15 p.m. EDT, the Times said.
As state attorney general before being elected governor in November 2006, Spitzer was sometimes called the Sheriff of Wall Street for his prominent role in investigating financial cases.
A Democrat, he entered the governor's office promising reform but soon entered into a conflict with Republican leaders in the state Senate, slowing his agenda.
He has been married to Silva Wall Spitzer since 1987 and they have three daughters.
Saturday, March 08, 2008
Moving Barackwards
I haven't commented much on the presidential race. But Mark Steyn's column today may be the funniest in recent memory.
First, read this Maureen Dowd column. I normally don't recommend anything on the NYT opinion page, but this (and David Brooks) are worthy exceptions.
Here's Mark's windup:
Read the whole thing.
Hat tip to Powerline, who have a lot more about Samantha Power. Aside from her loose lips on Hillary's monsterism, she's also got an anti-semetic streak.
First, read this Maureen Dowd column. I normally don't recommend anything on the NYT opinion page, but this (and David Brooks) are worthy exceptions.
Here's Mark's windup:
Well, we will have Hillary Clinton to kick around some more, at least for another few weeks. The Mummy (as my radio pal Hugh Hewitt calls her) kicked open the sarcophagus door and, despite the rotting bandages dating back to Iowa, began staggering around, terrorizing folks all over again.
"She is a monster," Barack Obama adviser Samantha Power told a reporter from The Scotsman – and not a monster in a cute Loch Ness blurry, long-distance kind of way. "You just look at her and think, 'Ergh,'" continued Ms. Power, who subsequently resigned from the campaign.
Read the whole thing.
Hat tip to Powerline, who have a lot more about Samantha Power. Aside from her loose lips on Hillary's monsterism, she's also got an anti-semetic streak.
Friday, March 07, 2008
Wichlinski - Cutting the County Treasurer
Former township trustee in Porter County, Bob Wichlinski has been creating a buzz of activity due to his announcement that he would not only be running for County Treasurer, but would be doing so with one goal: To Eliminate Forever the Job of Treasurer in Porter County.
During the last six months we've all been debating and arguing and blogging about tax caps and spending problems. Many have suggested that the problem with tax caps is that government never spends less! Well here's one politician willing to totally eliminate his job and merge the remaining staff, if they are even needed, into the auditor's office.
The best way to live within the new tax caps, which I for one hope the state has the guts to vote for, is to cut government spending.
Does Joe Q Public even know why we have an Auditor, Treasurer, 3 Commissioners, 7 Councilmen, Clerk, Assessor, and Recorder? Nope. Joe Q Public might be surprised to hear that most of the elected officials let their staff do the work, and with computers and technology that staff could probably be reduced.
Go Bob Go! Wichlinksi for County Treasurer, the last one we'll ever need.
During the last six months we've all been debating and arguing and blogging about tax caps and spending problems. Many have suggested that the problem with tax caps is that government never spends less! Well here's one politician willing to totally eliminate his job and merge the remaining staff, if they are even needed, into the auditor's office.
The best way to live within the new tax caps, which I for one hope the state has the guts to vote for, is to cut government spending.
Does Joe Q Public even know why we have an Auditor, Treasurer, 3 Commissioners, 7 Councilmen, Clerk, Assessor, and Recorder? Nope. Joe Q Public might be surprised to hear that most of the elected officials let their staff do the work, and with computers and technology that staff could probably be reduced.
Go Bob Go! Wichlinksi for County Treasurer, the last one we'll ever need.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Union V. Union in NW Indiana
Looks like there are two parts of the labor movement in NW Indiana to me.
One group that wants to grow jobs by building roads and buildings and rails and homes. One group that only wants to increase wages for the few remaining job holders.
One group that wants to work with both sides of the aisle to better our communities. One group that only wants to work with Dems, same as always.
One group that wants to cap property taxes on homes, even if that means cutting the size of governement. One group that only wants to protect the size of government, as if innovation itself is evil.
Now these two groups will face off when Governor Daniels is in town on Friday to raise $500,000 for his re-election. Some labor leaders and members with Daniels and supporting him, others picketing outside.
From the Times:
A gala fund-raiser for Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels is prying open a deep fissure in Northwest Indiana's construction unions.Some union locals are crying foul over a full-page ad in newspapers last week listing the Northwest Indiana Building and Construction Trades Council as a sponsor of the $500-a-plate fundraiser to take place Friday night at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza Theatre in Merrillville.
Mike Campbell, president of Laborers' Locals 81 and 41, said many of his 3,000 members are furious because the ad gave the impression all 33 union locals in the council are supporting Daniels and the gala.In fact, Laborers' locals in Indiana have endorsed Democrat Jim Schellinger and donated $126,000 to his campaign, Campbell said. Campbell called Friday's gala "an anti-living-wage, anti-working-family event."
Local 81 is based in Valparaiso and Local 41 in Hammond. The locals cover Lake, Porter, Jasper, Newton, Starke and LaPorte counties.Ironworkers Local 395 business manager Jim Stemmler also called The Times shortly after the ad appeared and said his local and the Ironworkers' state council have endorsed Schellinger.
When contacted Monday, Northwest Indiana Building and Construction Trades Council President Chris Hernandez said the council's $50,000 gala sponsorship has come entirely from funds raised by individual locals and labor councils."It's a sponsorship for the dinner; it's not a building trades endorsement," Hernandez said.However, some individual locals within the council have endorsed Daniels.
Gala organizer Dan Dumezich said $400,000 already has been raised through sponsorships, as well as table and dinner purchases. The former state legislator from Schererville said he is confident it can break the $500,000 mark, making it the largest gubernatorial fundraiser conducted in Northwest Indiana."The fact is the building trades council and all the unions under them are supporting the governor at this event," Dumezich said Monday. "And that's a tough cookie for some of them to swallow."
Crown Point billionaire Dean White also is a $50,000 sponsor of the event, as are the Northwest Indiana Contractors Association and International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150.Campbell said Laborers' Locals 81 and 41 plan to have protesters outside the Radisson on Friday.
Daniels will be the Republican candidate for governor in November. Schellinger is facing off against Democrat Jill Long Thompson in the Democratic primary May 6. The winner will face the governor.Daniels came to the Northwest Indiana Building and Construction Trades Council in late January to ask for its support, Hernandez said.The next week, the council's vice presidents' committee met and approved the council's gala sponsorship, he said. However, it was agreed no council money would be used. Instead, individual labor councils and locals were able to donate to the event to support the council's sponsorship, Hernandez said.
One group that wants to grow jobs by building roads and buildings and rails and homes. One group that only wants to increase wages for the few remaining job holders.
One group that wants to work with both sides of the aisle to better our communities. One group that only wants to work with Dems, same as always.
One group that wants to cap property taxes on homes, even if that means cutting the size of governement. One group that only wants to protect the size of government, as if innovation itself is evil.
Now these two groups will face off when Governor Daniels is in town on Friday to raise $500,000 for his re-election. Some labor leaders and members with Daniels and supporting him, others picketing outside.
From the Times:
A gala fund-raiser for Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels is prying open a deep fissure in Northwest Indiana's construction unions.Some union locals are crying foul over a full-page ad in newspapers last week listing the Northwest Indiana Building and Construction Trades Council as a sponsor of the $500-a-plate fundraiser to take place Friday night at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza Theatre in Merrillville.
Mike Campbell, president of Laborers' Locals 81 and 41, said many of his 3,000 members are furious because the ad gave the impression all 33 union locals in the council are supporting Daniels and the gala.In fact, Laborers' locals in Indiana have endorsed Democrat Jim Schellinger and donated $126,000 to his campaign, Campbell said. Campbell called Friday's gala "an anti-living-wage, anti-working-family event."
Local 81 is based in Valparaiso and Local 41 in Hammond. The locals cover Lake, Porter, Jasper, Newton, Starke and LaPorte counties.Ironworkers Local 395 business manager Jim Stemmler also called The Times shortly after the ad appeared and said his local and the Ironworkers' state council have endorsed Schellinger.
When contacted Monday, Northwest Indiana Building and Construction Trades Council President Chris Hernandez said the council's $50,000 gala sponsorship has come entirely from funds raised by individual locals and labor councils."It's a sponsorship for the dinner; it's not a building trades endorsement," Hernandez said.However, some individual locals within the council have endorsed Daniels.
Gala organizer Dan Dumezich said $400,000 already has been raised through sponsorships, as well as table and dinner purchases. The former state legislator from Schererville said he is confident it can break the $500,000 mark, making it the largest gubernatorial fundraiser conducted in Northwest Indiana."The fact is the building trades council and all the unions under them are supporting the governor at this event," Dumezich said Monday. "And that's a tough cookie for some of them to swallow."
Crown Point billionaire Dean White also is a $50,000 sponsor of the event, as are the Northwest Indiana Contractors Association and International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150.Campbell said Laborers' Locals 81 and 41 plan to have protesters outside the Radisson on Friday.
Daniels will be the Republican candidate for governor in November. Schellinger is facing off against Democrat Jill Long Thompson in the Democratic primary May 6. The winner will face the governor.Daniels came to the Northwest Indiana Building and Construction Trades Council in late January to ask for its support, Hernandez said.The next week, the council's vice presidents' committee met and approved the council's gala sponsorship, he said. However, it was agreed no council money would be used. Instead, individual labor councils and locals were able to donate to the event to support the council's sponsorship, Hernandez said.
It's Hillary Night - Wins and Momentum
Hillary Clinton projected to win Ohio and holds very close in Texas ... she's back!
I don't like her, and that's no secret, but I'm awful glad to face her in the General Election.
And, just think if Hillary uses lawsuits and gamesmanship to steal the win at her convention, she will have completed a tour of duty that began in Arkansas and stopped over in Florida for "chad counting" ... more games, more Clintons.
For tonite, congratulations Hillary
I don't like her, and that's no secret, but I'm awful glad to face her in the General Election.
And, just think if Hillary uses lawsuits and gamesmanship to steal the win at her convention, she will have completed a tour of duty that began in Arkansas and stopped over in Florida for "chad counting" ... more games, more Clintons.
For tonite, congratulations Hillary
John McCain Wins! Onward to November
Well, it's finally official and John McCain has completed the nomination delegates required to clinch the nomination. No such news on the Democrat side, they are still wasting away $20 million a month on newspaper and TV ads. Keep it up!
But for tonite, it's Mac all the way. Go MAC
Monday, March 03, 2008
John Mccain is open to debate
The whole point of blogs, to debate, but Obama and Clinton aren't allowing it
While McCain's Internet audience href="http://www.thenation.com/blogs/campaignmatters?bid=45&pid=286563 ">lags
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We are winning Iraq, because Obama wasn't in charge
It's time to call Barack what he is, a wanna be leader
Barack Obama frequently chastises people for contributing "more heat than light" to the public debate. An admirable sentiment. I wish he would adhere to it more regularly himself. McCain's "100 years" is not a commitment to "100 years of war," as Obama claims. It is simply another sign of McCain's seriousness and understanding of the realities of foreign affairs in general and Iraq in particular.
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Sunday, March 02, 2008
McCain winning over war crititics too
from Colecurtis The McCain Monitor by colecurtis
EVANDALE, Ohio (CNN) -- John Dyer remembers being unable to sleep."I woke up at 4 in the morning and walked around the neighborhood. Part of my mind was just torn with anger. I wanted to go to Iraq and find those people who had done this and kill them," he said.Two and a half years have passed since the knock on Dyer's door. The Marine flag still flies outside his suburban Cincinnati, Ohio, home, the Gold Star banner in the window a reminder of the message delivered by two Marines that August day.
The pain is constant, but some things have changed."I do think in hindsight going into Iraq as we did was a huge mistake," John Dyer told CNN during a visit this past week. "I thought it sounded like it was necessary at the time."Lance Cpl. Christopher Dyer was 19. His father's grief is shaped by his constant study of news and information about the war, and his son's last few phone calls from the war zone."They were worn out and there weren't enough of them," John Dyer said.A onetime war supporter is now a war critic. Yet in Tuesday's Ohio primary, and again in November, Dyer is supporting the candidate who insists things are finally improving in Iraq, and who insists the troops must stay to finish the job."Seems like we have shown a lot of progress and I don't think it is time to quit and run," Dyer said. "And I think if we hadn't shown some progress, it would be time to call it a day. .... I hope people who think we should just cut and run or get out as quickly as possible will at least listen to Sen. [John] McCain articulate the reasons why he wants to do the things he wants to do."Americans do see some progress.
In the latest CNN/Opinion Research Corp. polling on the Iraq war, 46 percent of Americans say things are going well in Iraq, up from 34 percent in November.In that same survey, 34 percent of Americans support the war; 63 percent oppose it.The numbers reflect the challenge McCain will have selling his position in the fall election campaign, and reflect what Dyer hears from friends and colleagues he said are generally reluctant to discuss the war in his presence."I think I am in a minority view," Dyer said. "My friends and people who know me are obviously very guarded about talking to me about this, for obvious reasons. But what I sense is people are just dog tired of the situation and, I don't know what to compare it to, but something you are just tired of messing with."No Republican has won the White House without carrying Ohio, and the unpopular war is one of the factors in big recent Democratic gains in the state."
In 2006, independents moved over to the Democratic Party in Ohio," said Eric Rademacher of the University of Cincinnati. Rademacher, the co-director of The Ohio Poll, added: "If there is a concern for the Republican candidate, that's it: That they need to make a move to bring back those independents over to the Republican side in order to swing the difference in Ohio."McCain's effort included a visit Wednesday to an Ohio company that makes armored vehicles the senator credited with keeping troops in Iraq and Afghanistan safer. After a tour of the assembly line, McCain told company employees:"I would like to tell you this challenge will go away. But as you know I am known for straight talk."Dyer made his decision before our visit, but said he did some research on the Clinton and Obama campaign Web sites."
I don't understand their position at all," Dyer said. "I think we are already talking about bringing combat troops home. We are talking about a difference in the pace."He is soft-spoken, and considers his words carefully.Near the end of our discussion, this question: "Do you ever worry because you did pay a price, and a very painful personal price, that your judgment is clouded?"After a pause, "Yup. Yes. I can almost guarantee you my judgment is impacted by that," Dyer said slowly. "I try as hard as I can to separate my personal loss ... I know it is not really possible."
EVANDALE, Ohio (CNN) -- John Dyer remembers being unable to sleep."I woke up at 4 in the morning and walked around the neighborhood. Part of my mind was just torn with anger. I wanted to go to Iraq and find those people who had done this and kill them," he said.Two and a half years have passed since the knock on Dyer's door. The Marine flag still flies outside his suburban Cincinnati, Ohio, home, the Gold Star banner in the window a reminder of the message delivered by two Marines that August day.
The pain is constant, but some things have changed."I do think in hindsight going into Iraq as we did was a huge mistake," John Dyer told CNN during a visit this past week. "I thought it sounded like it was necessary at the time."Lance Cpl. Christopher Dyer was 19. His father's grief is shaped by his constant study of news and information about the war, and his son's last few phone calls from the war zone."They were worn out and there weren't enough of them," John Dyer said.A onetime war supporter is now a war critic. Yet in Tuesday's Ohio primary, and again in November, Dyer is supporting the candidate who insists things are finally improving in Iraq, and who insists the troops must stay to finish the job."Seems like we have shown a lot of progress and I don't think it is time to quit and run," Dyer said. "And I think if we hadn't shown some progress, it would be time to call it a day. .... I hope people who think we should just cut and run or get out as quickly as possible will at least listen to Sen. [John] McCain articulate the reasons why he wants to do the things he wants to do."Americans do see some progress.
In the latest CNN/Opinion Research Corp. polling on the Iraq war, 46 percent of Americans say things are going well in Iraq, up from 34 percent in November.In that same survey, 34 percent of Americans support the war; 63 percent oppose it.The numbers reflect the challenge McCain will have selling his position in the fall election campaign, and reflect what Dyer hears from friends and colleagues he said are generally reluctant to discuss the war in his presence."I think I am in a minority view," Dyer said. "My friends and people who know me are obviously very guarded about talking to me about this, for obvious reasons. But what I sense is people are just dog tired of the situation and, I don't know what to compare it to, but something you are just tired of messing with."No Republican has won the White House without carrying Ohio, and the unpopular war is one of the factors in big recent Democratic gains in the state."
In 2006, independents moved over to the Democratic Party in Ohio," said Eric Rademacher of the University of Cincinnati. Rademacher, the co-director of The Ohio Poll, added: "If there is a concern for the Republican candidate, that's it: That they need to make a move to bring back those independents over to the Republican side in order to swing the difference in Ohio."McCain's effort included a visit Wednesday to an Ohio company that makes armored vehicles the senator credited with keeping troops in Iraq and Afghanistan safer. After a tour of the assembly line, McCain told company employees:"I would like to tell you this challenge will go away. But as you know I am known for straight talk."Dyer made his decision before our visit, but said he did some research on the Clinton and Obama campaign Web sites."
I don't understand their position at all," Dyer said. "I think we are already talking about bringing combat troops home. We are talking about a difference in the pace."He is soft-spoken, and considers his words carefully.Near the end of our discussion, this question: "Do you ever worry because you did pay a price, and a very painful personal price, that your judgment is clouded?"After a pause, "Yup. Yes. I can almost guarantee you my judgment is impacted by that," Dyer said slowly. "I try as hard as I can to separate my personal loss ... I know it is not really possible."
Saturday, March 01, 2008
John McCain - Trade Expansion Leader
Some voters appear to be having a problem choosing between the candidates. There is general confusion I think about what they really stand for, especially when it comes to Barack Obama who has deftly dodged standing for anything at all.
Blogger Carpe Diem looks specifically at the senators' voting records on free trade and trade expansion. Now the unions may want to shrink our trade so that they can gain members, but the truth is that all othere citizens of the United States who vote with their dollars want an expansion of trade.
Hillary Clinton is generally considered to be an Interventionist and the author of Carpe Diem suggests that Obama is moving the same direction. Isn't it interesting that even in a very balanced analysis of their voting records, it is nearly impossible to figure out what Obama stands for?
I found the campaign debatges over NAFTA a bit humorous this week, as if we should bar entry of goods from Mexico or Canada, right. This won't be happening, if autos were to increase $5,000 just so UAW can gain members, there would be revolt in the US. We brought down the Soviets by trading and forcing their ridiculous socialism to crumble, not by sticking our heads in the sand.
Blogger Carpe Diem looks specifically at the senators' voting records on free trade and trade expansion. Now the unions may want to shrink our trade so that they can gain members, but the truth is that all othere citizens of the United States who vote with their dollars want an expansion of trade.
Hillary Clinton is generally considered to be an Interventionist and the author of Carpe Diem suggests that Obama is moving the same direction. Isn't it interesting that even in a very balanced analysis of their voting records, it is nearly impossible to figure out what Obama stands for?
I found the campaign debatges over NAFTA a bit humorous this week, as if we should bar entry of goods from Mexico or Canada, right. This won't be happening, if autos were to increase $5,000 just so UAW can gain members, there would be revolt in the US. We brought down the Soviets by trading and forcing their ridiculous socialism to crumble, not by sticking our heads in the sand.
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