The Political Weekly

Political News--February 14

2006-02-14T07:47:00.000-08:00

What once seemed to be a bright future in politics for Paul Hackett now looks like a distant memory. The Ohio Democrat dropped his bid for the Democratic nomination for US Senate citing party pressure as his reason. He also stated that he would not seek the CD-2 seat that he narrowly lost to Republican Jean Schmidt. An interesting look into party politics can be found here.

Political Commercial of the Day--February 12

2006-02-12T11:29:00.000-08:00

Here is a Governor-Lt. Governor spot for Republican candidates, Ron Gidwitz/Steve Rauschenberger (Illinois). In Illinois, however, candidates run on separate tickets for Governor and Lt. Governor in the primary.

Political Commercial of the Day--February 11

2006-02-11T08:56:00.000-08:00

Here's the Political Commercial of the Day:

Chuck Espy (D) for US House, District 2--Mississippi. He is challenging incumbent Rep. Bennie Thompson in the Democratic primary.

Back from a Hiatus--Political News, February 11

2006-02-11T08:49:00.000-08:00

The race for Pennsylvania Governor is now a statistical dead heat, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Cindy Sheahan announces that she will not challenge Senator Diane Feinstein in the Democratic primary for US Senate in California.

Finally, there are two interesting articles about US Senate candidate, Michael Steele (R) of Maryland. Here's one and here's the http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/02/09/AR2006020902540.html.

Political Commercial of the Day--February 3

2006-02-02T23:19:00.000-08:00

Here is today's PCOTD:

Steve Westly--Democratic candidate for Governor-California

More Political Blogs

2006-02-02T22:41:00.000-08:00

Here are some more MVCC student blogs related to upcoming political elections:

John Greene--Republican candidate for Arizona Governor
Bill Brady--Republican candidate for Illinois Governor
John Baldacci--Maine Governor (D)
Tim Pawlenty--Minnesota Governor (R)
Tom Gallagher--Republican candidate for Florida Governor
Edwin Eisendrath--Democratic candidate for Illinois Governor
Patty Judge--Democratic candidate for Iowa Governor
Joe Birkett--Republican candidate for Illinois Lt. Governor
Alan Lichtman--Democratic candidate for US Senate--Maryland
Alexi Giannoulis--Democratic candidate for Illinois State Treasurer
Dianne Feinstein--US Senator-California (D)
Bob Casey, Jr. --Democratic candidate for US Senate--Pennsylvania
Roy Moore--Republican candidate for Alabama Governor
Rosalind Kurita--Democratic candidate for US Senate--Tennessee
Tom Reilly--Democratic candidate for Massachusetts Governor
Ed Rendell--Pennsylvania Governor (D)
Jim Petro--Republican candidate for Ohio Governor
Peter Roskam--Republican candidate for US House--Illinois, District 6
Ed Case--Democratic candidate for US Senate-Hawaii

Political News--February 3

2006-02-02T19:35:00.000-08:00

According to Rasmussen Reports, if the election for Nevada Governor were held today, Republican Congressman Jim Gibbons would defeat his two main Democratic rivals. Gibbons bests Henderson Mayor Jim Gibson 43-38% and State Senator Dina Titus, 46-41%. Poll numbers were not given for intraparty competition between Gibson and Titus or Gibbons and his two main Republican rivals, Lorraine Hunt and Bob Beers.

More Political Candidate Blogs

2006-02-02T10:52:00.000-08:00

Here are some more blogs created by some Moraine Valley students. They are devoted to candidates running for office in 2006.

David McSweeney--Republican candidate for US House-Illinois, District 8
Jesse White--Illinois Secretary of State (D)
Phil Angelides--Democratic candidate for California Governor
Ted Strickland--Democratic candidate for Ohio Governor
Mike Bouchard--Republican candidate for US Senate--Michigan
Kay Bailey Hutchison--US Senator(R)-Texas
Mike Cox--Michigan Attorney General
Hillary Clinton--US Senator (D)-New York
Randy Daniels--Republican candidate for New York Governor
Bob Beauprez--Republican candidate for Colorado Governor
John Faso--Republican candidate for New York Governor
Lynn Swann--Republican candidate for Pennsylvania Governor
Ken Blackwell--Republican candidate for Ohio Governor
Cathy Cox--Democratic candidate for Georgia Governor
Melissa Bean--US Representative (D)--Illinois, District 8
Dan Rutherford--Republican candidate for Illinois Secretary of State
Bob Beers--Republican candidate for Nevada Governor
Rick Perry--Texas Governor (R)
Judy Baar Topinka--Republican candidate for Illinois Governor
Bob Corker--Republican candidate for US Senate-Tennessee
Bob Riley--Alabama Governor (R)
Kinky Friedman--Independent for Texas Governor
Rod Blagojevich--Illinois Governor (D)
Lisa Madigan--Illinois Attorney General (D)
Arnold Schwarzenegger--California Governor (R)
Kerry Healey--Republican candidate for Massachusetts Governor

Political Commercial of the Day--February 2

2006-02-02T07:15:00.000-08:00

Today's Political Commercial of the Day:

David McSweeney--(R-IL) Candidate for US House, District 8

Political News--February 1

2006-01-31T22:39:00.000-08:00

Good news for Republican candidate for Pennsylvania Governor, Lynn Swann as he, according to the article from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is all but assured his party's endorsement for Governor after defeating former Lt. Governor Bill Scranton in a vote by southwestern Pennsylvania GOP leaders. This is not good news for Scranton, who was hoping to slow down the Swann campaign. A third candidate, Jim Panyard, was not actively seeking the GOP endorsement.

Political Commercials of the Day--February 1

2006-01-31T22:13:00.000-08:00

Today, I posted two commercials for you to look at.

First, Republican candidate for Illinois Governor, State Senator Bill Brady has taken to the airwaves with his first commercial.

Second, Democratic candidate for Connecticut Governor, New Haven Mayor John DeStefano is running his first campaign commercial.

Political Candidate Blogs

2006-01-31T14:02:00.000-08:00

Here are a few political blogs related to candidates in 2006 elections.

Jim Doyle: D-Wisconsin Governor
Dick Lugar: R-US Senator-Indiana
Chet Culver: D-Candidate for Iowa Governor
Don Goldwater: R-Candidate for Arizona Governor
Rod Smith: D-Candidate for Florida Governor
Harold Ford: D-Candidate for US Senate, Tennessee
Jerry Weller: R-US Representative, 11th District, Illinois
Stu Umholtz: R-Candidate for Illinois Attorney General
Tom Osborne: R-Candidate for Nebraska Governor
Chris Bell: D-Candidate for Texas Governor

Political News Update--January 31

2006-01-31T13:42:00.000-08:00

B. Thomas Golisano decided on Tuesday to withdraw his name from the New York Governor's Race. The thrice-defeated Gubernatorial nominee of the state's Independence Party switched his party affiliation to the Republican Party in late 2005. Poll numbers showed that Golisano would have had a difficult time against presumptive Democratic nominee, Eliot Spitzer.

The front runners for the Republican nomination are former Massachusetts Governor Bill Weld, former State Assembly Minority Leader John Faso, and New York Secretary of State Randy Daniels. According to poll numbers, all three candidates are trailing in head-to-head contests with Spitzer.

Political Commercial of the Day--January 31

2006-01-31T07:28:00.000-08:00

The Political Commercial of the Day:

Pete Ricketts, Republican candidate for US Senate

Recent Polls-Monday, January 30

2006-01-30T14:13:00.000-08:00

Regardless of his vote for or against Supreme Court nominee, Samuel Alito, (he says that he will vote for him) it looks like Kent Conrad (D-ND) will cruise to an easy re-election this November. According to Rasmussen Reports, Conrad wins easily over all three of his potential GOP opponents. When likely voters are asked about a match-up against Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem, Conrad leads 53% to 40%. With Public Services Commissioner Kevin Cramer as his general election oppponent, Conrad leads 57% to 35%. Bismarck Mayor John Warford would to Conrad, 59% to 31%.

In Tennessee, potential Republican nominees for US Senate hold a lead over the presumptive Democratic candidate, Rep. Harold Ford. Chattanooga Mayor Bob Corker and US Representative Ed Bryant lead 42-40% over Ford. US Representative Van Hilleary leads 43-37% over Ford. The polls were conducted by Rasmussen Reports.

Political News--Monday, January 30

2006-01-30T07:59:00.000-08:00

A great article about Ed Case's move for the Democratic nomination for US Senate in Hawaii. Why Ed Case chose to run now is interesting enough, but does he have enough political backing from Hawaii's grassroots? He needs this backing, because US Senator Daniel Akaka has the backing of the party's leadership in Washington and Hawaii. What you must realize is that no matter how understandable Case's position is, there will always be a pecking order when it comes to slating candidates for election.

This brings me to the competitive Republican nomination for Governor in Pennsylvania. If you haven't read it already, Lynn Swann is the "rich white" candidate in the Gubernatorial race. This statement about Swann, an African-American, came from then-campaign manager of Bill Scranton's campaign. Scranton fired Bill Seif after his comments about Swann. Seif agreed with the decision and stated that the decisiveness of Scranton's decision makes him the best candidate for Governor.

My Online Political Commercial of the Day goes to: Edwin Eisendrath (D-Illinois candidate for Governor)

My Political Quote of the Day goes to John Kelly, (D-IL), Candidate for US House, 3rd District:

"The only thing I want to plant is a shot on [Sullivan's] jaw." Kelly's comment follows John Sullivan's accusation that Kelly is only on the ballot to split the opposition vote of current Democratic House member, Dan Lipinski. Kelly and Sullivan are challenging Lipinski for the Democratic nomination. Lipinski is favored to win his party's primary in March as well as the general election in November.

Texas Gubernatorial Blog

2006-01-23T10:18:00.000-08:00

A blog devoted to Texas Gubernatorial candidate, Bob Gammage (D) is now ready for reading.

Created by Jason Benbrook.

Matt Blunt for Governor Blog

2006-01-23T10:15:00.000-08:00

There is a blog posted for Matt Blunt, Candidate for Missouri Governor. Click on his name for the connection.

Blog created by Cindy McClanahan.

Student Websites: Up and Running

2006-01-20T08:43:00.000-08:00

In the weeks to come, students will be posting information on their own blogs related to the 2006 elections.

As of right now: Cindy McClanahan has started a website devoted to Governor Matt Blunt of Missouri.

Also in the devotion to keeping up with what I posted earlier in the week:

Judy Baar Topinka (R-IL), Candidate for Governor has her new site up touting her pick for Lt. Governor, DuPage State's Attorney, Joe Birkett.

Random Thoughts on Third Parties

2006-01-17T21:50:00.000-08:00

I like third parties. Granted, they do not have much of a chance to win in any election, but I certainly do like them. Some third parties advocate particular agendas (ie. Greens, Libertarians), while others exist to, well, exist (ie. the Light Party or Pansexual Party).

There are two things that I like to mention about thirds in this posting. First, when searching around on the Internet, please note that the Green Party has candidates for all statewide elections in Illinois. The reason why I feel that this is noteworthy is that the they are the only third party with a slate of candidates in each state race. The Libertarian Party chose not to field a slate of candidates this time around. With the dismal showing of Cal Skinner four years ago, the LPI decided to regroup and retool their organization in 2006.

As for the Greens, three candidates have websites regarding their candidates. Please visit them. Two are up-to-date, while one still touts her candidacy for Illinois House of Representatives. For the most part, the three sites are easy to navigate.

Rich Whitney (Gov.): whitneyforgov.org
Julie Samuels (Lt. Gov.): juliesamuels.com
Dan Rodriguez-Schlorff (State Treasurer): www.schlorff.com

Other candidates, without websites:

David Black for Attorney General
Karen Young for Secretary of State
Alicia Snyder for State Comptroller

If you know of any website updates for these candidates, please email me at schreck@morainevalley.edu

The second third party posting regards Kinky Friedman for Governor (I-TX):

You have to see the commercials for the Kinky Friedman Talking Action Figure. On his website, http://www.kinkyfriedman.com/, you will find three such commercials. In one of the commercials, you will find a certain interim US Senator from Minnesota asking the Friedman figure a question. That's Dean Barkley, former US Senate appointee of then-Governor Jesse Ventura, and now Friedman's Campaign Director and Chief Strategist. Friedman's poll numbers are ahead of Ventura's at this stage of the game. Friedman polls 10-12% and he is not even on the ballot yet. Once Friedman gains ballot access in Texas, he'll certainly be worth watching. The race in general is worth analyzing because there will be four candidates on the ballot (access permitting, of course). Current Governor Rick Perry (R) will be the party nominee for the GOP. A contested Democratic primary will field a nominee. There will also be two Independent candidates. Current State Comptroller Carole Keeton Strayhorn (I), dropped her bid for the Republican nomination and became an Independent. Finally, there's Richard. Kinky to his friends. Perry is heavily favored, but with a four-way race, anything can happen. If Friedman is allowed to debate, then look out. Ventura gained access to public debates in Minnesota and wiped the floor clean with his opponents. The same could happen with Friedman. Wait and see.

In the meantime, visit his website (mentioned above).

Keeping you informed....

2006-01-17T21:45:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned in previous postings, this site is used as an educational tool by students at Moraine Valley Community College. All of my students are being graded on the blogs that they create. The blogs are devoted to the 2006 elections. As of 11:47pm on Tuesday night, the following candidates will be written about by my students:

State Senator Bill Brady (R-IL): Candidate for Illinois Governor
Edwin Eisendrath (D-IL): Candidate for Illinois Governor
Governor Jennifer Granholm (D-MI): Michigan Governor
State Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka (R-IL): Candidate for Illinois Governor

Once these blogs have been published, you will find their blog addresses here. You will also find political commentary left by me on their postings.

More candidates will follow. Updates are forthcoming.

Gubernatorial Candidate Websites

2006-01-17T08:08:00.000-08:00

Here are some thoughts about Gubernatorial Candidate Websites in Illinois:

Current Governor:

Rod Blagojevich (D)--www.rodforillinois.com: The page is still under construction

Other candidates:

Edwin Eisendrath (D)--eisendrath2006.com: Well done site, updated considerably. Plenty of photos and media accounts regarding the former Chicago Alderman.

Bill Brady (R)--www.citizensforbillbrady.com: The State Senator's website is updated nicely. Has plenty of photos from the campaign trail, but there aren't any labels next to the photos. He does have two new radio ads that can be heard in mp3 form.

Ron Gidwitz (R)--ron2006.com: This was once a Gidwitz only site. Now it is a Gidwitz/Steve Rauschenberger site. You must scroll down to read a considerable amount of information.

Jim Oberweis (R)--oberweisforillinois.com: Not as wordy as Gidwitz or Brady. Site is updated and he has his mailers online.

Judy Topinka (R)--judyforgov.com: Since December, the website was not updated. It was an uninspired site, to say the least. On January 17, the website was down, presumably to update the site. Topinka is assumed to the front runner in the Republican primary.

Swann in '06?

2006-01-13T21:32:00.000-08:00

It is interesting to see that the GOP of Pennsylvania is turning to a political novice in Lynn Swann for Governor. Now, the party has not officially endorsed the former Pittsburgh Steeler Hall of Fame Wide Receiver, but after a stellar showing in a recent vote by Western PA GOP leaders, an official state GOP endorsement is likely. What is even more interesting is that Swann is likely to receive the endorsement over former Lt. Governor, Bill Scranton III.

Swann represents the message that National GOP Chairman, Ken Mehlman has been touting since 2004. The message is that the GOP is inclusive and favors African-Americans in a more positive light than perhaps the Democrat Party does. A Swann vs. Rendell race in November will be an election with national implications.

One caveat to a Swann-Rendell race: Never underestimate the power of a family name in politics...Bush, Ford (TN), Lipinski (IL), and many others prove that point. Scranton could pull an upset in PA, which would all but give Governor Ed Rendell a better chance for re-election.

What's In Store for '06?

2006-01-05T09:53:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone. Hope you all had a great New Year.

So what's in store for 2006 on The Political Weekly?

Just as I had done last year, students from my American National Government classes at Moraine Valley will have a weekly assignment related to the elections of 2006. Their job? Blogging about a candidate for US Senate, House, or Governor. This should be pretty interesting and thorough. I have about 50-100 students (depending on enrollment), and no one candidate will be duplicated. If everyone does their work, it should be a rewarding experience for the students and for you.

If not, then it's back to the drawing board for me.

See you in a few weeks.

Deron

Be Back After The New Year

2005-12-23T10:42:00.000-08:00

Good day.

I will post new political stories throughout the end of the year. A more detailed blog will return after the first of the New Year. Also, there will be more student postings once the semester begins in mid-January 2006.

Have a Happy New Year!

The Governator and Tookie

2005-12-11T12:51:00.000-08:00

Casey Lisak with Arnold and Stanley "Tookie" Williams: (Dated 12/1/05)

Next week Arnold is scheduled to meet with the lawyers for death row inmate, Stanley "Tookie" Williams. Williams was the founder and leader of the notorious street gang, the Crips. He has been sentenced to die on December 13th for his role in killing four people. While in prison Williams has changed his life around for the better and started many anti-gang programs. Schwarzenegger has rejected two previous petitions for clemency by Death Row inmates, but the request to spare Tookies's life will be decided before December 13. I feel that the death penalty should be inforced in every state, for the fact that some people have done things that should deny them life. However, in this case I feel that the man has turned his life around. He recognized the error of his ways and has lead a richeous life through prison. Putting him to death would be a waste of talent and a bad decision.
http://www.nobodysmiling.com/hiphop/news/85423.php

Cox-Fieger at it again.

2005-12-11T12:48:00.000-08:00

Casey Lisak comes up with another one on Cox-Fieger in Michigan.

http://www.mlive.com/news/statewide/index.ssf?/base/news-6/1132701003115310.xml&coll=1

There have been mixed feelings since the Fieger-Cox feud. However, Cox will likely continue with his bid for re-election of Attorney General. Fieger, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for Attorney General in 2006, denied trying to blackmail Cox in exchange for a dropped investigation into Fieger’s 2004 campaign contributions. It seems like Cox has came out of this cleaner than Fieger. Carolyn Curtin, a Republican state party chair said, "It was admirable that Cox tackled the issue head on.” Don Brigel said, “There is no replacement for him in the party… Would we dump an incumbent Attorney General and come up with a new candidate next time? As long as he doesn’t rob a bank or kill a person, I don’t think so.” Both are in favor of Cox and his actions. I feel that Cox will come out on top; this event hasn’t damaged his character as much as Fieger thought it would. Although, Republicans favor high morals and Christian conservatism, Cox has not been tarred and feathered like Fieger had hoped.

Schwarzenegger's Woes

2005-12-11T12:46:00.000-08:00

Casey Lisak comments on Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's work in the last few weeks. Dated: November 27, 2005

http://www.ridgecrestca.com/articles/2005/11/25/news/columnists/colo01.prt

Casey's commentary: Arnold’s return from China didn’t yield much of a success. The governor’s reform plan has been shot down by the people that originally supported him. Proposition 76 was all about whether the people trusted him or not. Schwarzenegger wanted to cut state spending and he asked the voters to leave it to him. 62.5% of people who voted said they do not trust him that much. This number is similar to his disapproval rating. The people of California are started to look past Arnold’s charisma and see how their state is doing. Running off to China didn’t help his cause either. But I think this quote sums up the Schwarzenegger campaign “Whether he's damaged beyond repair is still not clear, and for sure, a lot of what happens in his reelection campaign next year will depend on who the Democrats put up against him. But one thing seems certain: Right now, the governor simply doesn't understand what happened to his political fortunes and why.” It seems like everything he does just makes him look worse.

Bill Brady for Governor

2005-12-11T12:41:00.000-08:00

Wafa Hamad checks in with two stories about Illinois Gubernatorial candidate, State Senator Bill Brady.

Dated Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Brady: I'm In Governor's Race to Stay "totally committed" to winning this election

Sen. Bill Brady reaffirmed Tuesday that he will be a candidate for Governor on the ballot next year.
“I am totally committed to winning this election for Governor and to bringing a new generation of leadership to Illinois and state government,” Brady said. “I see new energy in my campaign every day from volunteers and supporters who believe I am the best candidate to beat Rod Blagojevich and to bring new vitality and integrity to Illinois.”
Brady said he was not interested in other spots on the ticket, as some have suggested.
“I am running for Governor, period,” Brady said. “I would not be in this race if I did not firmly believe that I am the best candidate to lead the renewal of my party and our state.”
Brady said his campaign has the momentum, the enthusiasm, the support and the financial commitments to mount a strong campaign over the next 12 months.
“This will be a winning campaign,” Brady said.
Brady was endorsed by a Conservative Summit similar to one that bolstered the campaigns of Al Salvi in 1996 and Peter Fitzgerald in 1998. He is building a strong grassroots organization and has already received assurances of financial assistance from national Republican organizations for the campaign after the primary election.
Brady said his solid standing in recent public opinion polls shows widespread support for his effort, despite the fact that he has not previously been a statewide campaign or spent millions of dollars for television commercials to boost his name identification.
Brady, a 12-year veteran of the General Assembly and a Central Illinois businessman for the last 25 years, announced July 26 he would seek the GOP nomination for Governor in 2006.
http://www.citizensforbillbrady.com/speical.html

Wafa's commentary:
Sen. Bill Brady is showing us that he is a serious person, sure about his goals, and never gives up. He is reaffirming that next year will be a candidate for Governor on the ballot. He has a positive view of his campaign. He has many volunteers and supporters that believe in him. He don’t want to run for other job, he just want to be what he likes to be a Governor. He is sure about his campaign is going to win; after all he has the enthusiasm and the financial support to continue for the next 12 months. He is building strong organizations and is supported by the national Republican organizations. He prefers to speak directly to the public and not wasting money for television commercials to boost his name identification.

I believe that Senator Bill Brady would make a great governor for Illinois. He is a well qualified candidate and as a legislator for 12 years, he has worked very hard in his campaign. I think that he cares about us people and that he is telling the truth. I attended a speech of his at my college Moraine Valley Community College and he was a very spontaneous person. I agree that he preferred to speak at the public directly than through the television, so we can ask him whatever we want. He knows what he is doing and what he is running as, he wants to be a Governor and I hope he wins. If the people that are supporting him knew that he is not saying the truth then for sure they wouldn’t support him as they are until now.

www.bradyforgovernor2006.com/news/
Monday, October 24, 2005

Congressman Tim Johnson Endorses Brady for Governor; Cites Brady’s “Integrity and Stature”

Sen. Bill Brady, Republican candidate for Governor, today welcomed the endorsement of Illinois Congressman Tim Johnson.

Congressman Johnson endorsed Brady for Governor in the 2006 Republican primary election, saying Brady is the only candidate who has “both the integrity and the stature” to unite Illinois and to solve the state’s fiscal challenges and the current administration’s ethical failures.

“Bill Brady is the one person in the field of primary and general election opponents who has both the integrity and the stature to unite this party and this state, from Chicago to Cairo, for a productive future,” Johnson said.

"All of us, Republican or Democrat, Downstate, suburban and Chicagoans, are weary of our governor’s fiscal missteps and ethical lapses, as well as the endless partisan bickering that robs us of hope and optimism for the future. The solution is Bill Brady,” added Johnson.

Johnson, who represents all or parts of 22 counties in Illinois’ 15th District, made the announcement with Brady at news conferences in Champaign-Urbana and Bloomington.

Brady said he was honored to have Johnson’s endorsement and support.

“As Governor, I will need the assistance and advice of a strong Illinois delegation in Washington, and Tim Johnson is such a vital part of that delegation,” Brady said. “He is a respected, principled, hard-working leader, and I am honored and grateful to have him standing beside me as we work to create jobs in Illinois, restore the faith of the public in their government and rein in state spending.”

Brady, a Bloomington businessman and 12-year veteran of the Illinois General Assembly, announced his candidacy for Governor July 26.

Wafa's Summary
Sen. Bill Brady, Republican candidate for Governor is very happy that Johnson, who represents all or parts of 22 counties in Illinois’ 15th District, is supporting him. Johnson said that Brady has both the integrity and the stature to unite this party and this state, from Chicago to Cairo, for a productive future. He seems that he believe Brady on every thing and every word he made. Finally, they are saying good things about each other and that they support each other.
My Comments
When any person has good reputation others will help and support that person. This is exactly the case of Sen. Brady, he is supported by important ones like Tim Johnson. I think that Sen. Bill Brady is mighty acting. It is not quite easy running for Governor; however, he is working hard to earn that honor.

Oberweis and Topinka

2005-12-11T12:37:00.000-08:00

http://www.sj-r.com/sections/news/stories/72617.asp, Dated the week of December 4

The article deals with Judy Baar Topinka running for the Governor's spot. There isn't much about Oberweis in the article. It is funny though he seems to be worried about her entering the race. The article states how Oberweis is already bad mouthing her saying that she is involved in a corrupt Ryan campaign. I love it. This is a great example of dirty politics and someone who is starting to get worried. It cant get any worse for Oberweis.

My commentary: Oberweis is clearly a number two candidate with Topinka entering the race. He is also fighting for the conservative banner in Illinois with State Senator Steve Rauschenberger and State Senator Bill Brady in the race.

Oberweis and Illegals

2005-12-11T12:35:00.000-08:00

http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/beaconnews/city/2_1_AU20_OBERWEIS_S1.htm, Dated the week of November 29.

Nothing really major happened for Oberweis this week. I did find an article that says he fired the cleaning service that used to work for his stores. I think he is just trying to save face. I also think it is to late for him to do this. The damage has already been done. People will always remember that he had the illegal immigrants working for his store.

My commentary: I tend to agree with Mr. Johnson about this situation. Oberweis will be hurt by this incident. It may not come out in the open now, but wait until the new year with a contested Republican primary, and this issue will rear its ugly head again.

Schwarzenegger and China

2005-11-23T13:37:00.000-08:00

Governor Schwarzenegger made a trip to China, to invole California is China's growing economy. China's economy is growing at a rate of 9.5% which is triple what the U.S. normally averages. The governor went to china to influence trade relations. One out of seven jobs in California is based on trade.

"China is one of California's fastest-growing trading partners and its more than 1 billion citizens represent an important market for California products and services," Governor Schwarzenegger said. "I am looking forward to a busy and substantive schedule that will grow our relationship with this important Pacific Rim partner, grow California exports and create jobs."

Schwarzenegger also promoted awareness for intellectual property rights (IPRs). Governor Schwarzenegger wants to work with the Chinese government to crack down on boot legging.

Personally I think if I read this article with another governor's name I would not care. However, since Schwarzenegger is involved I expect a gun fight or something along those lines. In my eyes, Arnold will always be the guy from Predator, Running Man, Terminator and my personal favorite Danny Devito's twin brother in Twins. It is difficult to shake those images of him because that is what I grew up on. Also, a recent poll states that a majority of California voters will not support Schwarzenegger for another term, so I guess the 'Terminator' will not " be back."

My commentary: With four of his pet initiatives voted down by the public on November 8, it is back to the drawing board for Governor Schwarzenegger. If the results of this trip to China are anything like President Bush's recent visit, then this too will also be a bust for the Governor. Schwarzenegger's sagging poll numbers coupled with a strong Democrat primary imply that the Governor may only be in office through 2006.

http://newsblaze.com/story/20051114083101nnnn.nb/newsblaze/TOPSTORY/Top-Story.html

You Had Me At "Aloha"

2005-11-23T13:33:00.000-08:00

Heather Ferrero weighs in with this bit of information from Hawaii:

This article focuses on the extreme price cost of energy use in Hawaii. The claim is that Hawaii is the most oil dependent state in our nation. This article focuses on The Economic Momentum Commission, which was founded by Linda Lingle in 2005. This committee was formed to sustain the state’s current oil prices and prevent further inflation and extreme taxation. The (PCU) Public Utilities Commission has evaluated the situation for peak users and has proposed a time/usage formula to ease pricing and encourage conservation. Also they have recommended that all new state buildings must meet energy efficiency standards. I feel that this article is very positive for Linda Lingle because her commission is for the Renewable Portfolio Standard. They are demanding action on renewable sources for energy. Voters that I know would love to see energy and oil prices decrease. This is a very big issue for the Hawaiian state and definitely will sway votes in her favor.

http://www.hawaiireporter.com/story.aspx?f6f4c2b3-26fl-4124-9144-e63caf7aaecb
http://www.emchawaii.com this is a dot com address connected to the news paper.

My commentary: Look for Lingle to win in a landslide in 2006. She has little opposition forming on the Democrat side in Hawaii. This is surprising since the state's two US Senators and two House members are Democrats and that the state voted for Kerry in the last presidential election.

What's Going On In Massachusetts?

2005-11-22T14:21:00.000-08:00

Keiko Inoue checks in with this information from Massachusetts.

Article address:
http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2005/11/11/in_illegal_immigrant_fight_reilly_looks_beyond_law_enforcement_concerns/

Article title: In Illegal Immigrant Fight, Reilly Looks Beyond Law
Enforcement Concerns

Summary: Massachusetts Attorney General Tom Reilly, Republican Lt. Gov.
Kerry Healey and Gov. Mitt Romney held a debate on the bill that allows the
illegal immigrant children to pay in-state tuition fees at Massachusetts
public colleges or universities. Healey and Romney opposed this bill. Healey
said, "passing the law could also force the state to allow in-state tuition
for out-of-state students" and Romney said it should be national law because
America is the nation of immigrants. However, Reilly said that he could
understand how they struggle this tuition problem because he was the son of
Irish immigrants. He said he was asking for the change in the law because
it's not only the job of Immigration Service, but also their obligation to
educate children by laws.

Keiko's Comments: I think Reilly is right to stand for immigrants because bill is
really helpful for immigrant parents. Also, I think he is trying to be
kind to children and get their attention. It is a persuasive reason that
he had experienced this problem as immigrants. However, I hope the bill
should be national laws, which means I agree with Romney.

My comments: There are a lot of things going on here. Reilly could probably win the job of Governor in 2006. Romney is not going to run for re-election. Romney is a potential candidate for President in 2008. That is why he is talking about the national government getting involved in the immigration issue. He is setting an agenda for his presidential run.

Spitzer and Baxley in the News

2005-11-22T14:13:00.000-08:00

"Eliot Spitzer"
http://www.newsday.com/news/local/wire/newyork/ny-bc-ny--politics-stars1120nov20,0,3427610.story?coll=ny-region-apnewyork

In this article from Newsday, it talks about how Hollywood stars endorse candidates that are running for office. This article mentioned that Democratic candidate for governor, Eliot Spitzer, has endorsements by Chase, actress Blythe Danner, environmental activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and folk singer Pete Seeger. There are quotes from these stars, they state that they are honored to endorse him. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. endorsed Spitzer because he believes that New York as a serious pollution problem and believes that Spitzer can fix that problem, among more then one hundred other Environmentalists
The main issue in this article is do we get sucked in because of stars and their views on the candidates. Is it all about vanity? DO they actual help the candidates? They brought up the example of John Kerry being out of touch with mainstream America because of his Hollywood endorsements.
I believe it is wrong for the Hollywood stars to be mocked, because people do not realize that they are actually helping. With the amount of money that they give to help candidates and organizations, people are getting help that they need. I do not agree that endorsements cause vanity, and do not cause voters to vote for someone just because their favorite star likes them. Therefore, if Eliot Spitzer has endorsements then I say more power to him.

My commentary: Eliot Spitzer is a rising star in the Democrat Party. He probably is the second most popular behind US Senator Barack Obama. The Republican Party is down in New York. Spitzer is likely going to be elected Governor in 2006.

"Lucy Baxley"
http://www.al.com/news/birminghamnews/index.ssf?/base/news/113066818057520.xml&coll=2&thispage=1

Indictment Rattles Race for Governor
In this article it talks about Don Siegelman and Lucy Baxley and if Siegelman's situation will effect him in the polls. Right now Siegelman is facing criminal charges and is still running for governor. He believes that he will win because he was the former governor, and he has many people behind him. Baxley is letting the public know that she has a clean slate and that she has never been investigated under anything, and though that is a good defense some people do not believe that she is firm on her stands and what she is going to do for office if she is voted in.

I have been reading a couple of articles on her, and I think that she needs to talk more about what she is going to do, and have some help from some people from her party. People want to know what she is going to do, and I think that she should focus more on that. Everyone already knows that she has a clean slate, so it is time to talk the issues.

My commentary: This is an interesting race. Both the Democrat and Republican primaries will be contested. In a normal situation, Siegelman would not be even considered for re-election. However, if Baxley does not focus on issues, Siegelman could regain the Democrat nod for Governor in 2006.

Oberweis for Governor

2005-11-22T14:05:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of Michael Johnson.

From CBS2-Chicago: CBS2Chicago.com/topstories/local_story_31219104.html

The article is in regards to Jim Oberweis and the illeagal immigrants he had working at his store. I do not think this looks to good for Mr. Oberweis. When he came to our class one of the main things he talked about was his stance on illegal immigrants and how he was against them coming into the country. By the looks of it he is going to have to find some thing else to run on. Maybe he shuold change his stance from being against them to being for them or maybe he should just stick to making milk and leave the politics for someone with experience. He was also denied a US Senate nomination in 2004, because of his immigration stance. I think the time is right for Oberweis to change his stance on illegal immgration.

My commentary: With a race filled with conservatives and a popular moderate/liberal, the chances of Jim Oberweis getting the Republican nod for Governor are pretty slim.

Attorney General Madigan for Re-election

2005-11-22T13:42:00.000-08:00

Sean Castle checks in with this story on Lisa Madigan:

This summary is from the Naperville Sun which reprinted the Chicago Sun-Times article concerning Amy Madigan’s re-election campaign. It can be found at: http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/sunpub/naper/news/n14madigan.htm.

The Naperville Sun reports that Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan kicked off her re-election campaign Sunday with $1 million in the bank and no primary challengers. Madigan, 39, who is the daughter of the Speaker of the Illinois House, Michael Madigan, may not need her father’s clout. Lisa Madigan’s accomplishments include: promoting new laws that help protect consumers against identity theft, requiring lifetime supervision of sex offenders, and restricting sales of over-the-counter drugs used to make methamphetamine. Madigan has also opposed utility rate hikes, sued a tobacco company for allegedly marketing to black children and fought efforts to locate the Emerald Casino in Rosemont, Illinois.

The article indicates that about 200 supporters attended Madigan’s re-election announcement Sunday at the Chicago Hilton. The crowd included Democratic aldermen, committeemen, legislators, and county officials. Michael Madigan was conspicuously absent. The article indicates that Madigan’s dad was busy babysitting her 10-month-old daughter, Rebecca.

The article states that Madigan does not appear to have any opposition in the March 21. 2006 Democratic primary. Possible Republican opponents in the general election include: Stu Umholtz, Tazewell County State’s Attorney, and Joe Birkett, DuPage County State’s Attorney.

The article suggests that the Republicans will question her objectivity because she will be on the same re-election ticket with Governor Blagojevich. Blagojevich is under federal investigation for his hiring practices, while Madigan is investigating whether the administration has traded appointments for campaign contributions. Republicans wonder how she can be objective as a prosecutor if she is on the same ticket as the “person they’re investigating.”

The article is very positive for Madigan. It highlights her accomplishments and does not stress the investigation of Blagojevich. It also puts a nice spin on Madigan’s relationship with her father. By having him home babysitting, it implies that he will not be directly involved with his daughter’s re-election campaign, and that they have a positive relationship, unlike Blagojevich’s relationship with his political family member (by marriage).

My commentary: Madigan is a virtual lock at this point for re-election for three reasons. One, her record is respected in the state. Two, the Democrat Party in Illinois is at its strongest now, coupled with a weak Republican Party in the state. Third, if Birkett wants to challenge Madigan, he must drop the bid for Governor immediately. Any time wasted on that race will hurt his chances if he wants to run for Attorney General again.

Topinka's In...

2005-11-17T20:19:00.000-08:00

Brandy Witherspoon sheds some light on the race for Illinois Governor.

From the Columbia Chronicle...

http://www.ccchronicle.com/paper/opinions.php?id=1907

With Jim Edgar’s decision not to run for Illinois’ Governor, Judy Baar Topinka has declared that she will be yet another republican candidate in the 2006 elections. According to the Columbia Chronicle, Topkina’s “stiffest challenges” are former salesmen/businessmen, State Senator Steve Rauschenberger and Jim Oberweis. Although Judy Topinka has name recognition for job as State Treasurer, her association with the Republican National Party has also brought negative attention. The Columbia Chronicle made mention of her connections to indicted former Governor George Ryan, not to mention her previous support of controversial people like Allan Keyes and Jack Ryan, yet the article equally probes the other top candidates.
The article points out Jim Oberweis’s apparent doubled standards regarding his handling of the illegal immigration issue. He is being accused of having allowed illegal immigrants clean his store for $3.23 an hour. This comes after his 2004 commercial standing against illegal immigration. Reference is also made to Democratic Governor Rod Blagojevich’s hiring practice scandal and Steve Rauschenberger’s support of replacing the theory of evolution with that of “intelligent design” in science classes. Each of the four cited candidates has notoriety damaging their candidacy, so there is no reason why Judy Topinka shouldn’t have a chance; even with the GOP’s dignity being dragged in the mud.
Judy Topinka is classified as a pro-life, gay-rights-supporting, social moderate, whose beliefs “…could appeal to more mainstream voters who don’t favor some of the hard right stances offered by Rauschenberger and Oberweis,…” as stated by the Columbia Chronicle.

Brandy's commentary: Although the article devotes quite a few paragraph to the other candidates, I feel it gives hope to Topinka’s campaign. I say “hope”, because I think it will be needed, once the Democrats and Republicans get a hold of her tarnished history. Most often, voters focus on the negative issues that turn them off of a candidate, and Topinka’s name is ridden with negatives, even in this optimistic article. Some of the other candidates have direct involvement in public scandals, which may be helpful throughout her campaign. I also agree with the Columbia Chronicle, that her open-minded stance on social issues could boost her approval ratings.

Overall, the article was non-biased, or could be called equally discriminative. Either way, Topinka’s only evident flaws are being a Republican and a corrupt-Republican-supporter.

My commentary: This is going to be a tough Republican primary. Along with Topinka, Oberweis, and Rauschenberger, are State Senator Bill Brady and businessman Ron Gidwitz. DuPage State's Attorney Joe Birkett has not formally entered the race yet. If Birkett runs, then the number of conservative candidates would total four (Oberweis, Rauschenberger, Brady, Birkett). Topinka needs to survive not only a conservative challenge, but also a challenge from the more moderate Gidwitz. Gidwitz who is polling in the low single digits, recently sent out his third piece of direct mail. This bit of Gidwitz information proves that (for the time being) he will not drop out of the race for Governor, even with the more well-known moderate Topinka in the mix.

Fieger's At It Again...

2005-11-17T20:07:00.000-08:00

Casey Lisak checks in with a potential race for Attorney General in Michigan.

From the Detroit News:
http://www.detnews.com/2005/politics/0511/16/A01-383807.htm

Two lawyers from Michigan, Geoffery Fieger and Lee O'Brien, blackmailed Attorney General, Mike Cox, because Cox was investigating a campaign contribution made by Fieger.

The article states that, "In a wild day of punch and counter-punch, the prosecutor ended his review of allegations that O'Brien and Fieger threatened to reveal Attorney General Mike Cox's extramarital affair unless Cox dropped an investigation into questionable campaign contributions made by Fieger."

Fieger plans on running for Attorney General and asked Cox to resign. Feiger is most famous for defending Jack Kevorkian. No charges have been filed against Fieger, but he has successfully stained Cox's image by bringing personal issues into politics.

"Cox said he hadn't decided whether to recuse himself from the lengthy investigation into Fieger's $453,000 donation to an unsuccessful campaign last fall to defeat Michigan Supreme Court Justice Stephen Markman." If he does, then it seems that Fieger wins, because Cox's name is stained and he doesn't get punished for a dishonorable act. I think Fieger sums it up best with the following statements. "This was never going to be a criminal prosecution," Fieger said. "This was nothing more than a political persecution."

Casey's commentary: Recently we covered ethics in politics, and what is acceptable and unacceptable. This scenario is definitely not acceptable.

My commentary: Fieger was the Democrat candidate for Governor in 1998. The candidacy was a disaster and an embarassment for the party that year. This race is going to be a mess, whether or not Fieger wins.

Introduction to the site

2005-11-15T14:19:00.000-08:00

In the weeks to come, students from Moraine Valley Community College will be posting news online about the 2006 elections.

Moraine Valley is located in Palos Hills, Illinois. There may be a slight bias towards Illinois politics on the website, but there will be stories about other events in states that have elections in 2006.

Commentary will be provided by me and my students from time to time.

Hope you enjoy the site.