Sen. John Kerry may not like being called an elitist snob, but it sure would be funny to see him try to deny that he is one.
Watching him try to distance himself from his own attack on America's soldiers has been pretty funny as well.
I wonder what Mike Weaver, John Yarmuth, and Ken Lucas think about that. More importantly, I would like to see what they say about it. Wouldn't you?
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
I-Care And Minimum Wage
The Kentucky legislature passed a health insurance subsidy this year and so, sign-ups start tomorrow in the I-CARE program. This bad idea is similar to raising the minimum wage in that it takes a more expensive path than is necessary to reach the desired end. Repealing Certificate of Need regulations would lower health insurance costs for all rather than using the subsidy to lower premiums for a few. In the same way, raising Earned Income Tax Credits would give money to poor families while the minimum wage mainly just increases the costs of employing teenagers.
State Public Pension Reform
South Carolina voters will decide next Tuesday, in part, how soon they want their public pension plan to blow up on them. Their $9 Billion deficit can begin to be addressed by allowing pension dollars to be invested in the stock market. It will take a constitutional amendment to allow it, and that is what is on this ballot.
Kentucky already allows equity investments in its pension plan. (The fact that we are much better off than South Carolina should give pause to local opponents of Social Security private accounts, but it probably won't.)
We can take little comfort in the fact that we have less than half the red ink soaking our pension plan that South Carolina has. Choosing equities is an easy decision to make. Kentucky's decisions will be more difficult. We need to start on it now.
Kentucky already allows equity investments in its pension plan. (The fact that we are much better off than South Carolina should give pause to local opponents of Social Security private accounts, but it probably won't.)
We can take little comfort in the fact that we have less than half the red ink soaking our pension plan that South Carolina has. Choosing equities is an easy decision to make. Kentucky's decisions will be more difficult. We need to start on it now.
Monday, October 30, 2006
I Am Blogger; Hear Me Roar
A couple of us Kentucky bloggers made national news earlier this year for being refused journalist's credentials at the state capitol.
The winds are changing.
Nicole Moore of the National Conference of State Legislatures is writing a column for State Legislatures magazine advocating for bloggers to be given press passes to legislative sessions.
The winds are changing.
Nicole Moore of the National Conference of State Legislatures is writing a column for State Legislatures magazine advocating for bloggers to be given press passes to legislative sessions.
Casino Gambling Is A Liberal Scam
If you like public policy that forces the government to expand and taxes to go up, you will really like the false promise of casino gambling in Kentucky. The rosy scenarios of new revenue for Frankfort never figure in the increased need for social services brought on by the fantastic allure of casinos. Quick losses mount up and families are torn down. The government usually winds up picking up the tab for the families. Unfortunately, the roads and schools build by gambling revenue are easy to see. The uncounted cost is much less visible.
So when the "additional" revenue is offset by new social spending, we wind up spending money on other projects we will need to clean up the toxic waste left by the casinos.
Will people gamble anyway? You bet. Will they run over to Indiana's gambling boats regardless of what Kentucky does? Sure.
But the scam is the idea that building casinos on this side of the river will be a net benefit to Kentuckians. Only casino-sponsored studies count the social costs at zero.
The fact is that casinos will cost the state more than they generate in revenue. It would be cheaper to just let those who want to go to Indiana for gambling trips go.
And speaking of scams: if you like the idea of higher government spending following the implementation of casinos, you will absolutely love the underhanded way the casinos are sneaking in to Kentucky in broad daylight.
It's called "let the people decide."
Looking at legislative campaigns across the state, members of both parties seem to have gotten in the "let the people decide" game.
If casinos can get on the ballot in Kentucky, they will dump many millions of dollars into advertising campaigns. Their organized opposition consists mainly of church groups. Fiscal conservatives would do well to tune into this debate very quickly.
Soon it will be too late.
So when the "additional" revenue is offset by new social spending, we wind up spending money on other projects we will need to clean up the toxic waste left by the casinos.
Will people gamble anyway? You bet. Will they run over to Indiana's gambling boats regardless of what Kentucky does? Sure.
But the scam is the idea that building casinos on this side of the river will be a net benefit to Kentuckians. Only casino-sponsored studies count the social costs at zero.
The fact is that casinos will cost the state more than they generate in revenue. It would be cheaper to just let those who want to go to Indiana for gambling trips go.
And speaking of scams: if you like the idea of higher government spending following the implementation of casinos, you will absolutely love the underhanded way the casinos are sneaking in to Kentucky in broad daylight.
It's called "let the people decide."
Looking at legislative campaigns across the state, members of both parties seem to have gotten in the "let the people decide" game.
If casinos can get on the ballot in Kentucky, they will dump many millions of dollars into advertising campaigns. Their organized opposition consists mainly of church groups. Fiscal conservatives would do well to tune into this debate very quickly.
Soon it will be too late.
Club For Growth Monday
Go to the Kentucky Club for Growth website and sign up for email updates.
Take a look at the national Club site for an idea of what is coming.
Take a look at the national Club site for an idea of what is coming.
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Democrat Robber Barons: Give Us Your $$$
Fortunately, DNC Chair Howard Dean speaks:
Democratic party chief Howard Dean said Democrats "have no intention of raising taxes except on the people who have got enormous tax breaks - like the oil companies - from the Republicans."
In Econ 101 class, the rest of us learned that a tax increase on producers gets passed on to consumers. So after Nancy Pelosi rolls back all the Bush tax cuts -- including the 10% tax bracket that hits everyone -- Mad Howard will be looking to hit us all at the gas pump.
Thanks for talking, guys.
Democratic party chief Howard Dean said Democrats "have no intention of raising taxes except on the people who have got enormous tax breaks - like the oil companies - from the Republicans."
In Econ 101 class, the rest of us learned that a tax increase on producers gets passed on to consumers. So after Nancy Pelosi rolls back all the Bush tax cuts -- including the 10% tax bracket that hits everyone -- Mad Howard will be looking to hit us all at the gas pump.
Thanks for talking, guys.
Saturday, October 28, 2006
The Seinfeld Roundtable
Imagine this: A "progressive" political discussion that lasted two hours, but wasn't about anything at all.
We Must Cut Kentucky Spending
The Cato Institute released this week its Fiscal Policy Report Card on America's Governors.
Governor Ernie Fletcher earned a C overall, with a B in revenue policies and an F in spending. The report lauded Fletcher's early spending cuts and chided him gently for tax modernization and not so gently for the spending in this year's budget agreement:
"He would be well advised to get the budget under control again and pursue tax cuts that actually cut the burden on taxpayers, not just shift it to other taxpayers."
Governor Ernie Fletcher earned a C overall, with a B in revenue policies and an F in spending. The report lauded Fletcher's early spending cuts and chided him gently for tax modernization and not so gently for the spending in this year's budget agreement:
"He would be well advised to get the budget under control again and pursue tax cuts that actually cut the burden on taxpayers, not just shift it to other taxpayers."
Friday, October 27, 2006
Charlie Hoffman Flunks, Newspaper Covers
State Rep. Charlie Hoffman (D-Georgetown) fueled speculation that he had tired of his job in Frankfort when he was seen taking the PVA exam on November 1, 2005. The Georgetown News-Graphic plays an interesting role in the likelihood you may not have heard this story before.
Passing the exam is the main requirement in running for county Property Valuation Administrator, which is an open seat in Scott county. Had Hoffman passed, he would not have to hide in the Capitol Annex when tough votes come up.
But he failed the exam.
Georgetown News-Graphic publisher Mike Scogin is covering for Hoffman's failure, but not very convincingly.
"He never took the test," Scogin said in an email. "It was someone else with the same name."
He also apparently had the same face.
Scogin offered no explanation for why this mysterious other Charlie Hoffman went with Rep. Hoffman's brother John, who also took the exam.
Passing the exam is the main requirement in running for county Property Valuation Administrator, which is an open seat in Scott county. Had Hoffman passed, he would not have to hide in the Capitol Annex when tough votes come up.
But he failed the exam.
Georgetown News-Graphic publisher Mike Scogin is covering for Hoffman's failure, but not very convincingly.
"He never took the test," Scogin said in an email. "It was someone else with the same name."
He also apparently had the same face.
Scogin offered no explanation for why this mysterious other Charlie Hoffman went with Rep. Hoffman's brother John, who also took the exam.
UK Law Profs: Dem Chris Frost Too Liberal Even For Us
Sources inside the UK Law School have expressed widespread fear and loathing among the faculty for the campaign of fellow professor Chris Frost in Kentucky's 88th house district.
That's quite a statement, given the liberal bent of the faculty there. If Chris Frost is too far gone to suit his own colleagues, he is easily too radical for the conservative 88th district.
What is the "family values" Kentucky Democratic Party doing recruiting liberals to run for public office?
That's quite a statement, given the liberal bent of the faculty there. If Chris Frost is too far gone to suit his own colleagues, he is easily too radical for the conservative 88th district.
What is the "family values" Kentucky Democratic Party doing recruiting liberals to run for public office?
Thursday, October 26, 2006
If You Really Want Affordable Healthcare...
Governor Fletcher spoke today at the groundbreaking for an ambulatory healthcare center in Nicholasville. In his remarks, he explained that Jessamine county will have to wait for a real hospital because if the state allowed one to go in too soon it could cause healthcare costs to increase.
He is right about the waiting. Certificate of Need laws will prohibit any expansion of healthcare services until all the Lexington hospitals can agree to allow a new hospital in the region. There is, however, no evidence that Certificate of Need laws lower healthcare costs. In fact, the opposite is true.
We keep hearing Kentucky is in a healthcare crisis. Certificate of Need is a part of the problem.
He is right about the waiting. Certificate of Need laws will prohibit any expansion of healthcare services until all the Lexington hospitals can agree to allow a new hospital in the region. There is, however, no evidence that Certificate of Need laws lower healthcare costs. In fact, the opposite is true.
We keep hearing Kentucky is in a healthcare crisis. Certificate of Need is a part of the problem.
What They Are Fighting For
With yet another vulgar screed, liberal blogmeister Daily Kos turned against Democrat Senate candidate Harold Ford for expressing ambivalence over homosexual "marriage."
Do we really want these people chairing committees and picking judges for us when they are so conflicted about what constitutes equal rights?
Do we really want these people chairing committees and picking judges for us when they are so conflicted about what constitutes equal rights?
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Drop Christian Care Medi-Share Suit
Kentucky is suing to stop Christian Care Medi-Share from collecting "premiums" and paying medical claims in the state.
This is a mistake.
Christian Care Medi-Share is not an insurance plan. They collect pre-determined amounts of money from people they agree to cover and then pay certain medical claims when they arise. If they help lower costs for some people, I don't see what the problem is. The challenge will be for consumers to judge the merits of the plan. If Medi-Share doesn't live up to its agreements, a lawsuit would be the proper remedy.
I see no need to ban a private company from providing a risk management service to consumers. The Fletcher administration claims to want to lower health care costs. This is one worth exploring and scrutinizing, but don't kill it because it doesn't fit the mold of other plans.
By the way, Christian Care Medi-Share will not accept my family for coverage because they disagree with our religious beliefs. I haven't examined the fine print on one of their plans in several years, so I am not promoting it. My reason for the post is to say we need more solutions to rising healthcare costs. This plan is being challenged because it is not insurance and, therefore, can not be regulated. Lack of insurance regulation is not a problem we have in Kentucky. Let the buyer beware, but let the buyer decide. Dropping the lawsuit against Christian Care Medi-Share is the right thing to do.
This is a mistake.
Christian Care Medi-Share is not an insurance plan. They collect pre-determined amounts of money from people they agree to cover and then pay certain medical claims when they arise. If they help lower costs for some people, I don't see what the problem is. The challenge will be for consumers to judge the merits of the plan. If Medi-Share doesn't live up to its agreements, a lawsuit would be the proper remedy.
I see no need to ban a private company from providing a risk management service to consumers. The Fletcher administration claims to want to lower health care costs. This is one worth exploring and scrutinizing, but don't kill it because it doesn't fit the mold of other plans.
By the way, Christian Care Medi-Share will not accept my family for coverage because they disagree with our religious beliefs. I haven't examined the fine print on one of their plans in several years, so I am not promoting it. My reason for the post is to say we need more solutions to rising healthcare costs. This plan is being challenged because it is not insurance and, therefore, can not be regulated. Lack of insurance regulation is not a problem we have in Kentucky. Let the buyer beware, but let the buyer decide. Dropping the lawsuit against Christian Care Medi-Share is the right thing to do.
Herald Leader's "Trust Issue"
Since the McClatchy purchase of the Lexington Herald Leader, the paper's employees have had a real attitude change.
The fact that the reporters are walking a little taller may not be easily visible to the untrained eye, but try talking to them. An infusion of hope does good things to people and new ownership has already instilled a new confidence among the news personnel. A fun example is found on the new political blog the Frankfort bureau publishes. They actually provide links to Louisville Courier Journal stories. That's their competition. What kind of dead tree publication does that?
One that wants to really dominate the marketplace.
The people on the editorial board express the same kind of renewed vigor. So it is all the more disappointing to see the same old nonsense printed on their pages. Today, they pander hard left in endorsing Teresa Isaac's economic development director. (I can hardly even say that term without laughing. Seems like Julian Beard should be called "the condemnation commisar.") But to the editorial board, he is the "stronger candidate."
Piffle. And what's worse, their main complaint against Bill Roberts is that he follows the law and can count to 100.
We can only hope the new energy at the Lexington Herald-Leader might somehow strengthen the arguments of the hardened editorial writers. The paper is hiring; maybe they will add some new blood there. Their columnists have the talent, but there are some major trust issues. A key ingredient to growing their paper will be addressing this shortcoming.
The fact that the reporters are walking a little taller may not be easily visible to the untrained eye, but try talking to them. An infusion of hope does good things to people and new ownership has already instilled a new confidence among the news personnel. A fun example is found on the new political blog the Frankfort bureau publishes. They actually provide links to Louisville Courier Journal stories. That's their competition. What kind of dead tree publication does that?
One that wants to really dominate the marketplace.
The people on the editorial board express the same kind of renewed vigor. So it is all the more disappointing to see the same old nonsense printed on their pages. Today, they pander hard left in endorsing Teresa Isaac's economic development director. (I can hardly even say that term without laughing. Seems like Julian Beard should be called "the condemnation commisar.") But to the editorial board, he is the "stronger candidate."
Piffle. And what's worse, their main complaint against Bill Roberts is that he follows the law and can count to 100.
We can only hope the new energy at the Lexington Herald-Leader might somehow strengthen the arguments of the hardened editorial writers. The paper is hiring; maybe they will add some new blood there. Their columnists have the talent, but there are some major trust issues. A key ingredient to growing their paper will be addressing this shortcoming.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Henry v. Jones: Eating Their Own
Former LG Steve Henry is starting to sound like this year's Bruce Lunsford the way he is going after the Dem front-runner, casino candidate Brereton Jones.
Monday, October 23, 2006
Mad As Hell, Not Going To Take It...
Whatever happens to the Republican party on election day, there can be no argument that some important changes need to occur after election day.
For limited government, pro-growth policy people, a big part of the answer is probably going to come from the Club for Growth of Kentucky. The Club is a group of like-minded individuals who pool their efforts to recruit and support good candidates for public office on the state level.
An unofficial membership drive between now and election day will provide great momentum to the effort to generate real change in our state.
Email me at kyprogress@yahoo.com with your name and contact information and ask your friends to do the same.
For limited government, pro-growth policy people, a big part of the answer is probably going to come from the Club for Growth of Kentucky. The Club is a group of like-minded individuals who pool their efforts to recruit and support good candidates for public office on the state level.
An unofficial membership drive between now and election day will provide great momentum to the effort to generate real change in our state.
Email me at kyprogress@yahoo.com with your name and contact information and ask your friends to do the same.
This Just In: Some Dems For Yarmuth
A breathless report from Louisville has the news that John Yarmuth actually gets to speak to a group of Democrats at a fundraiser in that city this week.
Sunday, October 22, 2006
Credit Where Credit Is Due
The MSM is now buzzing with the story of Ed Moore, a Republican Boone county clerk candidate who claimed falsely to be a Vietnam veteran.
Moore vigorously denied rumors of his fake credentials and escaped MSM scrutiny until an email report by Jeff Smith of Lexington dated October 17 started making the rounds.
Within three days of the initial report, Moore was coming clean and dropping out of the race.
Can there be any doubt that if Moore were a Democrat this story would have been ignored by the mainstream media for at least another two weeks or so?
Moore vigorously denied rumors of his fake credentials and escaped MSM scrutiny until an email report by Jeff Smith of Lexington dated October 17 started making the rounds.
Within three days of the initial report, Moore was coming clean and dropping out of the race.
Can there be any doubt that if Moore were a Democrat this story would have been ignored by the mainstream media for at least another two weeks or so?
Sick Kid Sunday Update
My six-year-old has a nasal infection and no government-sponsored health plan to tell him to come back in January.
Slightly less irritating is that we are going to have to hear all next week about Barak Obama running for President.
Senator Obama owes his entire political career to the media feeding frenzy over Jack Ryan's divorce that forced him from their 2004 Senate race. No doubt he is really just auditioning to be Hillary Clinton's running mate.
Slightly less irritating is that we are going to have to hear all next week about Barak Obama running for President.
Senator Obama owes his entire political career to the media feeding frenzy over Jack Ryan's divorce that forced him from their 2004 Senate race. No doubt he is really just auditioning to be Hillary Clinton's running mate.
We Don't Have One-Party Control
Senator Joe Biden just said on Fox News Sunday that he has talked to twelve Republicans who want to change parties after the election.
There is no question there are at least of half a dozen Republicans who would be likely suspects for this.
Democrats have had a lot of fun this year blaming one-party control for everything going wrong in Washington, but the Arlen Specter-Lincoln Chafee caucus has ensured repeatedly that conservative, small government initiatives can't get passed into law. And President Bush's problems haven't come as a result of conservative policies.
The Club for Growth tried valiantly to get rid of Arlen Specter and Lincoln Chafee in the last two elections. If only they had succeeded, Republicans would perhaps be facing election day on the strength of conservative policies rather than the hindrance of defending nonexistent one-party control.
Elevating Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid is one way to refocus the conservative movement, but that is becoming less and less likely to occur. Fear of Democrats is a real hindrance to tearing down the Republican house and starting all over.
Party reorganization conventions take place in 2008, but real change can and must start right after this election. The party belongs to the people and the fiscal policies politicians of both parties are giving lip service to have broad support. Restoring credibility to the Republican party remains a far shorter trek than one which might introduce it to the Democratic party or breathe viability into a Third Party.
There is no question there are at least of half a dozen Republicans who would be likely suspects for this.
Democrats have had a lot of fun this year blaming one-party control for everything going wrong in Washington, but the Arlen Specter-Lincoln Chafee caucus has ensured repeatedly that conservative, small government initiatives can't get passed into law. And President Bush's problems haven't come as a result of conservative policies.
The Club for Growth tried valiantly to get rid of Arlen Specter and Lincoln Chafee in the last two elections. If only they had succeeded, Republicans would perhaps be facing election day on the strength of conservative policies rather than the hindrance of defending nonexistent one-party control.
Elevating Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid is one way to refocus the conservative movement, but that is becoming less and less likely to occur. Fear of Democrats is a real hindrance to tearing down the Republican house and starting all over.
Party reorganization conventions take place in 2008, but real change can and must start right after this election. The party belongs to the people and the fiscal policies politicians of both parties are giving lip service to have broad support. Restoring credibility to the Republican party remains a far shorter trek than one which might introduce it to the Democratic party or breathe viability into a Third Party.
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Tennessee Democrat Screws Up Big
Harold Ford wiped out his entire U.S. Senate campaign with one silly stunt.
Here is video of the stunt.
Here is video of the stunt.
FLOP: For Local Ownership of Pasta
News that Lexington-based Fazoli's Restaurants sold out to a Florida company yesterday requires immediate action! Some government agency needs to begin condemnation action right now.
What do those Floridians know about fast food anyway? Can we trust them with part of the industry that provides half of our meals?
What do those Floridians know about fast food anyway? Can we trust them with part of the industry that provides half of our meals?
HD 73: Another Isolated Incident
In Winchester, we have another strong Republican candidate and another lackluster Democrat vying for the 73rd district House seat.
And the Lexington Herald Leader editorial board wants to stick with the lackluster Democrat.
And the Lexington Herald Leader editorial board wants to stick with the lackluster Democrat.
Friday, October 20, 2006
Where's Chetan Talwalker? We Need Him!
Remember Chetan Talwalker? He is the guy who got caught removing a Lexington city council candidate's yard signs and putting them in his truck. He said they were placed illegally and he was just helping a candidate who he was working against.
What a nice guy. Anyway, we need him to get out again and "help." The only problem is the offending candidate this time is in favor of eminent domain abuse, so he is probably not going to be quite so conscientious.
There are limits to the number of political yard signs a candidate can have on one property. I would complain to the city of Lexington about all the illegally placed signs on Harrodsburg Road, but they are Teresa Isaac for Mayor signs. I won't waste my time calling.
What a nice guy. Anyway, we need him to get out again and "help." The only problem is the offending candidate this time is in favor of eminent domain abuse, so he is probably not going to be quite so conscientious.
There are limits to the number of political yard signs a candidate can have on one property. I would complain to the city of Lexington about all the illegally placed signs on Harrodsburg Road, but they are Teresa Isaac for Mayor signs. I won't waste my time calling.
Fayette Jail Scandal
Rumors are circulating in downtown Lexington that FCDC director Ronald Bishop is going to get canned very soon for his role in the prisoner abuse cover-up in the Fayette county jail.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Julian Beard Quits Race For Council?
Teresa Isaac's economic development director Julian Beard has effectively abandoned his campaign for Lexington's 4th district council seat. Rumor has it his campaign officially died someplace between the mayor's short-lived effort to turn Lexington Mall into a softball field and the killer September flooding in downtown Lexington.
When last seen, Beard was still carping about the questionable judge's ruling that put him on the ballot even though he failed to get the necessary 100 petition signatures to qualify. His empty campaign never really got over that first hurdle.
On top of all that, his support for eminent domain abuse was enough to doom his campaign.
In other news, 7th district council candidate Justin Dobbs is still sorry for making up stuff about his opponent and putting it on the internet.
When last seen, Beard was still carping about the questionable judge's ruling that put him on the ballot even though he failed to get the necessary 100 petition signatures to qualify. His empty campaign never really got over that first hurdle.
On top of all that, his support for eminent domain abuse was enough to doom his campaign.
In other news, 7th district council candidate Justin Dobbs is still sorry for making up stuff about his opponent and putting it on the internet.
Kentucky Cameras For Bubba?
When Bill Clinton comes to Louisville next Tuesday, you can bet the television stations will all be there to record the fabulous non-event. So it was noteworthy today that not one single Lexington television station showed up when the next U.S. Senate Majority Leader spoke at a downtown event.
Clinton is bringing his irrelevent show to town to raise money for Democrats without ideas or money. Sen. Mitch McConnell came to a rally -- not a fundraiser -- for a dynamic House candidate. He spoke about Republican ideas.
Mike Farmer, the candidate, gratefully accepted the offer from McConnell to join him in Lexington and it was a good event. Rep. Susan Westrom (D-lightweight) says the event "shows how desperate they are to win."
Someone should ask the former state Democratic Party chair what it shows that her party is bringing in the impeached former President.
Clinton is bringing his irrelevent show to town to raise money for Democrats without ideas or money. Sen. Mitch McConnell came to a rally -- not a fundraiser -- for a dynamic House candidate. He spoke about Republican ideas.
Mike Farmer, the candidate, gratefully accepted the offer from McConnell to join him in Lexington and it was a good event. Rep. Susan Westrom (D-lightweight) says the event "shows how desperate they are to win."
Someone should ask the former state Democratic Party chair what it shows that her party is bringing in the impeached former President.
Elect Our Guy But Don't Ask Why!
The Lexington Herald Leader usually doesn't mince words on their editorial page when it comes to endorsing one particular party's candidates. Seems this year they aren't saying anything at all. It sounds a lot like when an outflanked, exasperated parent screams "Because I said so!"
Their ringing endorsement today for Rep. Charlie Hoffman (D-Georgetown) climaxes with the claim "Hoffman has developed into an effective lawmaker, albeit one who gets things done so quietly you hardly notice it."
Like when we hardly noticed him sneaking out of the debate about homosexual marriage two years ago to hide in the Capitol Annex until it was safe for him to come out?
Something like that, perhaps.
His one legislative accomplishment the Editorial Board could point to in eight years was last year's seat belt law.
Their ringing endorsement today for Rep. Charlie Hoffman (D-Georgetown) climaxes with the claim "Hoffman has developed into an effective lawmaker, albeit one who gets things done so quietly you hardly notice it."
Like when we hardly noticed him sneaking out of the debate about homosexual marriage two years ago to hide in the Capitol Annex until it was safe for him to come out?
Something like that, perhaps.
His one legislative accomplishment the Editorial Board could point to in eight years was last year's seat belt law.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Not MLK's Dream: Obama Says "I Had A Sense"
Sen. Barak Obama (D-IL) was on Oprah's coach yesterday auditioning for Vice President. He has a ton of charisma and will be a player in 2008 in some form.
The interview was actually going very well until he started talking about his perception of the war about to begin in Iraq, in the days before he started his run for the Senate.
"I said this is wrong," Obama said. "I had a sense that we would not find evidence of weapons of mass destruction."
For someone who liberally quotes Martin Luther King Jr., he sure does a fine Howard Dean impression now.
The interview was actually going very well until he started talking about his perception of the war about to begin in Iraq, in the days before he started his run for the Senate.
"I said this is wrong," Obama said. "I had a sense that we would not find evidence of weapons of mass destruction."
For someone who liberally quotes Martin Luther King Jr., he sure does a fine Howard Dean impression now.
When Can We Schedule Miami U. in Football?
University of Miami President Donna Shalala has issued a no-tolerance policy for fighting on the football field.
UK needs opponents like this.
UK needs opponents like this.
All Other Things Being Equal
A study of cocaine addicts tries to explain what motivates them. What a complete waste of time it is to worry about whether someone who has fried his brain is money-motivated or not.
Seems like they might start by asking themselves what kind of moron shows up for a "scientific" study and self-identifies as a criminal rather than simply ignoring the variable as they do here.
Kentucky's public school drug education program, DARE, seems to be effective. This is actually one program I would like to see expanded. Probably wouldn't hurt to start kids into the program earlier.
Seems like they might start by asking themselves what kind of moron shows up for a "scientific" study and self-identifies as a criminal rather than simply ignoring the variable as they do here.
Kentucky's public school drug education program, DARE, seems to be effective. This is actually one program I would like to see expanded. Probably wouldn't hurt to start kids into the program earlier.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
It's Raining Doctors!
Even some good conservative folks are starting to talk about the inevitability of single-payer healthcare.
The problem is that it is too easy to say "healthcare is a right" unless you stop and think about what a heartless slogan this is. If healthcare is a right for you, whose responsibility is it to provide you with your right? Seriously, point him out.
Don Boudreaux wrote a good column that compares healthcare rights to food rights.
The problem is that it is too easy to say "healthcare is a right" unless you stop and think about what a heartless slogan this is. If healthcare is a right for you, whose responsibility is it to provide you with your right? Seriously, point him out.
Don Boudreaux wrote a good column that compares healthcare rights to food rights.
Tax Me More. I Love It!
Rep. David Floyd has filed a bill to create a fund for people who want higher taxes to put their money where their mouths are.
I know it is not new, but this is a terrific idea.
I know it is not new, but this is a terrific idea.
The Brainless Lobby
The KEA cemented its reputation as a bunch of political hacks long ago.
So it serves merely as some form of sick comedy -- as in the joke's on us -- to read in the Lexington Herald Leader this morning that KEPAC, the teachers' union political action committee, endorsed a Senate challenger who purchased his college diploma from an unaccredited, online "university." They chose to do this merely on the strength of his being a Democrat and for his opposition to school choice in Kentucky.
School choice opponents never do explain how introducing market forces into the educational system -- that work well everyplace else they are tried -- presents such a threat to Kentucky students.
So it serves merely as some form of sick comedy -- as in the joke's on us -- to read in the Lexington Herald Leader this morning that KEPAC, the teachers' union political action committee, endorsed a Senate challenger who purchased his college diploma from an unaccredited, online "university." They chose to do this merely on the strength of his being a Democrat and for his opposition to school choice in Kentucky.
School choice opponents never do explain how introducing market forces into the educational system -- that work well everyplace else they are tried -- presents such a threat to Kentucky students.
Monday, October 16, 2006
Overpopulation: Another Great Reason To Panic Unnecessarily
Now that we have 300 million Americans, isn't it time NOW started campaigning for more abortions?
I found a great article about why there is no reason for concern that we are going to overpopulate ourselves to death.
I found a great article about why there is no reason for concern that we are going to overpopulate ourselves to death.
Dem Tidal Wave Fading Fast
A Washington Post story about election confidence in the White House is driving Democrats to distraction.
As weak as the argument is, the fact remains that would-be emergent Democrats are worse than the Republicans. All the scandals and difficulties would have been a golden opportunity for a stronger opposition party.
As weak as the argument is, the fact remains that would-be emergent Democrats are worse than the Republicans. All the scandals and difficulties would have been a golden opportunity for a stronger opposition party.
Sunday, October 15, 2006
Jay-Walking With Andy Mead
Have you seen the funny segment on Jay Leno where he asks random clueless people questions about current events? The Herald Leader did something similar Sunday with a story in which they made up questions, supposedly from the "man on the street" and then provided answers.
The topic was the government takeover of Kentucky American Water Company. Great way to start a rumor. Here's the question:
Q: Yeah, I heard that a Middle Eastern country was going to buy it. Is that right?
What a ridiculous stunt. I would expect as much from the editorial page, but this was from a reporter.
The topic was the government takeover of Kentucky American Water Company. Great way to start a rumor. Here's the question:
Q: Yeah, I heard that a Middle Eastern country was going to buy it. Is that right?
What a ridiculous stunt. I would expect as much from the editorial page, but this was from a reporter.
The Worst Public Policy: Casino Gambling
Isn't it pathetic that some Kentucky lawmakers have given up on conventional, effective methods of funding state government and are hanging their hopes on littering the state with out-of-state casinos?
Just got my copy of the non-partisan Kentucky Candidate Information Survey. It includes the following question, posed in the form of a statement for candidates to agree or disagree with, which in my edition goes out to all state candidates in central Kentucky:
"The General Assembly should pass a constitutional amendment to legalize casinos."
The only "undecided" was from the leading supporter of casino gambling in the state, Sen. Ed Worley (D-Richmond).
Worse than trying to sell the idea that casinos will add revenues to the state coffers is hiding your avid support for the bad idea from the people you represent.
Just got my copy of the non-partisan Kentucky Candidate Information Survey. It includes the following question, posed in the form of a statement for candidates to agree or disagree with, which in my edition goes out to all state candidates in central Kentucky:
"The General Assembly should pass a constitutional amendment to legalize casinos."
The only "undecided" was from the leading supporter of casino gambling in the state, Sen. Ed Worley (D-Richmond).
Worse than trying to sell the idea that casinos will add revenues to the state coffers is hiding your avid support for the bad idea from the people you represent.
They Spent $37,500 For This?
The six month long project to produce a Lexington Herald-Leader hit piece on Mitch McConnell looks pretty weak so far.
But hey, we got a meaningless email and a memo!
But hey, we got a meaningless email and a memo!
Saturday, October 14, 2006
A Cause Worthy Of Your Support
My oldest son spent much of this past summer at Centre College for the Governor's Scholars program. If you went -- or know someone who did -- you probably agree it is a crown jewel in Kentucky's educational system.
The only thing that would make it better is participation in greater numbers. As it is, admittance into the program is highly competitive and can usually serve little more than 1000 students statewide. My son's school sent only five students. Lack of resources is the only reason they couldn't send more.
Private donations could help greatly expand the program. More info about GSP is available on their website. Check it out. And then go here and send them a few bucks if you can.
The only thing that would make it better is participation in greater numbers. As it is, admittance into the program is highly competitive and can usually serve little more than 1000 students statewide. My son's school sent only five students. Lack of resources is the only reason they couldn't send more.
Private donations could help greatly expand the program. More info about GSP is available on their website. Check it out. And then go here and send them a few bucks if you can.
Barbra Streisand In A Bikini
Looking for a movie to take my boys to this morning and I came across a review written by Eleanor Ringel about the Robin Williams for President film, Man of the Year.
Best line of the review:
Further, Levinson's ideas are the expected liberal entreaties for fair play, tolerance, no-more-politics-as-usual. I imagine that, in Hollywood, these sentiments sound populist, evenhanded. But in a good chunk of the country, Levinson's pronouncements come off as if he spends every weekend swimming in Barbra Streisand's pool.
I think we will skip this one.
Best line of the review:
Further, Levinson's ideas are the expected liberal entreaties for fair play, tolerance, no-more-politics-as-usual. I imagine that, in Hollywood, these sentiments sound populist, evenhanded. But in a good chunk of the country, Levinson's pronouncements come off as if he spends every weekend swimming in Barbra Streisand's pool.
I think we will skip this one.
Friday, October 13, 2006
Pasley Goes Deep To Keep Liberal Base
Another day, another liberal politician in Kentucky pushing for socialized medicine...
Today at a lunchtime candidate forum at EKU, State Rep. Don Pasley (D-Winchester) flatly stated that America has to go to a single-payer health system.
His opponent is Ralph Alvarado, a Winchester physician.
It is highly unlikely Pasley came up with this left-wing idea on his own. I think Pasley is just trying to play some kind of weird class-envy card. That might work better for him if he talked to his neighbors and certain local groups of people more regularly than just at election time.
Democrats in Clark county are split on Pasley. Better keep an eye on this race.
Today at a lunchtime candidate forum at EKU, State Rep. Don Pasley (D-Winchester) flatly stated that America has to go to a single-payer health system.
His opponent is Ralph Alvarado, a Winchester physician.
It is highly unlikely Pasley came up with this left-wing idea on his own. I think Pasley is just trying to play some kind of weird class-envy card. That might work better for him if he talked to his neighbors and certain local groups of people more regularly than just at election time.
Democrats in Clark county are split on Pasley. Better keep an eye on this race.
Truth Found In Herald Leader Op-Ed
The Lexington Herald Leader's favorite story this decade has been about how great it would be if the Lexington city government owned the water company. So it was no surprise to see another one today.
Today's catastrophic abuse of reason and common sense contains one single shred of truth that cuts to the chase about the whole government takeover thing.
A yes vote on Nov. 7 would encourage whoever is in control of Kentucky American to negotiate with the city rather than risk having a Fayette County jury set a price as part of an eminent domain proceeding.
That's true. It's true in the sense that a bank robber "encourages" a teller to give him money rather than risk having a bullet placed gently inside her brain, but it is a true statement.
Today's catastrophic abuse of reason and common sense contains one single shred of truth that cuts to the chase about the whole government takeover thing.
A yes vote on Nov. 7 would encourage whoever is in control of Kentucky American to negotiate with the city rather than risk having a Fayette County jury set a price as part of an eminent domain proceeding.
That's true. It's true in the sense that a bank robber "encourages" a teller to give him money rather than risk having a bullet placed gently inside her brain, but it is a true statement.
It's a good thing that more and more people are coming to realize that eminent domain abuse is a terrible way to get people to return phone calls to bureaucrats or whatever they are trying to "encourage" local businesses to do now.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Did You Bring Your Gun To School?
High school seniors across Kentucky already have enough to distract them about now. So the Kentucky Division of Mental Health And Substance Abuse wants to pull them out of class and give them a survey on their drug use.
Sample questions include "How often (if ever) have you smoked marijuana?" and "How many times in the past year (12 months) have you taken a handgun to school?"
Good grief. Fortunately, parents can opt their children out of this silly thing.
Sample questions include "How often (if ever) have you smoked marijuana?" and "How many times in the past year (12 months) have you taken a handgun to school?"
Good grief. Fortunately, parents can opt their children out of this silly thing.
Worley Continues Name-Calling
At an embarrassing Tuesday night candidates forum, Senator Ed Worley continued his efforts to distract from his sordid performance of late by imitating Mel Gibson.
I don't know how Worley feels about "the jews," but his ire sure does get raised easily by his opponent Barry Metcalf. Tuesday, he called Metcalf "pompous and arrogant" for pointing out that Worley tells constituents he is against gambling and campaign donors elsewhere he is for it. In a Herald Leader article coming out Friday, Worley refers to Metcalf as a "yapping dog."
If Worley concentrated more on keeping his story straight about who he is ripping off in shady land deals, his avid support for casino gambling, or voting for state budgets without bonding $4 Billion for future generations to worry about, he wouldn't have to squeal so loud because his feet are being held to the fire.
I don't know how Worley feels about "the jews," but his ire sure does get raised easily by his opponent Barry Metcalf. Tuesday, he called Metcalf "pompous and arrogant" for pointing out that Worley tells constituents he is against gambling and campaign donors elsewhere he is for it. In a Herald Leader article coming out Friday, Worley refers to Metcalf as a "yapping dog."
If Worley concentrated more on keeping his story straight about who he is ripping off in shady land deals, his avid support for casino gambling, or voting for state budgets without bonding $4 Billion for future generations to worry about, he wouldn't have to squeal so loud because his feet are being held to the fire.
Weaver Flubs Foley, Again
Polwatchers has the story of the "dumbest Democrat running for Congress" inviting more people to his own butt-kicking.
A Tale Of Two Senators
The similarities are startling.
U.S. Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid(D-NV) finds himself embroiled in a real estate scandal involving false statements on his financial disclosure forms, use of a limited liability company to hide his actions, and hundreds of thousands of dollars in questionable profits.
Just like Kentucky state Senate Minority Leader Ed Worley(D-Richmond).
When an Associated Press reporter asked Reid for comment, he abruptly hung up the phone. Worley has blamed his troubles on his Republican opponent, even though a damning taped phone call of Worley and his victim has already been made public.
The similarities don't end there. So far, the mainstream media coverage of both cases has been spotty at best. That is a shame.
I've read the accounts of how difficult it was to uncover Enron. That was tough. Uncovering these two guys might take a little elbow grease, but not much. The evidence is right there. Probably more fun to keep asking if one gay Congressman is going to take down every Republican running for anything in America, but these stories of two men who got caught using their positions of power to enrich themselves under suspicious circumstances are more relevant in the real world.
U.S. Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid(D-NV) finds himself embroiled in a real estate scandal involving false statements on his financial disclosure forms, use of a limited liability company to hide his actions, and hundreds of thousands of dollars in questionable profits.
Just like Kentucky state Senate Minority Leader Ed Worley(D-Richmond).
When an Associated Press reporter asked Reid for comment, he abruptly hung up the phone. Worley has blamed his troubles on his Republican opponent, even though a damning taped phone call of Worley and his victim has already been made public.
The similarities don't end there. So far, the mainstream media coverage of both cases has been spotty at best. That is a shame.
I've read the accounts of how difficult it was to uncover Enron. That was tough. Uncovering these two guys might take a little elbow grease, but not much. The evidence is right there. Probably more fun to keep asking if one gay Congressman is going to take down every Republican running for anything in America, but these stories of two men who got caught using their positions of power to enrich themselves under suspicious circumstances are more relevant in the real world.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Keller Swings For Wrong Fence
Senate candidate James Keller, a Lexington Democrat, has seen the polls and knows it is time for losing candidates to get goofy.
Speaking this morning at a National Federation of Independent Business forum, Keller started talking about how much he wants more Brereton Jones-style socialized medicine in Kentucky.
Someone please tell Mr. Keller that this kind of stuff flies at ACLU rallies and limousine liberal cocktail parties, but not with business groups or in Lexington's 12th Senate district.
Speaking this morning at a National Federation of Independent Business forum, Keller started talking about how much he wants more Brereton Jones-style socialized medicine in Kentucky.
Someone please tell Mr. Keller that this kind of stuff flies at ACLU rallies and limousine liberal cocktail parties, but not with business groups or in Lexington's 12th Senate district.
FairTax Blogburst
Interesting article on an idea whose time has come.
by TD of The Right Track
As I see it, the main problem with the Income Tax is that it is virtually impossible to enforce completely and fairly. Compliance with the Income Tax depends on taxpayer truthfulness, which generally is motivated either by a) good character, or b) fear of an IRS audit. With the FairTax, the tax is collected when the money is spent, from everyone, with greatly reduced opportunities for non-compliance by the public.
For instance, what about the criminal element in our country? Have you ever heard of the Mafia? Or the drug dealer? Do you think that these people report 100% of their income? Of course not! They get out of paying a huge percentage of their actual tax bill by the simple expedient of not reporting all of their income. But these same individuals still have to pay utility bills, purchase prescription drugs, visit doctors, and buy food. And if they believe in the "high life" of new cars, fancy clothes and jewelry, and new homes, they're going to pay more than "Joe Six-pack" who chooses to drive a used car, or purchase a home that's not brand new.
And it's not just individuals who are managing to avoid paying taxes these days. Everyone in America has heard of the rush to move American companies "offshore", whether in whole or in part. Think about it -- have you ever seen an American-flagged commercial vessel? Oh sure, we've got our warships, but what about commercial boats that carry cargo or cruise passengers? Most of these are flying the flag of Liberia or Panama -- low-tax nations.
In the mid-1950s, about 33% of all income taxes collected were paid by American corporations. Today that number is down to approximately 10%. From "The FairTax Book" by Boortz and Linder:
"That plunge is a major factor in our recent soaring deficits. Indeed, international corporations are essentially "voluntary" taxpayers today, paying only that amount in taxes that they believe will avoid attracting embarrassing news coverage. These corporations believe that our draconian tax structures make their actions necessary. The OFCs [offshore financial centers, or banks - TD] make their plans feasible" [Emphasis added - TD]
Boortz and Linder make the point that if we eliminated all taxes on capital and labor, (which the FairTax does), the United States would become the world's tax haven.
We have the most stable economy, the most liquid and trusted markets, and the highest rates of labor productivity in the world -- and the trillions of dollars in those OFCs would flow back home to the United States for the very reason they found themselves offshore to start with.
And we're not just talking about American businesses coming home, we're talking about wooing corporations based in other countries into America. Think of the economic benefits! More productivity, lower unemployment, higher wages, and all occurring within a tax system that allows you at least partly to choose whether to pay taxes! Buy it new, pay a tax, buy it used and don't!
The FairTax Blogburst is jointly produced by Terry of The Right Track Blog and Jonathan of Publius Rendezvous. If you would like to host the weekly postings on your blog, please e-mail Terry. You will be added to our mailing list and blogroll.
TD
by TD of The Right Track
As I see it, the main problem with the Income Tax is that it is virtually impossible to enforce completely and fairly. Compliance with the Income Tax depends on taxpayer truthfulness, which generally is motivated either by a) good character, or b) fear of an IRS audit. With the FairTax, the tax is collected when the money is spent, from everyone, with greatly reduced opportunities for non-compliance by the public.
For instance, what about the criminal element in our country? Have you ever heard of the Mafia? Or the drug dealer? Do you think that these people report 100% of their income? Of course not! They get out of paying a huge percentage of their actual tax bill by the simple expedient of not reporting all of their income. But these same individuals still have to pay utility bills, purchase prescription drugs, visit doctors, and buy food. And if they believe in the "high life" of new cars, fancy clothes and jewelry, and new homes, they're going to pay more than "Joe Six-pack" who chooses to drive a used car, or purchase a home that's not brand new.
And it's not just individuals who are managing to avoid paying taxes these days. Everyone in America has heard of the rush to move American companies "offshore", whether in whole or in part. Think about it -- have you ever seen an American-flagged commercial vessel? Oh sure, we've got our warships, but what about commercial boats that carry cargo or cruise passengers? Most of these are flying the flag of Liberia or Panama -- low-tax nations.
In the mid-1950s, about 33% of all income taxes collected were paid by American corporations. Today that number is down to approximately 10%. From "The FairTax Book" by Boortz and Linder:
"That plunge is a major factor in our recent soaring deficits. Indeed, international corporations are essentially "voluntary" taxpayers today, paying only that amount in taxes that they believe will avoid attracting embarrassing news coverage. These corporations believe that our draconian tax structures make their actions necessary. The OFCs [offshore financial centers, or banks - TD] make their plans feasible" [Emphasis added - TD]
Boortz and Linder make the point that if we eliminated all taxes on capital and labor, (which the FairTax does), the United States would become the world's tax haven.
We have the most stable economy, the most liquid and trusted markets, and the highest rates of labor productivity in the world -- and the trillions of dollars in those OFCs would flow back home to the United States for the very reason they found themselves offshore to start with.
And we're not just talking about American businesses coming home, we're talking about wooing corporations based in other countries into America. Think of the economic benefits! More productivity, lower unemployment, higher wages, and all occurring within a tax system that allows you at least partly to choose whether to pay taxes! Buy it new, pay a tax, buy it used and don't!
The FairTax Blogburst is jointly produced by Terry of The Right Track Blog and Jonathan of Publius Rendezvous. If you would like to host the weekly postings on your blog, please e-mail Terry. You will be added to our mailing list and blogroll.
TD
WTVQ Web Survey Shows Ignorance
Local TV newsies at WTVQ in Lexington have put up a survey on their website that displays either their own ignorance about the eminent domain case on the Fayette county ballot next month, or it purposely seeks to mislead.
Rather than what is on their survey, a more applicable question might be --
"How do you plan to vote on the Lexington/Fayette Co. water issue?
Yes, they should start the legal process all over to get a price for Ky-American Water Company after a few years. The lawyers will win. KAWC and taxpayers will lose.
No, they should not waste the time and money. The lawyers will find other projects."
Instead, we get this. (At the bottom of the page.)
Rather than what is on their survey, a more applicable question might be --
"How do you plan to vote on the Lexington/Fayette Co. water issue?
Yes, they should start the legal process all over to get a price for Ky-American Water Company after a few years. The lawyers will win. KAWC and taxpayers will lose.
No, they should not waste the time and money. The lawyers will find other projects."
Instead, we get this. (At the bottom of the page.)
Election Update: Dems Paint Selves Into Corner With Own Broad Brush
The gay bashing is back-firing, Bubba is like a Seinfeld character, and all the drama about nothing during a real something has been a real turn-off.
While the Republicans in this Congress have been a disappointment, the lack of a credible opposition party has posed a real danger to America. Fortunately, the snarky moveon.org revolution is showing signs of running its course. When it does, maybe we can do more governing by a system whose players keep each other honest with real issues like tax reform and entitlement reform.
While the Republicans in this Congress have been a disappointment, the lack of a credible opposition party has posed a real danger to America. Fortunately, the snarky moveon.org revolution is showing signs of running its course. When it does, maybe we can do more governing by a system whose players keep each other honest with real issues like tax reform and entitlement reform.
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Mike Weaver Gets A Little Crazy
First, he lies. Then he says something stupid. Then he falls all over himself trying to take back his stupid comment.
Mike Weaver should definitely have sat this one out. Trying to score political points for himself on the Mark Foley mess, Weaver said "This has to do with 16-year-old boys," which it doesn't. Then he said "that showed a very liberal tendency from some of the leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives," which it didn't.
Then his campaign manager interrupted the interview with a Lexington Herald Leader reporter to add that Weaver was "not saying liberals are pedophiles."
Whew! Nice catch by Ryan Alessi and John Stamper and a funny story about a soon-to-be unemployed politician.
Democrats really think inferior candidates are going to be swept into office on this idiotic thing. Lots of luck.
Mike Weaver should definitely have sat this one out. Trying to score political points for himself on the Mark Foley mess, Weaver said "This has to do with 16-year-old boys," which it doesn't. Then he said "that showed a very liberal tendency from some of the leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives," which it didn't.
Then his campaign manager interrupted the interview with a Lexington Herald Leader reporter to add that Weaver was "not saying liberals are pedophiles."
Whew! Nice catch by Ryan Alessi and John Stamper and a funny story about a soon-to-be unemployed politician.
Democrats really think inferior candidates are going to be swept into office on this idiotic thing. Lots of luck.
Lexington Jail Scandal Update
Beatings of prisoners in the Lexington jail continued after the FBI raid on the facility, inside sources report. They continued after Mayor Isaac claimed publicly that no civil rights violations were happening there.
Since Corporal John Vest announced that he had been working with the FBI in their investigation though, the same sources report the illegal beatings had stopped.
Also, the City of Lexington has granted Corporal Vest's request for Whistleblower status.
Since Corporal John Vest announced that he had been working with the FBI in their investigation though, the same sources report the illegal beatings had stopped.
Also, the City of Lexington has granted Corporal Vest's request for Whistleblower status.
Busted: Candidate OK's Abuse
Senate candidate Jim Keller, a Lexington Democrat, sent out a letter supporting Teresa Isaac's effort to start the eminent domain process all over again and waste millions of local tax dollars in a court fight against Kentucky-American Water Company.
Monday, October 09, 2006
Worley Fraud Case Lands In Madison
The fraud case against Senator Ed Worley (D-Richmond) has been re-filed in Madison Circuit Court.
This was the federal case dismissed last month on a jurisdictional issue in which Worley's sworn testimony contradicted a secretly recorded phone call which Worley tried frantically to have thrown out as evidence. The transcript is available on the Federal Court "Pacer" system. The newspapers have this. It will be interesting to see if they print it like they did all the Merit investigation e-mails.
If the merit thing was worth hundreds and hundreds of articles, this is certainly worth a few. Don't you think so?
This was the federal case dismissed last month on a jurisdictional issue in which Worley's sworn testimony contradicted a secretly recorded phone call which Worley tried frantically to have thrown out as evidence. The transcript is available on the Federal Court "Pacer" system. The newspapers have this. It will be interesting to see if they print it like they did all the Merit investigation e-mails.
If the merit thing was worth hundreds and hundreds of articles, this is certainly worth a few. Don't you think so?
Sans Ideas, Abusing Facebook
Only the Daily Kos generation would think they are actually accomplishing something by sending personal information on their more conservative classmates to military recruiters.
House Dem: Spend Casino $$$ On Horses
State Rep. Don Pasley isn't the sharpest tool in the shed.
In a Winchester Sun article, Pasley strays from the talking points that casino gambling -- his party's second best plan for economic expansion, the first is raising the minimum wage -- will cure all that ails Kentucky. Gambling promoters in the General Assembly are supposed to say that education and roads will benefit from casinos and that there will be little or no social costs.
Pasley has somewhat more modest plans for his casino cash, he wants it all to go to horse breeders:
If casino-style gambling is allowed, he explained, it should be connected to horse racing and the revenue should go to breeder incentive programs.
How many families, I wonder, does Pasley want to destroy in shiny casinos to prop up the moribund horse industry in Kentucky? That is somewhat better than the usual approach of promising casinos will fix all Kentucky's money problems, but that will be small comfort to the victims of this terrible idea.
By the way, with the super-sized social spending increases caused by casinos the victims will include everyone in the commonwealth. Taxes will have to go up. Just ask New Jersey.
In a Winchester Sun article, Pasley strays from the talking points that casino gambling -- his party's second best plan for economic expansion, the first is raising the minimum wage -- will cure all that ails Kentucky. Gambling promoters in the General Assembly are supposed to say that education and roads will benefit from casinos and that there will be little or no social costs.
Pasley has somewhat more modest plans for his casino cash, he wants it all to go to horse breeders:
If casino-style gambling is allowed, he explained, it should be connected to horse racing and the revenue should go to breeder incentive programs.
How many families, I wonder, does Pasley want to destroy in shiny casinos to prop up the moribund horse industry in Kentucky? That is somewhat better than the usual approach of promising casinos will fix all Kentucky's money problems, but that will be small comfort to the victims of this terrible idea.
By the way, with the super-sized social spending increases caused by casinos the victims will include everyone in the commonwealth. Taxes will have to go up. Just ask New Jersey.
Sunday, October 08, 2006
A Little Perspective On Mark Foley
In case you still think Americans are really going to accept tax increases and surrender in the war on terror as some kind of bizarre penance for homosexual emails, Mark Steyn has some help.
The pendulum will swing back hard the other way on this, as cooler heads prevail.
The pendulum will swing back hard the other way on this, as cooler heads prevail.
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Why Stop Dumbing Down Now? It's Working So Well In Kentucky
If liberal education bureaucrats were merely stupid, the law of averages dictates some of their policies would actually help kids who need help.
What, you may wonder, has me so worked up as to be paraphrasing Joe McCarthy? It was a morning jolt of irony from the pages of the Lexington Herald-Leader. On the editorial page, a retired liberal professor from the University of Kentucky bemoans higher standards for schoolchildren and actually says "Kentucky must redefine "proficient" to a more reasonable level."
The ironic part is the news story in the same paper pointing out that over half of Kentucky high school graduates who go to college aren't ready for college work.
They include a map that tells the story.
What, you may wonder, has me so worked up as to be paraphrasing Joe McCarthy? It was a morning jolt of irony from the pages of the Lexington Herald-Leader. On the editorial page, a retired liberal professor from the University of Kentucky bemoans higher standards for schoolchildren and actually says "Kentucky must redefine "proficient" to a more reasonable level."
The ironic part is the news story in the same paper pointing out that over half of Kentucky high school graduates who go to college aren't ready for college work.
They include a map that tells the story.
Friday, October 06, 2006
Good News For KY Political Bloggers
The Lexington Herald-Leader has been, over the last few months, turning into a blog. You can comment on news stories, right?
Well, today the transformation is complete. They have started their own political blog.
Here.
I say the more, the merrier.
Well, today the transformation is complete. They have started their own political blog.
Here.
I say the more, the merrier.
Fayette Sheriff's Race Turns On Mailer
You know when you see Fayette County Sheriff Kathy Witt saying:
"I would never, ever exploit taxpayer dollars for my own benefit. That just won't happen for my administration,"
it means she just got caught doing that very thing. Funny story.
"I would never, ever exploit taxpayer dollars for my own benefit. That just won't happen for my administration,"
it means she just got caught doing that very thing. Funny story.
Thursday, October 05, 2006
KY GOP Senate Update: Looks Good
Simply put, Ed Worley's Senate Democrats have completely failed to get anything going in the fall campaigns.
Left-winger Jim Keller and Carroll "Elmer Fudd" Hubbard have completely run out of gas in the stretch run. No other Senate Republican faced a serious challenge.
Left-winger Jim Keller and Carroll "Elmer Fudd" Hubbard have completely run out of gas in the stretch run. No other Senate Republican faced a serious challenge.
Liberals' Only Issue Gone
Looks like Rep. Mark Foley (R-FL) was creepy, gay, and not a pedophile.
Those crazy comparisons to Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA) weren't so far off base after all.
Hastert is okay and the unstoppable Democrat landslide takes a huge hit.
This will break Nancy Pelosi's heart. But I still think Ben Chandler will stay put in his minority seat in Congress and continue to refuse to eat lunch with the rest of the Kentucky delegation.
Those crazy comparisons to Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA) weren't so far off base after all.
Hastert is okay and the unstoppable Democrat landslide takes a huge hit.
This will break Nancy Pelosi's heart. But I still think Ben Chandler will stay put in his minority seat in Congress and continue to refuse to eat lunch with the rest of the Kentucky delegation.
Democrat 2007 Ticket Shaping Up
Democrat insiders report it looks like Brereton Jones is going to pick Crit Luallen as his running mate and run for Governor.
The interesting thing is just as Hillary Clinton is running for President, the man who actually tried HillaryCare will be hoping Kentuckians forgot what damage he and his party did to the health insurance market in 1994.
The interesting thing is just as Hillary Clinton is running for President, the man who actually tried HillaryCare will be hoping Kentuckians forgot what damage he and his party did to the health insurance market in 1994.
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Ken Lucas In Deep Macaca
Ken Lucas really stepped in it.
The Fairness Alliance folks are hopping mad after the Congressional candidate Ken Lucas said Republicans should have known former Rep. Mark Foley was a pedophile because he is gay.
For the record, most pedophiles are heterosexual and most homosexuals are not pedophiles.
The Fairness Alliance folks are hopping mad after the Congressional candidate Ken Lucas said Republicans should have known former Rep. Mark Foley was a pedophile because he is gay.
For the record, most pedophiles are heterosexual and most homosexuals are not pedophiles.
Sen. Ed Worley Caught In Fed Bust
Several news outlets are working on a story about Sen. Ed Worley's involvement in an illegal Ponzi scheme.
Worley may claim the U.S. District Court of Western Kentucky's judgement that he must return $102,800 in fraudulently obtained funds came about as a result of him being duped by his stockbroker, who is now in federal prison for his role in the scheme.
How is it that every time Ed Worley gets caught up in another mess someone is putting money IN his account?
This could only be funnier if they actually found the money in his freezer.
Worley may claim the U.S. District Court of Western Kentucky's judgement that he must return $102,800 in fraudulently obtained funds came about as a result of him being duped by his stockbroker, who is now in federal prison for his role in the scheme.
How is it that every time Ed Worley gets caught up in another mess someone is putting money IN his account?
This could only be funnier if they actually found the money in his freezer.
Indiana GOP'ers Support FairTax
Indiana's Congressional delegation includes three co-sponsors of the FairTax -- Mike Pence, Mike Sodrel, and Dan Burton. Kentucky would do well to have such strong leadership on the most important domestic policy issue facing our nation.
Uncovering Lexington Jail Cover-Up
A large group of abuse lawsuits are about to be filed against the Fayette County Detention Center.
It's time for Ronald Bishop to get his resume together.
It's time for Ronald Bishop to get his resume together.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Really Helping The Middle Class
The Dow Jones Industrial Average hit an all-time high today and your Social Security is going broke. Democrats have fought to maintain Social Security's status quo for the last two years.
Fayette Jail Admin: Deny And Lie
Ronald Bishop, Director of Lexington's Detention Center should have stuck on "No comment."
This morning on WVLK AM 590's news, he was heard saying about federal whistleblower Corporal John Vest:
"The same thing he is reporting to the FBI, he is guilty of here."
One of the problems Bishop has is that this statement is not true. He should be challenged to back up his inflammatory statements and efforts to deflect attention from the real issue, which is the federal investigation of his jail. The key word is "guilty," which is demonstrably false.
Today looks like a great day to get rid of Ronald Bishop.
This morning on WVLK AM 590's news, he was heard saying about federal whistleblower Corporal John Vest:
"The same thing he is reporting to the FBI, he is guilty of here."
One of the problems Bishop has is that this statement is not true. He should be challenged to back up his inflammatory statements and efforts to deflect attention from the real issue, which is the federal investigation of his jail. The key word is "guilty," which is demonstrably false.
Today looks like a great day to get rid of Ronald Bishop.
Please Tell Me This Is A Sting
The Lexington Herald Leader has a Part-Time job listing in their classified section in which The University of Kentucky is seeking recreational users of cocaine and methamphetamine to study the "physiological and behavioral effects" of these and other drugs.
Your tax dollars at work.
Your tax dollars at work.
What Say You, Speaker Hastert?
The Washington Times this morning calls on Speaker Denny Hastert to resign and for Republicans to replace him with Rep. Henry Hyde (R-IL), who retires at the end of the year, for the investigation into former Rep. Mark Foley (R-Disgraced Pedophile).
I wouldn't be surprised at all if he does resign quickly. That's the best way to take the focus off the individuals and put it back on doing the right thing.
I wouldn't be surprised at all if he does resign quickly. That's the best way to take the focus off the individuals and put it back on doing the right thing.
Monday, October 02, 2006
Mark Foley Looks Like Lone Gunman
Re: Congressman Mark Foley (R-FL), who I never heard of until ABC News printed his sexual instant messages to boys who worked as Congressional pages
The Hastert "lie" was based on the belief that his story contradicted Boehner's story. Now they are saying that what they were aware of -- as were several media outlets and others -- was the "overly-friendly" email and not the sexual instant messages. You can't reasonably be expected to hang someone out to dry for being a little creepy -- that would wipe out most of Congress -- but when the instant messages came out, Foley was on the next bus home. Nothing will mollify the Republican-haters out there, but the facts of this case -- as troubling as they are -- don't seem worthy of condemning the entire party, its leaders, or anyone other than Foley himself. At least not while Rep. William Jefferson, Sen. Ted Kennedy, Rep. Barney Frank and friends cling to their offices despite their hijinks, which have been at least tacitly endorsed by their party.
The Hastert "lie" was based on the belief that his story contradicted Boehner's story. Now they are saying that what they were aware of -- as were several media outlets and others -- was the "overly-friendly" email and not the sexual instant messages. You can't reasonably be expected to hang someone out to dry for being a little creepy -- that would wipe out most of Congress -- but when the instant messages came out, Foley was on the next bus home. Nothing will mollify the Republican-haters out there, but the facts of this case -- as troubling as they are -- don't seem worthy of condemning the entire party, its leaders, or anyone other than Foley himself. At least not while Rep. William Jefferson, Sen. Ted Kennedy, Rep. Barney Frank and friends cling to their offices despite their hijinks, which have been at least tacitly endorsed by their party.
Fayette Jail Whistleblower Under Attack
Fayette County jail authorities are working up a press conference to attempt to discredit whistleblower Corporal John Vest.
It is pathetic when an individual tries to clean up a horrific situation of physical abuse and all the muckety-mucks can think of is CYA.
It is pathetic when an individual tries to clean up a horrific situation of physical abuse and all the muckety-mucks can think of is CYA.
Sunday, October 01, 2006
Bringing Kentucky -- Kicking And Screaming -- Into Information Age
With most legislative bills in Frankfort passing on nearly unanimous floor votes, it is obvious the real action goes on in committees.
That is why the bipartisan effort to put committee votes online is a no-brainer.
The Bluegrass Institute has the latest...
That is why the bipartisan effort to put committee votes online is a no-brainer.
The Bluegrass Institute has the latest...
Lexington's Own Little Abu Ghraib
Very important announcement coming Monday morning regarding the FBI investigation into the Lexington-Fayette County Jail.
I would tell you but -- well, no, I just can't tell you. Stay tuned...
I would tell you but -- well, no, I just can't tell you. Stay tuned...
Friday, September 29, 2006
KY Dems October Surprise Unmasked
Saturday update: I mentioned today's actual big story, that Bill Clinton is coming to Kentucky, three weeks ago. As I reported in the comments of that post, Jerry Lundergan denied to me that Clinton was coming. Typical. I wonder how long it will take him to come clean on the Bill Clinton money. I see today's AP story repeats the lie that Hillary's visit last year brought in $600,000. Anyway, the racist thing is coming soon enough, I would imagine.
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Those crafty Kentucky Democrats have called a 10 AM press conference for Saturday morning to announce that Republicans are racists.
Sounds familiar, doesn't it?
The current spin is that Secretary of State Trey Grayson's multi-state initiative to cut down on voter fraud in the last election is under attack by Attorney General Greg Stumbo. For the sake of accuracy, we can really leave Stumbo out of the story for now, though, because his lawsuit has nothing to do with these shenanigans.
Democrats are going to allege that 8000 African-American Kentucky voters were purged from the rolls last year out of sheer Republican meanness. The tiny little problem with this is it is not true.
Not that this will stop them from trying to make hay.
This could be another great opportunity for the blogosphere to shine light on just the latest garbage from the Left. We'll see.
Public records show slightly less than 300 people statewide were questioned erroneously about their voter registration in the last election, but every single one of them voted. Further, the purge was aimed at people who were registered in two different states simultaneously and only affected the older registration.
And the really sad part is there was no racial aspect to the entire project. The computers involved had no knowledge of the race of any voter involved. The African-American community is being abused by Democrats here.
We're ready for you guys.
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Those crafty Kentucky Democrats have called a 10 AM press conference for Saturday morning to announce that Republicans are racists.
Sounds familiar, doesn't it?
The current spin is that Secretary of State Trey Grayson's multi-state initiative to cut down on voter fraud in the last election is under attack by Attorney General Greg Stumbo. For the sake of accuracy, we can really leave Stumbo out of the story for now, though, because his lawsuit has nothing to do with these shenanigans.
Democrats are going to allege that 8000 African-American Kentucky voters were purged from the rolls last year out of sheer Republican meanness. The tiny little problem with this is it is not true.
Not that this will stop them from trying to make hay.
This could be another great opportunity for the blogosphere to shine light on just the latest garbage from the Left. We'll see.
Public records show slightly less than 300 people statewide were questioned erroneously about their voter registration in the last election, but every single one of them voted. Further, the purge was aimed at people who were registered in two different states simultaneously and only affected the older registration.
And the really sad part is there was no racial aspect to the entire project. The computers involved had no knowledge of the race of any voter involved. The African-American community is being abused by Democrats here.
We're ready for you guys.
No Cable TV For Terrorists
The U.S. Senate voted yesterday to go ahead and treat enemy combatants like enemies and not white collar criminals.
Good move. And as you will see, President Hillary Clinton, President Ted Kennedy, President John Kerry, and President Evan Bayh voted for cable tv, three hot meals a day, and free healthcare for terrorists.
Good move. And as you will see, President Hillary Clinton, President Ted Kennedy, President John Kerry, and President Evan Bayh voted for cable tv, three hot meals a day, and free healthcare for terrorists.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Price Fixing Of Wages Hurts Workers
The same folks who are pushing minimum wage tax increases as economic development are now trying to make hay out of a bill that would push more women out of competitive jobs.
Lexington Mayor's Race Is Now Over
Remember when Lexington's eminent domain abuse supporters used to scoff at water company takeover opponents who said "What's next, are you going to takeover Lexmark or Paul Miller Ford?"
Well, Mayor Teresa Isaac just said she wants to take Lexington Mall by eminent domain and turn it into a softball complex.
I am not making this up.
Well, Mayor Teresa Isaac just said she wants to take Lexington Mall by eminent domain and turn it into a softball complex.
I am not making this up.
Maybe It Was The Free Health Care: Boy Flees Miami, Goes To Cuba
Pretty funny story about a 14 year-old boy who slipped out of his Miami home and ran away to Cuba.
Liberals can relax; this was no political statement. Sounds like a he is a little troubled, a little smitten with a girl in Cuba, and had access to his mother's credit card.
The money quote comes from Dad: ''I'm hoping he will spend a couple of months there without his computer, plasma TV, iPod, and he'll want to come back,'' the father said. ``My son likes the good things in life. He won't find that in Cuba.''
Liberals can relax; this was no political statement. Sounds like a he is a little troubled, a little smitten with a girl in Cuba, and had access to his mother's credit card.
The money quote comes from Dad: ''I'm hoping he will spend a couple of months there without his computer, plasma TV, iPod, and he'll want to come back,'' the father said. ``My son likes the good things in life. He won't find that in Cuba.''
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Score Another One For The ACLU
Congrats to the bed-wetters at the ACLU for making sure freaks like Bart McQueary of Harrodsburg can yell and scream nonsense at military funerals.
If we can limit freedom of speech in the case of someone yelling "fire!" in a movie theater to cause a panic, surely we can do it without harm to the Republic to give a little peace to innocent family members of dead soldier.
Now we need to go back and make a law limiting the penalty for beating the crap out of a military funeral protestor to a $50 fine.
If we can limit freedom of speech in the case of someone yelling "fire!" in a movie theater to cause a panic, surely we can do it without harm to the Republic to give a little peace to innocent family members of dead soldier.
Now we need to go back and make a law limiting the penalty for beating the crap out of a military funeral protestor to a $50 fine.
Racial Epithets And Lies In Virginia
Journalists' favorite gotcha question for candidates used to be "Have you ever smoked pot?" This year it is quickly becoming "Have you ever used the n-word?"
After Sen. George Allen's (R-Virginia) macaca moment, a former teammate came forward after decades and several gubernatorial and Senate campaigns to suddenly recall Allen using the racial slur as a young man.
Now Allen's Democrat opponent Jim Webb has had his own "I didn't inhale" experience.
When asked if he had ever used the n-word, he said "I don't think that there's anyone who grew up around the South that hasn't had the word pass through their lips at one time or another in their life."
He apparently realized his inadvertent clarity and said "I have never used that word in my general vocabulary or in any derogatory way."
Interesting to note, at the end of this AP story about the ordeal, talking head Larry Sabato injected himself into the controversy by saying one day he knew Sen. Allen had used the epithet, before admitting the next day that he didn't know any such thing.
No word on if Sabato has any lies to tell about the Democrat Webb.
What a silly mess.
After Sen. George Allen's (R-Virginia) macaca moment, a former teammate came forward after decades and several gubernatorial and Senate campaigns to suddenly recall Allen using the racial slur as a young man.
Now Allen's Democrat opponent Jim Webb has had his own "I didn't inhale" experience.
When asked if he had ever used the n-word, he said "I don't think that there's anyone who grew up around the South that hasn't had the word pass through their lips at one time or another in their life."
He apparently realized his inadvertent clarity and said "I have never used that word in my general vocabulary or in any derogatory way."
Interesting to note, at the end of this AP story about the ordeal, talking head Larry Sabato injected himself into the controversy by saying one day he knew Sen. Allen had used the epithet, before admitting the next day that he didn't know any such thing.
No word on if Sabato has any lies to tell about the Democrat Webb.
What a silly mess.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Trouble For Jessamine's Cecil Moss?
Rumors of abuse have swirled around Jessamine county's jail for years.
Jailer Frank Hubbard is retiring and his long-time chief deputy -- Cecil Moss -- is running to replace him. His opponent has put up a website that is attracting a lot of attention for its inflammatory charges.
John Vest, the Republican nominee for Jailer, says he has a lot more information about trouble at the jail in Nicholasville.
This one might be interesting to watch.
Jailer Frank Hubbard is retiring and his long-time chief deputy -- Cecil Moss -- is running to replace him. His opponent has put up a website that is attracting a lot of attention for its inflammatory charges.
John Vest, the Republican nominee for Jailer, says he has a lot more information about trouble at the jail in Nicholasville.
This one might be interesting to watch.
Fleming County Bipartisanship On Education. Great Story!
The Flemingsburg Gazette is a weekly paper in a small town, owned by a wild-eyed liberal.
Fortunately, Guy Townsend has shifted gears from endless rants against George Bush to a cogent dismantling of the local school system and a clear depiction of rampant waste.
Townsend's September 21 article is fabulous:
Speaking of your tax dollars, word has reached us that in one of the county’s elementary schools something like 97 fifth-graders are having to get by with only 53 reading books because there isn’t any money in the budget to buy books. (The situation appears to be even worse in the high school.) We’re working on this now and hope to be able to provide more detailed information soon in a news story. If those figures are accurate, the Fleming County school administration has failed to provide enough funding to one of our elementary schools to enable it to buy books for 44 students. This is the same Fleming County school administration which has been able to find funding to pay a retired administrator (who is already receiving a sizeable pension) $42,000 to do a job that the system would only have to pay a new hire $19,000 to do. That’s a difference of $23,000. I’ll bet you could buy 44 reading books for $23,000.
Also found a special treat in the September 14 edition (all opinion columns are on the same page, just scroll down). A guest column by Kentucky College Republican Chairman Derek Hall:
I NEVER agree with Guy Townsend, and I want to make that clear, but of recent, he has been singing my song on education. His numbers don’t lie; Fleming County is failing educationally and it will cost us more in the future than you may ever imagine. Fleming County is full of unrealized potential, and we need leaders that can help us achieve new levels of success. That’s why I am officially asking Kelly Crain to resign as our Superintendent of Fleming County Schools and give us the opportunity to bring in an individual concerned with positive progress. I understand that my solution may offend some folks, but understand that I am not attacking Kelly Crain personally, only professionally.
Keep fighting the fight guys. We're counting on you.
Fortunately, Guy Townsend has shifted gears from endless rants against George Bush to a cogent dismantling of the local school system and a clear depiction of rampant waste.
Townsend's September 21 article is fabulous:
Speaking of your tax dollars, word has reached us that in one of the county’s elementary schools something like 97 fifth-graders are having to get by with only 53 reading books because there isn’t any money in the budget to buy books. (The situation appears to be even worse in the high school.) We’re working on this now and hope to be able to provide more detailed information soon in a news story. If those figures are accurate, the Fleming County school administration has failed to provide enough funding to one of our elementary schools to enable it to buy books for 44 students. This is the same Fleming County school administration which has been able to find funding to pay a retired administrator (who is already receiving a sizeable pension) $42,000 to do a job that the system would only have to pay a new hire $19,000 to do. That’s a difference of $23,000. I’ll bet you could buy 44 reading books for $23,000.
Also found a special treat in the September 14 edition (all opinion columns are on the same page, just scroll down). A guest column by Kentucky College Republican Chairman Derek Hall:
I NEVER agree with Guy Townsend, and I want to make that clear, but of recent, he has been singing my song on education. His numbers don’t lie; Fleming County is failing educationally and it will cost us more in the future than you may ever imagine. Fleming County is full of unrealized potential, and we need leaders that can help us achieve new levels of success. That’s why I am officially asking Kelly Crain to resign as our Superintendent of Fleming County Schools and give us the opportunity to bring in an individual concerned with positive progress. I understand that my solution may offend some folks, but understand that I am not attacking Kelly Crain personally, only professionally.
Keep fighting the fight guys. We're counting on you.
Man Of The Year
What are we doing picking on poor old Bill Clinton when the Democrats are running Robin Williams for President?
Monday, September 25, 2006
McCainiac For A Day
John McCain's visit to Kentucky tonight was very profitable for Kentucky's Republican Party.
And the good news is he left all the money that he raised here. Jerry Lundergan -- take note.
Good show. Happy folks. Good time for the tide to turn.
On the election, that is. I'm still not crazy about McCain.
And the good news is he left all the money that he raised here. Jerry Lundergan -- take note.
Good show. Happy folks. Good time for the tide to turn.
On the election, that is. I'm still not crazy about McCain.
Vote No On Eminent Domain Abuse
The Lexington Herald Leader printed the ballot referendum question for re-starting the water company takeover.
At 170 words, the question will require us to bring a lawyer to the polling place on election day to explain the darn thing.
Condemnation opponents might do well to frame the issue as an opportunity to vote against Teresa Isaac twice.
At 170 words, the question will require us to bring a lawyer to the polling place on election day to explain the darn thing.
Condemnation opponents might do well to frame the issue as an opportunity to vote against Teresa Isaac twice.
"I Couldn't Find That Man, Mr. Bin Laden"
Bill Clinton's finger-wagging, journalist-poking, ranting, raving screechfest yesterday got a lot of attention and has generated a lot of conversation.
It is just getting started. While going batty might help his wife get the Dem nomination for President next year, it won't do any good for Democrat candidates this year. The Clintons have always belonged to the Party of Clinton first and foremost, so conspiracy theorists will have lots to chew on for a while.
It is just getting started. While going batty might help his wife get the Dem nomination for President next year, it won't do any good for Democrat candidates this year. The Clintons have always belonged to the Party of Clinton first and foremost, so conspiracy theorists will have lots to chew on for a while.
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Democrat Family Day In Frankfort!
Some highlights from today's big event:
Speaker of the House Jody Richards: "Ernie raised taxes on our small businesses with the AMC. We stopped that. That's not good policy."
So how did Kentucky Democrats stop that bad policy? By voting overwhelming for it, of course. Notice that Jody voted for it as well.
Senate Candidate Jim Keller, former state Supreme Court Justice, speaking about Supreme Court candidate Mary Noble: "She is a yellow dog Democrat. Don't forget that when you go to the polls!"
And then Wesley Clark flew in from Mars: "Much of what has happened since 9/11 has been a cover-up." And then "President Clinton was a very fine Commander-In-Chief. He kept this country out of war."
But the funniest harangue came from congressional candidate Tom Barlow, who said: "We are delivering lower gasoline prices and when we take office in January we are going to bring peace to the Middle East peacefully, we are going to have affordable medical care and high paying jobs!"
Speaker of the House Jody Richards: "Ernie raised taxes on our small businesses with the AMC. We stopped that. That's not good policy."
So how did Kentucky Democrats stop that bad policy? By voting overwhelming for it, of course. Notice that Jody voted for it as well.
Senate Candidate Jim Keller, former state Supreme Court Justice, speaking about Supreme Court candidate Mary Noble: "She is a yellow dog Democrat. Don't forget that when you go to the polls!"
And then Wesley Clark flew in from Mars: "Much of what has happened since 9/11 has been a cover-up." And then "President Clinton was a very fine Commander-In-Chief. He kept this country out of war."
But the funniest harangue came from congressional candidate Tom Barlow, who said: "We are delivering lower gasoline prices and when we take office in January we are going to bring peace to the Middle East peacefully, we are going to have affordable medical care and high paying jobs!"
Merlene Davis Does A Lieberman
Remember when Sen. Joe Lieberman gave a speech on the Senate floor about Bill Clinton and how terrible the things he had done were but that, ultimately, we shouldn't do anything about it?
Merlene Davis' column in the Lexington Herald Leader did the same thing with Kentucky's public education system. She manages to complain about some CATS scores, but is happy enough with the status quo to avoid suggesting any changes.
Another missed opportunity by the Left.
Merlene Davis' column in the Lexington Herald Leader did the same thing with Kentucky's public education system. She manages to complain about some CATS scores, but is happy enough with the status quo to avoid suggesting any changes.
Another missed opportunity by the Left.
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