Monday, May 31, 2010
Welcome Back, Carter
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Santigold Gets It
"We think you're a joke, shove your hope where it don't shine."
It is a rare thing in pop culture when an artist figures out our President, but Santigold remarkably has. She understands what he is up to. Her simple chorus eloquently articulates what most Americans now feel.
Interestingly, Santigold graduated from Wesleyan College, an elite Northeastern liberal arts college. People that go to Wesleyan are very smart, but few escape the brainwashing of its Lefty professors. Santigold is a refreshing example of one who evidently did.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Rand Paul Resurfaces . . . On Russian TV
Thursday, May 27, 2010
It Could Be Worse
More Rand!
Paul's mistake was in making a statement that was nuanced and requires a little bit of thought to understand. He was not impugning the intent of the Civil Rights Act, but its efficacy and constitutionality. There is a big difference between these two things and unfortunately much of the American press, and public, is unable to deal with such distinctions.
A parallel to this situation for Paul would be the person who strongly supports a woman's right to have an abortion but believes that Roe V. Wade was unconstitutional. This is not intellectually inconsistent, but it is subtle and takes a bit of thought to understand.
Paul's mistake was in making his statements in a public venue. Such ideas should only be discussed amongst individuals that are capable of understanding the philosophy and intellectual reasoning behind them. Very few members of the mainstream media qualify here. Rand Paul is not racist or a bigot, but the mainstream media would like him to be and they have taken this opportunity to twist the intent of his remarks to paint him as one.
Ann Coulter on Rand & Civil Rights
Would a Libertarian Challenge Hurt Rand?
I’m intrigued by the fact that they think he’s on the level about Iraq and Afghanistan. I’ve always assumed that was Paul’s version of Obama’s lie about his supposed opposition to gay marriage, which the left has the good sense to indulge in the name of electability. Seriously, it just so happens that Rand Paul, novice candidate, has sharply different views from his old man in the one area that made Ron Paul electoral poison to so many conservatives in 2008? C’mon. Anyway, the filing deadline’s August 10. The question: Is a party that struggles to crack two percent of the vote in a general election really a threat to Rand Paul in Kentucky? It’s hard to imagine Conway winning 49/48/3, as most purist libertarians will probably hold their nose and vote Paul if the race is that close in the end. But I guess if the purists can get the meme going that he’s a phony, maybe enough people stay home or refuse to donate that it really does end up hurting him. Quick, Rand: Condemn the Civil Rights Act before it’s too late!
Rand's Shake-up
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Trouble For Rand
had gone from being an outsider candidate to a tea party candidate to an establishment candidate in the past nine months," Koch said. "It's a complete identity crisis. I've never seen anything like it.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Jay Leno Gives a Shout Out to Rand Paul!
Monday, May 24, 2010
Tea Party Elects Jack Conway?
Republicans should always vote for the most conservative candidate that can WIN. The Tea Partiers in their zealousness may have forgotten this cardinal rule.
Paul may well have been the best candidate to represent the Tea Party's views, but he was not the best to represent their interests.
He may make a great senator, but if he doesn't win the general, that doesn't much matter. Clearly, Grayson was the stronger candidate for a general election.
Hopefully, Paul can win the general election, but if he doesn't, it will be the Tea Party that elected Conway.
Media Advice From Palin to Paul
That Sounds Familiar
He has stayed mum since on the details of the job claim, and the White House, when it would address the subject at all, has said nothing inappropriate happened.
Rep. Darrell Issa of California, the top Republican on the House government-oversight committee, has demanded information from the administration on conversations with Sestak, and he has called for an independent counsel to investigate the matter. He has been rebuffed on both counts.
Last week, Issa said he was considering filing a formal ethics complaint against Sestak on grounds that he has withheld knowledge of a potential crime.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
So THAT's Why He Cancelled MTP
Rand Paul Cancels Meet the Press Appearance
"Cancelling a Sunday show appearance -- usually prized by politicians -- is rarely done and NBC officials noted that Paul was joining a small clique in backing out of his interview. Among major figures, only Louis Farrakhan and Saudi Arabia's Prince Bendar have failed to show up after committing to appear on the long-running program."
Vitter Gives GOP Address
“Hi, I’m Senator David Vitter of Louisiana.
“While the Gulf oil spill most directly impacts Louisiana and our immediate neighbors, people all across the country certainly share in our feelings of anxiety as the ongoing gushing of the well continues.
“They’ve also shared by joining together to provide relief for those most affected by this tragedy. And, I know I speak for all Louisianians when I express how grateful we are for that outpouring of support.
“As we continue to work toward a recovery solution, none of us should lose sight that there are families who’ve lost loved ones. That is the greatest tragedy – something everyone in Washington should try a little harder to remember.
“I’ve also been all along Louisiana’s coast over the last few weeks meeting with those economically devastated - oystermen and fishermen, mayors and local officials and others hit hard by the impacts of the spill. They have clearly expressed that they don’t want a handout – they want a job and a paycheck. And through the Vessels of Opportunity program, many of these folks have been hired to man the coastline and marsh protection efforts underway.
“But clearly more needs to be done.
“From the annual blessing of the boats in Chalmette – a somber event this year - to the public meetings with the Vietnamese community in New Orleans that continues to struggle in working with BP on claims issues, I’ve listened, learned, and left with a much deeper perspective on how people’s lives all along the coast have been disrupted.
“That’s why it’s so frustrating to many Louisianians that while the crisis actually continues in the Gulf – while we’re still fighting to contain the well – Washington Democratic Committee Chairmen have rushed to create media events for television cameras instead of devoting full attention to stopping the immediate problem.
“I guess it’s typical of the culture in Washington for politicians to believe that they can solve an ongoing crisis with statements and testimonies in Congressional committee rooms. But the time for committee hearings is for after the well has been capped – not before.
“Folks closer to the scene understand that. We want 100 percent of the attention of all parties focused on our two most immediate problems: stopping the gushing oil, and protecting our coastlines and marshes from the oil.
“In addition to capping the well, coastal communities are in desperate need of more floating containment barriers, known as ‘boom.’ And I’ve talked numerous times to Admiral Thad Allen about this need.
“But this boom is really just a band aid to the larger wound of the spill. A greater, more substantial solution would be for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to work immediately with our state to build up and extend our barrier islands made from materials dredged from the immediate area – our rivers and deltas. With BP, by the way, appropriately paying the bill.
“To prevent this type of incident from ever happening again, I’ve also worked with other Gulf Coast Senators to introduce legislation that addresses two specific areas: the liability cap for the responsible party of a spill, and greater technological preparedness to address any future incidents much more rapidly and effectively.
“Our Oil Spill Response and Assistance Act would establish a new liability cap equal to the last four quarters of the responsible party’s profits or double the current limit, whichever is greater.
“The bill would establish much greater reserve requirements for the amount of boom –capable of withstanding up to six-foot waves – and would direct work on technology to effectively cap leaks like the one currently gushing in the Gulf.
“That would make offshore drilling safer, smarter and more reliable, but not extinct.
“Some in Washington have tried to seize on this real human tragedy in the Gulf to advocate for a radical new energy agenda.
“That only cheapens the loss of those who’ve lost loved ones and brushes aside the ongoing, unsolved problem to spring forward with an emotionally-charged political agenda.
“That’s wrong and, frankly, an example of bankrupt leadership.
“Both Republicans and Democrats say they want to decrease our foreign dependence on oil, but ending all domestic energy production offshore would only make us that much more dependent.
“And this false choice on how to proceed in the future of energy exploration in the wake of a terrible accident contributes little to the debate.
“We all acknowledge that alternative fuels are the future, but the sad reality is that they are still very much in the future from a practical-use standpoint.
“That’s why domestic energy production is critical to free ourselves from foreign energy sources and should provide a bridge toward that more renewable, cleaner future.
“I believe Americans understand that, even in the midst of this tragedy. And I know Louisianians do. Thank you.”
Friday, May 21, 2010
Rand Attacks Conway
- Repealing Obamacare: Nearly 2/3 of Kentuckians want to see the Obama/Pelosi health care scheme repealed. 15 other Attorneys general have stood up for their state and sued to end the federal mandate on their citizens. But not Jack Conway. He's standing side by side with the liberal Washington DC establishment.
- Opposing Card Check Forced Unionism: Nearly 80% of American oppose forced unionism and support the secret ballot. The union boss power grab known as card check eliminates the secret ballot and puts more workers under union boss control. Jack Conway stands with his Big Labor masters who fund his and national democrat campaigns.
- Cap and Trade: This dangerous bill would raise costs for Kentuckians, raise taxes -- and could well single-handedly destroy Kentucky Coal. Jack Conway supports Cap and Trade, something he'd rather the taxpayers and coal producers of Kentucky not hear about.
Finally, since Jack is so fond of musing about positions, perhaps he'd like to finally take one on a few other pressing issues, like:
- Does he support the Obama/Pelosi move to regulate and ban semiautomatic weapons and abridge the 2nd amendment rights of Kentuckians?
- Does he support or oppose Arizona's new immigration laws?
Rand Moves On, Defends BP
And I think it's part of this sort of blame-game society in the sense that it's always got to be somebody's fault instead of the fact that maybe sometimes accidents happen," Paul said.
The senate candidate referred to a Kentucky coal mine accident that killed two men, saying he had met with the families and he admired the coal miners' courage.
"We had a mining accident that was very tragic. ... Then we come in and it's always someone's fault. Maybe sometimes accidents happen," he said.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Bunning Disses McConnell, Again
McConnell On Civil Rights
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, Kentucky Republican, who backed Paul’s opponent in the primary, did not answer when asked for comment on his way into his office.
But McConnell put out a statement that was less than warm toward Paul.
“Among Senator McConnell’s most vivid memories and most formative events in his career was watching his boss Sen. John Sherman Cooper help pull together the votes to break the filibuster and pass the Civil Rights Act of 1964,” said McConnell spokesman Don Stewart. “He has always considered the law a monumental achievement for the country and is glad to hear Dr. Paul supports it as well.”
New Poll Shows Paul Up By 25
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Election Coverage
Heckuva Job, Kenny
Grayson Camp Accuses Paul of Voter Intimidation
Rand Paul distributed a document to his supporters instructing them to engage in illegal activity at polling places today that has resulted in widespread voter intimidation and election law violations.
As reported by the Herald-Leader today, there have been complaints in multiple counties about Paul campaign operatives intimidating voters while allegedly conducting “exit polling,” including reports of voters being harassed for not casting votes for Paul as well as illegally entering polling locations. In some cases law enforcement officials have reportedly been called to remove the disruptive Paul operatives.
Specifically, the document distributed by the Paul campaign illegally instructs supporters to arrive at polling locations this morning to “check each machine” and to return in the afternoon before voting concludes to “verify the correct machines are being used” and to witness “the vote counting,” in violation of KRS 117.235 which prohibits such activity.
Challengers qualified and trained as provided for by KRS 117.315 would be allowed into polling locations, but not for the purposes of inspecting voting machines or watching “the vote counting.” The duties of qualified challengers are outlined here. Challengers are prohibited from disrupting activities at polling places or verbally harassing voters. It appears that most incidents involving the Paul campaign do not involve qualified challengers, but instead they’re supporters who have received the illegal instructions from Rand Paul.
Campaigns are allowed under KRS 117.165 to have a representative present to inspect voting machines at the time they are inspected by county boards of election.
KRS 119.275 makes it illegal to advise or assist persons in violating election laws.
Grayson Campaign Manager Nate Hodson said, “This despicable behavior should not be tolerated. Bullying and intimidation should have no place in our elections. Rand Paul needs to rein in his goon squad and follow the law.”
Hodson continued, “This is part of a pattern of illegal activity by the Paul campaign. They have repeatedly evaded tax laws, violated campaign finance laws and are now knowingly instructing supporters to violate election law. Kentucky deserves better, and Rand Paul should know better.”
Rainy Days and Election Days
Monday, May 17, 2010
So Who Should Oppose Yarmuth?
Rand For President?
"If the system remains as it is," Paul sighed, "And we have to acknowledge that before we get started in the election, before I win anything that the system will not change? Then I wouldn't run for office."
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Lights Were On, Nobody Home
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Paul: We Shall Sing Kumbayah
R.I.P. Mr. Jones, a/k/a Scotty the Elephant
Politico: McConnell to Remain Party Leader
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Oh, The Irony
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Cathy Bailey Endorses Rand Paul
In a statement, Cathy Bailey said, “I have consistently said that I wanted the Republican Party of Kentucky to nominate a true conservative to replace Senator Jim Bunning in Washington D.C.
“Like many people, I was originally told things about Rand Paul’s views that turned out to be false.
“The truth is Rand Paul is a true conservative and he will not participate in the business-as-usual culture of Washington D.C. I am confident that he will stand up for fiscal discipline, just as Senator Bunning has done time and again.”
. . .
Bailey said she selected between Paul and Secretary of State Trey Grayson on the basis of which one is “strong enough and conservative enough to truly stand against President Obama’s liberal agenda, which is pushing the United States down a treacherous path on many fronts.”
More Endorsements
“I’m grateful to have the support of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and its members who share my agenda. I’m running for U.S. Senate, because I’m fed up with the Obama agenda of more government, out-of-control spending, increased deficits and job-killing policies. If I’m elected I will fight for a balanced budget and economic policies that will free small businesses and entrepreneurs to expand their businesses, innovate and create jobs,” said Grayson. “I will always put Kentucky first and fight for our priorities, including working to reduce the burdensome national debt that threatens our economic well being now and for future generations.”
In the endorsement, U.S. Chamber of Commerce President Thomas Donohue wrote to Grayson, “It is the Chamber’s goal to help elect a pro-business Congress and work diligently in the interests of businesses large and small to advance legislation that encourages economic growth, job creation and a less intrusive federal government. Your support of pro-business issues earned this endorsement.” Read the endorsement letter.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Trey in Louisville Wed.
Justice Kagan?
“I congratulate Elena Kagan on her nomination. As we did with Justice Sotomayor last year, Senate Republicans will treat Ms. Kagan fairly. She has been nominated for a lifetime appointment on the nation’s highest court, and we will carefully review her brief litigation experience, as well as her judgment and her career in academia, both as a professor and as an administrator. Fulfilling our duty to advise and consent on a nomination to this office requires a thorough process, not a rush to judgment.
Friday, May 7, 2010
New York Remains on Edge
American Future Fund Targets Rand Paul
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Why Isn't Trey Talking About Times Square?
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Jim DeMint Endorses Rand Paul
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
About Those Poll Numbers
Ben Chandler is Sweating Now
McConnell Endorses Trey!
Senator Mitch McConnell announced today that he is taking the rare step of endorsing a GOP candidate in a contested primary. Sen. McConnell threw his support behind Secretary of State Trey Grayson for U.S. Senate in the May 18th Republican primary. The Grayson campaign also launched a television commercial that features McConnell.
“For the last year and a half I’ve seen first-hand the efforts the left will go to in order to enact President Obama’s far-reaching policies. Their moves to have the government take over banks, car companies, the student loan business and most recently pass government run health care are turning the U.S. into a western European style economy. I refuse to let America be the next Greece, and I need Trey Grayson in the Senate to help me turn back the Obama agenda,” said McConnell.
He continued, “Trey Grayson has a proven conservative record as Secretary of State, cutting his office budget by 15% and ensuring that Kentucky’s taxpaying families have easy access to information about his office and budget. He understands that Kentuckians are his first responsibility and has worked to make his office more efficient and effective to meet their needs.”
“President Obama, aided by large Democratic majorities in both Houses of Congress, has put us on a course to double the national debt in 5 years and triple it in 10 years. I need a conservative ally who won’t simply oppose such misguided plans, but will work to correct our current course. Trey is that candidate. He has a track record of leading by example rather than by press release. I ask Kentucky Republicans to vote for Trey Grayson on May 18th.”
Grayson commented, “Senator Mitch McConnell has been a champion in the Senate for Kentucky. Like most Kentucky Republicans, I am proud that he has twice been unanimously selected to lead his GOP colleagues in the Senate. Unlike my opponent, I am committed to seeing him reelected to that position in the next Congress. I thank him for his support and hope to have the opportunity to work with him on behalf of Kentuckians. The Democratic Congress is too arrogant, too liberal and refuses to listen to voters. If elected I will work with Sen. McConnell to help get our country back on a path to prosperity.”
Yesterday, Congressman Hal Rogers of Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District endorsed Grayson. Congressman Rogers hasn’t received less than 70% of the vote since 1992 in the critical 5th Congressional district, where primary voter turnout is expected to be the highest statewide.
The Grayson campaign also released the attached memo from respected pollster Jan van Lohuizen describing a live survey of 600 likely Republican primary voters conducted for the Grayson campaign last week that continues to show the race is a dead heat with each candidate getting 40% of the vote and 20% of voters still undecided.
Update: Politico reports that an the Grayson campaign will run its largest statewide buy of an ad with McConnell endorsing Trey.