Tuesday’s Tidbits

Barack Obama and the Chicago Political Machine

Last night a reference was made on the O’Reilly Factor to Barack Obama’s ties to the Chicago Political Machine headed by Mayor Richard Daley. Bill O’Reilly promised further investigation into these ties prior to the November election. Finding references is not particularly difficult. On February 26, 2007, The Washington Post reported that Obama had endorsed Daley for Mayor, a switch from a prior position that Obama held regarding the corruption surrounding Daley’s administration. Chicago politics is strikingly similar to Massachusetts politics, you pay to play.

Speaking of which,

Jeff Beatty questions Jim Ogonowski's Fraudulent Ballot Signatures

Jeff Beatty, Republican Candidate for Senate (MA), has questioned Jim Ogonowski’s, the other Republican candidate for MA senate, collection of signatures. (The Lowell Sun article here) Apparently Ogonowski is, to date, short of the 10,000 signatures necessary to be placed on the November ballot. Ogonowski is running a slick pre-campaign, has been to Washington to request and receive help from the beltway, and knows how to get around Massachusetts politics. It is alleged that the signatures include several deceased residents. Surprised? Jeff Beatty, a relative newcomer to Massachusetts politics, has cried foul and is asking for an investigation. Pundits and bloggers from the Bay state such as the Red Mass Group, are calling Jeff an amateur. Frankly, better an amateur (i.e.: newcomer to Massachusetts politics) than a fraud. Jeff Beatty is in the best position to defeat John Kerry in November – polls indicate the same (Google John Kerry 08 senate race polls). However, with Mass. Politics Chicago style, being right is does not always go over well with either the political party or the press, which brings me to:

Hillary Clinton’s Historical References

Hillary Clinton made historical references in order to explain or defend a Democrat primary lasting well into June. Unfortunately, she referenced the assignation of Robert Kennedy and, Obama and Company, (campaign and the media) took it very personally. Clinton’s remarks were clearly an historical references, yet, as in most instances, regardless of who might be speaking (President Bush on the 60th anniversary of Israel, Mike Huckabee joking at an NRA convention, etc.), remarks are seen as a personal affront to Barack Obama. Clinton’s remarks sent the press into overdrive – see article from the New York Times here. The problem appears to be that Barack Obama is already concerned about an assasination attempt and, at the request of Homeland Security’s Chertoff, is surrounded by Secret Service details. Apparently, whenever anyone in a high profile position makes a statement, they had best figure out if somehow, someway it may be of some offense to Barack Obama. The word ridiculous comes to mind.