Political types keep saying we need to stop letting the 2007 statewide races distract from the Congressional, General Assembly, and local races happening this year.
There is no chance of that happening. "I'm concentrating on the 2006 elections" is code for "Don't ask me any hard questions about next year's Governor's race." But the aftershocks of 2006 will still be felt well into the 2007 election season. And then we start on 2008.
Speaking of 2008, here is one for John McCain.
Monday, August 14, 2006
Sunday, August 13, 2006
Here Come The 2007 Dems
Steve Henry is set to announce tomorrow his choice of a running mate: state Treasurer Jonathan Miller.
Jerry Lundergan As Sandy Berger
Remember when former Clintonista Sandy Berger got caught sneaking classified documents in his socks? I thought Jerry Lundergan might be doing the same thing when I read this story in which he contradicted media reports and his own campaign finance filings to claim KDP is doing well financially.
The question is, where is he hiding the money?
The question is, where is he hiding the money?
Time To Apologize To Larry Forgy
Larry Forgy had a bad day yesterday.
In addition to losing the vote for a seat on the Kentucky Republican Party Executive Committee -- which should be a given for a former gubernatorial nominee -- he got slandered in the Lexington Herald-Leader.
Letter writer Kurt Volk of Lexington said "Remember Larry Forgy, who kept almost $1 million in campaign funds after pulling out?"
This never happened. Kurt Volk of Lexington is making stuff up to attack Republicans. The Herald-Leader should apologize for printing this.
In addition to losing the vote for a seat on the Kentucky Republican Party Executive Committee -- which should be a given for a former gubernatorial nominee -- he got slandered in the Lexington Herald-Leader.
Letter writer Kurt Volk of Lexington said "Remember Larry Forgy, who kept almost $1 million in campaign funds after pulling out?"
This never happened. Kurt Volk of Lexington is making stuff up to attack Republicans. The Herald-Leader should apologize for printing this.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Mark Twain On Fletcher/Pence
Rumors of Steve Pence's political demise have been greatly exaggerated.
Lucas First Dem To Get 'Liebermanned'
SurveyUSA.com reports Republican Rep. Geoff Davis leading Democrat challenger Ken Lucas in their latest poll.
If the widely anticipated Dem takeover of Congress is turned back this November, the post-mortem on the election will be very interesting. And it will have a lot to do with the lack of new ideas on the Democrat side. But also, Republican supporters are going to have long talks with their elected representatives. Being better than Democrats is one thing, but simply taking that for granted and continuing the spending orgy is a terrible disservice to our nation.
If the widely anticipated Dem takeover of Congress is turned back this November, the post-mortem on the election will be very interesting. And it will have a lot to do with the lack of new ideas on the Democrat side. But also, Republican supporters are going to have long talks with their elected representatives. Being better than Democrats is one thing, but simply taking that for granted and continuing the spending orgy is a terrible disservice to our nation.
Saturday Morning Violence
Hey, who needs cartoons? This morning at RPK Headquarters the state Executive Committee will witness a battle of surrogates for Governor Ernie Fletcher and Senator Mitch McConnell.
Larry Forgy and Steve Pence's Chief of Staff Steve Huffman are both vying for an open at-large seat on the committee.
The last time Larry fought a battle there in February of 2004, he was successful with the backing of Senator McConnell.
The environment has changed a little since then.
Larry Forgy and Steve Pence's Chief of Staff Steve Huffman are both vying for an open at-large seat on the committee.
The last time Larry fought a battle there in February of 2004, he was successful with the backing of Senator McConnell.
The environment has changed a little since then.
Friday, August 11, 2006
GOP 2007 Fight Begins
Billy Harper has his running mate.
Dick Wilson of Paducah has signed on with Harper to run as a slate against Ernie Fletcher.
Dick Wilson of Paducah has signed on with Harper to run as a slate against Ernie Fletcher.
More Gubernatorial Intrigue
Sources report Rep. Lonnie Napier will be among the growing crowd of Trey Grayson supporters at the Louisville fundraiser tonight.
Please, No Exoneration Pep Rallies
Now that Governor Fletcher can't be charged in the merit hiring case, he should go to Louisville tonight to support his Secretary of State.
Hubbard: "Confused" About Civil Unions
Convicted felon state Senate candidate Carroll Hubbard told Project Vote Smart he opposes same-sex civil unions.
Then he inexplicably attacks an entire region of the state like this:
"Civil unions between same-sex couples - the public needs educated as to what this includes. Most western Kentuckians are opposed to same-sex marriage but are confused as to civil unions between same-sex couples."
You want to try that again, Carroll?
Then he inexplicably attacks an entire region of the state like this:
"Civil unions between same-sex couples - the public needs educated as to what this includes. Most western Kentuckians are opposed to same-sex marriage but are confused as to civil unions between same-sex couples."
You want to try that again, Carroll?
Thursday, August 10, 2006
The Next Big Thing In Frankfort
Kentucky's General Assembly passed an unconstitutional budget this year.
Some pretty high profile people are about to break their silence on this, too.
Here is some background info, courtesy of the Bluegrass Institute.
Some pretty high profile people are about to break their silence on this, too.
Here is some background info, courtesy of the Bluegrass Institute.
More Good News For America
Now that the United States has unilaterally -- with England and Pakistan -- violated the civil rights of two dozen more Islamic freedom fighters actively seeking to kill Americans, Democrats look pretty silly thinking they can win elections on raising the minimum wage and surrendering the war.
McCain Coming To Kentucky
Senator John McCain (R-AZ) will speak at a fundraiser for the KY Senate Republican Trust on Monday September 25, 2006.
Memo to Hillary Clinton: he will be leaving the proceeds here to benefit Kentuckians.
Memo to Hillary Clinton: he will be leaving the proceeds here to benefit Kentuckians.
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Little Birdy Report: KY GOV 2007
Spotted together at the Lexington Bluegrass Airport this afternoon were Paducah businessman Billy Harper and State Rep. Lonnie Napier (R-Lancaster).
The 7% Destruction Of Democrats
Understanding the gap between perception and reality is pretty important when it comes to public policy, especially when we are at war.
Enter Harry Reid and Chucky Schumer. In a joint statement, they said "The perception was that (Lieberman) was too close to George Bush and this was, in many respects, a referendum on the president more than anything else."
That might be interesting, but in reality today they are turning the Democratic Party into the war protesting party based on yesterday's vote of slightly more than 7% of the registered voters in the state of Connecticut.
Enter Harry Reid and Chucky Schumer. In a joint statement, they said "The perception was that (Lieberman) was too close to George Bush and this was, in many respects, a referendum on the president more than anything else."
That might be interesting, but in reality today they are turning the Democratic Party into the war protesting party based on yesterday's vote of slightly more than 7% of the registered voters in the state of Connecticut.
Affording Enviro-Fascists Here At Home
Now that British Petroleum's screw-up is going to cut oil supply (and raise gas prices) we must take another look at Alaska.
Fletcher Campaign Imploding Over Grayson
Two sites (here and here)have picked up yesterday's Kentucky Progress story about Fletcher campaign people trying to shut down a Trey Grayson fundraiser. (How about a link, boys?)
This story is developing rapidly and sources have suggested a bombshell announcement may be coming this afternoon related to this story.
This wound is self-inflicted, guys.
This story is developing rapidly and sources have suggested a bombshell announcement may be coming this afternoon related to this story.
This wound is self-inflicted, guys.
Kathy Stein Lies For ACLU
The internet makes it much more difficult for moonbats to do this stuff.
Rep. Kathy Stein is on the Sue Wylie Show this morning denying that the ACLU ever represented the pro-pedophile group North American Man/Boy Love Association.
Gotcha.
Rep. Kathy Stein is on the Sue Wylie Show this morning denying that the ACLU ever represented the pro-pedophile group North American Man/Boy Love Association.
Gotcha.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Lieberman Loses
There has been and will continue to be massive speculation over what Ned Lamont's primary victory over Sen. Lieberman means.
I don't think it matters much. Sure, the Daily Kos boys finally won one, sort of. It was a primary and Lieberman will win the general as an independent.
Other than a few big Dems falling over themselves about who to support, there is nothing to see here. Move along...
I don't think it matters much. Sure, the Daily Kos boys finally won one, sort of. It was a primary and Lieberman will win the general as an independent.
Other than a few big Dems falling over themselves about who to support, there is nothing to see here. Move along...
Final Meltdown For McKinney
Wildwoman Cynthia McKinney (D-GA) is going down to defeat tonight. Her last statement on her campaign website isn't quite as bizarre as some of her other behavior on Capitol Hill, but is noteworthy nonetheless.
Here she says that her opponent Hank Johnson is lying about her just sponsoring one bill that was passed in Congress. Then she unleashes a 1000 word essay in which she admits that Johnson was right. Her best excuse includes something about getting lost in traffic.
And no, I'm not kidding about that one. Goodbye Cynthia.
Here she says that her opponent Hank Johnson is lying about her just sponsoring one bill that was passed in Congress. Then she unleashes a 1000 word essay in which she admits that Johnson was right. Her best excuse includes something about getting lost in traffic.
And no, I'm not kidding about that one. Goodbye Cynthia.
Can't Make This Stuff Up
When asked to comment on Trey Grayson, Governor Ernie Fletcher said "he's been described as a rising star. I hope he's not a shooting star."
Good grief.
Now I am hearing from invitees to a Louisville fundraiser for Grayson this Friday. They say Fletcher supporters are telling them not to go and and not to support Grayson.
A very large crowd is anticipated at the event.
Good grief.
Now I am hearing from invitees to a Louisville fundraiser for Grayson this Friday. They say Fletcher supporters are telling them not to go and and not to support Grayson.
A very large crowd is anticipated at the event.
Hey Guido, Those Creeps Are Stealing Our Money!
Best letter to the editor of the day from Conrad Reynolds of Louisville. Followed by some BBB drone suggesting that those stealing from casinos should obey the 8th commandment.
I thought that was funny.
Also funny is the fact this is responsible gambling week or some such nonsense over at the American Gaming Association. "Be Responsible. Get Educated" is their sage advice.
Someone should ask New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine for his take on that one, as he is getting what amounts to a third kick from the proverbial mule as his state has repeatedly squandered all the money from their glorious casinos.
I thought that was funny.
Also funny is the fact this is responsible gambling week or some such nonsense over at the American Gaming Association. "Be Responsible. Get Educated" is their sage advice.
Someone should ask New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine for his take on that one, as he is getting what amounts to a third kick from the proverbial mule as his state has repeatedly squandered all the money from their glorious casinos.
Ben Chandler Is Out Of '07 Race
Steve Pence is running for something. Not sure exactly what, but he looks like someone getting ready to launch a campaign. Despite conventional wisdom, Trey Grayson looks like he really is running -- and not for Secretary of State. In fact, he doesn't seem to be auditioning for a role as someone else's LG either.
For the D's, Ben Chandler is NOT running for Governor. I'll stipulate for argument's sake that if he runs, he wins. But that means nine years of serious lifestyle change and I don't think he goes there. Ben laughed off a suggestion he might run for President yesterday on Lexington radio, saying Presidents age 20 years in four. A Kentucky Governor in today's environment may not pack on years at that rate, but he would do so at a faster rate than a Congressman does.
For the D's, Ben Chandler is NOT running for Governor. I'll stipulate for argument's sake that if he runs, he wins. But that means nine years of serious lifestyle change and I don't think he goes there. Ben laughed off a suggestion he might run for President yesterday on Lexington radio, saying Presidents age 20 years in four. A Kentucky Governor in today's environment may not pack on years at that rate, but he would do so at a faster rate than a Congressman does.
Monday, August 07, 2006
Who Is In Charge Here?
Democrats keep talking about how bad things are with Republicans in control of Congress. But the numbers that don't lie show voting blocks of loyal Democrats combined with liberal Republicans putting the Left in charge on most key issues already.
Again, the "throw the bums out" sentiment should hit some deserving Republicans, but giving Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi more power isn't the best way to create positive change.
John Fund nails it in the Wall Street Journal.
Again, the "throw the bums out" sentiment should hit some deserving Republicans, but giving Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi more power isn't the best way to create positive change.
John Fund nails it in the Wall Street Journal.
Massaging The Data
Found a Top 10 college list with no connection to sports and -- surprise! -- found the University of Kentucky checking in at number seven.
My first thought was, what the heck, they don't even have domestic partner benefits at UK. How can this possibly be?
But, alas, the story behind the numbers has more to do with U.S. News' poor ranking for our state's flagship university than with anything good.
My first thought was, what the heck, they don't even have domestic partner benefits at UK. How can this possibly be?
But, alas, the story behind the numbers has more to do with U.S. News' poor ranking for our state's flagship university than with anything good.
Inflating Our Way To Prosperity
A caller to the Jack Pattie Show in Lexington this morning asked Congressman Ben Chandler how we address the inflationary impact of a minimum wage tax increase Chandler wants.
His response was a decent political non-answer answer, but it displayed a pitiful grasp of simple economics.
Chandler said "prices have already gone up without the minimum wage going up."
So how exactly is more inflation going to benefit us, then?
His response was a decent political non-answer answer, but it displayed a pitiful grasp of simple economics.
Chandler said "prices have already gone up without the minimum wage going up."
So how exactly is more inflation going to benefit us, then?
Sales Tax Holiday Gains Illusory
This past weekend was a big one for state sales tax holidays.
National Retail Federation spokesman Craig Shearman summed up the fake consumer benefits like this:
"Americans have hated paying taxes going back to the Boston Tea Party, and when they have an opportunity to avoid it, they love it," he said. "The psychological appeal far outweighs the amount of money being saved."
Any day now, Kentucky will be getting a pre-filed bill to institute one of these sales tax holidays. The Christmas-like feeding frenzy traffic is way out of proportion to the amount of actual consumer saving occurring. The hype just doesn't play out to the advantage of consumers.
What's interesting is some states report increased sales tax revenue during sales tax holidays because eager shoppers buy more things that aren't exempt from the tax than they normally would.
Sheep get sheared, as usual.
National Retail Federation spokesman Craig Shearman summed up the fake consumer benefits like this:
"Americans have hated paying taxes going back to the Boston Tea Party, and when they have an opportunity to avoid it, they love it," he said. "The psychological appeal far outweighs the amount of money being saved."
Any day now, Kentucky will be getting a pre-filed bill to institute one of these sales tax holidays. The Christmas-like feeding frenzy traffic is way out of proportion to the amount of actual consumer saving occurring. The hype just doesn't play out to the advantage of consumers.
What's interesting is some states report increased sales tax revenue during sales tax holidays because eager shoppers buy more things that aren't exempt from the tax than they normally would.
Sheep get sheared, as usual.
Sunday, August 06, 2006
500,000 Reasons For Domestic Partner Benefits
The Courier-Journal keeps alive for now their drive to extend state university health benefits to include anyone who can lie on an affadavit.
Actually, they get closer to a strong case by finding a $500,000 a year rainmaker at the University of Wisconsin who took himself and his partner to another school because UW didn't do partner benefits either.
That got my attention.
My concern with extending domestic partner benefits is primarily that single state employees would then be able to sign a piece of paper and obtain coverage for a sick friend taxpayers would wind up paying for. The "step toward gay marriage" stuff doesn't concern me quite as much because private companies are already doing it. Still shouldn't be condoned by the state, but the bigger problem is with the money.
Nevertheless, since General Assembly Democrats will want to avoid another "marriage amendment" fiasco like 2004, legislation to ban this practice will sail through and be signed into law quickly in January.
I have an idea.
Looking at the case of the $500K a year man UW lost, why don't we allow any university employee who brings in grants every year of $500,000 or more to add one person to his or her health plan. Heck, if they bring in a million we might even let them have two. We won't bother with them promising that they love each other or live together or are having sex. If they bring in this much money, they get a freebie. Spare us the details.
The liberals on this will be somewhat appeased, since they make their case that this benefit is critical to getting and keeping valuable people. So the people who more than pull their weight financially can sign up a friend. Social conservatives will be appeased somewhat because the people involved don't pretend to be married to get benefits. If we keep it a purely financial transaction, we have more winners than losers.
This will just make the "homosexuality is a civil right" folks mad, but their alternative is to get nothing.
Actually, they get closer to a strong case by finding a $500,000 a year rainmaker at the University of Wisconsin who took himself and his partner to another school because UW didn't do partner benefits either.
That got my attention.
My concern with extending domestic partner benefits is primarily that single state employees would then be able to sign a piece of paper and obtain coverage for a sick friend taxpayers would wind up paying for. The "step toward gay marriage" stuff doesn't concern me quite as much because private companies are already doing it. Still shouldn't be condoned by the state, but the bigger problem is with the money.
Nevertheless, since General Assembly Democrats will want to avoid another "marriage amendment" fiasco like 2004, legislation to ban this practice will sail through and be signed into law quickly in January.
I have an idea.
Looking at the case of the $500K a year man UW lost, why don't we allow any university employee who brings in grants every year of $500,000 or more to add one person to his or her health plan. Heck, if they bring in a million we might even let them have two. We won't bother with them promising that they love each other or live together or are having sex. If they bring in this much money, they get a freebie. Spare us the details.
The liberals on this will be somewhat appeased, since they make their case that this benefit is critical to getting and keeping valuable people. So the people who more than pull their weight financially can sign up a friend. Social conservatives will be appeased somewhat because the people involved don't pretend to be married to get benefits. If we keep it a purely financial transaction, we have more winners than losers.
This will just make the "homosexuality is a civil right" folks mad, but their alternative is to get nothing.
Saturday, August 05, 2006
News From Fancy Farm
Secretary of State Trey Grayson announced at Fancy Farm he is considering a run for Governor in 2007. This adds a layer of interest to the fundraiser he is headlining on August 31 in Stanford for Barry Metcalf.
Meanwhile, gubernatorial wannabe Steve Henry was talking a little too loudly about his difficulty in finding a running mate. He was also talking up scandal-tarred Sen. Ed Worley as a potential candidate for the top job himself, leading to speculation both that Henry wants Worley to run with him and that he isn't paying enough attention to know Ed's exploits have severely damaged his prospects.
Meanwhile, gubernatorial wannabe Steve Henry was talking a little too loudly about his difficulty in finding a running mate. He was also talking up scandal-tarred Sen. Ed Worley as a potential candidate for the top job himself, leading to speculation both that Henry wants Worley to run with him and that he isn't paying enough attention to know Ed's exploits have severely damaged his prospects.
Courier Journal Proves My Point
The Louisville Courier-Journal printed an editorial today that perfectly underscores the entire purpose for the conservative blogosphere.
Selective dissemination of facts and biased use of terms in the editorial titled Silk-stocking Setback beg for correction. At issue is the minimum wage/estate tax bill Senate Democrats killed this past week.
The Courier repeats the baseless assertion that raising the minimum wage helps the poor, but its frequent repetition renders that one hardly noteworthy anymore.
The big red flag comes with use of the liberal Center on Budget and Policy Priorities as a source on the estate tax issue. The untrained eye might let slip the description of those liberal think tankers as "non-partisan," which is the label the CJ tries to apply to them. These are the same journalists who dismiss The Bluegrass Institute as a "conservative propaganda mill."
When the CJ cites the infamous "several reports" as proof that the estate tax has no impact on small business and farms and then rolls seamlessly into a distortion of the number of affected estates -- based only on year 2009 projections with the higher exemptions that will be gone by 2011.
And businesses placed at risk by this deadly tax affect not just the owners, but their employees as well.
Liberals hang their hats on the fact Americans continue to survive their policies, citing our endurance as proof that the policies aren't as bad as we say they are. But American ingenuity has made our country great despite bureaucratic roadblocks, not because of them. It makes no sense that we spend tax dollars incentivizing some new businesses to grow with one hand and then risk the existence of others because of the death of an owner in the name of collecting tax dollars.
Just another reason to tax consumption rather than income and wealth.
Selective dissemination of facts and biased use of terms in the editorial titled Silk-stocking Setback beg for correction. At issue is the minimum wage/estate tax bill Senate Democrats killed this past week.
The Courier repeats the baseless assertion that raising the minimum wage helps the poor, but its frequent repetition renders that one hardly noteworthy anymore.
The big red flag comes with use of the liberal Center on Budget and Policy Priorities as a source on the estate tax issue. The untrained eye might let slip the description of those liberal think tankers as "non-partisan," which is the label the CJ tries to apply to them. These are the same journalists who dismiss The Bluegrass Institute as a "conservative propaganda mill."
When the CJ cites the infamous "several reports" as proof that the estate tax has no impact on small business and farms and then rolls seamlessly into a distortion of the number of affected estates -- based only on year 2009 projections with the higher exemptions that will be gone by 2011.
And businesses placed at risk by this deadly tax affect not just the owners, but their employees as well.
Liberals hang their hats on the fact Americans continue to survive their policies, citing our endurance as proof that the policies aren't as bad as we say they are. But American ingenuity has made our country great despite bureaucratic roadblocks, not because of them. It makes no sense that we spend tax dollars incentivizing some new businesses to grow with one hand and then risk the existence of others because of the death of an owner in the name of collecting tax dollars.
Just another reason to tax consumption rather than income and wealth.
Friday, August 04, 2006
Big Endorsement For Bill Farmer
State Rep. Bill Farmer (R-Lexington) has an opponent this fall that some liberals just love. Chris Frost is a teacher who wants to raise taxes to spend more money on schools.
But his rhetoric, for some reason, hasn't garnered any credibility for his campaign.
The Kentucky Education Association has just endorsed Rep. Farmer's re-election and sent him a $1000 contribution. If Frost can't get that one, he might as well start spending more time with his family.
But his rhetoric, for some reason, hasn't garnered any credibility for his campaign.
The Kentucky Education Association has just endorsed Rep. Farmer's re-election and sent him a $1000 contribution. If Frost can't get that one, he might as well start spending more time with his family.
Do Some Good: Income Tax Holiday
This weekend, several states are putting on their Sales Tax Holidays. In retail, ten percent discounts are routine for the asking and these marketing stunts -- complete with legislative lobbying and yammering politician support -- provide little of real value to consumers.
You want to do some good? How about an income tax holiday for regular income and commissions? Exempt bonuses, but give the folks a break where it counts.
You want to do some good? How about an income tax holiday for regular income and commissions? Exempt bonuses, but give the folks a break where it counts.
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Lundergan Plan For 2006 Revealed
Kentucky Democratic Party Chairman Jerry Lundergan isn't worried that Hillary Clinton ate his lunch and took all his money. He has a plan for winning Congressional races in 2006.
Here's a hint: sounds like part Howard Dean and part John Kerry.
"There's two major things. One, its the war in Iraq and also gasoline prices. Now those are both caused by and happened on the watch of a Republican president," Lundergan said.
He made these and other winning comments at a taping of Bill Goodman's One to One program that will air Friday at 10 pm Eastern and again Sunday at 2 pm Eastern.
Here's a hint: sounds like part Howard Dean and part John Kerry.
"There's two major things. One, its the war in Iraq and also gasoline prices. Now those are both caused by and happened on the watch of a Republican president," Lundergan said.
He made these and other winning comments at a taping of Bill Goodman's One to One program that will air Friday at 10 pm Eastern and again Sunday at 2 pm Eastern.
Moberly: Ed Worley Is My Daddy
Rep. Harry Moberly is known for having a taste for petulance.
He had a heaping helping of it today in front of a crowd of about 100 people at the Madison County Courthouse. When addressing the campaign of scandal-plagued Senator Ed Worley, Moberly whined: "If Ed Worley isn't re-elected, I will just have to retire."
Moberly is perhaps confusing his own popularity with the successful Democrat gerrymandering of his House district. Either way, his bluster in support of his buddy might get turned up a notch or two before election day.
Stay tuned...
He had a heaping helping of it today in front of a crowd of about 100 people at the Madison County Courthouse. When addressing the campaign of scandal-plagued Senator Ed Worley, Moberly whined: "If Ed Worley isn't re-elected, I will just have to retire."
Moberly is perhaps confusing his own popularity with the successful Democrat gerrymandering of his House district. Either way, his bluster in support of his buddy might get turned up a notch or two before election day.
Stay tuned...
Napier For Governor Slate Soon?
The anonymously run website for Rep. Lonnie Napier's potential run for Governor is now naming potential running mates.
Representatives Jamie Comer, Dwight Butler, and Jon Draud, according to the site, have spoken or will soon speak with Rep. Napier regarding making a run against Governor Fletcher. A source with knowledge of the discussions indicated there are two other names with a possibly a wider base of support.
Representatives Jamie Comer, Dwight Butler, and Jon Draud, according to the site, have spoken or will soon speak with Rep. Napier regarding making a run against Governor Fletcher. A source with knowledge of the discussions indicated there are two other names with a possibly a wider base of support.
Innes On Education
Richard Innes is a burr in the saddle of double-talking education officials in Frankfort.
So this looks like very good news.
So this looks like very good news.
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Regents Lawsuit Can't Hold Water
Three rejected nominees to the Board of Regents at Murray State University have filed a stupid lawsuit against the Governor, claiming Fletcher must nominate one of them.
If they had only read KRS 12.070(3), they could have saved themselves the embarrassment. Here it is:
Where appointments to administrative boards and commissions are made from lists submitted to him, the Governor may reject the list and require that other lists be submitted.
If they had only read KRS 12.070(3), they could have saved themselves the embarrassment. Here it is:
Where appointments to administrative boards and commissions are made from lists submitted to him, the Governor may reject the list and require that other lists be submitted.
Paducah Citizens Didn't Get Memo
Kentucky Democrats keep spinning that their no-idea complaining will triumph over Republican conservatism. The citizens of the 3rd House district, however, aren't buying it.
Republican House candidate Bruce Brockenborough is pulling bipartisan local support in his bid to unseat languid Rep. Frank Rasche with a message of better serving the people in his district.
"The more we focus on our community and the less we worry about Frankfort, the better off we'll be in Paducah," Brockenborough said.
He says a top priority is to organize the five House members who represent McCracken county to work together better.
"I'm going to serve in office the same way I do now, with a laser beam focus on this community."
Imagine that: working for his constituents and not out-of-state interest groups. What a concept!
Republican House candidate Bruce Brockenborough is pulling bipartisan local support in his bid to unseat languid Rep. Frank Rasche with a message of better serving the people in his district.
"The more we focus on our community and the less we worry about Frankfort, the better off we'll be in Paducah," Brockenborough said.
He says a top priority is to organize the five House members who represent McCracken county to work together better.
"I'm going to serve in office the same way I do now, with a laser beam focus on this community."
Imagine that: working for his constituents and not out-of-state interest groups. What a concept!
Georgia Mud Wrestling!
I love this: blithering Congresswoman Cynthia McKinney (D-GA) is suing blathering journalist Cynthia Tucker and her Atlanta Journal-Constitution for libel.
At issue is McKinney's 2002 comments about what President Bush knew in advance about Sept. 11.
We will be hearing a lot more about this once the left latches on to it.
UPDATE: Apparently, there's no lawsuit. That's a shame. Would have been a lot of fun to watch. McKinney remains in trouble, nonetheless, just about every time she opens her mouth.
At issue is McKinney's 2002 comments about what President Bush knew in advance about Sept. 11.
We will be hearing a lot more about this once the left latches on to it.
UPDATE: Apparently, there's no lawsuit. That's a shame. Would have been a lot of fun to watch. McKinney remains in trouble, nonetheless, just about every time she opens her mouth.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
His Culture Of Corruption Ain't So Bad, Is It?
Sources report Sen. Ed Worley (D-Richmond) is polling his district asking if voters will hold his various financial scandals against him.
Greg Stumbo Is Eliot Spitzering
New York Attorney General Eliot Spitzer, after mastering the art of running questionable investigations in the media, has leveraged that skill into a successful campaign for his state's Governor's Mansion.
Greg Stumbo is doing the same thing with this gas price-gouging foolishness.
Fortunately, The Bluegrass Institute economists are on the case and will have a report out on this in the next few days.
Greg Stumbo is doing the same thing with this gas price-gouging foolishness.
Fortunately, The Bluegrass Institute economists are on the case and will have a report out on this in the next few days.
Bill Frist Is Toast
A story getting little coverage outside West Virginia -- yet -- indicates Bill Frist isn't our guy for 2008 or even for the Senate Leader now.
Putnam General, an HCA hospital in West Virginia, announced today it is closing under a flurry of malpractice lawsuits against one orthopedic surgeon. West Virginia has caps on liability but they, rightly, don't apply to something as horrific as this.
The news story in the above link doesn't get into it, but Dr. John King hadn't completed a residency in orthopedics. Nevertheless, he was performing surgeries -- many of them with disastrous effects -- on unsuspecting patients. Hospital staff complaints about Dr. King were routinely ignored. Potential liability is estimated at half a billion dollars.
This case transcends malpractice liability reform, which I believe we need in Kentucky. The real issue, that will come out soon enough, is how hospital managers ignored clear warning signs and then HCA execs sought to dump their liability on the sly and (failing that) started selling shares.
Mitch McConnell might want to start getting ready for his own stint as Majority Leader a little ahead of schedule.
Putnam General, an HCA hospital in West Virginia, announced today it is closing under a flurry of malpractice lawsuits against one orthopedic surgeon. West Virginia has caps on liability but they, rightly, don't apply to something as horrific as this.
The news story in the above link doesn't get into it, but Dr. John King hadn't completed a residency in orthopedics. Nevertheless, he was performing surgeries -- many of them with disastrous effects -- on unsuspecting patients. Hospital staff complaints about Dr. King were routinely ignored. Potential liability is estimated at half a billion dollars.
This case transcends malpractice liability reform, which I believe we need in Kentucky. The real issue, that will come out soon enough, is how hospital managers ignored clear warning signs and then HCA execs sought to dump their liability on the sly and (failing that) started selling shares.
Mitch McConnell might want to start getting ready for his own stint as Majority Leader a little ahead of schedule.
RomneyCare Is a Dog
Just watched a presentation on Mitt Romney's healthcare plan at the Southern Legislative Conference.
I saw nothing to persuade me this is a good thing. The silly tar baby comment Mitt was apologizing for yesterday doesn't hold a candle to this HillaryCare Lite train wreck.
While I was skeptical before about his proposal, I saw no redeeming qualities in this at all. Like when Kentucky's 1994 plan to create healthcare Nirvana caused us to go from 83% insured to 74% insured, this turkey will only hurt matters.
I saw nothing to persuade me this is a good thing. The silly tar baby comment Mitt was apologizing for yesterday doesn't hold a candle to this HillaryCare Lite train wreck.
While I was skeptical before about his proposal, I saw no redeeming qualities in this at all. Like when Kentucky's 1994 plan to create healthcare Nirvana caused us to go from 83% insured to 74% insured, this turkey will only hurt matters.
Romney's Defense of Health Plan
I'm going to Louisville today to hear Mitt Romney talk about his Massachusetts health plan.
It is an alternative to the single-payer government plan pushed by some. I call it a multi-payer government plan as it winds up using government money to buy health policies for everyone who "can't" afford it. As soon as government realizes it can save money by becoming the insurance company, then you have arrived at single-payer.
Wouldn't it be simpler and more in keeping with American principles to remove government impediments to health care transactions?
Anyway, it is an important debate that isn't going away any time soon.
It is an alternative to the single-payer government plan pushed by some. I call it a multi-payer government plan as it winds up using government money to buy health policies for everyone who "can't" afford it. As soon as government realizes it can save money by becoming the insurance company, then you have arrived at single-payer.
Wouldn't it be simpler and more in keeping with American principles to remove government impediments to health care transactions?
Anyway, it is an important debate that isn't going away any time soon.
Monday, July 31, 2006
Spanking Fletcher On CON
There is no justification for allowing the Certificate of Need process to artificially inflate medical expenses.
Dr. Kevin T. Kavanaugh of Somerset nails it.
Dr. Kevin T. Kavanaugh of Somerset nails it.
Rangel(D-NY): Baby Needs Concrete Shoes
Missed from the weekend was Charlie Rangel's on-the-House-floor reaction to the combo Minimum Wage/Estate Tax vote:
"It's almost like taking a child and talking about 'I want so badly to increase the minimum wage for them' and then you put these concrete shoes on them and you throw them into the ocean alone and not being able to swim. If you care about poor folks, act like it!"
"It's almost like taking a child and talking about 'I want so badly to increase the minimum wage for them' and then you put these concrete shoes on them and you throw them into the ocean alone and not being able to swim. If you care about poor folks, act like it!"
Gov. Romney Gets His Close-Up
Mitt Romney brings his presidential campaign south today and tomorrow with a stop in Louisville. He is in town to speak to the Southern Legislative Conference about his health care plan. His visit kicks off tonight at a reception with supporters and potential supporters of his 2008 run for the White House.
I found an interesting website, Evangelicals For Mitt, that seeks to dispel the notion a Mormon can't get the GOP nomination. It should be interesting to watch. The 2008 primary will be a huge battle for the heart and soul of the Republican party. Liberal Republicans and Conservative Republicans will be slugging it out in a way we haven't seen in a long time.
I found an interesting website, Evangelicals For Mitt, that seeks to dispel the notion a Mormon can't get the GOP nomination. It should be interesting to watch. The 2008 primary will be a huge battle for the heart and soul of the Republican party. Liberal Republicans and Conservative Republicans will be slugging it out in a way we haven't seen in a long time.
Earmark Reform Not Happening
Congressman Jeff Flake's 19 amendments in June brought earmarking out into the open.
The bright light illuminated a pretty ugly picture.
U.S. Representatives Hal Rogers, Anne Northup, and Ben Chandler joined 278 other members in voting for all 19 pieces of pork.
This is where Democrats really don't serve America well as an opposition party. It goes without saying they would only be worse on spending, so there is no way to hold GOP legislators' feet to the fire on this stuff.
The Club for Growth does good work knocking off the worst big spenders of both parties. They represent our best hope to restrain federal government waste. Help them if you can.
The bright light illuminated a pretty ugly picture.
U.S. Representatives Hal Rogers, Anne Northup, and Ben Chandler joined 278 other members in voting for all 19 pieces of pork.
This is where Democrats really don't serve America well as an opposition party. It goes without saying they would only be worse on spending, so there is no way to hold GOP legislators' feet to the fire on this stuff.
The Club for Growth does good work knocking off the worst big spenders of both parties. They represent our best hope to restrain federal government waste. Help them if you can.
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Punchline France
A UN resolution calls for Hezbollah terrorists to stop killing people. Right now.
For some reason this reminds me of John Kerry saying none of this would be happening if he had been elected President.
For some reason this reminds me of John Kerry saying none of this would be happening if he had been elected President.
Gas Prices
We keep hearing that Republicans are going to lose elections this year because of widespread anger over gas prices. But, seriously, what are Democrats going to do other than make the situation worse?
The same applies to national defense, government spending, education, taxes, and reform of lobbying, immigration, and entitlement policies. What have Democrats ever done to suggest they have better answers on any of these issues? The problem, as I see it, is liberal Republicans standing with Democrats in the way of conservative solutions.
Democrats blame Republicans for their control of the Do Nothing Congress. But do the math: Democrats plus liberal Republicans have controlled both chambers for several years. That's your problem right there. The solution is not to elect more Democrats to Congress.
The same applies to national defense, government spending, education, taxes, and reform of lobbying, immigration, and entitlement policies. What have Democrats ever done to suggest they have better answers on any of these issues? The problem, as I see it, is liberal Republicans standing with Democrats in the way of conservative solutions.
Democrats blame Republicans for their control of the Do Nothing Congress. But do the math: Democrats plus liberal Republicans have controlled both chambers for several years. That's your problem right there. The solution is not to elect more Democrats to Congress.
Flying In From D.C., Arms Tired
The hottest rumor commuting between Washington D.C. and Frankfort is that Senator Mitch McConnell is casting about for a Democrat to back for Governor next year.
McConnell biographer John David Dyche's puff piece in this morning's CJ on Rep. Ben Chandler should serve to throw flame to that fire.
McConnell biographer John David Dyche's puff piece in this morning's CJ on Rep. Ben Chandler should serve to throw flame to that fire.
Saturday, July 29, 2006
Fancy Farm 2006 News
Sources report Governor Fletcher is not going to speak at Fancy Farm.
This is a mistake.
Staying home may be a good way to avoid any more unfortunate noodling references, but the Governor needs to show up for this. It's a symbolic gesture and an event that few people actually see, but the inevitable "run and hide Republicans" label is something that doesn't help at all.
A quick thinking GOP gubernatorial hopeful might do well to try to fill in.
This is a mistake.
Staying home may be a good way to avoid any more unfortunate noodling references, but the Governor needs to show up for this. It's a symbolic gesture and an event that few people actually see, but the inevitable "run and hide Republicans" label is something that doesn't help at all.
A quick thinking GOP gubernatorial hopeful might do well to try to fill in.
Friday, July 28, 2006
More Democrat Economic Development
U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich (D-Cleveland) has a plan to lower your gas prices that is so progressive, so forward-looking, so brilliant and...
Actually, this is a bill Kim Jong-il would love. It is a 100% tax on "excess profits" of oil and gas companies. Take a look at the bill. My favorite part is the establishment of a "Reasonable Profits Board" to figure out when oil and gas companies have made enough money.
This is a perfect example of why people who aren't happy with Republicans have nothing to gain by voting for Democrats. One bright spot: a close look at the bill suggests that the next cold winter would result in natural gas companies having little choice but to stop providing heat to just about everyone.
That would have an interesting impact on the global warming movement.
I'm not any happier than you are about how much it costs to fill up my gas-guzzling SUV, but it seems every effort to convict Big Oil of price gouging has fallen flat. If their average 8% profit margin were found to be by any means excessive, don't you think the Kuciniches would have trumpeted that news from the rooftops?
Actually, this is a bill Kim Jong-il would love. It is a 100% tax on "excess profits" of oil and gas companies. Take a look at the bill. My favorite part is the establishment of a "Reasonable Profits Board" to figure out when oil and gas companies have made enough money.
This is a perfect example of why people who aren't happy with Republicans have nothing to gain by voting for Democrats. One bright spot: a close look at the bill suggests that the next cold winter would result in natural gas companies having little choice but to stop providing heat to just about everyone.
That would have an interesting impact on the global warming movement.
I'm not any happier than you are about how much it costs to fill up my gas-guzzling SUV, but it seems every effort to convict Big Oil of price gouging has fallen flat. If their average 8% profit margin were found to be by any means excessive, don't you think the Kuciniches would have trumpeted that news from the rooftops?
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Cindy Sheehan? In Kentucky?
I'm chasing a rumor that Cindy Sheehan -- straight from dancing with Cynthia McKinney at her primary loss party -- is coming to Kentucky to campaign with Democrat candidates.
Now that's a good idea.
Now that's a good idea.
Chandler: Gimme A Big Ed Pork Sammich
Rep. Ben Chandler (D-Versailles) misses the point of the effort to improve public education in America. He has filed a bill in Washington to spend an additional $32 Billion -- at least -- over five years to improve school BUILDINGS.
We already pay local and state taxes to maintain school facilities. Chandler wants to ding us at the federal level too.
Also part of his education "plan" is hiring gobs of computer technicians for the schools and "essential broadband access."
Good grief.
Big Education spends way too much on administration to start talking about opening new money spigots.
We already pay local and state taxes to maintain school facilities. Chandler wants to ding us at the federal level too.
Also part of his education "plan" is hiring gobs of computer technicians for the schools and "essential broadband access."
Good grief.
Big Education spends way too much on administration to start talking about opening new money spigots.
KY Governor 2007 Quote
"It isn't even about R's and D's up here. It's a northern Kentucky issue that we re-elect Ernie Fletcher."
-- Senator Dick Roeding (R-Lakeside Park)
-- Senator Dick Roeding (R-Lakeside Park)
Move The Filing Deadline
The Bluegrass Institute nails the status quo once again. There really is no reason for a January 31 election filing deadline unless you actually WANT lawmakers sitting around watching the clock for a month every other year.
This and putting committee votes online are two no-brainers that present no valid excuse for foot-dragging.
This and putting committee votes online are two no-brainers that present no valid excuse for foot-dragging.
Money For Nothing, Chicks For Free!
I can't believe the city of Lexington is still paying consultants to come up with low-ball figures on their hoped-for condemnation of Kentucky American Water Co.
Seems like very easy work. The last two read the company's 2005 financial report and came up with the same number as the previous consultant. Pretty good gig if you can get a liberal politician to pay you for it.
That ain't workin'!
Now the blue ribbon committee headed by former Congressman Scotty Baesler is off to show their new numbers to the company, which is going public next year.
Seems like very easy work. The last two read the company's 2005 financial report and came up with the same number as the previous consultant. Pretty good gig if you can get a liberal politician to pay you for it.
That ain't workin'!
Now the blue ribbon committee headed by former Congressman Scotty Baesler is off to show their new numbers to the company, which is going public next year.
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
2007: Attorney General Do-Over
I still say the biggest race in 2007 will be for Attorney General. Ciberhillbilly says look for Michael Hogan. Rep. Stan Lee is another possibility. Sounds like Erwin Roberts is leaning against running. It's anathema to the Fletcher administration, but LG Steve Pence could make a strong candidate.
KEEP Gambling On Baker?
A rumor is circulating that Casino Gambling's Kentucky connection KEEP is going to hire former talk radio host Dave Baker to help them convince us to try gambling our way to prosperity.
UPDATE (7/27) : Dave Baker said he will not be going to work for KEEP.
UPDATE (7/27) : Dave Baker said he will not be going to work for KEEP.
"A Politician Or A Fresh Face"
He says he wants a month to think about it, but it sounds like Billy Harper is running for Governor.
Shut Down KY Health Insurance Regulation
Passing the federal Health Care Choice Act would have the effect of helping Kentucky consumers save money on health insurance or buy coverage they can't now afford.
The interesting thing would be to see how many people would buy policies loaded with Kentucky mandates if they didn't have to.
The interesting thing would be to see how many people would buy policies loaded with Kentucky mandates if they didn't have to.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Stumbo's Latest Merit Hiring Scam
Maybe we are selling Greg Stumbo short as a potential candidate for Governor in 2007. The way he controls the media now suggests he will have the Courier-Journal and the Herald-Leader promoting him for "Father Of The Year" despite his deadbeat dad ways.
Twin stories in Kentucky's two largest papers suggest another Stumbo "smoking gun" in his investigation of merit hiring activities in the Fletcher Administration.
Tom Loftis even writes a totally bogus lead sentence in his story that had to please Stumbo. Loftis said:
"A field representative reported to Gov. Ernie Fletcher in May 2004 that progress was being made to replace Democrats in state civil service jobs, according to documents filed by prosecutors Tuesday."
This is totally untrue. The field representative, Willard Hansford, said in a May 7, 2004 report:
"Constituents are ready to fill vacant merit positions and replace Democrats in both merit and non-merit positions."
You can read the report for yourself here. In the heavily-Republican 5th district, I would imagine there were many hundreds of Republican constituents who were "ready" to have a fair shot at jobs they had been shut out of for a generation.
The Herald-Leader's Jack Brammer printed the same quote from Mr. Hansford's report, but followed it up with this statement:
"The state merit law protects rank-and-file state workers from personnel actions based on politics."
This gives the misleading impression that something was happening against the law. Mr. Hansford was only reporting on what the constituents in his area wanted. He was doing his job. Only the most blindly partisan Democrats will choose not to see the truth in this.
Twin stories in Kentucky's two largest papers suggest another Stumbo "smoking gun" in his investigation of merit hiring activities in the Fletcher Administration.
Tom Loftis even writes a totally bogus lead sentence in his story that had to please Stumbo. Loftis said:
"A field representative reported to Gov. Ernie Fletcher in May 2004 that progress was being made to replace Democrats in state civil service jobs, according to documents filed by prosecutors Tuesday."
This is totally untrue. The field representative, Willard Hansford, said in a May 7, 2004 report:
"Constituents are ready to fill vacant merit positions and replace Democrats in both merit and non-merit positions."
You can read the report for yourself here. In the heavily-Republican 5th district, I would imagine there were many hundreds of Republican constituents who were "ready" to have a fair shot at jobs they had been shut out of for a generation.
The Herald-Leader's Jack Brammer printed the same quote from Mr. Hansford's report, but followed it up with this statement:
"The state merit law protects rank-and-file state workers from personnel actions based on politics."
This gives the misleading impression that something was happening against the law. Mr. Hansford was only reporting on what the constituents in his area wanted. He was doing his job. Only the most blindly partisan Democrats will choose not to see the truth in this.
Why Didn't We Think Of This?
What would we do here in the Horse Capitol of the World without Senator Chris Dodd (D-CT)'s bill to spend $800,000 of our own money to convince us to wear helmets when riding a horse?
Now that Senator Dodd is running for President, maybe he will initiate something really substantial like a "Honk For Peace" campaign.
Oh, that's already taken.
Now that Senator Dodd is running for President, maybe he will initiate something really substantial like a "Honk For Peace" campaign.
Oh, that's already taken.
"Just Joking" Democrats
Alleged petty thief Michael Downs is using the "I was just joking" defense to escape prosecution for his recent crimes.
Democrat strategists who pretend beyond all reason that raising the minimum wage and putting everyone on Medicaid would be terrific economic policy might want to use Mr. Downs' apologia for this one.
Meanwhile, Hillary Clinton hopes you don't remember that her husband's "worst economy in fifty years" campaign slogan was complete bunk.
Democrat strategists who pretend beyond all reason that raising the minimum wage and putting everyone on Medicaid would be terrific economic policy might want to use Mr. Downs' apologia for this one.
Meanwhile, Hillary Clinton hopes you don't remember that her husband's "worst economy in fifty years" campaign slogan was complete bunk.
Monday, July 24, 2006
Frankfort Bans Smoking
The city council in Frankfort tonight voted to ban smoking.
It is just a matter of time now before we ban smoking statewide. The public policy machinations to eradicate tobacco use completely in Kentucky are inevitable and will be very interesting to watch.
Who will finally drop the hammer on criminalizing tobacco?
It is just a matter of time now before we ban smoking statewide. The public policy machinations to eradicate tobacco use completely in Kentucky are inevitable and will be very interesting to watch.
Who will finally drop the hammer on criminalizing tobacco?
Another 'Draft For Governor' Site Coming?
Has anyone noticed LG Steve Pence is helping with a lot of legislative fundraisers this summer?
Ruminating In Red States
Sen. John Kerry was in South Carolina pitching his plan to put middle-class children on Medicaid and raising money for Democrat candidates.
Please, Senator Kerry, come to Kentucky and give us a Hillary Clinton.
Please, Senator Kerry, come to Kentucky and give us a Hillary Clinton.
Sunday, July 23, 2006
Hawpe In, The Water Is Fine!
Louisville CJ columnist David Hawpe wades into the school voucher debate this morning and manages not to get his feet wet.
I challenge you to read his column and tell me one thing it adds to the discussion.
We get that Hawpe doesn't like people who want to democratize competition between public and private schools. The closest he gets to a point, though, is when he mentions a report cited in the Wall Street Journal that determined public schools do just as well as private schools if you adjust for race, socioeconomics, and other factors.
But if you adjust for looks, personality, and other factors I would be Brad Pitt -- starring in movies and "dating" Angelina Jolie.
In many public schools, interested parents, secure homes, and happy, motivated, focused kids equal success. Additional resources go to serve disabled and troubled students. The problem is with the large majority who don't fit in these extremes. Smart, happy comfortable kids make up for the statistical problem of middling students who would likely do better with more resources directed their way. But we can't just keep statistically correcting for the core group that is the future of America. Not while generations of driven kids in other less affluent countries keep eating our lunches.
The problem here is a political one and contains the best argument for giving parents the option to leave their neighborhood school, take their tax dollars, and seek a better educational fit elsewhere. Kentucky's school systems are burdened by layers of administrative pork-laden union-protected central office jobs that would have to go if our public schools had to compete -- rather than lobby -- for their position in the marketplace.
KEA types respond to the above logic with personal attacks. Getting past that point is a major key to improving our public education system.
In fact, if we could have a reasonable conversation about how we spend our money on public education, the need to call for vouchers would very likely sink to the bottom of the pool.
I challenge you to read his column and tell me one thing it adds to the discussion.
We get that Hawpe doesn't like people who want to democratize competition between public and private schools. The closest he gets to a point, though, is when he mentions a report cited in the Wall Street Journal that determined public schools do just as well as private schools if you adjust for race, socioeconomics, and other factors.
But if you adjust for looks, personality, and other factors I would be Brad Pitt -- starring in movies and "dating" Angelina Jolie.
In many public schools, interested parents, secure homes, and happy, motivated, focused kids equal success. Additional resources go to serve disabled and troubled students. The problem is with the large majority who don't fit in these extremes. Smart, happy comfortable kids make up for the statistical problem of middling students who would likely do better with more resources directed their way. But we can't just keep statistically correcting for the core group that is the future of America. Not while generations of driven kids in other less affluent countries keep eating our lunches.
The problem here is a political one and contains the best argument for giving parents the option to leave their neighborhood school, take their tax dollars, and seek a better educational fit elsewhere. Kentucky's school systems are burdened by layers of administrative pork-laden union-protected central office jobs that would have to go if our public schools had to compete -- rather than lobby -- for their position in the marketplace.
KEA types respond to the above logic with personal attacks. Getting past that point is a major key to improving our public education system.
In fact, if we could have a reasonable conversation about how we spend our money on public education, the need to call for vouchers would very likely sink to the bottom of the pool.
Upcoming GOP Primary Event
No not THAT primary, just the 2008 Presidential primary.
Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney is scheduled for an exclusive get-together at The Jefferson Club in Louisville on Monday, July 31.
Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney is scheduled for an exclusive get-together at The Jefferson Club in Louisville on Monday, July 31.
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Little Birdy Report
Spotted in Lexington talking turkey today: Rep. Lonnie Napier and a former Fletcher fundraiser.
Finally, A Democrat Upset With Taxes
I don't even know what to say about this one.
Howard Dean is really a piece of work. I guess a push for gay conjugal visits is next on the agenda.
Howard Dean is really a piece of work. I guess a push for gay conjugal visits is next on the agenda.
Friday, July 21, 2006
Best Headline Of The Day
Ross Mann of Conservative Vanguard weighs in on the Kentucky Democrats' financial mismanagement with this gem:
Should've Brought Hillary In Four Times
Should've Brought Hillary In Four Times
Domestic Partner Showdown Monday
Expect to see a huge food fight Monday afternoon at the Capitol Annex in Frankfort.
Senator Dick Roeding will be giving an update on the E-Health Network Board to the Joint Interim Committee on Health & Welfare at 1 pm.
Liberals want Roeding to resign for his opposition to risking state tax dollars on the University of Louisville's political activism.
Senator Dick Roeding will be giving an update on the E-Health Network Board to the Joint Interim Committee on Health & Welfare at 1 pm.
Liberals want Roeding to resign for his opposition to risking state tax dollars on the University of Louisville's political activism.
2008 GOP POTUS Straw Poll
Even if you are undecided about who you think should be the Republican nominee for President in 2008, you should take this poll. Pick all the candidates you find acceptable and unacceptable.
Who do you like and why?
Who do you like and why?
Thursday, July 20, 2006
FairTax Update
Next week U.S. House leaders will see a major move Capitol Hill for the FairTax.
Democrats are invited to this bipartisan affair, but those who are trapped by Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid can't come out and play.
Democrats are invited to this bipartisan affair, but those who are trapped by Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid can't come out and play.
Hal Rogers Site Not Dead
Yes, it looks like the media reports that the draft Hal Rogers site had been pulled down were not correct.
Just got an email from the person who put the site up:
"Who am I? Let's just say that I'm a Republican betrayed by Fletcher and have seen all the double-dealing going on with Patton Democrats. But, more importantly, I am a firm believer in Hal Rogers' ability to be Governor and to do the right thing."
Just got an email from the person who put the site up:
"Who am I? Let's just say that I'm a Republican betrayed by Fletcher and have seen all the double-dealing going on with Patton Democrats. But, more importantly, I am a firm believer in Hal Rogers' ability to be Governor and to do the right thing."
Unbridled Casino Subsidy
How far do we really want to go to prop up Kentucky's horse industry? KEEP says if we don't open up casinos at the horse tracks, West Virginia might take the industry from us.
I don't get it. What am I missing? Experience indicates that for every dollar casinos bring into state coffers, three must be spent on expanded social services. That seems like a very high price to pay. Do we really have to go down this road to save the horse industry in Kentucky?
I say we call their bluff.
I don't get it. What am I missing? Experience indicates that for every dollar casinos bring into state coffers, three must be spent on expanded social services. That seems like a very high price to pay. Do we really have to go down this road to save the horse industry in Kentucky?
I say we call their bluff.
Rebecca Jackson For Governor Site Up
Okay, I just made up that headline. Mrs. Jackson, who came in second in the 2003 GOP primary has said repeatedly in recent months she is not running for Governor. The former Jefferson County Judge Executive will tell anyone who asks she is happy running the WHAS Crusade For Children.
I thought about Rebecca, though, after reading GOP activist Ted Jackson's CJ column/therapy session for Republicans looking for another 2007 standard-bearer. Ted invokes Ronald Reagan as the patron saint of those who would dump Fletcher now because of The Gipper's 1976 primary opposition to President Gerald Ford. The analogy doesn't fit, though, because Reagan was a candidate, not an activist. Until a better candidate with a better plan for the future comes along, declares a candidacy, and starts running for real, Kentucky has no 1976 Reagan.
UPDATE: The Lexington Herald Leader's Commentary Editor, Rita Gatton, confirmed that she mistakenly replaced Gerald Ford's name with Richard Nixon's in Ted Jackson's essay. She said a correction will run tomorrow.
I thought about Rebecca, though, after reading GOP activist Ted Jackson's CJ column/therapy session for Republicans looking for another 2007 standard-bearer. Ted invokes Ronald Reagan as the patron saint of those who would dump Fletcher now because of The Gipper's 1976 primary opposition to President Gerald Ford. The analogy doesn't fit, though, because Reagan was a candidate, not an activist. Until a better candidate with a better plan for the future comes along, declares a candidacy, and starts running for real, Kentucky has no 1976 Reagan.
UPDATE: The Lexington Herald Leader's Commentary Editor, Rita Gatton, confirmed that she mistakenly replaced Gerald Ford's name with Richard Nixon's in Ted Jackson's essay. She said a correction will run tomorrow.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
A Democrat Fair Taxer In Georgia
Rep. Cynthia McKinney (D-Georgia) brought Cindy Sheehan in for her victory party in yesterday's Congressional primary. A surprising anti-crazy woman vote turned out and messed up the party, though. McKinney must now face Hank Johnson in an August 8 runoff. The district is very heavily Democrat, so the winner of the runoff is very likely going to be in Congress in January.
The increasing possibility of the runoff winner being Democrat Hank Johnson is interesting in that he supports the FairTax. Nancy Pelosi is refusing to let her Democrats in the House sign on to the FairTax bill, but I'm guessing too many Georgians understand the bill for him to be bullied.
The increasing possibility of the runoff winner being Democrat Hank Johnson is interesting in that he supports the FairTax. Nancy Pelosi is refusing to let her Democrats in the House sign on to the FairTax bill, but I'm guessing too many Georgians understand the bill for him to be bullied.
Bush Veto On "Science" Pork
I haven't heard one good explanation for why we should spend taxpayer money on fetal stem cell research. Dropping billions of government dollars on the the possibility that someday, some evidence may materialize that justifies the hype surrounding destroying embryos for science just doesn't add up.
If legitimate private sector research bears fruit, maybe we have a different discussion. (Yes, private sector research continues apace while liberals scream that people are dying because Bush hates science.) So far, the most successful fetal stem cell research has been proven fraudulent.
The only successes in stem cell research so far have not involved killing anyone. Adult stem cell research is much more promising and worthy of support.
I know Democrats and socially liberal Republicans view fetal stem cells as the answer to their abortion problems. Presidential hopefuls Bill Frist and John McCain has been sucked into this tempting vortex.
Conservatives would do well to talk about this issue in terms of pork spending for questionable research. That is what it is. In fact, I'm a little surprised no one has mentioned the similarities between this and the humans-cause-global- warming craze seeking to extract billions of dollars from Americans in the Kyoto Accord.
If legitimate private sector research bears fruit, maybe we have a different discussion. (Yes, private sector research continues apace while liberals scream that people are dying because Bush hates science.) So far, the most successful fetal stem cell research has been proven fraudulent.
The only successes in stem cell research so far have not involved killing anyone. Adult stem cell research is much more promising and worthy of support.
I know Democrats and socially liberal Republicans view fetal stem cells as the answer to their abortion problems. Presidential hopefuls Bill Frist and John McCain has been sucked into this tempting vortex.
Conservatives would do well to talk about this issue in terms of pork spending for questionable research. That is what it is. In fact, I'm a little surprised no one has mentioned the similarities between this and the humans-cause-global- warming craze seeking to extract billions of dollars from Americans in the Kyoto Accord.
School Choice, Now
Republicans propose $100 million to help low income kids escape failing schools; liberal big education establishment types say this:
“The buzzword in education today is accountability, yet school vouchers divert scarce public school dollars to unaccountable private schools,” Weaver said. “Private school students are not required to take federally mandated tests, private school teachers do not have to meet ‘highly qualified’ standards and private schools do not have to show Adequate Yearly Progress. Public schools can, and should, be held accountable, but lawmakers need to provide the resources to get the job done.”
That's National Education Association President Reg Weaver who now thinks that what private schools need is accountability. And, of course, he still thinks the only thing public schools need to improve is more taxpayer money.
“The buzzword in education today is accountability, yet school vouchers divert scarce public school dollars to unaccountable private schools,” Weaver said. “Private school students are not required to take federally mandated tests, private school teachers do not have to meet ‘highly qualified’ standards and private schools do not have to show Adequate Yearly Progress. Public schools can, and should, be held accountable, but lawmakers need to provide the resources to get the job done.”
That's National Education Association President Reg Weaver who now thinks that what private schools need is accountability. And, of course, he still thinks the only thing public schools need to improve is more taxpayer money.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Pimping Al Gore's Hazardous CO2
I can't imagine anything more dreadful than sitting down and watching Al Gore talk about how hot it is outside.
Does it ever occur to these people that even with the hottest ten years ever recorded coming in the last fourteen years, you are still only talking about a blink of an eye in historical terms. Recorded history on temperatures barely goes back a century. Not much sense in getting suicidal over a blip on the radar screen.
Favorite lefty blogger Mark Nickolas loves this Al Gore stuff. I see some folks have already gone on Bluegrass Report to straighten out some of the sillyness, but go on over and chime in if you get a chance. I would but Mark has violated my First Amendment rights and blocked me from his site.
Does it ever occur to these people that even with the hottest ten years ever recorded coming in the last fourteen years, you are still only talking about a blink of an eye in historical terms. Recorded history on temperatures barely goes back a century. Not much sense in getting suicidal over a blip on the radar screen.
Favorite lefty blogger Mark Nickolas loves this Al Gore stuff. I see some folks have already gone on Bluegrass Report to straighten out some of the sillyness, but go on over and chime in if you get a chance. I would but Mark has violated my First Amendment rights and blocked me from his site.
Louisville Mayor Sides With Fletcher
I know, it was just on the Louisville Arena deal, but this is the type of thing that, I think, makes the smart money hesitant to get too far away from the Governor.
Just last week, Rep. Ben Chandler said the highest priority for him in considering a run is his ability to spend time with his family. That is over for a year if he runs. That is over for five years if he wins.
I understand all the facts that line up against Ernie's re-election now. I buy several of them. The internal battle within RPK will come to a head soon. I'm just suggesting that it is too early to write off the possibility of a political comeback by Ernie Fletcher.
Just last week, Rep. Ben Chandler said the highest priority for him in considering a run is his ability to spend time with his family. That is over for a year if he runs. That is over for five years if he wins.
I understand all the facts that line up against Ernie's re-election now. I buy several of them. The internal battle within RPK will come to a head soon. I'm just suggesting that it is too early to write off the possibility of a political comeback by Ernie Fletcher.
State Partner Benefits Too Expensive
The Burgoo item on today's Lexington Herald-Leader editorial page tries to turn the U of L domestic partner controversy away from the main point.
The main point is that this stunt is going to cost taxpayers money all in the name of helping people, gay or straight, pretend to be married. Dick Roeding didn't help keep the focus on the money -- where it belongs -- with his "wrong kind of people" comment.
Kentucky Republicans who are made uncomfortable by being asked to weigh in on Roeding's words should help people realize what this mess is really all about.
The main point is that this stunt is going to cost taxpayers money all in the name of helping people, gay or straight, pretend to be married. Dick Roeding didn't help keep the focus on the money -- where it belongs -- with his "wrong kind of people" comment.
Kentucky Republicans who are made uncomfortable by being asked to weigh in on Roeding's words should help people realize what this mess is really all about.
Monday, July 17, 2006
Another GOP Candidate On The Way?
A developing rumor has Billy Harper of Paducah mulling a run for Governor. I haven't spoken to him, but comments from others fit into three categories:
1- "No comment."
2- "I'm concentrating on the 2006 races."
3- "I haven't thought about it."
1- "No comment."
2- "I'm concentrating on the 2006 races."
3- "I haven't thought about it."
CJ Gives Stupid Dem Stunt A Pass
Question: If a Republican former state senator -- working in an official capacity -- told a stupid lie that presented a danger to public health in Kentucky's largest city, don't you think the state's largest newspaper would throw a fit?
Of course they would.
But when Democrat David Karem, executive director of Waterfront Development Corp. and a former senator from Louisville, prints up signs that some fountain water containing dangerous quantities of fecal matter and bacteria contained "high levels of hydrogen" it's all just a well-intended joke.
I can see how this would be funny to ten-year-olds. What are these people thinking?
Of course they would.
But when Democrat David Karem, executive director of Waterfront Development Corp. and a former senator from Louisville, prints up signs that some fountain water containing dangerous quantities of fecal matter and bacteria contained "high levels of hydrogen" it's all just a well-intended joke.
I can see how this would be funny to ten-year-olds. What are these people thinking?
Hal Rogers Draft Site Goes Up
Another day brings another website urging a Republican to run for Governor of Kentucky against Ernie Fletcher.
The site's authorship is a secret, but its target couldn't be much more high profile. U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers (R-Somerset) is easily the most popular Republican in the state. Here is a link to the site.
Last week, two websites urging state Rep. Lonnie Napier (R-Lancaster) to run made a big splash. This one will as well. The likelihood that Rogers will want to stay in Congress probably means we aren't finished watching Republican draft sites go up.
The site's authorship is a secret, but its target couldn't be much more high profile. U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers (R-Somerset) is easily the most popular Republican in the state. Here is a link to the site.
Last week, two websites urging state Rep. Lonnie Napier (R-Lancaster) to run made a big splash. This one will as well. The likelihood that Rogers will want to stay in Congress probably means we aren't finished watching Republican draft sites go up.
Sunday, July 16, 2006
U of L Changes Story On Cost Of Benefits
The University of Louisville's official release on their decision to offer domestic partner benefits contradicts the financial impact estimate from their own Faculty and Staff for Human Rights' November 16, 2005 recommendation for the policy.
The only possible conclusion to draw from the discrepancy is the University of Louisville wants to sneak domestic partner benefits past the unsuspecting taxpayer by denying the obvious existence of substantial costs to be borne by its implementation.
U of L Provost Shirley Willihnganz repeats the canard that only by covering healthcare for unmarried significant others will the university "compete more effectively." This is so ridiculous it shouldn't even have to be addressed.
But one thing does. Here is what Willihnganz said Thursday:
Initial research on the financial impact of offering health insurance to domestic partners has shown that the university’s costs are not likely to go up.
“We may actually end up saving money, since employees will pay a premium to cover their dependent partner,” Willihnganz said.
That is a little different than the estimate from last November's official recommendation:
At U of L, the possible fiscal impact on insurance costs based on current costs is about $200,000 for same sex domestic partners, and $600,000 for both same-sex and opposite sex domestic partners.
These amounts probably assume no fraud, so the total cost is likely much higher. Signing on as domestic partners means just stating they have been "in their relationship" for six months.
Is it any surprise that the cheering going on right now (here, here, here, here, here, and here) failed to mention this little nugget?
The only possible conclusion to draw from the discrepancy is the University of Louisville wants to sneak domestic partner benefits past the unsuspecting taxpayer by denying the obvious existence of substantial costs to be borne by its implementation.
U of L Provost Shirley Willihnganz repeats the canard that only by covering healthcare for unmarried significant others will the university "compete more effectively." This is so ridiculous it shouldn't even have to be addressed.
But one thing does. Here is what Willihnganz said Thursday:
Initial research on the financial impact of offering health insurance to domestic partners has shown that the university’s costs are not likely to go up.
“We may actually end up saving money, since employees will pay a premium to cover their dependent partner,” Willihnganz said.
That is a little different than the estimate from last November's official recommendation:
At U of L, the possible fiscal impact on insurance costs based on current costs is about $200,000 for same sex domestic partners, and $600,000 for both same-sex and opposite sex domestic partners.
These amounts probably assume no fraud, so the total cost is likely much higher. Signing on as domestic partners means just stating they have been "in their relationship" for six months.
Is it any surprise that the cheering going on right now (here, here, here, here, here, and here) failed to mention this little nugget?
Who's Afraid Of School Choice?
Public school officials like those at the National Education Association (NEA) go crazy when parents start talking about helping poor students escape failing public schools. What's funny is they get even crazier when they are called on the carpet for their misuse of taxpayer funds to promote left-wing causes.
Just a week ago, the NEA held their national convention. The American Family Association learned of proposed resolutions by the teachers union in support of gay marriage.
Setting aside that particular issue for a minute, why is a teacher group discussing things like this when they are supposed to be working for students? These are the people who don't want you asking questions about spending your tax dollars more efficiently in the education of your children.
The fact is the NEA has gotten so comfortable and intellectually lazy they even bragged on their website about passing resolutions to "address diversity, discrimination and civil unions." And NEA President Reg Weaver complained about an attack on "marriage rights."
In the same breath, he accused the AFA liars of making the whole thing up.
You don't have to be a "religious conservative" to see the duplicity in this.
Your tax dollars support the NEA in this. And even if you agree with them on their political agenda, can you admit that spending time and money debating resolutions on diversity and civil unions does nothing to improve public education?
The folks at the NEA also spend an inordinate amount of time scaring people about how horrible it would be if we stopped supporting them in the pursuit of their political agenda. If we did that, we might take a look at how to improve the management of our monopoly government schools.
It might help if you read a little article from the Kentucky Alliance For School Choice.
What the thieves at the NEA don't want you to know is that school choice is proven to make public schools better, not destroy them. The only losers under school choice are the education bureaucrats who like to sit around at summer conferences promoting agenda items totally unrelated to the education of our children.
The KASC has a petition to help focus legislators on improving our public schools, not just the social lives of our education officials. Please sign it.
Just a week ago, the NEA held their national convention. The American Family Association learned of proposed resolutions by the teachers union in support of gay marriage.
Setting aside that particular issue for a minute, why is a teacher group discussing things like this when they are supposed to be working for students? These are the people who don't want you asking questions about spending your tax dollars more efficiently in the education of your children.
The fact is the NEA has gotten so comfortable and intellectually lazy they even bragged on their website about passing resolutions to "address diversity, discrimination and civil unions." And NEA President Reg Weaver complained about an attack on "marriage rights."
In the same breath, he accused the AFA liars of making the whole thing up.
You don't have to be a "religious conservative" to see the duplicity in this.
Your tax dollars support the NEA in this. And even if you agree with them on their political agenda, can you admit that spending time and money debating resolutions on diversity and civil unions does nothing to improve public education?
The folks at the NEA also spend an inordinate amount of time scaring people about how horrible it would be if we stopped supporting them in the pursuit of their political agenda. If we did that, we might take a look at how to improve the management of our monopoly government schools.
It might help if you read a little article from the Kentucky Alliance For School Choice.
What the thieves at the NEA don't want you to know is that school choice is proven to make public schools better, not destroy them. The only losers under school choice are the education bureaucrats who like to sit around at summer conferences promoting agenda items totally unrelated to the education of our children.
The KASC has a petition to help focus legislators on improving our public schools, not just the social lives of our education officials. Please sign it.
Saturday, July 15, 2006
UK's Jay Blanton To Taxpayers: Screw You!
I completely reject the idea that Kentucky's public universities somehow can't compete unless Kentucky taxpayers provide expensive health insurance benefits to the boyfriends and girlfriends of their employees.
UK spokesman Jay Blanton, though, wants the bennies and doesn't care what you think about it.
Blanton told the Lexington Herald-Leader "We certainly respect the opinions of legislators very much, but I don't think there are political considerations with respect to this decision," Blanton said.
In other words, he just wants your money and for you to keep your stupid opinions to yourself.
Last week, the University of Louisville decided to extend domestic partner benefits to all their employees. What's next, universal pet health insurance?
UK spokesman Jay Blanton, though, wants the bennies and doesn't care what you think about it.
Blanton told the Lexington Herald-Leader "We certainly respect the opinions of legislators very much, but I don't think there are political considerations with respect to this decision," Blanton said.
In other words, he just wants your money and for you to keep your stupid opinions to yourself.
Last week, the University of Louisville decided to extend domestic partner benefits to all their employees. What's next, universal pet health insurance?
Friday, July 14, 2006
Napier Versus Fletcher Update
Governor Fletcher addressed about 200 Madison county Republicans tonight, reminding audience members of his administration's achievements. At one point in his discussion of improvements to legislative districts, Fletcher took a good-natured swipe at Rep. Lonnie Napier. He said "Lonnie didn't come home empty handed this time."
When asked if he was going to oppose Fletcher next year, Napier repeated his statement that "People are talking and I am listening."
That was as close as we got to fireworks. Ernie and Lonnie were both definitely in campaign mode, though. There can be little doubt now that we are headed for a GOP primary for Governor Fletcher.
My guess at this point is Lonnie Napier is in the race for governor, something I didn't think was the case before tonight. I think the unintended consequence of his candidacy, though, is that others will be emboldened to jump in as well.
A crowded primary benefits the governor greatly, by giving him a good reason to get out and make his case but diluting the effect of primary opposition on his road to the nomination.
When asked if he was going to oppose Fletcher next year, Napier repeated his statement that "People are talking and I am listening."
That was as close as we got to fireworks. Ernie and Lonnie were both definitely in campaign mode, though. There can be little doubt now that we are headed for a GOP primary for Governor Fletcher.
My guess at this point is Lonnie Napier is in the race for governor, something I didn't think was the case before tonight. I think the unintended consequence of his candidacy, though, is that others will be emboldened to jump in as well.
A crowded primary benefits the governor greatly, by giving him a good reason to get out and make his case but diluting the effect of primary opposition on his road to the nomination.
KY GOP Big Spenders Beware
The Club For Growth Kentucky is on the way. Their mission is to defeat wasteful politicians. While we wait their official start-up, here is a sign of things to come.
Dems Count On Wage Tax Increase
Even if you really believe legislatively raising the minimum wage will ease the plight of millions of struggling American families, you have to admit that it is a targeted tax increase on business owners.
Okay, call it a fee increase. Or maybe a mandated benefit increase. (I guess we could start calling it an unfunded mandate. Where is the money going to come from, right?) The point here is Democrats invoke the old Communist rationale that they are using government coercion to transfer money from those who have to those who need.
Either way you slice it, the fact that it is the last idea Washington Democrats have with four months till the election bodes well for Republicans. The GOP doesn't deserve their good fortune, but a troubled America would clearly fare much worse with more of these Democrats in office.
Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said of the tax increase "it appeals to certain groups of people who don’t usually turn out to vote.” Who is he talking about, sixteen year old kids and illegal aliens?
Okay, call it a fee increase. Or maybe a mandated benefit increase. (I guess we could start calling it an unfunded mandate. Where is the money going to come from, right?) The point here is Democrats invoke the old Communist rationale that they are using government coercion to transfer money from those who have to those who need.
Either way you slice it, the fact that it is the last idea Washington Democrats have with four months till the election bodes well for Republicans. The GOP doesn't deserve their good fortune, but a troubled America would clearly fare much worse with more of these Democrats in office.
Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said of the tax increase "it appeals to certain groups of people who don’t usually turn out to vote.” Who is he talking about, sixteen year old kids and illegal aliens?
New Frankfort Budget Trouble
Kentucky's last two budgets have been good budgets except for the tax increases and spending increases.
TODAY'S UPDATE: And except for all the unconstitutional parts.
TODAY'S UPDATE: And except for all the unconstitutional parts.
Memo To Fletcher: Tax Cuts Work
Yes, I've said it here before. But I don't run Kentucky's only manufacturing trade association.
Governor Fletcher said yesterday on WVLK in Lexington we may be looking at additional tax relief in the 2007 General Assembly. Since we all pay business income taxes, scrapping the AMC would be a fine place to start.
Governor Fletcher said yesterday on WVLK in Lexington we may be looking at additional tax relief in the 2007 General Assembly. Since we all pay business income taxes, scrapping the AMC would be a fine place to start.
Democrats? What Democrats?
I have for you this morning just another isolated incident of liberal media bias.
Seems this AP story about allegations of vote buying in Bath County, KY couldn't manage to say which political party the involved people belong to.
Can there be any doubt if it was Republicans they would have mentioned that fact and described at least two other scandals involving Republicans to provide a little "perspective" to the story?
Seems this AP story about allegations of vote buying in Bath County, KY couldn't manage to say which political party the involved people belong to.
Can there be any doubt if it was Republicans they would have mentioned that fact and described at least two other scandals involving Republicans to provide a little "perspective" to the story?
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