Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell drew his biggest response from the crowd when he reaffirmed his pledge to deny any hearing for President Obama's Supreme Court nominee. On a night when an earlier speaker suggested that Hillary and Ruth Bader Gunsburg both go into retirement (to put it nicely), the Supreme Court was a topic on many delegates' minds. McConnell forcefully delivered exactly what they wanted to hear. The decision of who will replace Justice Scalia -- and perhaps others on the high court -- is the top reason why the choice between Trump and Hillary is a no brainier.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Tuesday, July 19, 2016
Start Spreading the News
if you can make it there, you'll make it anywhere. This election year especially. New York will be the home state of the next president. Their delegates just put Trump over. Next week their Democratic counterparts will do the same for Hillary.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Judging by Applause, Bourbon Edges Out Trump for the Nomination
Governor Matt Bevin just announced the delegate votes from Kentucky. "The state that produces all the bourbon fit to drink" got the most votes from the other convention delegates.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Ohio Delegation is Shunted to an Obscure Corner
Paul Ryan announced that the New York delegation may vote out of order. In other words, they will be casting their votes presumably to put Trump over top. The New Yorkers also have the best seats in the house -- immediately in front of the podium. Normally the host state would be there but Ohio went for Kasich, who isn't even showing up for the convention. Very bad form for the Ohio governor!
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Senator Sessions Gets a Second Chance
No one is ignoring Senator Sessions tonight. He now is taking advantage of his second chance at the podium. He just nominated Trump, and he's drawing cheers. No distractions from his message this time. "A movement has started . . . Together we will make America great again!" Time to roll with the changes. Time to roll with Trump.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Roll With the Changes
The convention band opened today's session with a cover of "Roll With the Changes,". How fitting. I wonder if REO Speedwagon is represented by the same lawyers as Queen, who have already sent a cease and desist letter to the Trump campaign protesting last night's use of "We are the Champions." As if Freddie Mercury at this point really cares.
By the way the best dancers by far on the convention floor last night were the Georgians. The Kentucky delegates better step it up!
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
By the way the best dancers by far on the convention floor last night were the Georgians. The Kentucky delegates better step it up!
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
We are all Federalists; we are all Republicans
What would Thomas Jefferson do? If he were attending the Republican National Convention, I should add. The group named after the party of his arch nemesis gathered at the Hilton Garden Inn for a luncheon featuring US Senator Mike Lee, who of course cited to Hamilton at the convention -- the constitutional one, that is. The Federalist Society lunch produced a most refreshing talk by Senator Lee about the need to reinvigorate federalism and separation of powers. He showed no signs of fatigue or discouragement from having lost the floor fight yesterday in opposition to the Trump nomination. No one at the lunch asked him about it. The questions, from an audience of mostly lawyers, asked questions more about the constitution than public policy. But Senator Lee offered an intriguing infusion of the two when he advocated for members of Congress to voluntarily cabin their lawmaking according to traditional views of constitutional powers rather than as liberally interpreted by the Supreme Court in recent decades. Senator Lee is clearly a talented constitutional law scholar, not to mention a lawmaker who presents himself as modest with a great sense of self deprecating humor. Let's hope that Trump, should he get elected, lets bygones be bygones. Trump would do well to have Lee on his side, putting his constitutional mind to work on initiatives both Federalists and Republicans of the Trump variety can support.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
The Remarkable First Day
It was a day that began rather unremarkably, like this column. First came finding the place. Thanks to an app called Waze, we navigated around all of the many streets cordoned off for what we were affectionately calling "Republicanville" by the end of the day.
The crowd cheered when a speaker thanked the Cleveland police for doing such a good job protecting the Convention -- applause that was well deserved. But after a silent protester was escorted out of the building for unfurling a sign supporting Syrian refugees, it was clear that more than just our safety was being secured.
I am too harsh. This is, after all, a convention to celebrate and promote the Republican nominee. It's the winner's victory lap, and he should be entitled to a unanimous -- in perception at least -- cheering crowd. That's what party conventions are for.
And that's why there was little sympathy for last minute efforts to derail the Trump nomination.
In any event, it seemed hypocritical for those claiming to speak in the name of the people to be advocating that party insiders use the rules to snatch victory from the candidate who received millions more votes than any of his competitors.
The mainstream media kept political opinions to themselves except when we were standing in line for the shuttle. We learned from a Buffalo television reporter that Trump may in fact have enough support from upstate and renegade Manhattanites to carry New York. But then again, that's the kind of thing I imagine any smart political reporter in an habitual blue state would say to retain viewer interest.
We met a Clevelander who'd also made the climb up the steep hill from the riverfront, home to our cheap parking space ($10, in contrast to the $50-$80 parking closer to the arena). She confirmed that the city this week is nothing like normal Cleveland. It sounded like this young woman is a lone Republican in a neighborhood of Democratic wolves. She said she had supported Rand Paul, but when he dropped out, she crossed over to vote for Bernie because she hated Hillary so much.
Maybe hating Hillary so much will win this election. That certainly was the theme for many of the speakers last night. A Gold Star mother seethed in contempt for what she said were Hillary's lies to her about the circumstances of her son's death. In a night when a former fashion model would be the keynote speaker, debate raged over whether Hillary would look better wearing pantsuits in orange or black stripes.
The Benghazi rescuers spoke way too long. I never thought an account of rescuing Americans from the embassy could become boring, but by the end of their speech, I noticed a sea of cell phones receiving more attention. They weren't taking pictures of the speakers either.
Senator Jeff Sessions also was a victim of delegate distraction. Someone walked into the arena in the middle of his speech. Not sure who it was because the focus of attention was below the balcony where we were sitting. Was it Donald Trump, Mike Pence, Gollum? Whoever it was, more people were interested in taking his photograph than paying attention to Senator Sessions. We ran into the senator afterwards on his way back to the hotel. He first ignored us, then waved an acknowledgment without turning around. He clearly was not happy with the way his speech had been received.
More content was Senator Tom Cotton, who did a much better job delivering his first convention speech than had that other Arkansan when he first appeared on a national stage. There is no need for Senator Cotton to play the saxophone on the Tonight Show; he did a commendable job. He was spotted smiling, holding his wife's hand, strolling down the hallway afterwards.
The speakers who really were on fire were Rudy Giuliani and the Milwaukee police chief. They both gave stirring talks focusing on why blue lives matter.
Notwithstanding the meandering speeches by the Benghazi rescuers, most of the evening was tightly produced and effective. I had been dubious about the speaker line-up, which was light on professional politicians and heavy on ordinary folk. I was wrong. The large number of persons of color and accent on that podium support Trump's claim that he has constructed a sufficiently broad tent for victory.
The speaker with the most striking accent -- both in appearance and speech -- was, of course, Melania. It is hard to say the candidate is anti-immigrant when his number one fan is a naturalized citizen. It will be hard to say the candidate is anti-Semitic when his daughter Ivanka -- who converted to Judaism -- will introduce him Thursday night.
Melania's speech writer should be fired if he/she plagiarized Michelle Obama's speech, as is being reported. But despite this mar, Melania did a superb job humanizing her husband and bringing a little of, dare we say, Jackie Kennedy-like glamour to the stage. He won't like for us to say this, but she really upstaged her husband, who made cameo appearances before and after her speech. (For a host of reasons, they could have done without Queen's "We Are the Champions" as background music.)
The only former GOP presidential candidate in attendance was former Senator Bob Dole, who Melania rightly singled out for a standing ovation. None of the famous Bush family was there. The only sighting of 41 and 43 was in a joint photograph in the hallway, along with pictures of other Republican presidents from the past. I spotted only one photograph of Abraham Lincoln, one of Ronald Reagan, several of Richard Nixon. Go figure.
But this convention isn't about the past or politicians, at least not in the usual sense. This convention is going exactly how I had expected, and that was what made the first day so remarkable.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
The crowd cheered when a speaker thanked the Cleveland police for doing such a good job protecting the Convention -- applause that was well deserved. But after a silent protester was escorted out of the building for unfurling a sign supporting Syrian refugees, it was clear that more than just our safety was being secured.
I am too harsh. This is, after all, a convention to celebrate and promote the Republican nominee. It's the winner's victory lap, and he should be entitled to a unanimous -- in perception at least -- cheering crowd. That's what party conventions are for.
And that's why there was little sympathy for last minute efforts to derail the Trump nomination.
In any event, it seemed hypocritical for those claiming to speak in the name of the people to be advocating that party insiders use the rules to snatch victory from the candidate who received millions more votes than any of his competitors.
The mainstream media kept political opinions to themselves except when we were standing in line for the shuttle. We learned from a Buffalo television reporter that Trump may in fact have enough support from upstate and renegade Manhattanites to carry New York. But then again, that's the kind of thing I imagine any smart political reporter in an habitual blue state would say to retain viewer interest.
We met a Clevelander who'd also made the climb up the steep hill from the riverfront, home to our cheap parking space ($10, in contrast to the $50-$80 parking closer to the arena). She confirmed that the city this week is nothing like normal Cleveland. It sounded like this young woman is a lone Republican in a neighborhood of Democratic wolves. She said she had supported Rand Paul, but when he dropped out, she crossed over to vote for Bernie because she hated Hillary so much.
Maybe hating Hillary so much will win this election. That certainly was the theme for many of the speakers last night. A Gold Star mother seethed in contempt for what she said were Hillary's lies to her about the circumstances of her son's death. In a night when a former fashion model would be the keynote speaker, debate raged over whether Hillary would look better wearing pantsuits in orange or black stripes.
The Benghazi rescuers spoke way too long. I never thought an account of rescuing Americans from the embassy could become boring, but by the end of their speech, I noticed a sea of cell phones receiving more attention. They weren't taking pictures of the speakers either.
Senator Jeff Sessions also was a victim of delegate distraction. Someone walked into the arena in the middle of his speech. Not sure who it was because the focus of attention was below the balcony where we were sitting. Was it Donald Trump, Mike Pence, Gollum? Whoever it was, more people were interested in taking his photograph than paying attention to Senator Sessions. We ran into the senator afterwards on his way back to the hotel. He first ignored us, then waved an acknowledgment without turning around. He clearly was not happy with the way his speech had been received.
More content was Senator Tom Cotton, who did a much better job delivering his first convention speech than had that other Arkansan when he first appeared on a national stage. There is no need for Senator Cotton to play the saxophone on the Tonight Show; he did a commendable job. He was spotted smiling, holding his wife's hand, strolling down the hallway afterwards.
The speakers who really were on fire were Rudy Giuliani and the Milwaukee police chief. They both gave stirring talks focusing on why blue lives matter.
Notwithstanding the meandering speeches by the Benghazi rescuers, most of the evening was tightly produced and effective. I had been dubious about the speaker line-up, which was light on professional politicians and heavy on ordinary folk. I was wrong. The large number of persons of color and accent on that podium support Trump's claim that he has constructed a sufficiently broad tent for victory.
The speaker with the most striking accent -- both in appearance and speech -- was, of course, Melania. It is hard to say the candidate is anti-immigrant when his number one fan is a naturalized citizen. It will be hard to say the candidate is anti-Semitic when his daughter Ivanka -- who converted to Judaism -- will introduce him Thursday night.
Melania's speech writer should be fired if he/she plagiarized Michelle Obama's speech, as is being reported. But despite this mar, Melania did a superb job humanizing her husband and bringing a little of, dare we say, Jackie Kennedy-like glamour to the stage. He won't like for us to say this, but she really upstaged her husband, who made cameo appearances before and after her speech. (For a host of reasons, they could have done without Queen's "We Are the Champions" as background music.)
The only former GOP presidential candidate in attendance was former Senator Bob Dole, who Melania rightly singled out for a standing ovation. None of the famous Bush family was there. The only sighting of 41 and 43 was in a joint photograph in the hallway, along with pictures of other Republican presidents from the past. I spotted only one photograph of Abraham Lincoln, one of Ronald Reagan, several of Richard Nixon. Go figure.
But this convention isn't about the past or politicians, at least not in the usual sense. This convention is going exactly how I had expected, and that was what made the first day so remarkable.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Day One of Convention Shatters Expectations
Leading up to the convention, many doubted Donald Trump's ability to assemble an all star convention speaker lineup. If tonight is any indication, that could not be further from the truth.
Tonight's speakers made us laugh, made our hearts mourn for unnecessary death and suffering caused by Obama and Clinton's failed leadership, made us frustrated at the damage our country has suffered over the last eight years, but most importantly made us hopeful for the change that is ahead.
I was particularly moved by Mary Ann Mendoza, Sabine Durden, and Jamiel Shaw's stories of their children who were killed by illegal immigrants. In all three circumstances, the killers were felons who did not face appropriate punishment for their crimes or deportation, which would have prevented the death of three innocent men. Pat Smith spoke of her son's death in Benghazi in an emotional speech in which one could not help but empathize with the pain she felt, especially with Hillary Clinton lying to her face about the cause of her son's death. We've heard a lot about Benghazi since the attack in 2012, but tonight really showed the consequences in a way in which any American could relate.
Darryl Glenn, Republican nominee for Senate from Colorado, delivered an impressive performance. Glenn, an African American, began by attacking Obama as a divider, a contributor not remedy for recent racial tensions. Later, in a moment of comic relief, Glenn spoke of Hillary's love of pantsuits; he suggested that perhaps she'd look good in an orange one!
In one of the best performances of the night, Rudy Giuliani energetically spoke directly about the night's theme -- Make America Safe Again -- and laid out the need for a leader dedicated to supporting the police who protect us at home and our military who protects us abroad. He also spoke of his personal relationship with Trump. "You deserve to know this about your next president. He’s been great a great father, father-in-law, grandfather, and friend to me, my wife Judith, and my family for now almost 30 years." Giuliani continued, "I know him personally, and this is a very good and decent man. And he will be a great president!"
In one of the best performances of the night, Rudy Giuliani energetically spoke directly about the night's theme -- Make America Safe Again -- and laid out the need for a leader dedicated to supporting the police who protect us at home and our military who protects us abroad. He also spoke of his personal relationship with Trump. "You deserve to know this about your next president. He’s been great a great father, father-in-law, grandfather, and friend to me, my wife Judith, and my family for now almost 30 years." Giuliani continued, "I know him personally, and this is a very good and decent man. And he will be a great president!"
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| Giuliani in an unusually energetic speech |
In a dramatic climax, Donald Trump unexpectedly took the stage to introduce his wife, Melania, who eloquently spoke of her experience immigrating to America and attempted to show voters her husband's human side. She said: "Yes, Donald thinks big, which is especially important when considering the presidency of the United States. No room for small thinking. No room for small results. Donald gets things done." She followed up, saying: "If you want someone to fight for you and your country, I can assure you, he is the 'guy'. He will never, ever, give up. And, most importantly, he will never, ever, let you down."
Unfortunately, Melania's speech has been overshadowed by accusations of plagiarism which the Trump campaign has denied. Any resemblance to Michelle Obama's 2008 speech must almost certainly be coincidental, as it would be absurd to plagiarize in such a high profile speech. It's really a shame because Melania's speech was so excellent, and many will miss her incredible story in light of these accusations.
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| Donald Trump unexpectedly emerging to introduce his wife, Melania |
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| Melania was confident and poised |
Unfortunately, Melania's speech has been overshadowed by accusations of plagiarism which the Trump campaign has denied. Any resemblance to Michelle Obama's 2008 speech must almost certainly be coincidental, as it would be absurd to plagiarize in such a high profile speech. It's really a shame because Melania's speech was so excellent, and many will miss her incredible story in light of these accusations.
Monday, July 18, 2016
Unofficial Delegate Photo
This was taken at the same time as the official photo. Look for the Kentucky delegation on the right side.
Never Trump has formally fizzled; now say cheese!
Contrary to what Politico is reporting, the convention floor has been rather tame during the so-called revolt against Trump. A delegate from California has just offered a resolution that the secretary of the convention publish its report from the rules committee. This should effectively cut off the never Trump effort. They are moving on to taking the official photograph of all the convention delegates. We will post the unofficial one taken from our vantage point soon.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Did the protesters get the date wrong?
As I write this, the weather outside is a bit overcast, but not enough to limit the humidity and heat. For such a large city, Cleveland felt a bit empty this morning. As we drove to pick up Secret Service credentials, there was nary another car for most of the trip. Granted, many fellow RNC-goers were probably taking the opportunity to catch up on some sleep after last night's Lynyrd Skynyrd concert. Many of the main streets have barricades, security checkpoints, and and an iron wall (maybe eight feet tall?) encasing the convention perimeter. This writer is grateful for the efforts by local and national law enforcement agencies to keep the convention running safely and smoothly
Nevertheless, the few hours before the official start at 1:00 lacked what I expected would be a staple at this convention -- Where are the protesters?! As we wandered the perimeter, I expected to see crowds of people giving the usual spiel: Trump's a racist, the GOP is racist, they need to condemn him as a racist, etc. etc. Side note: I find it interesting that liberals can simultaneously hold the view that the GOP is completely racist yet still insist that it must condemn the frontrunner to save the "soul of the party". Kind of a chicken and egg argument, but I digress.
Anyways, I finally got a glimpse of the throngs of protesters just behind the great, big, iron wall as we travelled from the Quicken Loans Arena to the Huntington Convention Center to mingle with the rest of the Fourth Estate. Hopefully there will be time to interact with the crowds outside the perimeter.
Today's forecast, cloudy with a chance of crowd control.
Dr. Ben Carson
Just ran into Dr. Ben Carson, who was just as friendly in person as he comes across on TV. He graciously stopped for a photo with my brother Christian and me. 
Hello Mr. Rather
You never know who you will meet at a political convention. Soon after we arrived in the media area, I looked up and who did I see other than the last person I'd expect: Dan Rather. I reached out and shook his hand. "Hello Mr. Rather. Nice to meet you." He seemed genuinely pleased to be recognized. No one else seemed to be paying attention to him as he headed towards a concession stand. The man he tried to take down -- W -- is not showing up this week. Who would have imagined it a few years ago?
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
We need a cup of coffee
I just arrived at the U.S. courthouse to obtain secret service clearance. Outside there is hardly anyone in the streets. No protesters. Nothing. A reporter from the UK I just met described the city as a "ghost town". He said he was going to get a cup of coffee. The whole city seems to need one too.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Sunday, July 17, 2016
Baring My Pre-Convention Thoughts
It's been eight years since the last national Republican convention I attended, and I wonder how this one will compare.
At the last one, in Minneapolis, McCain was the nominee, but really Palin was the focus of attention. And Romney was so off the radar screen that I almost bumped into him alone on a sidewalk outside the arena after McCain's acceptance speech. That he couldn't find a friend to walk with him that night should have been a sign of things to come. This year Romney won't even be at the convention. McCain will be in the Grand Canyon both literally and metaphorically, given how far away he is from everyone's attention these days.
Eight years ago Ron Paul brought the most motley band of supporters. I remember attending their outdoor rally in a park, where a couple of fellows in whitey tighties were preaching libertarianism and passing out copies of the Constitution. This time those standing with Rand (in business suits) probably won't be noticed. That's too bad. Maybe in another four years.
In Minneapolis there were a few protesters. But it was nothing compared to what has been hyped for this week. When McCain was nominated, the nation yawned, except for its momentary interest in Palin. But she seemed more like a Hail Mary than a solid player in a game where the Republicans were badly behind. The Democrats were making history with the first serious African American candidate. McCain wasn't the first anything. Only the most diehard of protesters thought it worth their time to protest him.
This year is different. The Democrats are trying to win with the same game plan as in 2008, only substitute woman for Black. But the Republicans have stumbled upon a nominee who is even more intriguing than a first female president. Forget the question of whether America is ready for a woman as commander in chief. What has the thousands of media and the anticipated protesters all in a dither is a far more interesting question: is America ready for a Trump in the White House?
That query will drive all the discussion both inside and outside the arena this week.
I don't expect to run into a future presidential nominee in an unguarded moment as I did in 2008, but by definition you never know at the time it happens.
Speaking of unguarded moments, there were more than a hundred bare naked ladies protesting something earlier today. You know Trump is onto something huge when he causes people to shed their underwear. Not even Ron Paul could pull that off.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
At the last one, in Minneapolis, McCain was the nominee, but really Palin was the focus of attention. And Romney was so off the radar screen that I almost bumped into him alone on a sidewalk outside the arena after McCain's acceptance speech. That he couldn't find a friend to walk with him that night should have been a sign of things to come. This year Romney won't even be at the convention. McCain will be in the Grand Canyon both literally and metaphorically, given how far away he is from everyone's attention these days.
Eight years ago Ron Paul brought the most motley band of supporters. I remember attending their outdoor rally in a park, where a couple of fellows in whitey tighties were preaching libertarianism and passing out copies of the Constitution. This time those standing with Rand (in business suits) probably won't be noticed. That's too bad. Maybe in another four years.
In Minneapolis there were a few protesters. But it was nothing compared to what has been hyped for this week. When McCain was nominated, the nation yawned, except for its momentary interest in Palin. But she seemed more like a Hail Mary than a solid player in a game where the Republicans were badly behind. The Democrats were making history with the first serious African American candidate. McCain wasn't the first anything. Only the most diehard of protesters thought it worth their time to protest him.
This year is different. The Democrats are trying to win with the same game plan as in 2008, only substitute woman for Black. But the Republicans have stumbled upon a nominee who is even more intriguing than a first female president. Forget the question of whether America is ready for a woman as commander in chief. What has the thousands of media and the anticipated protesters all in a dither is a far more interesting question: is America ready for a Trump in the White House?
That query will drive all the discussion both inside and outside the arena this week.
I don't expect to run into a future presidential nominee in an unguarded moment as I did in 2008, but by definition you never know at the time it happens.
Speaking of unguarded moments, there were more than a hundred bare naked ladies protesting something earlier today. You know Trump is onto something huge when he causes people to shed their underwear. Not even Ron Paul could pull that off.
Please note: The postings of "G. Morris", written by John K. Bush and which end in 2016, stated his views as of the dates of posting and should not be understood as current assertions of his views. The postings, which have not been altered since they came to an end, remain on this blog to preserve the historical record. In 2017, Mr. Bush took a position that precludes further public political comments or endorsements. He will no longer be contributing to this blog.
Republicans Need to Come Together this Week
Kentucky Republicans may remember just one year ago when we found ourselves in our own unity crisis. Matt Bevin had just won a heated four-way primary by a mere 83 votes that had pitted Kentucky Republicans against each other.
I remember some republicans who were so dissatisfied their candidate lost that they planned write off this election and hope a better candidate could defeat a presumably Governor Jack Conway in four years. Immediately after that primary election, few had hope that Bevin would win, much less that Kentucky Republicans could heal their divisions.
Fortunately, most Kentucky Republicans eventually supported Bevin and helped propel him to a surprisingly large victory. Hal Heiner earned a place in Bevin's administration, James Comer is the nominee for the 1st district congressional seat, and Will T. Scott is presumably still telling jokes and jumping out of airplanes. Most importantly, Governor Bevin is making critical changes that will save our state from fiscal ruin.
Republicans across the country find themselves in a similar position today to that of Kentucky Republicans a year ago. We faced a primary which at one time featured candidates numbering in the double digits, almost all of whom were well qualified. There were real differences between each of the candidates, but so many more commonly held beliefs.
Ultimately, Donald Trump will officially emerge as our nominee this week in Cleveland. Perhaps he isn't your first choice, or second choice, or even fifth choice, but he is our man. There is so much at stake that we simply cannot afford to not support him.
Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, and other liberals want to deny us our basic liberties —our right to free speech (that opposes their radical ideals), free exercise of religion (especially if that religion is Christianity), and our sacred right to defend ourselves and our property with firearms.
Senator McConnell brilliantly announced that the Senate will not consider an Obama nominee to the Supreme Court, thereby preventing a progressive takeover of an institution that can make or break our most important freedoms. This election is about so much more than Trump vs. Hillary; it's about preserving our Constitution.
Trump released a list of potential Supreme Court nominees filled with proven conservatives who would take seriously their oath to defend and uphold the Constitution.
Our nation depends on the rule of law, and the Constitution is the essence of it. Hillary Clinton has repeatedly demonstrated that she thinks she's above the law; we cannot afford a Court that would vindicate a President Clinton's illegal actions, much less Obama's.
It is imperative that Republicans come together this week and support our democratically chosen nominee. The alternative is quite simply more than our nation can bear.
Tuesday, July 12, 2016
Rand Paul to Skip Convention
Laura Ingraham is reporting that Sen. Rand Paul will not attend the Republican National Convention; instead, he will campaign in Kentucky.
His opponent has tried to make an issue of Rand's presidential run. That issue has no traction here, so I don't think Rand needed to skip the convention.
Will his opponent skip the Democratic National Convention? Was he even invited?
Wednesday, July 6, 2016
My C-J Column on Bevin's Prison Reform
My most recent column is up in print in today's C-J: Reprinted with permission:
A great deal of energy goes into the debate about whose lives matter in criminal justice. But perhaps too much focus has been on the front end — the arrest of the criminal — and not enough on what should be the back end — his rehabilitation. Kentucky’s burgeoning prison population reflects that we do a good job catching, convicting and incarcerating criminals, but a lousy job preparing them to re-enter free society.
Gov. Matt Bevin is doing something about this by forming Criminal Justice Policy and Assessment Council.
Bevin explained the need for the council: “We must continue to hold people accountable for their crimes, but also find ways to cut re-offense rates, improve reentry after incarceration, increase drug treatment and effectively treat mental illness – all while helping victims and improving public safety.”
The composition of this council illustrates Bevin’s pragmatic and innovative style of governance. This is not business as usual in Frankfort.
The council includes professionals from all levels of the criminal justice system: prosecutors, defense attorneys, judges, a former FBI special agent and a jailor, among others.
Most encouraging, Bevin included several members of the clergy. Criminal justice reform should include an element of grace and redemption. It should manifest that most American of values – the hope for a better life – and its corollary: we are the land of second chances.
Local churches and faith-based groups like Prodigal Ministries can play an important role in supporting inmates in becoming law-abiding – and tax-paying – members of the community.
Violent criminals should go to prison for punishment and to deter others, but not all crimes are violent. Further, incarceration is expensive; Kentucky spent nearly half a billion dollars on corrections last year. The high number of people who return to prison suggests that this model is not working. Simply put, it’s not a good return on our tax dollars.
Kentucky houses nearly 24,000 inmates. That’s up from 15,000 in 2000. The heroin epidemic will surely increase that number further. Unless the trend is reversed, Kentucky will have to build more prisons that we cannot afford.
Releasing a heroin addict who has not dealt with his addiction often results in that individual getting rearrested. This cycle is expensive for taxpayers and devastating in human terms. Every prisoner, after all, is someone’s family member – maybe their parent.
Far better to treat the mentally ill and addicted, perhaps with community-based treatment, than to simply warehouse them.
Bevin promised in his inaugural address to see what other states are doing well and then copy their successes. To that end, the council can take the concept “tough on crime” and update it to make Kentucky “smart on crime,” by using data-driven solutions from states like Texas.
The prison population in Texas had tripled from 1990 to 2010; the price for the new prisons necessary to hold all these people would have been $2.5 billion.
So Texas instead invested a fraction of that cost into drug courts to divert non-violent drug offenders into community-based treatment. It focused on rehabilitation to help reentry. The results: a 14 percent drop in the state’s prison population and a 29 percent reduction in crime. That is, Texas found a model that saved money, improved safety and gave former inmates with the desire a new trajectory for their lives.
It’s a little counter-intuitive. One would think that fewer people in prison would mean more criminals on the streets. Here’s the missing piece that Kentucky needs to include: Public policies that turn lives around reduce the crime rate by cutting recidivism.
Former inmates who cannot find a job upon their release resort to old familiar patterns that land them back in jail. The cycle cannot be broken without jobs. However, two-thirds of ex-inmates still don’t have a job one year after they’ve served their sentence. That’s where the private and non-profit sector can help.
The American Printing House for the Blind is setting an example for Kentucky employers to hire released inmates. Its pilot program uses ex-convicts who received Braille training in prison to work as book transcribers after they leave prison.
Likewise, the Charles Koch Institute has developed a Prison Entrepreneurship Program that teaches business classes and culminates in a business plan competition. It gives inmates who so desire the skills and support to work for themselves.
Bevin has seized an opportunity to transform Kentucky, one life at a time by focusing on its most important resource: our peopl
Tuesday, July 5, 2016
KY Chamber Takes on Health Insurance Tax
The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce has written to the Kentucky delegation to express concern about the Health Insurance Tax component of Obamacare, a topic this blog recently addressed.
Essentially, the HIT taxis a sales tax on health insurance plans that will be born by consumers and businesses that purchase the plans. It is projected to cost families approximately $5,000 a year.
The Chamber highlights the devastating effect HIT will have on small businesses. That is, it will ultimately kill jobs, at a time when they are scacre enough thanks to seven years of the Obama economy.
Here's what the Chamber posted:
The Health Insurance Tax acts like a sales tax on health-insurance policies purchased in
the market by individuals and employers. While the tax, when implemented, is supposed
to be paid by the insurance companies, the real cost will be passed through to the
customers who pay for the insurance.
“Kentucky families depend upon a growing economy and a strong private sector to ensure
they can meet their needs today and reach for their goals tomorrow. When a tax or
regulation targets the business community, it doesn’t just hurt the entrepreneurs and
owners: whatever holds the businesses back also holds back their employees and the
people who might have become employees,” Kentucky Chamber Vice President of Public
Affairs Ashli Watts wrote.
According to the National Federation of Independent Business, the tax will cost nearly
250,000 jobs – with 59% of the job losses falling on small businesses. Large employers
will also experience considerable job loss, resulting from the residual effect of initial
cutbacks made at small businesses.
“Collectively, these impacts on jobs and growth, coupled with fewer investments, will
cause a ripple effect on the already fragile Kentucky economy,” Watts said.
Watts also stated that the tax will lead to higher premiums for individuals and their
families as a study by the Joint Committee on Taxation states that “a very large portion”
of the tax will “be borne by consumers” in the form of a 2 to 2.5 percent increase in
premium cost by 2016. As a result of the tax, families could experience a $5,000 increase
in the cost of their premium over a decade.
Because of the negative impacts to come from this provision, Watts expressed the
Kentucky Chamber’s appreciation that Congress has delayed implementation of the
Health Insurance Tax but asked that members of Kentucky’s federal delegation seek
permanent repeal of the measure.
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