May 2010
Musings from Maytown Endorsements
31/05/10 13:00
Pastor John Killian has a list of candidates he plans to vote for up on his site Musings from Maytown. Even though we don't agree on all the races, I encourage everyone to check out what he has to say.
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Flashpoint's Primary Ballot
30/05/10 19:02
Brian LeCompte has his primary ballot up over at Flashpoint blog. I think it's a pretty good list.
Interesting debate over Dale Peterson in the comments portion...
Interesting debate over Dale Peterson in the comments portion...
Troy King Gets Fake Endorsement?
30/05/10 18:40
A group calling themselves "Tea Party of Alabama" sent out an email blast today endorsing Troy King for Alabama Attorney General.
Get the scoop on the group and the endorsement over at Doc's.
This is just pathetic. Does Troy King not have any real supporters? Does he really have to stoop to making up fake endorsements?
Just another reason to vote for Luther Strange on Tuesday....
Get the scoop on the group and the endorsement over at Doc's.
This is just pathetic. Does Troy King not have any real supporters? Does he really have to stoop to making up fake endorsements?
Just another reason to vote for Luther Strange on Tuesday....
Martha Roby Gets Montgomery Advertiser Endorsement
26/05/10 12:39
AL-CD2 candidate Martha Roby picked up an endorsement from the Montgomery Advertiser today.
Here's what they had to say:
Here's what they had to say:
Four Republican candidates are seeking their party's nomination for the right to face Democratic incumbent Congressman Bobby Bright in the November general election.Of the four, Montgomery City Council member Martha Roby appears to have the best combination of experience and insight into the issues facing the residents of U.S. House District 2.Roby has served on the Montgomery City Council since 2003, where she has ably represented a racially and economically diverse council district. Roby earned her law degree from Cumberland School of Law at Samford University in 2001, and practiced law for several years.She has been a strong community volunteer, having worked with Sav-A-Life Montgomery, the Cleveland Avenue YMCA, the Britton YMCA, the Montgomery Area Business Committee for the Arts and the Montgomery Weed and Seed executive board.The other woman in the race, State Board of Education member Stephanie Bell of Montgomery, also has ably served the people of the area in public office for many years. As a state board member, Bell spoke out early and often about the corruption that tainted the state's two-year college system for so many years. But Roby's experience in office is more varied than Bell's, which has focused on the education arena.Based on her service as a city council member, her grasp of the issues facing the district, and her strong work ethic, the Montgomery Advertiser recommends Roby to Republican voters in the District 2 congressional race.
New Les Phillip Ad Getting Rave Reviews
25/05/10 11:50
CD5 candidate Les Phillip's new ad is making waves nationally--the good kind. Coverage on Andrew Breitbart's site and by the Washington Post has drawn praise from conservatives across the country.
Here's the ad:
Here's the ad:
Draft Of Luther Strange Email Sparks Questions For Troy King
24/05/10 15:06
This draft email from the Luther Strange campaign suggests Troy King has been using state cars while on the campaign trail.
It says, "[***J-let me know when you get the footage of PK traveling in state car with TK to Beasley mtg. Will hold on this until we get final]
This correlates with earlier information I had received regarding King's use of state resources for campaign-related activities.
It will be interesting to see if anyone is investigating this, and if not, why not? The law is very clear on the issue.
It says, "[***J-let me know when you get the footage of PK traveling in state car with TK to Beasley mtg. Will hold on this until we get final]
This correlates with earlier information I had received regarding King's use of state resources for campaign-related activities.
It will be interesting to see if anyone is investigating this, and if not, why not? The law is very clear on the issue.
More On The Race For Attorney General
24/05/10 13:43
Lots of news about the Republican primary for Attorney General today.
The Opelika-Auburn News says it's Time For A Change In The Attorney General's Office
The Gadsden Times has a pretty harsh editorial on Troy King: Our View: Crushing Defeat For King
The Opelika-Auburn News says it's Time For A Change In The Attorney General's Office
It’s time for a change in the Alabama Attorney General’s office. Troy King, appointed six years ago by Gov. Bob Riley, has been at odds with the Republican Party and, of late, has been a divisive figure in Alabama politics. His handling of the controversial electronic bingo argument has been questionable at best.He was even investigated by a grand jury.Is this what Alabama citizens want as the state’s top law enforcer? We think not.Luther Strange, a Birmingham attorney, says he wants to do the unfulfilled job King was appointed to do.“Never in the history of Alabama has the governor had to create a task force to do the attorney general’s job,” he said.“I think we’ve got and have had a law enforcement crisis in this state due entirely to his failure to take action. This wasn’t an issue until Troy King came into office. To come along at the 11th hour and take over the task force, he’s just thrown it into more chaos.”It’s time Alabama had an attorney general in office, not a politician.
The Gadsden Times has a pretty harsh editorial on Troy King: Our View: Crushing Defeat For King
The Alabama Supreme Court dealt Attorney General Troy King a severe defeat Friday while reinforcing the strength of the executive branch of state government. Legal battles over electronic bingo will likely continue for some time, but for now a definitive ruling has been issued: Governor outranks attorney general.The state’s high court was less than kind to King in its opinion Friday. He had contended that the attorney general was the state’s top law enforcement officer and that he should have control of any investigations into electronic bingo operations.While Gov. Bob Riley had used his Task Force on Illegal Gambling to shut down electronic bingo halls, King said he would seek court rulings in local jurisdictions. His play was backed by Jefferson County Circuit Judge Robert Vance, who ruled that King had authority over the task force.Riley appealed to the high court and won. In overruling Vance, justices said they relied on the “simple notion” that the governor sits at the top of the state’s constitutional hierarchy. As far as King’s contention that he should be able to commandeer leadership of the task force, the court was direct: “We reject that argument.”The justices came very close to accusing King of dereliction of duty. The justices said criminal laws regarding gambling have gone unenforced in some areas. Without action by Riley, they wrote, “the law would continue to go unenforced in those counties during Attorney General King’s tenure.”King did not comment last week, but Riley did. “This is a clear, complete and total victory for the rule of law,” he said.He added, “This ruling should put the nail in the coffin for so-called electronic bingo in this state.”Riley may be right, but we won’t bet on this being the end of the legal battles over gambling.Electronic bingo has gained a foothold in the state, however tenuous, and because big money is at stake we anticipate more legal battles, even before Riley leaves office in January.The big loser Friday, though, was King. Just more than a week away from the Republican primary election, the court’s ruling can’t help his campaign.
Birmingham News Endorses Luther Strange
24/05/10 08:33
The Birmingham News endorsed Luther Strange today. Here's what they had to say about Big Luther:
OUR VIEW: Luther Strange is by far the best Republican candidate for Alabama's attorney general, and Michel Nicrosi is our pick of the three solid Democratic choices
By Birmingham News editorial board
May 24, 2010, 5:46AM
Give Troy King credit for this: He has presented a strong case for why Alabamians need to choose carefully when they're picking their top lawyer.
As attorney general, King leaves a lot to be desired. Between seeking and accepting favors and perks, he has compromised his abilities to perform some of the most important duties of his office, such as investigating public corruption.
King sought a job for a friend from one of the chief targets in the two-year college investigation -- which, by the way, involved allegations of handing out jobs as political favors. What was he thinking?
Perhaps even worse were King's actions involving electronic bingo. He was a banner guest at a party thrown by Country Crossing developer Ronnie Gilley, then issued an opinion clearing the way for a dubious bingo enterprise there. King's actions, in our view, helped foster the spread of electronic bingo in the state, and they ended up being the focus of a federal investigation.
The big question is why King thinks voters should re-elect him. Fortunately, Alabama voters have alternatives in the June 1 primaries, both from King's Republican Party and on the Democratic side as well.
OUR VIEW: Luther Strange is by far the best Republican candidate for Alabama's attorney general, and Michel Nicrosi is our pick of the three solid Democratic choices
By Birmingham News editorial board
May 24, 2010, 5:46AM
Give Troy King credit for this: He has presented a strong case for why Alabamians need to choose carefully when they're picking their top lawyer.
As attorney general, King leaves a lot to be desired. Between seeking and accepting favors and perks, he has compromised his abilities to perform some of the most important duties of his office, such as investigating public corruption.
King sought a job for a friend from one of the chief targets in the two-year college investigation -- which, by the way, involved allegations of handing out jobs as political favors. What was he thinking?
Perhaps even worse were King's actions involving electronic bingo. He was a banner guest at a party thrown by Country Crossing developer Ronnie Gilley, then issued an opinion clearing the way for a dubious bingo enterprise there. King's actions, in our view, helped foster the spread of electronic bingo in the state, and they ended up being the focus of a federal investigation.
The big question is why King thinks voters should re-elect him. Fortunately, Alabama voters have alternatives in the June 1 primaries, both from King's Republican Party and on the Democratic side as well.
Another Reason To Be Proud Of Jeff Sessions
24/05/10 08:22
Alabama has a lot to be proud of -- Sen. Jeff Sessions is one of the best men in Congress. Here's another example of why:
Jeff Sessions to Head of Immigration--Do Your Job.
Jeff Sessions to Head of Immigration--Do Your Job.
Martha Roby Gets Wetumpka Herald Endorsement
22/05/10 12:50
Yesterday, The Wetumpka Herald endorsed CD-2 GOP candidate Matha Roby. Here's the link to the full article.
From The Wetumpka Herald:
From The Wetumpka Herald:
Having a similar theme to Sen. Shelby about less government, and conservative values, Montgomery City Councilwoman Martha Roby is our pick for the Republican nomination in the Second District. She makes no bones about the fact that Washington has fallen into the wrong hands, and her first act will be to vote against the re-election of Nancy Pelosi of California as House Speaker. “I will go to Congress and work to increase transparency and accountability. I have a proven record on the Montgomery City Council of fighting tax increases and standing up against wasteful spending, and I'll do just that in Washington. However, my first vote will be to take the gavel away from Nancy Pelosi, so we can restore conservative leadership in Washington.” We agree with Roby that Congress has done too many things behind closed doors and the public’s right has been shut out. Washington is being misdirected in leadership. Voters need to recognize that poor leadership hurts the country. The Herald endorses Martha Roby
Coming Soon: RNC To Unveil A New Activism API
19/05/10 18:55
Republicans are slowly, but surely gaining steam in the internet activism sector. They got caught a little flat-footed in 2008, but no more. The RNC is set to unveil a new API that allows developers to create apps that award points for internet activism.
Caleb Howe has the low down on the new API here.
It's so refreshing to see the GOP on the front side of technology for a change. Republican legislators figured out quickly the value of Twitter and now dominate Twitter usage on capitol hill. The RNC has been a little slower to recognize the value of on-line activism and social media. It's really good to see that they are now on the right track...
Caleb Howe has the low down on the new API here.
It's so refreshing to see the GOP on the front side of technology for a change. Republican legislators figured out quickly the value of Twitter and now dominate Twitter usage on capitol hill. The RNC has been a little slower to recognize the value of on-line activism and social media. It's really good to see that they are now on the right track...
Republican Senator Refutes Slade Blackwell's Ads Against Steve French
19/05/10 17:07
This letter was sent by Alabama Senator Jabo Waggoner to SD-15 candidate Slade Blackwell. Blackwell has an ad running against Steve French that claims French voted for a 50% pay raise for former Birmingham mayor turn felon Larry Langford.
Clearly Slade is not telling the truth about the pay raise, but what about the rest of the ad? It seems that's not exactly true either. While French's insurance company did have a contract with the county, that contract was voted on by the entire Jeff Co Commission and it was a unanimous vote to approve. Most politicos know the relationship between Steve French and Bettye Fine Collins is pretty icy to say the least, and Collins was the commissioner who moved for approval. In addition, French states he did not receive compensation of any type on the deal. The county simply chose a better business deal--more protection for less money.
There was a time when the news media would have vetted these claims, but apparently that time is long gone.
Clearly Slade is not telling the truth about the pay raise, but what about the rest of the ad? It seems that's not exactly true either. While French's insurance company did have a contract with the county, that contract was voted on by the entire Jeff Co Commission and it was a unanimous vote to approve. Most politicos know the relationship between Steve French and Bettye Fine Collins is pretty icy to say the least, and Collins was the commissioner who moved for approval. In addition, French states he did not receive compensation of any type on the deal. The county simply chose a better business deal--more protection for less money.
There was a time when the news media would have vetted these claims, but apparently that time is long gone.
Can Twitter Be Legally Compelled To Turn Over Your Account Info?
19/05/10 12:20
Interesting case regarding Twitter and privacy issues. Tom Corbett, Pennsylvania Attorney General and current Gubernatorial candidate, has issued a subpoena to Twitter asking them to provide any and all subscriber information about two Twitter accounts. Apparently @bfbarbie and @CasaBlancaPA have been criticizing Corbett on a personal blog and on Twitter. The subpoena requires Twitter to "testify and give evidence regarding alleged violation of the laws of Pennsylvania."
This case could set an important legal precedent regarding a person's ability to criticize elected officials anonymously. Clearly the speech itself is protected by the 1st Amendment, but the question of anonymity is more complex. Courts have ruled consistently that the right to anonymous free speech is protected by the 1st Amendment. In McIntyre v. Ohio Elections Commission the U.S. Supreme Court stated
"Protections for anonymous speech are vital to democratic discourse. Allowing dissenters to shield their identities frees them to express critical, minority views . . . Anonymity is a shield from the tyranny of the majority. . . . It thus exemplifies the purpose behind the Bill of Rights, and of the First Amendment in particular: to protect unpopular individuals from retaliation . . . at the hand of an intolerant society."
However, subpoena's have been issued and upheld in court cases where an injured plaintiff's need to identify the speaker outwieghs the speaker's 1st Amendment rights to free, anonymous speech. A good explaination of the law on the issue can be found here.
With widespread use of the Internet and Social Networking sites, privacy is becoming an increasingly difficult issue. It will be interesting to see how the court rules in this case because most of the comments alleging violations of the law were made on the person's blog, and not on Twitter. Blogger (Google's blogging tool) had not been subpoenaed at the time the article was written.
This case could set an important legal precedent regarding a person's ability to criticize elected officials anonymously. Clearly the speech itself is protected by the 1st Amendment, but the question of anonymity is more complex. Courts have ruled consistently that the right to anonymous free speech is protected by the 1st Amendment. In McIntyre v. Ohio Elections Commission the U.S. Supreme Court stated
"Protections for anonymous speech are vital to democratic discourse. Allowing dissenters to shield their identities frees them to express critical, minority views . . . Anonymity is a shield from the tyranny of the majority. . . . It thus exemplifies the purpose behind the Bill of Rights, and of the First Amendment in particular: to protect unpopular individuals from retaliation . . . at the hand of an intolerant society."
However, subpoena's have been issued and upheld in court cases where an injured plaintiff's need to identify the speaker outwieghs the speaker's 1st Amendment rights to free, anonymous speech. A good explaination of the law on the issue can be found here.
With widespread use of the Internet and Social Networking sites, privacy is becoming an increasingly difficult issue. It will be interesting to see how the court rules in this case because most of the comments alleging violations of the law were made on the person's blog, and not on Twitter. Blogger (Google's blogging tool) had not been subpoenaed at the time the article was written.
New United Liberty Podcast
19/05/10 11:05
I recently recorded another United Liberty podcast with Brett Bittner, Jason Pye and former ALGOP chairman Marty Connors. It was, as always, a good time. Thanks to the guys at United Liberty for asking me to participate!
You can listen to the podcast by clicking on the link below.
Podcast
You can listen to the podcast by clicking on the link below.
Podcast
Martha Roby On Air In CD2
18/05/10 16:32
The first tv ad from Martha Roby was released today:
A lot of criticism on Doc's Political Parlor, but overall, I don't think it's a bad ad. Especially since Roby is the only candidate in CD2 with the money for television ads.
A lot of criticism on Doc's Political Parlor, but overall, I don't think it's a bad ad. Especially since Roby is the only candidate in CD2 with the money for television ads.
Million Dollar Ad Buy Mystery Solved
18/05/10 14:46
Well the mystery of the million dollar ad buy has finally been solved. In a somewhat anti-climatic end to a much anticipated ad, the New Sons of Liberty launched this website with their new TV ad.
The person(s) behind the ad are still unknown, but at first glance it appears to be a waste of a million dollars. With the exception of Bill Johnson, all the Republican gubernatorial candidates are against gambling. I haven't seen a poll yet that shows Johnson with a shot at winning, so the ad doesn't seem to be particularly helpful/hurtful on the Republican side. It could be targeting the Democrats, but I can't really see this ad swaying many Democrat primary voters.
Even more puzzling is the timing of the ad. Why run it now? Gambling is not on the ballot in June or November, and for all intents and purposes it is a dead issue until the 2011 Legislative Session. I can't quite figure out what purpose it serves to run the ad now.
Whoever is behind it and whatever their motives are, one thing is pretty clear...the ad is a major let down to politicos who have spent the last week or more speculating on what it could be.
The person(s) behind the ad are still unknown, but at first glance it appears to be a waste of a million dollars. With the exception of Bill Johnson, all the Republican gubernatorial candidates are against gambling. I haven't seen a poll yet that shows Johnson with a shot at winning, so the ad doesn't seem to be particularly helpful/hurtful on the Republican side. It could be targeting the Democrats, but I can't really see this ad swaying many Democrat primary voters.
Even more puzzling is the timing of the ad. Why run it now? Gambling is not on the ballot in June or November, and for all intents and purposes it is a dead issue until the 2011 Legislative Session. I can't quite figure out what purpose it serves to run the ad now.
Whoever is behind it and whatever their motives are, one thing is pretty clear...the ad is a major let down to politicos who have spent the last week or more speculating on what it could be.
Summary of 2010 Legislative Session
17/05/10 15:09
What Passed?
-HB 432 Human Trafficking Legislation (Rep. Jack Williams): It is now unlawful for a person by coercion or deception, to cause another person (individual) to work or perform services having financial value or require that person to perform certain sexual activities and this law provides appropriate penalties for these actions. Alabama's passage of this ban on human trafficking has added Alabama to the 43 states that have already passed a ban on human trafficking exploitation.
-HB 613 Jefferson County Transparency Legislation (Rep. Paul DeMarco): requires the Jefferson County Commissioner to disclose anyone paid to assist in the purchase or swap of bonds and all interest rate swaps will be competitively bid. The Commission will also have to conduct a public hearing before borrowing any amount of $5 million or more
-SB 121 Highway Bill (Sen. Lowell Barron): authorizes the transfer of $100 million a year for the next 10 years from the Alabama Trust Fund to the Department of Transportation for infrastructure projects
-SB 162 “PACT Fix” Legislation (Sen. Ted Little): appropriates $547.6 million over 13 years to the PACT program. It also caps tuition at state universities excepting the University of Alabama and Auburn University
- SJR 27/HJR 18 State Sovereignty Resolution (Sen. Scott Beason/Rep. Greg Canfield): Reaffirming state sovereignty under the 10th Amendment to the US Constitution
What Didn’t Pass?
-HB 99 Rolling Reserve Budget Act (Rep. Greg Canfield): Didn’t even get a vote in committee.
-SB 233 Alabama Health Freedom Act (Sen. Scott Beason): Conservative and tea party groups rallied around this legislation eventually getting it passed out of the Senate. Unfortunately, Democrat leadership in the House prevented it from getting a vote in committee.
-SB 202 Alabama Innovative Charter Schools Act (Sen. Steve French): Was voted down in committee in the House and didn’t receive a committee vote in the Senate
-HB 55 Subpoena Power For State Ethics Committee: legislation stalled in the House
-HB 278 Improvements to Alabama Ethics Law (Rep. Paul DeMarco): legislation stalled in the House
-HB 41 Health Care Rights of Conscience Act (Rep. Robert Bentley): didn’t get out of committee in the House
-HB 48 Firearms Protection Act (Rep. Mac Gipson): didn’t get out of committee in the House
-HB 195 Cap and Trade Nullification (Rep. Mac Gipson): didn’t get out of committee in the House
-SB 380 Gambling Legislation (Sen. Roger Bedford): passed out of the Senate, but didn’t get out of committee in the House
-HB 101 Medical Savings Account Act (Rep. Greg Canfield): didn’t get out of committee in the House
-SB 256 Alabama Taxpayer and Citizen Protection Act (Sen. Scott Beason): legislation to address the problem of illegal immigration; didn’t get out of committee in the Senate
Luther Strange On The New Sons Of Liberty Ad Buy
14/05/10 13:49
Today's Press Release from the Luther Strange campaign:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 14, 2010
Contact: Jessica Garrison, Campaign Manager 205-568-4371
http://www.lutherstrange.com/clean-up-alabama
Million Dollar Mystery Ads Bring Pledge, Challenge from Luther Strange
BIRMINGHAM, Ala-- As a phantom political group makes plans to flood Alabama airwaves with more than one million dollars of television advertising, Republican candidate for attorney general, Luther Strange is calling on candidates and voters to take a public stand against this outside special interest group's influence on state elections.
"When wealthy special interests hide behind stealth groups to sway our elections, they are hurting honest Alabama voters and good candidates," Strange said. "Alabama needs transparency in state elections. The person or group actually funding these ads should make clear who they are and what their agenda really is."
"Any candidate that would benefit from one of these groups should disavow the ads and demand they be pulled from the airwaves. I pledge to do so and challenge every other statewide candidate in both parties to join me."
A new political organization founded only days ago using the name New Sons of Liberty is currently placing more than one million dollars in television advertising which will reach every corner of Alabama. The subject of their ad campaign remains a public mystery, but their commercials are slated to begin May 21 and run up to the June 1 primary. The group was only incorporated two weeks ago and no one has come forward to put an actual face or even a real location behind the organization.
"We have already seen the lies and deception spread when candidates and special interests team up," Strange said. "Troy King and his gambling buddies were first to try for cheap political points by politicizing the Gulf oil spill and airing their lies on television. Now it looks like another special interest will try to buy off another candidate."
Strange has set up a website where he's asking candidates and voters to join in his pledge not to benefit from manipulative special interests and to keep them out of Alabama elections.
"As attorney general, I'll fight to force stealth money and fake interests groups out of the closet so voters can make informed decisions about not just the message, but the messenger." Strange added. "My fight starts right now with this pledge."
To join the fight for transparent elections and to say no to outside special interest groups, visit and sign the petition at www.lutherstrange.com/clean-up-alabama, where you can learn more about Big Luther's fight for honesty and integrity in state government.
###
Looks like Big Luther isn't taking any chances that the ad buy could target him in favor of Troy King. There's a lot of speculation that the group is a front for gambling interests who want to see Troy stay in office.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 14, 2010
Contact: Jessica Garrison, Campaign Manager 205-568-4371
http://www.lutherstrange.com/clean-up-alabama
Million Dollar Mystery Ads Bring Pledge, Challenge from Luther Strange
BIRMINGHAM, Ala-- As a phantom political group makes plans to flood Alabama airwaves with more than one million dollars of television advertising, Republican candidate for attorney general, Luther Strange is calling on candidates and voters to take a public stand against this outside special interest group's influence on state elections.
"When wealthy special interests hide behind stealth groups to sway our elections, they are hurting honest Alabama voters and good candidates," Strange said. "Alabama needs transparency in state elections. The person or group actually funding these ads should make clear who they are and what their agenda really is."
"Any candidate that would benefit from one of these groups should disavow the ads and demand they be pulled from the airwaves. I pledge to do so and challenge every other statewide candidate in both parties to join me."
A new political organization founded only days ago using the name New Sons of Liberty is currently placing more than one million dollars in television advertising which will reach every corner of Alabama. The subject of their ad campaign remains a public mystery, but their commercials are slated to begin May 21 and run up to the June 1 primary. The group was only incorporated two weeks ago and no one has come forward to put an actual face or even a real location behind the organization.
"We have already seen the lies and deception spread when candidates and special interests team up," Strange said. "Troy King and his gambling buddies were first to try for cheap political points by politicizing the Gulf oil spill and airing their lies on television. Now it looks like another special interest will try to buy off another candidate."
Strange has set up a website where he's asking candidates and voters to join in his pledge not to benefit from manipulative special interests and to keep them out of Alabama elections.
"As attorney general, I'll fight to force stealth money and fake interests groups out of the closet so voters can make informed decisions about not just the message, but the messenger." Strange added. "My fight starts right now with this pledge."
To join the fight for transparent elections and to say no to outside special interest groups, visit and sign the petition at www.lutherstrange.com/clean-up-alabama, where you can learn more about Big Luther's fight for honesty and integrity in state government.
###
Looks like Big Luther isn't taking any chances that the ad buy could target him in favor of Troy King. There's a lot of speculation that the group is a front for gambling interests who want to see Troy stay in office.
New Luther Strange Ad Attacks Troy King on Corruption
14/05/10 13:39
The Luther Strange campaign released a new ad today attacking Troy King on his problems with corruption, and responding to Troy's attempt to connect Big Luther to the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
Conservatives Want To Help People Too
14/05/10 11:23
It's a widespread misconception that conservatives are cold-hearted people. To hear liberals tell it, you'd think we have no problem letting the poor starve to death on the streets. But that's not true. Conservatives want to help people who have fallen on hard times just as much as liberals. The disagreement comes over *how* to help them.
This is a great article from United Liberty that explains the difference between Liberal and Conservative charity.
This is a great article from United Liberty that explains the difference between Liberal and Conservative charity.
Chris Christie Is a Rockstar
14/05/10 10:41
NJ Gov. Chris Christie is proving to be a rockstar. I know there were a lot of conservatives who weren't enthusiastic about him in the beginning, but so far he been a hero. If he keeps saying things like this, he may be a major contender in the future of the GOP.
| Gov Christie calls S-L columnist thin-skinned for inquiring about his 'confrontational tone' |
Who Are The New Sons of Liberty?
13/05/10 10:01
Politicos in Alabama are all abuzz about a reported $1.1 million dollar ad buy from a group calling themselves the New Sons of Liberty. George Talbot of the Mobile Press-Register sums up what we know here. If you google the New Sons of Liberty you come up with a birther-style organization that is working towards a constitutional amendment requiring presidential candidates to submit an original birth certificate after receiving their party's nomination. That organization claims they are not in any way involved in the Alabama ad buy.
Another interesting thing to note is the fact that the group is organized as a 501(c)4-meaning they cannot endorse a candidate. There are ways to advocate for or against a candidate with a 501(c)4 but it's a lot harder than if they had formed a PAC.
The speculation is rampant. Who has that kind of money in Alabama? AEA? Gambling Interests? Stan Pate? Or it could be someone from out of state trying to meddle in our election. I've heard it's an attack ad on Tim James. I've heard it's an ad aimed at helping Roy Moore. I've heard it's another anti-Byrne ad from AEA.
The bottom line is that nobody knows who is behind it or what the ad might say. According to sources the TV stations don't even have the ad yet. All we do know is that there's a huge surprise coming in the week before the election that could seriously impact the primary vote.
For now all we have is a lot of questions and no answers...
Another interesting thing to note is the fact that the group is organized as a 501(c)4-meaning they cannot endorse a candidate. There are ways to advocate for or against a candidate with a 501(c)4 but it's a lot harder than if they had formed a PAC.
The speculation is rampant. Who has that kind of money in Alabama? AEA? Gambling Interests? Stan Pate? Or it could be someone from out of state trying to meddle in our election. I've heard it's an attack ad on Tim James. I've heard it's an ad aimed at helping Roy Moore. I've heard it's another anti-Byrne ad from AEA.
The bottom line is that nobody knows who is behind it or what the ad might say. According to sources the TV stations don't even have the ad yet. All we do know is that there's a huge surprise coming in the week before the election that could seriously impact the primary vote.
For now all we have is a lot of questions and no answers...
Sen. Jeff Sessions Endorses John McMillian for Agriculture Commissioner
10/05/10 18:31
Just got word that Sen. Jeff Sessions has endorsed John McMillian for Commissioner of Agriculture. John is a great man--I'm pleased that he's gotten Sen. Sessions' endorsement. Here's the quote:
Senator Jeff Sessions
Senator Jeff Sessions
Pagent Queens or Porn Stars?
10/05/10 08:33
I'm no prude, but when I saw the official photos from the Miss USA pagent I felt a little sick. While I was never a beauty pagent girl, I had friends that were so I've been to a lot of pagents large and small. It used to be a tasteful, if somewhat superficial, affair. It was about more than just which girl was the prettiest. Contestants had to be smart, well spoken and well-rounded individuals--most of whom were competing for the scholarship money awarded to the winner. Now, however, it looks like pagents are all about sex. The Miss USA pagent has taken some heat for these photos and rightly so. These girls look more like they're auditioning to be porn stars than pagent queens...
And lest we forget, Miss Alabama:
Pagents have certainly changed a lot over the last few years. It's sad that we've moved away from beaded evening gowns and one-piece swimsuits to skimpy lingere. I guess the old adage is correct--sex sells. I know if I was a young girl I'd think twice about getting on the pagent circuit no matter how much scholarship money they gave me...
And lest we forget, Miss Alabama:
Pagents have certainly changed a lot over the last few years. It's sad that we've moved away from beaded evening gowns and one-piece swimsuits to skimpy lingere. I guess the old adage is correct--sex sells. I know if I was a young girl I'd think twice about getting on the pagent circuit no matter how much scholarship money they gave me...
Update on the Attorney General Race
07/05/10 13:26
I feel I should disclose my bias in this matter up front: I have openly supported Luther Strange in his campaign for Attorney General for several months now. I am not paid by the campaign or anyone connected with it. I did participate in a television ad for the Luther Strange campaign.
It looks like the Alabama Attorney General's race is about to get a lot more interesting.
Incumbent Troy King took political pandering to a new low last week with his claim that Luther Strange lobbied for the oil company whose rig exploded in the Gulf of Mexico. In Friday's Press-Register, a spokesman for King said, "that Strange's ties to the oil industry and particularly to Transocean could compromise his ability to serve as the state's top lawyer."
It's ironic that King would be accusing Luther Strange of having a conflict of interest when he has had to step aside and let the Feds conduct two major investigations that the AG's office should have been involved in but couldn't because of King's ties to targets of the investigation. While investigating the junior college scandal King asked Chancellor Roy Johnson for jobs for at least two of his friends. He then had to turn the investigation over to Richard Minor, District Attorney from St. Clair County. In addition, the FBI is handling one of the largest investigations into government corruption the state has ever seen, and where is the AG's office? Not involved. Troy King's ties to the gambling interests has caused a conflict of interest for the AG's office. So you'll have to pardon me if I don't take King's accusation seriously...
It's true that Luther Strange lobbied for Sonat, Inc. which was the parent company of Transocean Offshore Drilling Co. In a statement released Friday he says, "I briefly represented Transocean Offshore Drilling Co. 12 years ago and provided only federal legislative monitoring. Furthermore, it is in no way the same company that it is today. In fact, it has been reincorporated twice through mergers in the past 10 years and my work for them 12 years ago has absolutely no bearing on my intent to pursue all those responsible for the tragedy." In my opinion King is clearly trying to take a bad situation which people are understandably upset about, and use it for his own benefit.
Furthermore, I'm hearing rumors that the AG's office has some scandals of it's own to worry about. Questions are being asked about Troy's assistant JW Godwin and his campaign activities while on the state's payroll. Last Thursday AG Troy King and JW Godwin traveled together in a state car to a campaign event in Huntsville, AL. Pictures taken by the Luther Strange campaign show the state car and the campaign materials they brought with them. When the Strange campaign questioned the AG's office about whether or not JW Godwin had taken leave time to participate in campaign activities, Chief of Staff Chris Bence confirmed that as of 3:00 pm on the day of the event Godwin had not filed a leave slip. The leave slip was filed when Godwin returned (one might infer that was because he was asked about it by the Strange campaign). A member of Luther's campaign staff was told it was consistent with the AG's policy on leave not to file the leave slip until after the leave has been taken.
I feel I should also point out that in addition to his duties in the AG's office, JW Godwin was sent to campaign school, has an iPad purchased by the campaign, and has campaign stationary with his name on it. Clearly Godwin is taking an active role in King's campaign which legally, he has every right to do. What he cannot do is campaign while on state time. The Alabama Code is pretty clear on that point:
Section 17-17-5: Improper use of state property, time, etc., for political activities
No person in the employment of the State of Alabama, a county, or a city whether classified or unclassified, shall use any state, county, or city funds, property, or time, for any political activities. Any person who is in the employment of the State of Alabama, a county, or a city shall be on approved leave to engage in political action or the person shall be on personal time before or after work and on holidays. It shall be unlawful for any officer or employee to solicit any type of political campaign contributions from other employees who work for the officer or employee in a subordinate capacity. It shall also be unlawful for any officer or employee to coerce or attempt to coerce any subordinate employee to work in any capacity in any political campaign or cause. Any person who violates this section shall be guilty of the crime of trading in public office and upon conviction thereof, shall be fined or sentenced, or both, as provided by Section 13A-10-63.
It's also pretty clear on using state resources, i.e.-vehicles, for campaign activities:
Section 36-12-61: Use, etc., of state-owned property for promotion or advancement of interests of candidates for public office.
It shall be unlawful for any officer or employee of the State of Alabama to use or to permit to be used any state-owned property of any character or description, including stationery, stamps, office equipment, office supplies, automobiles or any other property used by him, in his custody or under his control for the promotion or advancement of the interest of any candidate for the nomination or election to any public office of the State of Alabama.
As I said at the top of this post, I am unarguably biased in this race. In writing this post, I'm simply putting the information out there (along with my opinion of course) and I'll leave it to readers to decide whether they think any of the items have any merit.
It looks like the Alabama Attorney General's race is about to get a lot more interesting.
Incumbent Troy King took political pandering to a new low last week with his claim that Luther Strange lobbied for the oil company whose rig exploded in the Gulf of Mexico. In Friday's Press-Register, a spokesman for King said, "that Strange's ties to the oil industry and particularly to Transocean could compromise his ability to serve as the state's top lawyer."
It's ironic that King would be accusing Luther Strange of having a conflict of interest when he has had to step aside and let the Feds conduct two major investigations that the AG's office should have been involved in but couldn't because of King's ties to targets of the investigation. While investigating the junior college scandal King asked Chancellor Roy Johnson for jobs for at least two of his friends. He then had to turn the investigation over to Richard Minor, District Attorney from St. Clair County. In addition, the FBI is handling one of the largest investigations into government corruption the state has ever seen, and where is the AG's office? Not involved. Troy King's ties to the gambling interests has caused a conflict of interest for the AG's office. So you'll have to pardon me if I don't take King's accusation seriously...
It's true that Luther Strange lobbied for Sonat, Inc. which was the parent company of Transocean Offshore Drilling Co. In a statement released Friday he says, "I briefly represented Transocean Offshore Drilling Co. 12 years ago and provided only federal legislative monitoring. Furthermore, it is in no way the same company that it is today. In fact, it has been reincorporated twice through mergers in the past 10 years and my work for them 12 years ago has absolutely no bearing on my intent to pursue all those responsible for the tragedy." In my opinion King is clearly trying to take a bad situation which people are understandably upset about, and use it for his own benefit.
Furthermore, I'm hearing rumors that the AG's office has some scandals of it's own to worry about. Questions are being asked about Troy's assistant JW Godwin and his campaign activities while on the state's payroll. Last Thursday AG Troy King and JW Godwin traveled together in a state car to a campaign event in Huntsville, AL. Pictures taken by the Luther Strange campaign show the state car and the campaign materials they brought with them. When the Strange campaign questioned the AG's office about whether or not JW Godwin had taken leave time to participate in campaign activities, Chief of Staff Chris Bence confirmed that as of 3:00 pm on the day of the event Godwin had not filed a leave slip. The leave slip was filed when Godwin returned (one might infer that was because he was asked about it by the Strange campaign). A member of Luther's campaign staff was told it was consistent with the AG's policy on leave not to file the leave slip until after the leave has been taken.
I feel I should also point out that in addition to his duties in the AG's office, JW Godwin was sent to campaign school, has an iPad purchased by the campaign, and has campaign stationary with his name on it. Clearly Godwin is taking an active role in King's campaign which legally, he has every right to do. What he cannot do is campaign while on state time. The Alabama Code is pretty clear on that point:
Section 17-17-5: Improper use of state property, time, etc., for political activities
No person in the employment of the State of Alabama, a county, or a city whether classified or unclassified, shall use any state, county, or city funds, property, or time, for any political activities. Any person who is in the employment of the State of Alabama, a county, or a city shall be on approved leave to engage in political action or the person shall be on personal time before or after work and on holidays. It shall be unlawful for any officer or employee to solicit any type of political campaign contributions from other employees who work for the officer or employee in a subordinate capacity. It shall also be unlawful for any officer or employee to coerce or attempt to coerce any subordinate employee to work in any capacity in any political campaign or cause. Any person who violates this section shall be guilty of the crime of trading in public office and upon conviction thereof, shall be fined or sentenced, or both, as provided by Section 13A-10-63.
It's also pretty clear on using state resources, i.e.-vehicles, for campaign activities:
Section 36-12-61: Use, etc., of state-owned property for promotion or advancement of interests of candidates for public office.
It shall be unlawful for any officer or employee of the State of Alabama to use or to permit to be used any state-owned property of any character or description, including stationery, stamps, office equipment, office supplies, automobiles or any other property used by him, in his custody or under his control for the promotion or advancement of the interest of any candidate for the nomination or election to any public office of the State of Alabama.
As I said at the top of this post, I am unarguably biased in this race. In writing this post, I'm simply putting the information out there (along with my opinion of course) and I'll leave it to readers to decide whether they think any of the items have any merit.
Rep. David Grimes Sounds A Little Nervous
06/05/10 16:46
Rep. David Grimes sounds a little worried about the FBI investigation into government corruption and the gambling bill...
It seems to me that if you didn't say anything you shouldn't have you wouldn't be worried about what you said...
It seems to me that if you didn't say anything you shouldn't have you wouldn't be worried about what you said...
Tim James, English-Only and Economic Development
06/05/10 11:43
Whether you agree with Tim James or not...
J.D. Crowe makes a good point in today's Press-Register:
Setting Alabama back about 20 years doesn't make much business sense to me.
(Wait a minute. Looking down at my notes ... )
Does it to you?
Also check out today's editorial in the Press-Register.
I'm interested to know what other people think about the ad. I'm sure most Alabamians would instinctively agree with the ad--to borrow a phrase from Tim, it's common sense. However, I think one can make the argument that there are better ways to address the problem of assimilation than this particular piece of legislation.
In my opinion, the problem isn't really a language problem, it's an immigration problem. A large number of immigrants who come here are not making the effort to assimilate into American culture.
J.D. Crowe makes a good point in today's Press-Register:
Setting Alabama back about 20 years doesn't make much business sense to me.
(Wait a minute. Looking down at my notes ... )
Does it to you?
Also check out today's editorial in the Press-Register.
I'm interested to know what other people think about the ad. I'm sure most Alabamians would instinctively agree with the ad--to borrow a phrase from Tim, it's common sense. However, I think one can make the argument that there are better ways to address the problem of assimilation than this particular piece of legislation.
In my opinion, the problem isn't really a language problem, it's an immigration problem. A large number of immigrants who come here are not making the effort to assimilate into American culture.
Do Women Have The Right To Control Their Own Bodies?
05/05/10 14:56
Tessa Rose makes a really good point on her blog about women's rights and the so-called "pro-choice" crowd. I would take her argument a step further and say that same hypocrisy applies to both women and men. Statist Liberals always support the right to choose...except when it's a choice they don't like. For instance, you can choose what to eat...but only if you choose not to eat salt, trans fat, sugary sodas, or fast food.
Even in regard to the abortion argument where they claim to be "pro-choice" the choice only applies when women choose to have an abortion. This became abudantly clear when Sarah Palin came on the scene and was derided for her choice to keep her down's syndrome baby.
Tessa seems to accept the conclusion that life begins after the first trimester, but I know many libertarians who believe that life begins at conception. Most of those people would support a woman's right to choose in all of the situations Tessa mentioned except in the case of abortion.
I do think Tessa makes a good point about intellectual honesty in her post, but I'd like to argue on one particular point. She says:
"If a woman's body belongs to her, then she has the right to exchange sexual favors for money..."
While she may be right that a woman should have a right to do this in a vaccum, it doesn't necessarily follow that prostitution should be legal. A woman's right to sell her body has to be weighed against other considerations, and there may be other legitimate reasons for laws against prostitution. Thus, a person can accept that woman's right to control her own body means that she should be allowed to sell her body in theory, but have other reasons for being against prostitution.
Anyone else have thoughts on Tessa's post?
Even in regard to the abortion argument where they claim to be "pro-choice" the choice only applies when women choose to have an abortion. This became abudantly clear when Sarah Palin came on the scene and was derided for her choice to keep her down's syndrome baby.
Tessa seems to accept the conclusion that life begins after the first trimester, but I know many libertarians who believe that life begins at conception. Most of those people would support a woman's right to choose in all of the situations Tessa mentioned except in the case of abortion.
I do think Tessa makes a good point about intellectual honesty in her post, but I'd like to argue on one particular point. She says:
"If a woman's body belongs to her, then she has the right to exchange sexual favors for money..."
While she may be right that a woman should have a right to do this in a vaccum, it doesn't necessarily follow that prostitution should be legal. A woman's right to sell her body has to be weighed against other considerations, and there may be other legitimate reasons for laws against prostitution. Thus, a person can accept that woman's right to control her own body means that she should be allowed to sell her body in theory, but have other reasons for being against prostitution.
Anyone else have thoughts on Tessa's post?
Bradley Byrne endorsed by Right On Huntsville
03/05/10 15:48
Right On Huntsville endorsed Bradley Byrne today:
Heres a summary of Byrne’s prepared remarks:
“I’m incredibly honored and grateful to receive the support of these conservative leaders. Right On Huntsville has quickly emerged as a leading force in pushing for conservative economic growth and strong government accountability, two hallmarks of my campaign. If given the opportunity to serve as your next Governor, I will work hard to build and maintain an environment that fosters a robust economy and we will – once and for all – implement reforms in Montgomery that bring about strong government accountability and restore public trust in our system”.
Heres a summary of Byrne’s prepared remarks:
“I’m incredibly honored and grateful to receive the support of these conservative leaders. Right On Huntsville has quickly emerged as a leading force in pushing for conservative economic growth and strong government accountability, two hallmarks of my campaign. If given the opportunity to serve as your next Governor, I will work hard to build and maintain an environment that fosters a robust economy and we will – once and for all – implement reforms in Montgomery that bring about strong government accountability and restore public trust in our system”.
New Luther Strange Press Release
03/05/10 14:05
From the Luther Strange campaign:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 3, 2010
Contact: Jessica Garrison, Campaign Manager 205-568-4371 www.lutherstrange.com/troy-king-gambling-money-trail
Troy King Holds Massey Money as Grand Jury Meets
BIRMINGHAM, Ala-- As a federal grand jury starts to hear evidence this week in the bingo bill vote-buying scandal, Alabama Attorney General Troy King continues funding his reelection campaign with thousands of dollars in contributions from Country Crossing lobbyist Jarrod Massey who is at the center of the government's corruption case.
"King owes the people of Alabama an explanation about why he continues to hold onto money funneled through political action committees tied to Massey," said Republican candidate for attorney general, Luther Strange.
"Likewise, King owes us an answer about why he, as the Attorney General, is not participating in the investigation centered on Massey and the Alabama State Legislature. Is it because King is compromised and unable to participate due to his personal relationships with those involved? It would not be the first time. In fact, it has been a pattern for King to step aside from public corruption cases like the two year college investigation, because he is personally connected to the people involved. In Massey's case, King had the chance to avoid being wrapped up in the scandal."
In February, King made a public pledge to return campaign contributions from gambling interests, including PACS which accepted gambling funds. To this date, King has not returned $100 thousand that was donated to his campaign through Massey's business and PACs.
Since March, Strange has been calling on King to uphold his pledge and return gambling money. Last week, Strange delivered a letter to King's office, renewing his call and asking for an explanation about King's ties to Massey.
"The money trail is clear. It's all shown in public records," Strange said. "Even if he can't trace it dollar-for-dollar, King promised to return money from PACS that accepted any funds from gambling interests. His pledge was bold and he should honor that promise."
A copy of Strange's letter to King is attached to this email message. The letter, along with public records of King's campaign contributions and charts detailing the trail of donations from Massey to King, are all available by visiting www.lutherstrange.com/troy-king-gambling-money-trail.
###
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 3, 2010
Contact: Jessica Garrison, Campaign Manager 205-568-4371 www.lutherstrange.com/troy-king-gambling-money-trail
Troy King Holds Massey Money as Grand Jury Meets
BIRMINGHAM, Ala-- As a federal grand jury starts to hear evidence this week in the bingo bill vote-buying scandal, Alabama Attorney General Troy King continues funding his reelection campaign with thousands of dollars in contributions from Country Crossing lobbyist Jarrod Massey who is at the center of the government's corruption case.
"King owes the people of Alabama an explanation about why he continues to hold onto money funneled through political action committees tied to Massey," said Republican candidate for attorney general, Luther Strange.
"Likewise, King owes us an answer about why he, as the Attorney General, is not participating in the investigation centered on Massey and the Alabama State Legislature. Is it because King is compromised and unable to participate due to his personal relationships with those involved? It would not be the first time. In fact, it has been a pattern for King to step aside from public corruption cases like the two year college investigation, because he is personally connected to the people involved. In Massey's case, King had the chance to avoid being wrapped up in the scandal."
In February, King made a public pledge to return campaign contributions from gambling interests, including PACS which accepted gambling funds. To this date, King has not returned $100 thousand that was donated to his campaign through Massey's business and PACs.
Since March, Strange has been calling on King to uphold his pledge and return gambling money. Last week, Strange delivered a letter to King's office, renewing his call and asking for an explanation about King's ties to Massey.
"The money trail is clear. It's all shown in public records," Strange said. "Even if he can't trace it dollar-for-dollar, King promised to return money from PACS that accepted any funds from gambling interests. His pledge was bold and he should honor that promise."
A copy of Strange's letter to King is attached to this email message. The letter, along with public records of King's campaign contributions and charts detailing the trail of donations from Massey to King, are all available by visiting www.lutherstrange.com/troy-king-gambling-money-trail.
###
Where Would You Put Your Chips
01/05/10 13:29
This post on Pileus got me thinking about what country has the best outlook for the future.
The question posed by Jim Otteson is this:
Suppose all the countries in the world today are arrayed before you like spaces on a craps table. You have to put all your chips on one country. The time horizon is your life span, plus that of your children, plus that of your grandchildren. Allowing reasonable overlap and life expectancy, let’s suppose that horizon is 100 years. So: if you have to put all your chips in a single bet on one country’s success from 2010–2110, which country do you choose?
A few years ago I would have said Ireland because of their reduction in corporate income tax, GDP per capita, quality of life, ranking on the Economic Freedom Index and overall culture. However, the current financial crisis has hit it much harder than other countries. The “Irish Property Bubble” and overall level of debt makes me leery.
Australia would probably be my second choice because it has the lowest percentage of debt as a proportion of GDP and the overall level of taxation seems to be decreasing. Drawbacks are it’s cap on carbon emissions and high cost of housing.
With that said, I don’t know if there’s anywhere particularly “safe” to bet on in the current geopolitical climate…
Where would you choose to put your chips?
The question posed by Jim Otteson is this:
Suppose all the countries in the world today are arrayed before you like spaces on a craps table. You have to put all your chips on one country. The time horizon is your life span, plus that of your children, plus that of your grandchildren. Allowing reasonable overlap and life expectancy, let’s suppose that horizon is 100 years. So: if you have to put all your chips in a single bet on one country’s success from 2010–2110, which country do you choose?
A few years ago I would have said Ireland because of their reduction in corporate income tax, GDP per capita, quality of life, ranking on the Economic Freedom Index and overall culture. However, the current financial crisis has hit it much harder than other countries. The “Irish Property Bubble” and overall level of debt makes me leery.
Australia would probably be my second choice because it has the lowest percentage of debt as a proportion of GDP and the overall level of taxation seems to be decreasing. Drawbacks are it’s cap on carbon emissions and high cost of housing.
With that said, I don’t know if there’s anywhere particularly “safe” to bet on in the current geopolitical climate…
Where would you choose to put your chips?