2014 Charlie Baker Will Run for Massachusetts’ Governor’s Office – Second Run Announced Via Social Media

NECN Reports that Republican, Charlie Baker, will make a second run at the MA Governor’s office. Baker made his announcement via social media rather than the expected Press Conference. Baker who ran against incumbent Democrat Governor, Duval Patrick in 2010, lost by a small margin of 6 points to Patrick – both faced former Democrat, Tim Cahill who garnered 8% of the vote, with the state split between Baker and Patrick by county. Head to Head, Baker won heavy population counties, Essex, Plymouth and Worcester by 4 or more points, Norfolk by .1 point, and Barnstable, a lower population county by 3 points. Patrick took Bristol and Middlesex by 5 plus margins, Suffolk (Boston) a smaller county by 20 points, lower population areas, Dukes and Nantucket by a larger margin, with the Western side of the state, Hampshire, Berkshire and Franklin County coming in by 20 plus points, and Hamden, the most populated county west of Worcester, by the lowest margin of 5 points. (New York Times)

Massachusetts, however, tends to turn red on occasion, and Baker has shown strength in the 3 way 2010 race. Moderate Democrats tended to lean towards Cahill, who swayed the race in Patrick’s direction. Without a stronger, high-profile Democrat turned Independent in the race, and a likely more Progressive Democrat running against Baker, all bets will be off until the dust settles.

Massachusetts, known as the “bluest state” is home to Cambridge and Amherst, Progressive conclaves that are locally given the moniker “the People’s Republic of…”, the balance of the state tends to be Independent, with 50% of total registered voters noting a status of “unenrolled” in either party.

MA - Deval Patrick to Announce Kerry Senate Replacement on MSNBC – Last Word - Replacement to be “out-of-the-box”

The Next Interim U.S.Senator from MA? Patrick will announce today. - Image: journalism.nyu.edu Governor Deval Patrick will announce his choice of interim U.S. Senate Replacement today. He will go on to discuss the weighty decision in of all venues, MSNBC’s “The Last Word”:

From Twitter:

Thursday at 10pm ET, @MassGovernorDeval Patrick joins @Lawrence to discuss who will temporarily fill John Kerry's Senate seat. @msnbc

Patrick, according to the Boston Herald, will choose a replacement that is “out-of-the-box”, bringing up names of political insiders, who are normally behind the scene, rather than those who are begging for the seat (See Barney Frank). The bet is that whoever the choice might be will be calculated to help the Governor and his legacy – possibly towards a run at the oval office in 2016, although that is possible, it is highly improbable in light of the Progressive push for Elizabeth Warren to be the next Barack Obama.

Kerry should be easily confirmed as the next Secretary of State, a position he has coveted for some time. The anti-war movements, second best icon next to Jane Fonda, will be easily confirmed in the U.S. Senate. The Replacement will be in place until the Massachusetts Special Election which will be held in June, on the 25th. There will also be a primary, that date has been set for April 30. (Fox-Boston) To date, only one individual has thrown their hat into the political ring, U.S. Congressman, Ed Markey.

Although the MSM is suggesting that former Senator Scott Brown might run in the special election, better odds are on Brown running for the Governor’s office in 2014. That said, Brown might run against Markey in the special election, and forgo running in the 2014 Senate Election, in favor of the Commonwealth’s top job. Try as anyone might, there has been zero inference from Brown as to his plans at this point. The aforementioned is pure speculation by the media.

As to the MSNBC announcement by Patrick, that does put Patrick on a national stage (of sorts), chock full of progressive stalwarts, and sending a message to the national “base” that Patrick is serious about a run. This after Hillary Clinton supporters have launched a “Super PAC” for a run in 2016. One might speculate that with Clinton’s health questionable, and the beating she took by a hostile press in the 2008 run for the Presidency, not to mention the use of “super delegates” to push Barack Obama to the nomination (in spite of the popular vote in the primary going to Clinton), she might reconsider. Either way, it is a long way from 2016, and the conventional wisdom is that whomever runs the Progressives in the Democrat Party, will make the ultimate decision as to whom “they” want to be the next “Obama”.

As to the interim Senate Replacement – bet on a “safe” choice and a political insider – sorry Barney!

Massachusetts – Patrick Revenue Plan - Taxes! – Budget at 38.4 Billion to with Investments in Education and Transportation – Hopes hinge on Casino Revenues.

The State of Taxachusetts - nifty graphic from Jonathan Melle on Politics - New Hamphisre

The Governor of Massachusetts, Democrat, Deval Patrick has introduced his 2014 budget to the public. The budget includes new streams of Revenue for the Bay State. The Boston Business Journal notes

“Patrick's tax plan, unveiled fully for the first time Wednesday, includes new or higher taxes on candy, soda and cigarettes, in addition to a 1 percentage point increase to the income tax that would raise the state income tax rate to 6.25 percent. Patrick has also proposed cutting the sales tax to 4.5 percent, doubling the personal income tax exemption and eliminating deductions, including T passes, scholarships and dependents under 12.

Patrick has also suggested periodic increases in the gas tax, MBTA fares, highway tolls and Registry of Motor Vehicles fees.

The taxes on candy, soda and cigarettes, the loss of deductions for the T-pass, scholarships and dependents under 12, will, of course, affect those in the lower income brackets, as well as the increase in state Gas Tax and Public Transportation fees. These types of increases marginally affect those with a higher income, however, in this economic climate, the increase may be devastating for those living on fixed incomes as well as those earning less than $50,000 annually, given the high cost of living in the Bay State. The move to cut the state sales tax, 2 points in comparison to the 1 point increase in the income tax, at first appears to help those on the lower income sale, however, in reality it is a shell game.

The budget with a 38.4 Billion dollar price tag is available at the State’s budget dashboard , in a line item format. The majority of spending is in Health and Human Services (which covers State Entitlements and the Massive Massachusetts health care system (precursor to Obama-Care), followed by Education, and Administration with other line items, being a tad disproportionate in the handy “pie chart” provided on the site.

According to the Boston Globe there are monies in the budget for both the State and Federal Health Care Programs.

In addition to increases in the Bay States Taxes, Patrick is counting on Casino Gaming that was recently approved in Massachusetts. The budget includes projected fees for Casino Licensing. The Boston Herald reports that the Governor is “anticipating" 83 Million in licensing fees” from the proposed casino’s – however, as to actual revenue that would support the education, transportation and local aid the State is counting on, they may have to wait – in reality it will be several years before any of the proposed casinos are operational.

What happens when this plan falls short? More taxes.

To pay for the new education package with a $550 million dollar price-tag. In other words enough to fund additional jobs in education for a short period of time. The plan, according to the Berkshire Eagle, includes funding for “Birth – High School” – specifically designed for the low achievement of minorities in the State’s school system. That could be an easy fix, if one could possibly remove low performing teachers and replace those with teachers that are higher performing, instead of hiring additional teachers. Of course, Massachusetts in not a “right to work” state, so that option is off the table.

He is also proposing additional aid to make higher education “more affordable” to those with lower incomes- the Governor suggested that this might help those with a 2 year degree compete for the 146,000 available jobs in the Bay State. There will be a boom of employment, of course, once the casinos’ have been built and are operational – sometime in the future.

One would think that in a state that has seen four consecutive quarters with a loss in revenue (meaning fewer taxes are being paid due to both individual works and employers leaving the state, or additional individuals on unemployment or other forms of assistance and not paying into the system), that increasing spending makes no sense, whether it is an “investment” or not. In addition, one might think that a cut in income taxes, and business taxes would aid both the economy as well draw new businesses to the State. One can bet the house that there will be “interim tax increase proposals” as well as a new and increased line item budget for 2015 which will include a round of new taxes to pay for these “investments” in transportation and education. Both of which, to date, have not proven to be particularly good investments for the taxpayers (See low performing schools, and the Big Dig for starters).

Obviously, any budget is based on ideology, and the ideology of the progressive Patrick, is one of tax and then spend, in the hopes that this will someday work to the State’s advantage. However, the other side of the coin, in a fiscally conservative ideology, would attempt to make the state more attractive to business and working residents in order to fund education initiatives, and transportation. Prediction: Additional taxpayers will flee the state and move elsewhere, as will the employers, producing additional quarters of loss in revenue. It’s a vicious cycle.

Massachusetts set to Raise Taxes – New Hampshire Rejoices!

While Massachusetts Governor, Deval Patrick is set to draw up a new budget that will include a substantial hike in the state income tax(Mass Live), New Hampshire is anticipating an increase in new businesses moving to the Granite State.

From New England Cable News:

Granite State watchdog groups said that goes for businesses, too. Deval Patrick's proposal to raise his state's income tax by a full percentage point will likely revive New Hampshire's efforts to get companies to move north, in spite of oft-criticized business taxes.

Arlinghaus said companies will turn to tax attorneys and ask, “What are things really like north of the border?”

“It doesn’t guarantee people come here,” he said, “but it guarantees they take a look at coming here.”

Especially as New Hampshire's legislature considers a bill that would double the limit on the research and development tax credit from $1 million to $2 million.

“They understand that as businesses need to increase their profitability and spend more money in research and development, [it] will allow them to hire more people,” Lewandowski said.

Even Democratic New Hampshire Governor Maggie Hassan coyly told the New Hampshire Union Leader that if Patrick's "approach leads to an economic boost for us, then I welcome it."

For decades the State of New Hampshire has been the number one destination for those Massachusetts residents and businesses that are seeking fewer taxes and less government interference in their daily lives (although many of those that immigrated north, brought along their Massachusetts values, much to the chagrin of certain residents). However, the fact that the new Democrat Governor is pleased that Patrick is pushing Massachusetts towards yet another loss of income to the Commonwealth, speaks volumes. The fact that the Bay State has already lost population resulting in a loss in one Congressional District, and at least four consecutive revenue losses, one might think the idea of attracting new taxpayers would be foremost in Deval Patrick’s mind. No so, he is intent on “Government helping people help themselves, by taking more from those working in order to try and support those who are in need. One novel approach would be to cut taxes, which would allow those who have extra income to spend, and keep businesses in the state, along with attracting new business. Building a train is fine, as long as one can guarantee that the train will run more than once a day at a cost equal to that of a bus, and have enough of a population to use the system in the first place. “Investing in education” is fine as well, as long as one has the tax base to support the “investment”. Adding an additional burden to those already maxed out with taxes is akin to pushing them onto a train – north to New Hampshire or west or south to more tax friendly states. A tax-cut from Patrick is highly unlikely in any scenario – more tax increases in the two remaining years, to continue to try to “increase state revenue”, are more likely.

Interesting Links from the Tax Foundation: Tax Foundation study on migration out of Massachusetts

Tax Foundation 2013 Business Tax Climate – See New Hampshire in top 10 friendly states – Massachusetts at 22nd out of 50 in business climate, study concluded in 2013 - prior to Govenor Patrick’s decision to increase taxes.

Note: Loss of Business results in fewer jobs, and possible lost jobs, which is a double whammy to the Bay State’s revenue – (The only income Massachusetts has are the taxpayers) – this may result in loss of services (police, fire, teachers) as well as a cut in state entitlement programs.

Texas – Governor Rick Perry –Administration 60% Women, Manages job growth with Lower Taxes – the Exodus to Texas.

Texas Govenor Rick Perry and his administration – Image New York Times

A recent visit of a dear friend at “home” in Massachusetts, brought some startling revelations about a life lived in Texas for 20 odd years- not the least among them was the statement: “Our Governor, Rick Perry could be Govenor for Life”. This came as a bit of a shock, given the fact that this individual was a moderate Massachusetts Democrat, who now sports the crossed pistols of Texas on a simply stunning bag! In recalling the 2012 GOP nominating process, Governor Perry did not fare well, to say the least – of course, the poor performances in the debates, were most likely due to a back surgery, and medication prescribed for pain, immediately preceding the decision to run for the nomination.(US News). Therefore one might wonder what makes this Texas Goveenor such a big hit with fans, and why the State of Texas has seen refugees increasing in numbers from California to Massachusetts . The obvious answer is two-fold – Texas has low taxes and jobs.

The report from Texasworkforce.org touts the creation of private sector jobs, 248,000 plus from November 2011 to November 2012, in a variety of fields. The State’s employment site “Work in Texas”, shows 140,000 plus openings, with jobs filled at 1.9 million and counting. The State government also recently announced a healthy revenues, no budget shortfalls to say the least. In addition, Texas is in the top ten states that are friendly to small business offering 0% income tax, 0% capital gains tax, and 0% Corporate Income tax. The State and Local taxes are at 4.01% of total income. (Advisorone) Is it no wonder, then, that after voting to increase their home state taxes California’s are flocking to – Texas(Bloomberg).

The combination of low taxes and job opportunities has those from other states, including Massachustts, where within the last month; six social acquaintances have packed up and moved to the Lone Star State.

From a feminists point of view, the reason may be the way the Governor stacks his administration with women – the New York Times ran an article on January 19, 2013, entitled “Women are a majority on Governor Rick Perry’s Staff” – in fact 60% of his staff is made up of women, which compared to Governor Deval Patrick of Massachusetts, who has only 3 of the 7 top slots in the administrationmade up of women.

From pushing colleges to provide a 4 year degree for $10,000 (no kidding), to low tax rates, it is no wonder residents might want their Governor to stay in state, rather than run for the Presidency in 2016 – although, those living outside of Texas may disagree. This will be especially true after the Senate, which has failed to pass or produce a budget since 2009 (under Harry Reid, Senate Majority Leader); will do so in this Congress for 2013. Of course, that budget will include “increased revenue” (taxes), and with a Republican controlled Congress, the Democrat controlled Senate feels it may not pass. One might question that logic since the Congress has agreed to pass a short term debt limit hike with no caveats, as in cuts in spending. Those living in Massachusetts will be welcoming the rest of the nation to a brand of taxation that is geared towards a misery index for those working. Texas may have to increase its borders to accommodate the influx of new refugees.

Gov. Deval Patrick –Tax Hikes on Income Tax for those Working – Sales Tax Decrease for those Not Working – “But government has a role to play in helping our citizens help themselves”

The State of Massachusetts - might expect, yet another exodus image from biotechstart.org

Governor Deval Patrick has been extremely busy these past few weeks, first proposing changes to the State employee retirement benefits, and consolidating State Government agencies, to name a few. The fact that the Governor was going after one of the Democrats “holy grails”, i.e. state employees and their unions, was a bit shocking, as it is not the nature for a tax and spend Progressive Democrat (as opposed to a Democrat, who might be fiscally or socially conservative) not to have something else up their sleeve. The nature of man became apparent when he delivered is “State of the State address. The full transcript of the speech is available here, at theBostonglobe.com. In his speech, Patrick outlines plans for more funding on K-12 education (nod to the teachers union), and an overhaul of the public transportation system to include the South Coast and Western Mass., so that they may take advantage of the state’s prosperity. In his remarks, the following statements were made:

“Now, hear me clearly. Government is no substitute for the private sector. Nothing can replace private initiative and personal ambition. Business, not government, creates jobs. But government has a role to play in helping our citizens help themselves. That’s why investing in education and infrastructure -- together, through government -- is so important to generating private sector growth. But in our schools and in transportation, there is unfinished work”.

….

Because we all have a stake in that future, we should all contribute to paying for it.

In my budget, I will propose that we cut the sales tax from the current rate of 6.25 percent to 4.5 percent and dedicate all the proceeds to a public works fund. That fund will support the transportation plan I have laid out -- both our existing responsibilities and the necessary expansion projects -- as well as the school building fund and other public infrastructure. Under my plan, sales tax proceeds would be off limits for any other purpose.

To support our education initiatives, my budget will propose that we increase the income tax by 1 percent – age point - to 6.25 percent. To make that increase fair to all according to their ability to pay, I will propose that we double the personal exemptions for every taxpayer and eliminate a number of itemized deductions. Making those changes gives us a tax code that is simpler and fairer.”

(Transcript from the Bostonglobe.com)

What stands out in these statements?

“Government has a role to play in helping our citizens help themselves.” – In reality, government has a role, but helping citizens help themselves isn’t one of them. From the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts:

“The end of the institution, maintenance, and administration of government, is to secure the existence of the body politic, to protect it, and to furnish the individuals who compose it with the power of enjoying in safety and tranquility their natural rights, and the blessings of life: and whenever these great objects are not obtained, the people have a right to alter the government, and to take measures necessary for their safety, prosperity and happiness.”

The Governor’s next interesting quote: “Because we all have a stake in that future, we should all contribute to paying for it.” This sounds fair and reasonable enough, however, taxpayers in the Commonwealth are those who are working, and subject to both burdensome state taxes and increasing the income tax rates will do nothing but drive those working over the Massachusetts border. (See 2010 census whereby Massachusetts lost such a huge percentage of his citizens that the state lost a Congressional Seat – destinations: New Hampshire, Texas, the Sunbelt, anywhere there is fewer or lower tax rates and jobs that do not exists in Massachusetts on a scale that would support the entitlement programs in place.

Finally, The governor’s plan to cut the state sales tax by 2% to increase revenue and solely fund the transportation program sounds wonderful, however, with the decrease in income due to tax increase in the state, the inflation in food (meat, wheat products, sugar products) that is due to hit all states, and the taxes associated with the Federal Health Care plan, let alone the State plan that has driven health insurance premiums to the highest level in the nation, 2% won’t cut it. One might think that there would be more spending in the state, from other states nearby, which may be the case, however, will that spending be enough to fund this billion dollar project without the need for additional taxes?

The increase to the State Income tax, with closing loopholes and increasing personal exceptions, would make a more fair tax system, however, it is not entirely apparent that the economy here, or in the balance of the country (sans Texas and similar states) can support any income tax increase.

Of note: when reading the end of the transcript, the Governor refers to the tax increases as a “show of political courage” as it is not a popular thing to do.

There is a reason why the affable former Senator from Massachusetts, Scott Brown, is not rushing into a contest for Senator Kerry’s possible seat – there is a better position, within the Commonwealth for Brown, as Governor. With his legislative history, in both the Massachusetts House and Senate and then the Federal Senate, he has proven to be fair minded and non-partisan, and above all, a man with common sense. With a man of such caliber at the helm of the Commonwealth, one could be assured that there were be less concern for legacy and cronies, and more concern for the people as outlined in the Commonwealths Constitution. It is hoped that he has not washed his hands of the political arena, and asking the man to serve in this capacity, given that the burden of taking on the office of the Governor of this Commonwealth, given hit’s corrupt political history, and it’s overwhelming one-party rule, may sound harsh, however, the Commonwealth is in dire need of true reform. In speaking of the Commonwealth as a resident, to one who is not, the fact that taxes are consistently rising and the State government believe itself to be “helping the people, help themselves”, is contrary to the history of the Great State – the struggle of the colonist against the heavy burden of taxation by their British King, to have the right to pursue their own destiny, with a limited government, appears to have, at the present time, been for naught. Any public servant should be reminded that it is those that work, and those that contribute through their own successes to the government so that it may survive. Without the taxpayer, there is no government.

Gov. Deval Patrick Set to Curb Public Employee Retirement and Health Benefits and “Double Dipping” – Unions Quietly Balk – As Goes Massachusetts – so goes the Nation.

Pictured: Deval Patrick, Barack Obama (background), David Axelrod (mentor, campaign manager and adviser to both). From Black and right.com, article: the Last Black President

Governor Deval Patrick has set what some have noted as a very ambitious agenda in his, self-stated, final term as governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. In fact, if one looks at the majority of the proposed changes to the way the State runs, one would think Patrick was more of a Republican than a Progressive, especially when dealing with Public Employee Unions. If Patrick were to announce next that the State would be become “right-to-work” it would not be surprising, considering the focus on public employees.

The first step came last year, when Governor Deval Patrick, approached by two dozen municipalities, including Amherst, MA regarding the growing problem with municipal funded unemployment benefits, called for a study which was a real eye-opener. . The Springfield Republican headlined this past week: “Deval Patrick plan looks to stop municipal unemployment insurance abuse in Massachusetts” which will stop the practice of those employees “double-dipping”, or receiving retirement pensions, working several months, then collecting unemployment. Those who are collecting benefits, including teachers, safety workers, election officials and school bus drivers, have done so within the current letter of the law. Yet the cost is, to say the least, in the millions each year, and has becoming increasingly burdensome to those towns and cities, where keeping a taxpayer is growing increasingly more difficult. Massachusetts is not the hot destination for those seeking employment, etc. to relocate, in fact just the opposite as Massachusetts loss in population cost a Congressional Seat as a result of the 2010 census, and most likely will stand to lose another within the next 10 years. Therefore, to keep the ship afloat, there has to be cuts in government spending.

Patrick decided to start with the Municipal Employees, where, as proven in bankrupt states and cities (See California) elsewhere in the U.S. are largest expense of a state, municipalities, other than, in Massachusetts, the entitlement programs.

Next on the agenda The Springfield Republican headlines: “Gov. Deval Patrick unveils plan to overhaul Massachusetts retiree health insurance for government employees” , whereby the Governor plans to change the retirement age, upward, increase the “time-worked” in order to be eligible for benefits from 10 to 20 years, and also includes the notion that public employees pay for part of their insurance benefits. The towns and municipalities insist this does not go far enough, as they are spending a rather large percentage of their budget on the current system. According to the Republican article, the state and municipalities now face a 46 Billion bill due on unfunded retiree benefits. The unions are not particularly pleased: WWLP (Local NBC Affiliate), suggests that the Nurses Unions is “upset” that the Governor is forcing municipal workers to pay more for their health insurance(and making them work an extra 10 years to be eligible for benefits, and so on.).

Unlike Republican Governors in other states where measures to curb Union excesses have resulted in massive demonstrations, none are taking place in Massachusetts. On the contrary, it is quiet on the Western Front.

It’s possible that there may be a kick back of sorts for the Teamsters (employees of the Mass Turnpike system) in the Governor’s plan, that will be announced today, to Overhaul the Public Transportation Financing(Boston Herald). Then again, perhaps not, given the fact that Patrick has crossed the line in public retiree benefits. Those who are heavily vested in Public Transportation in Western Mass, are hoping for “investments” from the State when the plans are released, and ways to pay for those investments, including higher gasoline taxes, and possibly a raise in the stales sales tax. (The sales tax was increased within the last two years, sending scores of residents to New Hampshire to shop). That said, it was noted in the Republican (Mass Live) article that those asking for increases in state funding, “are aware of the distaste for Government spending”. Apparently that distaste is also present in Massachusetts.

Further, Patrick is ready to consolidate and eliminate state agencies to cut costs! As noted in Metro-West’s editorial, “And that’s just the first week”.

Those reading these articles and following the Commonwealth’s Governor, may feel they woke up in Texas, or at the last Wisconsin following the series of suggested “reforms”. Some commenting on the articles suggest that perhaps Deval Patrick plans a run for the Presidency in 2016, perhaps, but more likely perhaps not. It may be that, as in the past, Massachusetts is used as “testing ground” for national programs and campaigns (from “Yes we can” (2006 Deval Patrick Campaign for Governor and the Massachusetts Health care Plan – now known as “Obama-care – to name two that might ring a bell). Therefore, it is not a stretch of the imagination to suggest that perhaps, just perhaps, there may be an overhaul of the Federal system, and or other states with huge state and municipal employee dept, should Patrick quietly succeed with little or no pushback from the unions. There is also little found on these "reforms" broadcast outside of the Commonwealth.

For now, suffice it to say, the Governor, who a year before he was up for his last re-election, went on a “taxing spree”, raising 19 different taxes, the Head of a State where corruption is rampant and double dipping is the least of the problems, suddenly sounds like a Tea-Party fiscal conservative. Or perhaps it’s just a dose of reality mixed with the fact that legacy’s are used to promote larger price tags on speaking engagements (ok, cynical). Regardless, if public employee unions across the nation are thinking it’s going to be smooth sailing from now to eternity in those bankrupt states and the federal government, they may want to think again, if history repeats itself, as it is so often prone to do.

Top Slots Open in January Obama Administration – Massachusetts two Candidates – Deval Patrick and John F. Kerry - Open’s Speculation as to Special Elections

Senator John Kerry & Governor Deval Patrick - Potential spots open in Obama Administration Photo: democratic underground.

Immediately following the election several key officials in the Obama administration have decided to call it quits. This is not unusual in the grander scheme of things, as administrations go into a second term, there are usually those who give one term and go back to the private sector or, head to Iowa. In this case there are several openings that suggest certain Massachusetts Politico’s may be ripe for the positions. The number one slot leaving is Hillary Clinton, the Sectary of State - this was first announced through the Weekly Standard, and the suggestion is that MA. Senator John F. Kerry would be a candidate for the slot. It is no secret in Massachusetts that Kerry has wanted the slot since 2008 –and, as a surrogate for the President throughout the reelection process, he may have an in (if they can forgive the performance in Denver, with Kerry as coach). On Clinton herself, the New York Times is now setting the stage for a 2016 run in what can only be called a fluff piece. Clinton would make a fine choice, all the way around, however, one speculates that she may be too tired at that point. In addition she would have to run against a yet again, energized Conservative base, and depending upon the candidate (say a Marco Rubio – who has already set foot in Iowa), it may be a tough road.

Another leaving the administration is Eric Holder, and although Janet Napolitano’s “name” is being floated, it may be the Governor of the State of Massachusetts, Deval Patrick, who get’s that job. Patrick who is a long-time associate of the President and was mentored by chief strategist, David Axelrod, would be a find fit for the position.

Others that are leaving, so far, according to the Washington Post, Defense, Secretary Leon Panetta and White House Senor Advisor David Plouffe

The first two mentioned are of great interest for several reassign. John Kerry has wanted the job, and is just as qualified as anyone else in the Obama administration. This would leave a seat open in the Senate for a multitude of individuals in the Bay State that may aptly fill the bill (more on that).

The second is the office of Attorney General, again, the nations “top cop” would be a great fit for the Governor of Massachusetts. He’s weighed in on many a case and has a mind-set similar to the President. This would set up a second special election in MA to fill the Governors seat.

There are several names being floated as replacements in Massachusetts should this occur, the first that comes to mind is former Senator Scott Brown who was narrowly defeated by Elizabeth Warren – Brown, the most bipartisan senator of the past two years (given his short term) would counteract that very partisan Warren, and at least bring some sense of sanity to the process. As to the Governor’s office: Bill Weld has reportedly moved back to the state, and Charles Baker who had run a tight campaign against the Patrick, who won by one point, with the help of Democrat turned conveniently independent, Tim Cahill , would also fit that bill.

Of course, if the above mentioned are seriously considering running for either of these “projected” vacant seats”, then one might also anticipate, especially in Weld and Brown’s case, sudden invitations by the White house to be Ambassadors of Name a Country out of the way. Of course, that job has a short life expectancy these days. It’s always fun to speculate, but the thoughts that Massachusetts would find some of its key politico’s either in an administration or back in the saddle campaigning for a top slot representing the Bay State, does bring out what all political judies relish: another election!

Massachusetts – Commonwealth May Cut Services as Tax Revenues Fall Short for the 4th Straight Month - Harry Reid promises the nation higher taxes - to compensate for National Debt

Tax Increeases Likelyy? - John Boehner, all partisanship aside with President Obama, in like mind - Boehner announces will work with President on tax increases and budget cuts. - Image CBS News

One may have missed the monthly report from the State of Massachusetts Budget office with the hoopla surrounding the general election the day before the monthly report was released, however, The Boston Globe, has reported that the that tax collections for October, were off by $48 Million dollars.

Apparently the glowing reports that Massachusetts was in full recovery, were a bit inflated, considering that the State Budget has lost, this year, $250 million in tax revenue according to Governor Deval Patrick’s administration. Secretary of Finance and Administration, Jay Gonzales, noted that there would have to be cuts made in order to meet budget expectations. Currently there is a hiring freeze at the State Level, and Gonzales suggested that due to the economy , “ businesses are “in a holding pattern right now and not making the types of investment in their businesses they might otherwise make” due to the uncertainly over how and where Congress might make budget cuts. (Wicked Local – Wareham)

Those businesses were not hiring because of the weight of regulations and the cost to comply with regulations that were pending, the tax increases that are pending as a result of the expiring Bush Tax Cuts, and that was prior to the re-election of President Obama. What is most disconcerting is that for the past 8 years, everything that is Massachusetts politics has been exported nationwide – and if Massachusetts is in trouble, then one can imagine what is happening elsewhere. That said, it remains to be seen how many more businesses will either pack up and head for states that are more “tax-friendly” now that government taxes are a certainty (See Speaker of the House John Boehnerwho has promised to work with the President to make the cuts and raise the taxes necessary to bring the spending under control. Boehner has suggested these cuts will be across the board, so that every single household will be impacted Should the President and Congress not extend the Bush Tax Cuts, but rather load taxpayers, both corporate and individual with additional taxes, those who are working will be tightening belts that are already stretched to the breaking point. In addition, the Senate Majority Leader, Harry Reid (NV) has stated that the President’s reelection is a mandate to raise taxes. With the Senate in full control of the Democrats, and the House Republican's ready to play ball with the administration – the promise of higher taxes, and according to Reuter’s news, the President will be able to expand the reach of government, one can expect to be living in a rather larger version of the Bay State.

What happens with higher taxes and regulations that are stifling businesses is an example of Massachusetts' year long, month after month, increasing revenue shortages. Therefore, businesses in general will be less likely to hire, there will be higher unemployment and as a result of less tax revenue as businesses close and individuals are out of work or underemployed, then those that depend on everyone from food, to transportation and communications (cell phones) will be in for a rude awakening. Those whose jobs are dependent upon the government will also be subject to cuts, eventually.

Of course, this scenario could be avoided should the President take a sharp turn to the center right and extend the Bush Tax Cuts, go further and cut the corporate tax rate, and give incentives to those companies coming back to the U.S. in cutting their regulatory dilemma. For example he might exempt certain business from the mandated health care reform law, as he did for several unions and states.

One has to sift through the partisan rhetoric, to get to the simple math, when one has no income of their own (any Government) and spends like crazy (the Government) then one is going to run out of money and be unable to continue to be as generous to those who depend on the them (the government).

Massachusetts Faces Budget Cuts – State Cannot Afford Mass Universal Health Care Coverage For “Financially Challenged” - Now Limits Enrollment!

Bloomberg.com reports that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is facing up to a 1.5 billion in spending cuts due to shortfalls in the State’s income. Massachusetts has run out of taxpayers sufficient to cover its ever burgeoning give away programs, and with the “stimulus” set to expire, the reality of spending beyond what reality supports has hit home. Under the leadership of Governor Deval Patrick and a Progressive Democrat heavy legislature, the Commonwealth has experienced round after round of tax increases, with Patrick now asking for additonal funds for in-state college tuition for illegal immigrants, (While under new Federal Guidelines, parents of students up to age 24, must complete loan and grant applications in order for their children to apply to college under new laws enacted by the Board of Education. In addition, under the new National Health Care program, parents must carry their children until age 26, regardless of where this “child” lives or if they are married. The Federal Government falls short of demanding parents cover their 26 year old child, spouse and children. Therefore, while taxpayers are increasingly being forced to cover “depending children” past the age of majority (21 in most instances); the State is giving benefits to those who are not residents of the State and or nation.)

The heaviest burden to the Massachusetts taxpayer is the Mass. Health Connector, which apparently has passed a new law no longer allowing enrollment at will, rather restricting enrollment periods to twice yearly. Therefore, if one misses a deadline, one is without insurance coverage from the “low cost” state plan. Additionally, steps have been taken by the state to exempt those who meet certain criteria for financial hardship to possibly eliminate the fees assessed by the Commonwealth’s Department of Revenue for not carrying “mandated” coverage. Perhaps increasing the Commonwealth’s citizens access to insurers (now limited to a handful) would spur competition and, not unlike the Commonwealths’ Auto Insurance reform, which allowed for more competition among insurers) drive down the costs, making health insurance as affordable as auto insurance.

One cannot get blood from a stone applies to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts taxpayers. The states loss of revenue is in direct correlation to those residents fleeing in droves to states where taxes are less likely to occur with such frequency. In addition, this phenomena is also about to cost the Commonwealth a seat in the U.S. Congress.

The solution is for Deval Patrick and company to begin to make hard choices in regards to which programs to ax and which to keep. The Commonwealth’s SNAP program (formally known as “Food Stamps”) which cost the taxpayers billions last year, currently comes in the form of a credit card, and anyone who is within the state boundaries is eligible, regardless of residency status. This card, according to the states records, has been used in the states high end grocery stores as well as convenience stores, which are not the most cost effective places in which to procure food. It is not without compassion for those who go without daily sustenance, however, management of this type of program would be better served by vouchers which would have specific guidelines limiting the program to actual “food groups” to be procured in specific grocery stores only, in order to order to prevent outright fraud and abuse. (Similar to WIC, a program in place that offers food assistance to Massachusetts residents paid for by the Federal Government.)

It is not a question of compassion, but a question of ensuring that those who do need assistance will not wake one day to find that the Commonwealth can no longer beg, borrow, steal or tax enough in order to cover their basic needs. If these services were provided to legal residents of the Commonwealth, and who met specific hardship criteria (living out of one’s car after losing one’s house would be a place to start), and were managed with an eye towards giving a hand-up not a hand-out (tired but true statement) the budget would find itself in fair shape in short order. (This of course, would be coupled with a cut in the corporate tax rate, to give incentives to businesses of all types to migrate to the Bay State and set up shop, hiring individuals, creating more taxpayers in order to help the truly needy.)

Of note: a new politically correct “ism” appears to have occurred: “financially challenged” - defined as someone who has no money - i.e. broke. This should apply to those taxpayers left in the Commonwealth.

Massachusetts Mid-Terms – Democrats Hold Commonwealth – GOP First Timers Show Impressive Margins - Analysis

The Nation's Results: Historic Gains in House - CNN Map

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts remained somewhat reliably Democrat in the 2010 mid-terms, with the majority of State and Federal offices held by incumbents. However, for the first time in decades, the Democrats in the Commonwealth were forced to defend their districts, with returns on Congressional races showing much narrower margins of victory than projected by pundits. The results shown on the Boston Globe’s website here with the majority of precincts reporting Congressional races shows the gap between the political ideology of the Commonwealths populace has narrowed significantly over the elections held in 2008. In the MA2 District, Richard Neal (with 91% reporting) won the district by 18% over, first-time GOP candidate Tom Wesley who garnered 40% of the vote. In the MA4, Barney Frank won by only 11% over Republican Sean Bielat and the 10th District Open Seat went to the Democrat Bill Keating by 5% over Republican Jeff Perry. The balance of the 9 Congressional Seats show similar results with few exceptions, with much narrower margins than previous House elections.


Massachusetts Resuts Show MA GOP Voter Growth - Map Boston Globe

What is most remarkable is that in the MA2, the race was played out with grassroots ground games only and little spent on adverting by the GOP challenger, Wesley. The MA2 did not get the national attention that races in the 4th and 10th districts enjoyed, with GOP challengers filling impressive war chests from citizens nationwide. Few PACS weighed in with the exception of Mitt Romney’s as far as Bay State GOP races were concerned. Therefore, with a significant gap in funds, Tom Wesley forced Richard Neal to fight for his Congressional Seat, and took not 25% of the vote, but 40%. One has to understand that what Wesley accomplished was twofold: one, he made gains in uncharted waters against a 22 year entrenched Democrat who was vying for the Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee. Neal was forced to spend his war chest, not on Democrat races in districts far from the Bay State, where House Democrats nationwide faced defeat. The same can be said of those who faced similar financing and lack of national press; Jon Golnik in the 5th District, Bill Hudak in the 6th, Marty Lamb in the 3rd and Bill Gun in the 1st – running ground games and scratching for the national spotlight when the pundits and Conservative activities nationwide barely glanced at those races. The National GOP owes all of these players a debt of gratitude, and now, with the results in, 2012 might get a bit more uncomfortable for those districts.

The Governor’s office was held by Deval Patrick with a little help from Democrat turned independent Tim Cahill, who took a surprising 8% of the 97% currently reporting in , leaving Republican Baker short by exactly 8 points necessary to best Patrick. One can view the results are hardly a mandate for Patrick, who garnered 49% of the vote.

Although a victory is still a victory, it is not without a little pride in the citizens of the State who stood up and voted with the GOP in a strong showing, specifically as Progressive Democrat Community Organizations were out in force in the final days before the election, focusing on low income and “immigrant” populations across the State to get out and vote. In Western Massachusetts, the Alliance to Develop Power whose focus appears to be immigration reform, and Neighbor To Neighbor, whose focus appears to be “Voter Empowerment”, got out the vote with slogans such as "Today is the Day, Defend What’s Yours."

Although the Progressives Democrats who helped Richard Neal, Barney Frank, Deval Patrick and a significant number of Commonwealth House and Senate groups maintain their seats, again, it was a scramble in the the finals days to counter the startling increase in voters turning to the GOP.

The results overall results were, however, historic, as nationwide the GOP took the house in an “historical sweep” (CNN) while coming in within 4 Seats of taking the Senate.

That trend was evident in Massachusetts, and as the process begins for 2012, one can guarantee that although down today, the MA GOP cannot be counted out. In a following statement released by MA GOP chair, Jennifer Nassour, speaks to the fact that, gains were made, but it is not an overnight process:

“Tonight the Massachusetts Republican Party made significant gains in the Legislature. Changing the color of Massachusetts to purple won't happen overnight. The important fact is that entrenched incumbents, who often fly beneath the radar, had to stand up to public scrutiny this election cycle. I’m proud of our GOP candidates who worked hard and focused on important issues like creating jobs, lowering taxes, and reducing government spending.”

Springfield MA – - Democrat Banner Rally Illegally Hung Over City Hall Summarily Removed – The Rise of Public Opposition to Politics as Usual in MA

First, the blog, Springfield Intruder did an excellent job publishing: “Single Party Rule in Springfield Confirmed with City Hall Banner”, noting the illegal use of public property by a single political party. The banner was hung in response to a rally planned by the local Democrat Party in an effort to “Get out the Vote” for Democrat Candidates in MA, including Deval Patrick and Congressman Richard Neal, both battling for reelection.

This removal of the banner from the City Hall was reported by the Springfield Republican’s Website after the Intruder's post, with the headline “Democratic rally banner pulled off Springfield City Hall after questions from Massachusetts Republican Committee and others”. One had to read into the third paragraph of the article to get a hint of the legality of the issue. The Republican notes the removal was prompted by: ”a ruling from the city solicitor that it had to immediately come down.” Yes, it is illegal to use public property to promote a specific political party.

Seriously, how bad can it be in Massachusetts when the local Democrats can’t get away with doing something illegal, and the local daily paper headlines appear to be a sad attempt at blaming Republicans for complaining about bad behavior?

It is the growing discontent among the populace over seemingly “business as usual” political practices that have led to regular citizens educating themselves about the law and then doing something pro-active.

One merely needs to look at headlines from around the country to understand that people are more engaged than in other elections and wary of politicians and political parties that attempt to subvert the system. From the Drudge Report speaks to the chaos: (Chicago): “Possible glitch with vote-by-mail system”, (Las Vegas Sun) "Angle campaign attorney: Reid “intends to steal this election if he can’t win it outright”(which speaks to the of buying votes by members of the Teachers Unions in conjunction with Senate Majority Harry Reid), (Washington Examiner re: Nevada election) “Nevada voting machines automatically checking Harry Reid's name; voting machine technicians are SEIU members” - and it goes on and on and on.

From Nevada to to the Carolina’s problems with voting machines pointing to fraud by Democrats and their unions (all explained as “glitches with a system”, are made public knowledge in seconds with access to the web, cable television or a radio. It is fair to say then, that residents in Massachusetts and other blue states may be tuning in and getting suspicious as of late, specifically as there are hotly contested races and choices at the ballot box in Massachusetts for the first time in decades.

What established political parties do not seem to understand at any given time, is the ability of the American people to stand up and take notice. This is especially true when a Political Party has “ruled the roost” so to speak for what is literally generations. One would think that the Democrats, who are so tech savvy, would pick up on the angst of the populace and play fair. These types of headlines, including the Springfield Republican’s, only further the notion that the Democrats either control or have sympathizers in the media, and, additionally, cheat if they cannot win on their own merits.

Perhaps letting the chips fall where they may might have worked out better than intended in the long-run – as these types of headlines, far from rallying Democrats to get out and vote for their party, elicit a sense of desperation, and what follows is a renewed commitment for change and anti-incumbent sentiment among those unenrolled voters or independents who are flocking in droves to Tea Party events nationwide and an increasing awareness of the rank and file voter.

Losing the Social Media Battle: Even locally, the allegedly tech savvy Democrat Party has a Facebook fan page following of of 25 “fans” and went "live" on the web late in the game; the 15th of October. Alternately, the Springfield Tea Party has posted to Facebook since May of this year, and has 247 “followers” while the Western Mass Republican’s page has over 700 "fans".. There is no fan page for the Western Mass Democrats.

Although one cannot project the outcome of any given election based on Facebook “fans”, it does go to the level of interest in ending the “One-Party rule” that the Springfield Intruder speaks of, especially in Western Massachusetts. As David Axelrod, Deval Patrick and Barack Obama Mentor and "friend" noted in a recent interview on CNN, he will be watching the Northeast on November 2nd, and further that races may have surprising outcomes.

It will, in the long run, be who has the better ground game, and how disgusted, or demoralized the local party in power’s base is, that will tell the tale in nine Congressional races, the Governor’s race, and hundreds of State offices on November 2nd. One cannot anticipate a Blue State turning red, however, a shade of purple is definitely probable.

MA 2010 Governors Race: Deval Patrick Tea Party Motivated by “Hate”, Charlie Baker(R) Ties Patrick (D) in Latest Polling, Cahill (I) an Afterthought

Deval Patrick(D) and Charlie Baker (R) Statistical Tie


A Rasmussen Poll on the Massachusetts Governor's race released on Friday, gives the embattled Democrat (and Obama-Axelrod Field Test) a 3 point lead over Republican Candidate Charlie Baker. The poll is well within the margin of error (45 to 42 with a 4.5 % margin), which is a statistical tie. Included in the poll is the third candidate, Democrat turned conveniently independent Tim Cahill, who was part of the Patrick administration.

As earlier predicted, Independent candidates normally receive under 6% of the vote in Massachusetts which can make for many a close race. That said, Cahill’s had some problems paying taxes, which appears to be a resounding theme this year among candidates – following in the footsteps of “Tim Tax-Evading” Geithner who was confirmed by the Democrat controlled Congress, despite having made some “errors” using Turbo Tax. That apparently has left the door open for all candidates regardless of party. Although, Cahill may have stood a better chance had he done a 360 and changed political parties – as in run as a Republican. Historically third party candidates don’t do well in the Bay State.

Now that Mr. Cahill is quickly becoming an afterthought – The Baker Campaign has the opportunity to move those poll numbers to Scott Brown/Coakley levels or possibly beyond – given the governors general approval ranking, which has mysteriously risen in the past three months of furious campaigning (by the state media) up to, according to Rasmussen’s poll, 49%!

That said there is discontent in the Bay State over higher taxes (implanted by Patrick and company in July of 2009), and interestingly enough, his push to fund college education for illegal aliens. Baker is scoring higher in the “viewed favorably” section of Rasmussen poll, and name recognition, across the Bay State has not reached full potential. Therein lays the rub, the more the voters get to see Charlie Baker, the more they like him.

In a recent on air gubernatorial debate, Govern Deval Patrick discussed the Tea Party – (audio embedded below) and how members are “fueled by hate” (which is the party line in places such as Cambridge, and Amherst), however, a recent Friday gathering of Tea Party Activists, shown in poor quality photos below (given the fact that this blog has no talent in regards to photography), depicts individuals expressing their freedom, although the photo’s are not representative of the entire group (as it coverage both sides of a major rotary, the signs held and visible were Patriotic not hateful – which is the norm, unless one is an incumbent Republican who is running against a Tea Party backed candidate or any Democrat. Therefore, with the dogma in place, and the race tightening, one can see the following taking place within the next three weeks: Baker (R) leading Patrick (D) by 5 points, with Cahill, a blip on the radar, nothing more and nothing less.


Audio of Deval Patrick Tea Party Hate Rhetoric



Tea Party Rally, Signs: American Flags, Don't Tread on Me, a few signs referencing Taxes and Tea.... (Chicopee, is in Richard Neal's (D-MA2) District)


Hundreds line both sides of Rt. 33 in Chicopee, MA in Tea Party Rally

Massachusetts Governors Polls Suffolk University – Although Patrick Leads, over One-Third Undecided - Analysis

Although it’s still early in the game in the three-way contest for the Massachusetts Governor’s race, polling indicates that Deval Patrick’s fortunes are on the rise, that is until one checks the marginals – at that point this race appears to be wide open. (Marginal are the percentage of participants, the demographics and the willingness to answer or knowledge of a candidate.)
In reviewing the data from the May 26th pollone finds Patrick’s lead in the 41st question of the survey, which asks the question: "Regardless of who you are personally supporting for Governor - when all The votes are counted this fall, who do you believe will be elected Governor
on November 2nd - Deval Patrick, Charlie Baker, Tim Cahill, or Jill Stein {
STYNE}?"


Patrick takes the lead with 48%, Charlie Baker 20%, Timothy Cahill at 9% with 21% of the respondents undecided. It is the undecided respondents or those who flatly refuse to answer that skew the poll in Patrick’s favor, and by a margin that ranges on all relevant (to this article) questions from 21% to 34%.

In the question regarding Baker’s favorability, the GOP candidate received only a 20% positive rating, however, 31% of respondents “never heard” of the candidate and 32% have yet to decide. That is 63% of respondents either never hearing of or undecided at this point. In other words, a huge margin.

In a question regarding Scott Brown’s favorability, 57% respond in the positive, with 3% never heard and 17% undecided.

What is in Baker's favor?

52% feel Massachusetts is headed in the wrong direction.
49% feel Massachusetts economy is not improving
(The latter two having negligible undecideds)

Question 10 – Does Deval Patrick deserve to be re-elected? With 11% undecided, 55% of respondents feel the Governor should seek employment elsewhere.

In the following question, Patrick somehow manages to pull a much improved job ranking at 42% approval.

The kicker: Question 21: “Which of the four reminds you most of Scott Brown?”, Baker receives 26%, with the balance of the candidates shown in single digits and a stunning 56% are undecided.

What this poll suggests is that although Deval Patrick, on paper, appears to be doing well, as Baker gains more recognition, those numbers will become competitive. Should Baker’s media team run a Brown style messaging campaign (sooner would be better, whoever, in the most likely case, it would be in the final months of the campaign), (positive), It is probable that Baker will take a Brown-type lead in the final weeks of the campaign (conservatively speaking).

In the questions regarding the negative Cahill ads run by the Republican Governors Association: it appears that the ad did little to either help or hurt Baker, that said, negative campaign ads, in general in Massachusetts , spell big problems for candidates – if, and only if, they are endorsed by that candidate. To refresh: ads run by the Healy campaign, and ads run by the Coakley campaign did more harm to the candidate than any other factor.

The fact that 63% of the respondents have not heard of Charlie Baker or are undecided, speaks to the early nature of the game. As Baker becomes more visible, one can expect an increase in favorability in the subsequent polling.

Charlie Baker, Republican Candidate for Govenor, Makes Stop in Western Mass. Local News Coverage Whines About Deval Patrick.

Charlie Baker in Springfield Yesterday - photo Springfield Republican
Yesterday, Republican candidate for Governor, Charlie Baker, kicked off his statewide “Had Enough?” campaign tour, with a stops in Framingham and Chicopee. The tour highlights Bakers plans to reduce spending on Beacon Hill, and putting a halt to the corruption rampant in Massachusetts government.

Local news coverage on the stop resulted in one article by the Springfield Republican Headlined ”Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick urges opponent Charlie Baker to stop Republican Governors Association ads” . In the article, Patrick, who was aided by negative attack ads in 2006, complains that Baker should stop the ads run by the Republican Governors Association which depict both Patrick and Democrat turned Independent third candidate, Tim Cahill in a truthful, but less than flattering light. Patrick held a press conference yesterday in Boston, to coincide with Bakers camping tour. The Republican, the only daily paper in the Springfield/Chicopee/Holyoke area, decided to go with the Patrick press conference as “news”.

In paragraph six of the article, the fact that Baker made a stop in Western Massachusetts is brought into play:

During a campaign stop in Western Massachusetts, Baker, former chief executive of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Inc., said that candidates are barred by federal election law from coordinating with independent advocacy groups like the Republican Governors Association.

“I can only control my own message,” Baker said following a rally at The Munich Haus in Chicopee. “I’d rather that all of these independent groups stay out of Massachusetts.”

Baker noted that independent advocacy groups ran ads on Patrick’s behalf during the 2006 election.

The only other indication that Baker was present in Western Mass is the AP photo that accompanies the article. It is precisely this type of reporting that has seen daily newspaper subscriptions drop 9% over last year. According to the Audit Bureau of Circulation, the Springfield Republican has an average of 67,181 subscribers. The current population of Chicopee is 54,941, Springfield,150,640 and Holyoke, 39,947 (based on 2008 estimates) or a total of 245,000.

It is one thing to preach to the choir, but when the choir has left the church, the smart move would be to balance the reporting, one story about Baker’s visit and one about Duval Patrick’s press conference about Baker. Over at the three leading television stations (websites), one AP article can be found at Channel 40 news, under Global news, headlined: “Even in liberal-leaning Mass., GOP eyes US House”, otherwise, no mention of Baker’s visit to the neighborhood.

Regardless to which political party one subscribes, a visit by a major candidate is news - the fact that this receives no mention other than to prop up the sitting Governor, who’s current approval, according to the latest Rasmussen survey shows Patrick with 11% viewing the Governor very favorably with 26% viewing him very unfavorably. The balance of respondents are somewhere in the middle. In this particular poll, Patrick’s performance has increased to 48% approval with 12% strongly approving, again the balance being somewhat. It is the very low favorable versus the unfavorable that paint the picture that larger dailies like the Globe and the Republican fail to see (or refuse to see).

Ned Bristol, of the Attleboro Sun Chronicle, on the other hand “Get’s it” – Worth reading his editorial ”Ross win good for Republicans, Mass.”. The article outlines the state of Massachusetts politics today and is right on the money.

As Charlie Baker goes from city to town to district delivering his message, the fact that the media continues to ignore him (not unlike they initially ignored one Scott Brown), will do little to effect the outcome. The only effect it appears to have is driving subscribers to alternative news sources.

Public Calls on Twitter for Obama’s Assassination – Progressives miss the Mark by Removing Civics from the Curriculum. Who’s to Blame for the Bill.

The Founders Sign the Constitution, which aptly apples to the Health Care Reform Bill on grounds of Impeachment and Interstate Commerce - image hoodmania.com

An article from: ABC News speaks to the anger felt by many American’s over the vote in the House to pass the Senate version of the Health Care Reform Bill, which Obama will sign into law today. Apparently, two of out the millions of Twitter users, were so angry that they posted “tweets” threatening to assassinate Barack Obama – as if that would be the answer to solve all the problems the nation now faces since he took office a little over a year ago. First, one has to understand that a basic knowledge of how our government works is no longer taught in most schools; therefore, laying blame on the President is natural because he is seen as being “in charge”. Additionally, the emphasis that the media has placed on his ability to “lead” and his overall import has been nothing but misleading to the public – and this is true of the treatment of his predecessor – the derogatory rhetoric reserved for President George W. Bush in terms of his “alleged” power.

There are two very important pieces of the puzzle that the two individuals who are now being investigated by the Secret Service may not be aware – one, the President is no more than the titular head of the Political Party in charge. His job is to shore up the base, look like he knows what he’s talking about, and hopefully (or not, depending on your point of view), aid in the passage of legislation by giving speeches and meeting with the rank and file members of Congress who may or may not be impressed by his position. The real power lies in the Congress and the Senate, in the form of the Speaker of the House and the Majority Leader of the Senate. It is these two individuals who are in charge of what gets done, when it gets done and they have the ability to ignore the Constitution – outright if they so choose. It is those two individuals along with the rest of the Congress and the Senate than have the ability to make or break a piece of legislation and, and once they have a majority (Nancy Pelosi has enjoyed her position since 2006), they can stifle a President and the opposition party from effectively governing. In fact, they can do things behind the proverbial scenes in committees that can even destroy an economy (see Barney Frank). It is the individual members of the Senate and the Congress who are the most egregious villains or heroes in this government.

Secondly, one must understand the laws governing the line of succession under the Constitution. If anything were to happen to Barak Obama (God forbid!) - The next person in line for the Presidency would be Joe Biden. Biden, may be a fine gentleman, however, he has health issues that may prevent him from accepting the position, in which case it would fall to the Speaker of the House - Nancy Pelosi. Should anything happen to Nancy Pelosi (lightening striking from her flagrant abuse of the Catholicism in order to achieve secular goals for example), then Harry Reid, the Majority Leader of the Senate would be the next President – should anything happen to Harry (who has an approval rating a tad lower than Nancy’s, then Hillary Clinton as secretary of State would be next in line. Therefore to get to anyone who could reasonably govern the country, one has to get through four individuals until Clinton is given the post.

Fortunately, most American’s understand that the anger should be directed at the Speaker and Majority Leader, and they understand that time is all it takes to remove someone from office. (Of course, there is impeachment – but calls for impeachment of either Pelosi or Reid have not yet taken place.) Therefore, patience being the virtue it is, in a few short months a new Congress will be elected with a new majority leader who will begin drafting legislation that will be aimed at undoing anything other legislation that is egregious to the well-being of the nation. In 2011, the candidates for the balance of the seats up for re-election and the office of the President, will begin to lay their case as to why they would be a better choice for the nation – when the voters go to the polls in November of 2012, they will elect a new president, who will then sign into law any legislation that is unhealthy for the citizens and the nation as a whole.

The Constitution: on Impeachment:

Article 1, section 2: The House of Representatives shall chuse their Speaker and other Officers; and shall have the sole Power of Impeachment.

Section 3: The Senate shall have the sole Power to try all Impeachments. When sitting for that Purpose, they shall be on Oath or Affirmation. When the President of the United States is tried, the Chief Justice shall preside: And no Person shall be convicted without the Concurrence of two thirds of the Members present.
Judgment in Cases of Impeachment shall not extend further than to removal from Office, and disqualification to hold and enjoy any Office of honor, Trust or Profit under the United States: but the Party convicted shall nevertheless be liable and subject to Indictment, Trial, Judgment and Punishment, according to Law.

Article 2, Section 2: The President shall be Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy of the United States, and of the Militia of the several States, when called into the actual Service of the United States; he may require the Opinion, in writing, of the principal Officer in each of the executive Departments, upon any Subject relating to the Duties of their respective Offices, and he shall have Power to grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offences against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment.

And the kicker:

Article 2 Section. 4. The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Our founders were men of great vision, understanding that no matter the branch of government, from the office of the President, the Congress, the Senate and the Supreme Court, individuals that would behave in such a way as to usurp and corrupt the power of the document and or interfere with the sovereignty of the States – The Commerce Clause:

Article 1: Section 9: No Preference shall be given by any Regulation of Commerce or Revenue to the Ports of one State over those of another; nor shall Vessels bound to, or from, one State, be obliged to enter, clear, or pay Duties in another.

Therefore, the entire bill is unconstitutional given the fact that the senate version, the bill that will become law, does make mockery of Article 1, Section 9 – and is therefore, unconstitutional. A fact - each state will not be given equal treatment – This is the basis for the suites being brought by Attorney Generals of a growing number of States – The Supreme Court does have the ability to declare a bill unconstitutional.

Back to impeachment: (Article 2, Section 4) what of those who drafted the bill? They played fast and loose with the Constitution; the body of Congress and the President offered bribes in order to pass that bill – these Bribes consisted of offers made to various Senators and Congressional Leaders for a vote. Therefore, whoever offered the bribe for the vote on this bill is guilty and impeachable.

That said, patience is required, and that is why, in November, should Nancy Pelosi remain in the Congress, and the Democrats are no longer in power, she would be one of the first subjects of impeachment. As to the President, again, he is merely a prop, so to speak, one that apparently without the help of the Speaker and Majority Leader would have no bill to sign today.

Although many scholars will insist that the constitution is a fluid document subject to revision and especially interpretation, the above noted articles have stood the test of time, both the articles on impeachment and the Commerce Clause.

Case in point on the Commerce Clause: In February of 2009, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, ever in need of additional revenue to support its failing Health Care System (which is, by the by, heavily financed by the Federal Government), thought it best to go after individuals and businesses for taxes collected on Massachusetts Citizens purchases across State lines. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Supreme Court (not the most conservative court one must admit), said no – under the Commerce Clause.

Therefore, if David Axelrod’s proving ground for the rest of the nation (in the name of Deval Patrick), own heavily liberal minded court, found this clause to be effective in relation to states right and taxes, how much more so would the courts in Virginia, Idaho and any of the other states bringing suit, fare the same when it came to the current Bill being signed into law?

To wit, the best way to channel angst and anger is in the voting booth, and one would better serve themselves by reading the Constitution in its entirety – additional reading suggested: The Federalist Papers, available at bookstores nationwide and online.

Boston - Obama Draws Crowd of 4,000 in Cambridge – LA Times Offers Scathing Review of Obama on the Campaign Trail

The Boston Globe, reporting on Obama’s recent visit to aid embattled Massachusetts Governor, Deval Patrick, spoke of the “large” crowd of 4,000 that was filled with enthusiastic young people (the President spoke at MIT), also noting that there were a few protestors in the mix, among them, anti-war protestors. (You Tube Video of the President's Motorcade and Protestors below tell a different story, with very few supporters lining the street, and perhaps an under reported number of protestors doing the same) The Globe’s pool reporter, Matt Visor, covered the Presidential visit, citing the fundraiser and the fact that it would generate approximately $600,0000 to the Patrick Campaign, as well as Tim Murray (Lieutenant Governor) and the Massachusetts Democrat Party.

One has to understand that the President was in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in one of the bluest States, where a Presidential visit would draw crowds from both the University and elsewhere. The University alone has approximately 10,000 graduate and undergraduate students (Source MIT), therefore, it appears that the majority of the “crowd of 4,000” was local to Cambridge.

This begs the question – is the party over?

Apparently, this has been occurring elsewhere, and is now referred to as ”Obama Hangover” by those very incumbents who the President is attempting to “help”. The main point of his visits to the various states has been fundraising, but to what end? The race that may be the easiest for him to “aid” would be New Jersey, where incumbent Corzine, comes the closest (poll wise) to staying in his job, although he has dismal approval ratings. His trips to Massachusetts, Connecticut and specifically Virginia, may be, for all intents and purposes, a lost cause, as Virginia appears to be lost and with New Jersey, the outcome will be settled in two weeks, Massachusetts and Connecticut, although elections are in 2010, may be an even harder sell, with Chris Dodd and Deval Patrick facing extremely tough campaigns with very uncertain outcomes. The lack of independent crowds lining the streets to welcome the President to their specific state is what may be most telling – outside of the fundraisers and the on-campus visit, there appears to be little to no interest in the President – with the exception of media coverage.

The Los Angeles Times converge of Obama hitting the campaign trail, entitled “Hello, Boston! Obama stumps for troubled pal, Gov. Deval Patrick, then on to help troubled Chris Dodd” is a scathing review of the President on the campaign trail, going into the fact that fundraising is primary, and that he is bringing in less than stellar results, along with a question as to “how much is this costing the taxpayer?” Interesting to see the growing critics coming from, for all intents and purposes, “mainstream media”, but more so the lack of enthusiasm in general for a sitting President perceived as being such a “rock star”. It is the “American Idol Syndrome” that allows for Andy Warhol’s, 15 minutes of fame, that may why those pesky “masses” aren’t appearing in droves when the President in any given state for a “Drive By”, the rest of the populace has been steadily losing patience, as his approval ratings are under 50%, a far cry from the robust 65% he enjoyed on his inauguration day, only ten months ago. This tells us that the President, as head of his political party, has lost the all-important and growing Independent (or Unenrolled) voter who will, in all likelihood, decide the races in New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Virginia.

"Crowd in Boston for Obama's Motorcade"


Protestors in Boston

Obama Attends Rally for Embattled NJ Governor Corzine Draws Crowd of 3,500 - Next Stop Massachusetts – Rally for Deval Patrick.

Obama with Corzine, image Trentonian

President Obama has hit the campaign trail to try and bolster Democrat incumbent governor John Corzine, who is just weeks away from from possible early retirement. An article in Politico, entitled “Corzine milks Obama appearance”, speaks to the fact that the polls have tightened in recent days between Corzine and Republican rival, Chris Christie, but fails to mention the fact that there is a third party candidate who has gained ground, with both Corzine and Christie losing ground with New Jersey Voters. The Rasmussen poll suggests that it is impossible to predict an outcome at this point, therefore, one would think that an Obama appearance would bolster Corzine’s chances, attracting a large crowd in order to “get out the vote”.

The event, held at a Hackensack University, drew an enthusiastic crowd of 3,500, most of who were there to see the President. One has to understand that events where a sitting or former president visits a specific state, especially a blue state, are well documented in the press, weeks beforehand, giving plenty of time to draw significant overflow crowds. Former President Bill Clinton’s visit to support John Kerry’s presidential bid in Massachusetts drew crowds of the City of Worcester with people “lining the streets for miles”.

Perhaps Democrats in Massachusetts are more enthusiastic than those in New Jersey – Obama will be attending a fundraiser for Deval Patrick on the 23rd of October in Boston – Massachusetts, known as “the Bluest State”, (see presidential voting patterns by State; Massachusetts has only voted twice for a Republican (Ronald Reagan), in the past 30 years.) should see crowds “lining the street” to honor Obama’s visit to the Bay State. Although the fundraiser will undoubtedly be closed to the public, it has received significant media attention in the state since the announcement in early October, giving those who would even stand a chance of a glimpse of the President time to get into line. It will be interesting to see how this Bay State visit compares to Obama’s draw in New Jersey, as both sitting Governors have dismal approval ratings.

Alternately, Rasmussen’s latest Presidential Tracking Poll shows that the President is enjoying an unhealthy 27 percent “strongly approve”, giving him an overall approval rating of 47% Rasmussen polling has seen the president’s approval “negative” for the past week. This poll, coupled with the poll numbers of the democrat incumbents in both New Jersey and Massachusetts, may act as a harbinger of political rallies for Democrat incumbents elsewhere in the nation. If that is a case, it is a question of a brand gone band, and this will become evident as 2010 election rally’s begin in earnest. The question then will be, is Obama to the Democrats in 2010 as George Bush was to the Republican’s in 2008?