Timothy Cahill, MA State Treasurer, Leaves Democrat Party, May Run as Independent Against Deval Patrick

State Tresurer Timonthy Cahill Leaving Democrat Party - photo: Boston Globe

Timothy Cahill the current Massachusetts State Treasurerplans to leave the Democrat Party this week, according to the Boston Globe. Cahill, who is apparently fed up with the tax and spend party policy, will most likely run as an independent against Governor Duvall Patrick. Patrick, who also faces a challenge from Republican Christie Mihos, has been losing popularity as the State's financial woes continue unabated. It is not so much that Massachusetts differs from other states in lacking funds, rather it is some of the programs that the state has initiated that are making Patrick’s chances of reelection slim to nothing. Mandated benefits added to the State’s Universal Health Care (Commonwealth Care) program, after Republican Mitt Romney left the Governor’s office to campaign for the 2008 Presidential race, has brought the state to its fiscal knees; corruption on Beacon Hill continues to run rampant, the Turnpike authority continues to make the news, and the Entitlement programs have completely run amok.

It is no wonder that Cahill, as State Treasurer, wants out prior to the 2009 election. In the past few months, the following stories broke around the Bay State: "Massachusetts spends $2 Million per month Housing Homeless", "Massachusetts Welfare Recipients Provided Cars at Taxpayer Expenses" (includes insurance and Triple A), along with the constant drumbeat from the Beacon Hill regarding the need to raise the State Sales Tax, (in order to cover expenses). The Sales Tax was signed into law by Governor Patrick on June 29th with the budget which included cuts to municipalities and the increase of 25% in the State Sales Tax (effective August 1st).

Cahill also had additional struggles within the party, as the Party refused to give him delegate status at the National Convention. His crime, refusing to chose between Clinton and Obama. Recall that Massachusetts Democrats, outside of higher profile Elected Officials, such as Kennedy, Kerry and Barney Frank, endorsed Clinton who carried the State by a substantial margin. The animosity among grassroots Democrats over the treatment of Clinton by the national party is still a sore point with the rank and file in Massachusetts.

One would think, should Cahill run, it would set the stage for a three-way race, that would, generally split the vote three ways with the end result a Patrick second term. This is of course, unless Democrats as a whole are switching parties just like Cahill (the untold story), and moving either to a Republican and or “unenrolled” status. This would make it a race between Mihos and Cahill. Any campaign manager looking for a lock in on the state (and or individual districts), should begin checking the individual registrars offices in each municipalities to see just how many Democrats are jumping ship on a monthly basis, since February of 2009. (400 here, 500 there, etc.) Cahill may understand this more than anyone, and should he have the pulse of the State’s electorate, it is a smart move indeed.

Iran 070609 - Khomeini, desperate, warns the “west” against “meddling” as Qom’s Key Ayatollah call Election a Fraud

Grand Ayatollah Hossein Ali Montazeri Calls Election Fraud -image Foreign Policy.com

The “blame the West” rhetoric of the Iranian Regime, absent from the press for a few days, was repeated again yesterday by Khomeini on Iranian State television. Per usual, Khomeini threatened the U.S and the U.K. of a “firm fist” in response to “meddling” by the aforementioned nations. Ahmadinejad also stuck his two-cents into the “Blame the West” game, once again, this appears to be falling on deaf ears.
The problem with this particular line of rhetoric is twofold, one, the U.S. government, under the current administration has had no intention of meddling in the affairs of Iran, other than one statement issued by Obama “condemning” or “strongly condemning” the use of force against the protestors. The other problem is that Iranians’, specifically those protesting, find it insulting to their intelligence – they know better, after all, they are the ones that are fighting this battle alone (with aid coming in the form of compassionate assistance to the wounded in demonstrations from a variety of foreign embassies.)
Why the need to demonize the “West” at this point? The support for Khomeini among his peers is becoming almost non-existent. From the City of Qom, one of the most important Shiite Religious Centers in Iran, and of import; Khomeini is an alumni. During the election cycle and even after questions of voter fraud arose, the Ayatollah’s of Qom remained silent – that silence has been broken and now, they are siding with the protestors, and have disputed the results of the election. , of specific import:

“That voice came from Grand Ayatollah Hossein-Ali Montazeri, a founder of the Islamic republic who for many years has been Iran's most influential dissident and an idol of youth and Iranians of all generations.
Montazeri, now in his 80s, issued a statement on his Web site that denounced the election as a fraud -- an opinion that is likely shared among the thousands of clerics and seminarians who behind the scenes are no doubt weighing in on the battle for power inside Iran.

This is being reported by several sources including the Nigerian Press.

As the crackdown by the regime continues and executions, specifically in Qom, continue, the further Khomeini and Company are painted into a proverbial corner.

Iran Update 07-05-09 – Leading Clerics Defy Khomeini, Saudi's Give Israel Flight Clearance to Iran, The Regime's Demise Escalates

There is news regarding continued defiance and a general breakdown of support for the election results among the clerics in Iran today from the New York Times and the Associated Press. This is significant in that with each passing day and each atrocity committed by the regime, Iran Elites (the clergy) either are moving their money out of the country or now those politico’s who took part in the 1979 revolution understand that the regimes days are numbered and are now reevaluating their positions by switching sides. A general strike has been called, for 15-17 Tir, pleas for help from all countries are now coming out on Twitter and other social networking sites.

What impact would a democratic Iran have on the situation in the Middle East? With the threat of nuclear war by the regime, and the consistent funding of such organizations as Hezbollah and Hamas ended, stability would start to gain a foothold in the area. Which may be why the Arab press has been somewhat quiet on the situation in Iran, however, an Associated Press Release today noted that the Saudi’s will not interfere with Israeli jets en route to Iran.Associated Press. It is in the best interest of those countries of the region to collaborate against the current regime. That said - how do Iranians view the role the United States has played to date? With disgust - consider the “Tweets” from Iranians (as well as Europeans):

“Obama wants 2 save Ahmadi and by that he will say that he has negotiations with Iran. Shame Shame Shame”

That says it all.

Barney Frank in GOP’s Sights – Said to Be Bringing In Big Name to Run in the 4th District

Cosy: Barney Frank & Chris Dodd facing challenges in 2010 imgage: PA Pundits

Yesterday, a Massachusetts GOP insider, indicated that the GOP will be bringing in a “big-name” to run against Incumbent Democrat, Barney Frank, in the 4th District 2010 U.S. Congressional race. The source, from Plymouth County, had worked to bring Romney back into Massachusetts for the Governor’s race in 2002. As to the accuracy of the claim (be it wishful thinking or an actual fact), this is the second Mass GOP source to hint that a candidate would emerge to challenge Frank in 2010. Of interest - the GOP has sent literature to certain district members regarding a campaign to defeat Frank – the literature sent named no specific candidate.

If this proves to be the case, it would set up a primary battle between Earl Sholley, a Conservative from Norfolk who has run against Frank in the past, and has substantial grassroots support, and someone from outside the State who has “star power”.

That brings up the question, who in the GOP, on the national stage has the “Star Power” (which would equal donor potential) and the political background (backbone) to take on Frank. It would have to be someone who is a fiscal conservative and one who is somewhat familiar with the Districts main industries – fishing. New Bedford is one of the largest, if not the largest fishing port in the world.

One thing to consider: Speculation: The Mass. GOP has been known to “eat its own”, when it comes to high profile races; therefore, it may be a rumor aimed Mr. Sholley, who often is more “conservative” than most in the State GOP. When Sholley ran against Frank in 2008, he did so without the backing of the State GOP. It is not known, at this time, if Mr. Sholley has the support of the State G.O.P.

The role that Frank has played in the Congress has had a direct impact on the current state of the economy; therefore, this race does have national attention. From this blog, there are daily searches from every state in the Union seeking information on “who” is running against Barney Frank. It goes without saying that Sholley’s early filing with the FEC was done so because of donations received from inside the 4th district, but more importantly, outside the State.

Lastly, one must also look to the power of the GOP, in general, when they have their minds set on removing an incumbent – see Tom Daschle. Could it be that the GOP has finally set their sights on the State of Massachusetts – and will no longer treat the State (and the northeast) like a “red-headed stepchild”? Party Chair, Michael Steele, was last in the Bay State in June – at a fundraiser – the national Party, in the past, has made very few forays into the state, leaving the State GOP to fend off the “blue tide” alone.

Note of interest: There are few to no residency requirements when it comes to U.S. Congressional race.

One thing is certain, the Massachusetts 4th Congressional race will keep all eyes on the Bay State, and with over 50% of the voters in that district “unenrolled”, and Mr. Frank’s popularity questionable, this race should not be assumed “safe Democrat” until all the players at the table have shown their hands.

Sarah Palin Resigns Governorship - “We are not retreating; we are advancing in another direction.”

Sarah Palin on the Campaign Trail - img - Babble.com

In a move that stunned political observers,
Sarah Palin, former Republican Vice Presidential Candidate and the first female Governor of Alaska, resigned today. (Video Below) In her announcement she spoke to the repeated Ethics Investigations, brought by Democrats in the State, noting that she was not going to waste further taxpayer money.

Palin is considered a contender for the 2012 Presidential race, along with other prominent Republicans: Mitt Romney, Mike Huckabee and Newt Gingrich. That said; Palin’s move may have been based more on her commitment to principal than any early decision to run in 2012. Palin, a Reagan fiscal conservative, spoke of “positive change outside government”, which could, at this point, mean anything. As to who will actually run in 2012 is anyone's best guess - in 2006, Rudy Guilliani was favored and the press knew nothing of (outside of a few political junkies)Mike Huckabee or thought John McCain would run, yet again.

Palin has been the favorite target of the press as well as “insiders” from the McCain campaign since she was announced as the Vice Presidential nominee in 2008. If one thought that Hillary Clinton was eviscerated by the press for being female (and she was), Palin was and continues to be assaulted for being a high-profile, female, conservative.

David Letterman’s sexists remarks regarding Palin and her family, in June of this year, lost the late show host, sponsors such as the Olive Garden. Letterman’s treatment of Palin, although abhorrent in its blatant sexism, was no worse than most bloggers and/or journalist – one must look hard to find an article that does not use a backhanded remark (femininity) when Palin is the subject.

As to her future ambitions, the governor noted that she would release more information via “Twitter”, a post made at 6:08 pm EST from Palin’s profile suggested reading this statement by Lt. Governor, Sean Parnell (full text here).

I thank Governor Palin for holding fast to these principles during her service. Personally, I thank her for the confidence she’s placed in me, for her trust, and for her friendship. As Alaska celebrates her 50th year of statehood, I believe history will look back on Sarah Palin as one of Alaska’s great gifts to all peoples. You have served honorably, Governor. God bless you.

Sarah Palin may not be any Democrat’s, (or moderate Republican’s) cup of tea, however, she brought energy and enthusiasm and a persona to the conservative movement that equaled the “star power” of Obama – which may explain the vehemence of the written (and verbal) assaults Palin has shouldered since August of 2008.

Iran Update 07 03 2009 – Rafsanjani Removes Himself from Friday Prayers – Nationwide Strike Probable – Outcome of the Conflict - Analysis

Although general interest in the plight of the Iranian’s fighting for freedom has died down in major media outlets in the U.S. over the past week, the news out of Iran has been filtered by the regime, and the state news agency appears to have been the only news source, outside of blogs, social network sites and the European media. That said - events are taking place daily that indicate a regime that is on the brink of extinction rather than one that has crushed a revolt. Twitter is now available for Iranian’s, however, most fear that the Government will locate “protestors” via their ISPs (which has happened), that said, there are several who have been “twitting” from the beginning of the movement, who are still active, and their information, first unconfirmed, proves solid in the end.

Therefore, there are several factors at play this weekend that are indicators that the protest is still strong and, although American’s look for overnight results, it must be remembered that the American Revolution took years, not days or months, before freedom was achieved and a stable government enacted.
Therefore, of interest: A general strike is eminent, this according to the Italian Press Il Giornale :
“The opposition Iranian “We block the Country” Is general strike” (Translated)

Hossein Moussavi not motivating force, the Ayatollah and former president of the parliament Mehdi Karroubi spalleggia and the former reformist president Moammed Khatami returns to put them. Forty-eight hours after the definitive validation of the ballot “prank” the leader of the opposition is less single, except weak person. The return in field of Khatami, from days silent, recompacting itself to the summit of the opposition of the “reformist trinità” signals that Alì Akbar Rafsanjani, true grey eminence of the crash for the power, continues to put the former 67-year-old prime Minister and its Green Wave. Not to case from yesterday evening the voices of twitter, the blogs and Internet announce a great manifestation in order this evening and an able general strike to block the country from the 5 to the 8 July.

Additionally, Rasfanjani has excused himself from the Friday prayer service.

It has been reported that Rafsanjani, who is one of the Imams that lead Friday Prayers in Tehran's largest mosque, has declined to lead prayers there again. Last week, his spot was first filled by Khomeini, but Khomeini pulled out at the last minute leaving Ahmad Khatami to lead the prayers. Rafsanjani is not planning to attend this Friday's Prayers either.”

Should Khomeini lead the services Friday and should he speak on the protests – it will indicate that all is not well with the Regime.
The Regime is, after all, still facing strong opposition from Mousavi and Karroubi, who are openly defiant of Khomeini - the Times Online article from 2 – July notes that they (Mousavi and Karroubi) are “courting arrest .” The question remains: will Khomeini take the bait?
The tone of the protests has changed from one of a disputed election to one of general removal of the current regime. Therefore, should either Mousavi or Karroubi be placed under arrest by the Ayatollah and his friends from Hezbollah and Hamas, it would lend speed to the protests. Should there be a standoff; the results are much the same.

Therefore, it is worth watching events unfold between the 5th and the 8th (some dates given are much broader): suggestion, read “tweets”, type #IranElection into the search for constant updates; it is obvious from the onset when reading “Tweets” what is taking shape – as a guide, those that are linked with a “tinyurl” to a website that is in Farsi- one is able to translate the page - (it will be a very rough translation)via Google translation. Historical events are taking place now in Iran that could impact the stability of the Middle East for years to come. Should the Iranian Regime be removed in favor of a more secular Republic/Democracy, the funding to Hezbollah and Hamas will be cut from that source, and a return to normal relations with Iran will be possible with the E.U. as well as the U.S. (dependent, of course, on who the current administration supports, and, should the length of time it takes to formulate a new government go beyond 3 years (as it should), how a new administration, depending upon party politics, would react).

Earl Sholley Files with FEC – Will Challenge Barney Frank for U.S. Congress 2010

Earl Sholley Candidate Challenging Barney Frank - photo: prnews

Earl Henry Sholley’s campaign issued a press release today announcing his candidacy for the Massachusetts 4th Congressional District. Sholley, a Norfolk resident, officially filed with the FEC on June 15. Sholley will run against Democrat incumbent, Barney Frank, of Freddie and Fannie fame.

Sholley has worked as a community activist, lobbied for budget transparency and the better use of tax dollars. He has been a guest on CBS this Morning and National Public Radio. Sholley attended the University of Scranton (BS History), University of Massachusetts and also studied at the University of Madrid Spain. He served in the Peace Corp and is also a veteran of the U.S. Army.

Earl is also is a supporter of term limits for members of the U.S. House and Senate. Earl Henry Sholley will bring his ethical, diverse background, and strong business and fiscal experience to bear for the 4th District. "I promise to serve all the people of the District, if given the honor and opportunity to serve in the U.S. Congress."

Sholley ran against Frank in the 2008 election, although he entered the race late, he managed to garner approximately 30% of the votes in the district.(MA Secretary of State) This time it appears Sholley is taking things seriously, hiring campaign manager, Lisa Camp key figure in the Huckabee campaign and according to his website he has hit the campaign trail early, attending events both in and outside of the State.

The 2010 4th Congressional District race, considering the incumbent’s infamous reputation, should prove to be interesting and one to watch.

White House Staff Leaks “Controlled Town Forums” To Press – Helen Thomas Goes Off on Gibbs

At a White House Press Conference Today, Chip Reid of CBS News persisted in asking White House Press Secretary, Gibbs, about the pre-selection of participants in “Town Hall” meetings both now and during the campaign allowed the Obama campaign and White House to “control” the meetings and message. Reid told Gibbs he had received the information from "his staff".

Gibbs refused to answer and called upon Helen Thomas who then ripped into Gibbs: (From: Breitbart.tv)
“The point is the control from here. We have never had that in the White House. And we have had some control but not this control. I mean I'm amazed, I'm amazed at you people who call for openness and transparency and you have controlled…” You Tube Video Below from C-SPAN
It is apparent, from the questions, that this “revelation” of a “controlled message” has taken even die-hard leftist journalists , such as Thomas, by surprise.

Iran Update 7-1-09 - Ahmadinejad Cancels African Summit – Said to have been deemed “Undecidable” by African Nations – National Strike Dates Set

The New York Times has reported that Iranian’s contested president Ahmadinejad, has cancelled a trip to African for an agricultural summit without explanation. The Times piece implies that Mr. Ahdineijad is staying put as the current regime is still attempting to quell the “uprising” of those would prefer Democracy. The reason may be due to the fact that several African Nations attending the summit have branded Mr. Ahmadinejad “undecidable” (a decision problem; mathematically) according to Italian news sources
There have been calls (via Twitter) over the past week for a general strike. Those calls over the past few days have grown, and include dates for a strike that would last several days. Additionally, there is continually gorwing dissension among the ranks of the clerics, which actually began within hours of the June 12 vote. (Excellent treatment of the situation at Qom found here.)
As discussed in this article by the by the Times (UK) there has already been a change in the Iran; with the aggressive dictatorial regime giving no quarter when attempting to quash the protestors, the idea of any form of “Republic” or “Democracy” must be discarded in reference to the same. Comparisons to the Taleban are made as the similiarties are striking . It is with this type of severe suppression coupled with the continuing ability of those fighting to break through h to the world and report events, that indicate the struggle for freedom is far from over.
Should a national strike occur, the economic impact would be significant, effectively creating another difficult “front” for Khomeini and Company to battle. With condemnations of the regime coming from nations around the globe, the chances for a successful “Taleban”style government are limited, at best, given the dedication of the Persians, and the sheer numbers of those ready for change in Iran and willing to die for their freedom.