Massachusetts Conservative Feminist | Ordinary: Degrees of Moderation and Sanity: 2016 General Election

Showing posts with label 2016 General Election. Show all posts

Friday, January 29, 2016

Trump Rally for Vets – C-SPAN – What the Viewers had to Say

Although Fox News held a Republican Debate in Des Moines last night which was, as the network noted “Trump-less” (Fox News). The Trump campaign was in full swing down the street. The rally was over on C-Span.org (C-span.org link to Trump Video). The question of just now many people watched C-Span, is not available as the network is not rated (Ad Week), yet based on the callers into c-span after the rally, one would anticipate more people found C-Span last night and they might just have had a ratings spike.

The Video below, from C-Span, is the call lines and callers comments after the debate. Worth watching to get the idea of exactly how much support this candidate has from the general public. What remains to be seen is how many of these voters will cross party lines, or vote at all for the first time, when the ballots begin to be cast next week.

Although the tone from the general media is more disdain for Trump than anything else, they continue to follow any move he makes, from the tarmac to events. As of this morning, #1 top topic in news on Google News -

Monday, June 01, 2015

2016 Update – O’Malley Announces from Baltimore, Cruz Campaigns in MA, Paul to Stop in MA

The former Governor of Maryland, Martin O’Malley, launched his Presidential Campaign in Baltimore, joining Bernie Sanders of VT and Hillary Clinton in the quest for the Democrat nomination for 2016. (Yahoo News). O’Malley presents a reasonable alternative to Clinton and can be made to appear more mainstream than either Clinton or Sanders – the one to watch on the Dem. Side.

Meanwhile, in Massachusetts of all places, Ted Cruz has a campaign rally in Andover this past weekend according to the Andover Eagle Tribune, the event, held on private property, saw over 500 in attendance. Granted MA is close to the NH border, however, Rob Eno over at Red Mass Group suggests that the 2016 primary in MA will count for a multitude of reasons, least among them the number of delegates to the Convention and the fact that the Bay State Primary is earlier making this a competitive state. (Red Mass Group)

On June 7th, Rand Paul will be in Peabody for a campaign event, at the Marriott, tickets are paid, making this a fundraiser/campaign rally(document via Facebooks’ Massachusetts for Rand Paul page.

There are rarely visits to Massachusetts by any politician campaigning for the Presidency, one might site Big-Foot first, so this is an anomaly –however, given the makeup of the state, with the majority of voters registered as unenrolled (or independent) it is a perfect stop for those seeking support, both in votes and financially. Given the Jeffersonian Republican wing of the party more prevalent in the Bay State, both Paul and Cruz, could fare well here, especially with boots on the ground.

Both parties fields are more robust than previously predicted, the GOP with the most varied field in memory, and the Democrats starting to pick up options making a Clinton-Bush rematch less likely than touted by the media and both DC based parties. America can temporarily breathe a sigh of relief – until both drop out of the race.

Monday, March 30, 2015

2016 Primaries – Ted Cruz at $2 Million First Quarter, O’Malley comes out Swinging

Ted Cruz (R-TX), the first to officially announce his candidacy for the republican nomination, has reached a $2 Million fundraising first quarter goal according to USA Today. Cruz did this, in the main, through social media. One would anticipate this will give him good standing going into the primary.

On the other slide, O’Malley, the first from the Democrat side to actively campaign for the DNC nomination has finally spoke out against the dynastic option of a Bush-Clinton rematch in 2016. The former Governor from Maryland is in a good spot to go forward with his campaign to lead the Democrats. (New York Times)

Not yet announced: Rand Paul, Scott Walker and Rick Perry, Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders.

Although one might think that it may be late to announce a candidacy – there is, historically a 1 year out November rule which was established in the 20th century – Both Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton announced in October and November the year before. That said, Barrack Obama announced in 2007. In light of the trend towered earlier announcement, which appear to give an edge of sort, especially when there is no sitting president running, to those with the earliest ground games established.

Monday, March 23, 2015

2016 – GOP - Cruz In First – Rand Paul On Deck, DNC – O’Malley Most Likely, watch Julian Castro

The 2016 Presidential Sweepstakes begins today with the announcement that Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), will be running for the Republican Nomination. Cruz, who made the announcement via Twitter, will be speaking at Liberty University today, an evangelical Christian college. (Mass Live).

Rand Paul (R-KY) is expected to announce his primary bid on April 7th, with with an “ambitious five state tour”according to the Washington Times.

On the DNC side, the likeliest first to announce will be the former Governor of Maryland Martin O’Malley, who, according to the New York Post, is a favorite if Hillary Clinton does not run (NY Post)

The likelihood of Clinton running successfully, if at all, is high. Going by DNC history, the more likely candidate to emerge would be the former Mayor of San Antonio who is currently being evasive about a VP roll in a Clinton campaign. (National Mortgage Professional.com).

O’Malley who spent both time and money is Iowa in 2014, and is well received, has yet to nail down the support. Apparently, those who would be pivotal are waiting for someone else, (Washington Post) could it be Castro?

In any event, and somewhat early to tell with few exceptions (Cruz, O’Malley, Paul), it will be a politically diverse slate of candidates, with perhaps the exception of the DNC, who has the Progressive’s front and center (thus less support Clinton). Given the recent thrashing that the standard politicians took in 2014, one might speculate that the candidate that is less “political party” would go the distance – to the White House. Cruz, in comments from any news article, is seen as a radical Tea Party, Canadian born (Constitutionally, that does not matter), super intelligent, but lacking experience, candidate. The fact that Cruz holds his own regardless of which side of the aisle he is taking to task makes him extremely interesting. Additionally, if he is acceptable to the Evangelical right, then, he will be the nominee and with the twenty million who sat out the last General election due to an inability to vote for a Mormon, he can secure the Presidency. Unless, of course, they are able to support multiple candidates, should the candidate social issues align with their own, on a personal level.

The top of the GOP field picks: Walker, Cruz, Paul, Perry. Top of the DNC field picks: O’Malley, possibly Castro, and that rascal from Vermont, Bernie Sanders. With O’Malley in the game, there is little incentive for Elizabeth Warren to step forward. If Warren is aware that Castro is going to jump in, then that would be a reason she is not doing the same. Clinton is being maligned from all sides – therefore, it is very unlikely that a credible female candidate will emerge in 2016 with enough stamina to break the glass ceiling.

Monday, February 09, 2015

Winter Thoughts on a Crowded GOP Field

Cabin Fever – when one longs to take a walk, anywhere, without seeing 10 foot snow drifts! As one wrestles with t he flight or stay and fight the snow – thoughts turn to spring, and well, with that comes more of 2016. Announcement pending early to late spring s to who is serious about running for the GOP nomination.

One would understand that the GOP is rather crowded now, with those who have hinted but not yet announced, while the Democrat side of the equation has three or four at best, with one crowned early as the foregone conclusion –in other words, nothing could be more boring on that side. On the GOP side however, there is an added advantage to a crowded field, that being an exchange of ideas, as well as a winnowing of those who might not withstand the rigors of a good competition.

Therefore, when one ears oh, the field is a mess, it is too crowded, and they are in disarray – that translates into a better primary with lots of choices for those who would prefer to have choices.

Paul, Rubio, Walker, Bush, Perry, to name a half handful, all diverse and all bringing something to the table, which makes for a lively 2016 contest. Personally, I’d rather the crowded field to a foregone conclusion. The one who weathers best, makes the most sense should be better suited to taking on a campaign against those who are not prepared. Not prepared by being pre-selected, and pre-vetted by their own, rather than by the public.

Makes life more interesting.

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Time for Pragmatism – Rand Paul offers Measured Reason - 2016 offers Reasonable Choice in Leadership

Last night, while looking for something entertaining to watch for an hour or so before bed, I found a program on CSPAN – the the Conservative Policy Summit (Video Here) with Kentucky Senator Rand Paul as the speaker. It was a dry topic to be certain, but worth the watch, and one was certainly drawn in by the Senator and his patter on the topics at hand. What one notices is that he is neither blue or red or hot or cold but right down the middle, challenging those on both sides of an issue to think about solutions.

Therefore, it is not without some hope that as the 2016 General Election primary season opens and those preparing to run the gauntlet of the primary emerge, that Paul will certainly enter the fray and bring his voice to the nation. It is past time that we, as a public, were offered an individual so dedicated to liberty, yet reasonable enough to see two sides to any give issue. It is not a flip-flop as some may note, but more of an intellectual approach to a problem, which sounds not usual, and makes it very appealing.

Paul, to this mind, is not pandering to the right, the left, and one lobby over another; rather, it is his own voice looking for those who may be of like mind, or partial like mind to join a national conversation. Plus, the man is smart; the nation needs smart people to lead them and those that would call out individuals in the opposition party as well as their own party. That gives the man extra points.

A few articles of interest this morning (or yesterday perhaps):

Time Magazine’sRand Paul Makes a Pragmatic Case Against Rivals”

Washington Post’s ”Rand Paul Announces Campaign Manager as he ramps up 2016 campaign” (worth noting his choice)

Lastly, Politico’s ”Rand Paul looks to Steal the 2016 Spotlight”

When a nation has the choice of a too familiar face (or faces in this instance both to the right and to the left), what would be more appealing and reasonable to those who are in the middle – or independent/unenrolled voters who would rather not see another partisan dynasty hack take the reins of the Office – the option of a Statesman of Paul’s stature is certainly appealing.

Thursday, December 18, 2014

The Potentials – Bush, Paul, Cruz, Perry , Christie and the middle and the base 2016 GOP Maybes

Opinion

There is a lot of speculation going into the 2016 GOP presidential sweepstakes given the fact that not one person has yet announced an intent to run. Although there have been a slew of polls suggesting that one or the other at any given time is the leader of a large field of candidates. From this perspective, there are few possible contenders and fewer that would make it past South Carolina given the base and those independents who were detrimental in bringing the house and the senate to the GOP.

However, that does not stop the middle of the road, dynastic characters (or also ran multiple times) candidates from suggesting they may run, keeping pollsters thrilled to have new fodder for the press.

The GOP – the national GOP loves candidates that are so moderate they would be considered the opposition if they were running as a Democrat (which they could, easily given their stance on issues ranging from immigration to Common Core.)

The only question one needs to ask at this point, since there are truly only a handful of possible contenders is which of those would make it through the first three primaries and, as no one has yet truly announced, and set up shop in Iowa, then it’s all for naught.

Maybe. What polls do is fuel news, and adding in those who most likely will not run, or most definitely will not succeed if they do, aids in hardening the minds of those who are on the fence, or suggesting they would make an announcement in the spring, or even the summer of 2015. In the reality of the 24 hour news cycle and the fact that one needs to get to know the character in question in order to consider them for any job, the sooner announced the better. That said, once announced, the actual opposition (Democrats and Press) will have time to either undermine that announced individual one way or the other, or, find food for fodder to be used at a later date should that individual succeed in making it to the primary gauntlet. That’s before the national GOP determines it has a winner in the group –or outside the group and will do it’s best to help anyone with opposition in order to stymie someone who could actually win, both the primaries and the general, especially if that one is considered an outsider.

Shades of Ronald Reagan, who the National GOP despised and did everything in their power to derail –until he won and went on to become of the most iconic figures in GOP history – so now they use his memory as the standard. He’s turning over in his grave with their last two election choices, one can just imagine.

The take on things as they stand with those most likely to announce:

Jeb Bush, former Governor of Florida and the bother and son of two former Presidents – he is, in all likelihood, perhaps the best equipped having been a governor as well as having been in the White House under two administrations, if not in a policy sense, in a family sense. Obviously, this is dynastic, the one thing that is a deterrent in this cycle – familiar faces. Additionally he embraces several ideologies most often reserved for those of the opposition party. He would, while running, suggest he’s the most conservative (al –la Mitt Romney) and would never make it out of Iowa

Chris Christie, the current Governor of the over-taxed State of New Jersey and an individual who does not do well in a crisis. (See Sandy and his meltdown with the President). Enough said.

Paul, who is the Senator from Kentucky and the son of Congressman Ron Paul, who ran multiple times on the ticket and is a bit quirky at times (kindly put). He is an obvious threat to the opposition party, given the local politicians, such as newly defeated Alison Lundergan-Grimes, Kentucky Democrat who lost her Senate bid to Mitch McConnell, not without help from Rand Paul, is using Paul’s name as a way to ingratiate herself with the base – she intends to insure he cannot run for Senate and the White House at the same time (Politico). With that in mind, Paul, on his part, fires off shots to those newscasters left and right who are seeking that one thing to upend him. The man appeals to the right, the middle and, holy smokes, Democrats. He’s libertarian leaning, and he’s the epitome of George Washington. Surely there is something wrong – yet, something makes him the best bet.

Ted Cruz, who one either loves or hates, is a firebrand who has his name mentioned more often than not and the Senator from the State of Texas who is righteous. So much so he antagonizes those that hate change (DC Politicians) so much that the fire barbs at him constantly, especially when he’s right and especially those in his own party. As to the Presidency, that’s iffy at best. Future Majority Leader of the Senate.

Rick Perry, outgoing Governor of Texas and a force to be reckoned with, if you’re a coyote, a GOP hopeful or a Democrat – it is what it is – he looks smart, he is smart, and he can point to successes as a Governor. Of course there is baggage - however, not so much this man can’t carry all of it. Should he run, he will be giving Rand Paul a run for his money. Keep in mind, the key elements here are someone who is smart or looks smart and can back it up, must be able to slap the media around and the opposition if they start getting testy, and does not make any bones about whatever position they have at a given moment. In other words, someone how is ridiculously honest and human, but most importantly reveres the Constitution for what it is.

There are also a few others who can jump in at any time, and announce, and of course, that makes it a game changer, but these are the current best known for being in the news, with the broadest base and the most support. Of the group 2 have potential to run through the primaries. The other’s certainly can run, along with a few that may muddle the waters here and there, but at this time, in this day, at this hour, those that do come forth to run, had best understand that they will be running not only against each other, but the National GOP, the National Press and the National DNC, and running for the people. In addition, they have to be able to bitchslap the first three into reality in order to truly appeal to those voters on the right the left and the middle who no longer care about labels.

However, that may have to be true for other, not yet announced or known candidates should this bunch decide not to enter the ring. This is especially true given the only one that even hinted at announcing, doesn’t’ stand a snowballs chance of Hades getting out of Iowa or the Carolinas.

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

The Clinton – Obama Transition – Spitting Into the Winds of Hate and Division

The Washington Post has an interesting article regarding the transition of power from President Obama to Hillary Clinton entitled: “The tricky Obama-Clinton handoff begins”. The gist in a nutshell: How Hillary Clinton can assume power from Obama and maintain the same policies as he has in place now, while driving a wedge between the American Public and the newly minted Republican Congress, and at the same time keeping a massive distance between herself and the President. (Washington Post)

Perhaps more aggravating than any concept of a dynasty of political elite assuming they are going to just take the power, pre-election, are the comments made within the article by those in “power” in the DNC.

“President Obama’s legacy is now entirely dependent on the election of a Democratic successor as president who will protect and extend it, not demolish it,” said David Brock, a Clinton ally and chairman of the pro-Democratic super PAC American Bridge. “Should she run, they both now have a common enemy in a Republican Congress that will define politics through 2016.”

(Washington Post)

Common enemy – here we go again, years of backbiting and accusations of us vs. them in a never ending quagmire that is Washington DC and those that believe they “own” the people.

Frankly, whether it be a dynastic figure from the Republicans (think Bush 1, Bush II, the Return of Bush), or a dinosaur from the Democrats, those types of elitists no longer should hold sway with the general public. Those would the people who have hired them.

Should there be political disagreements with sound discourse? Absolutely, but slogans and premeditated malaise is not going to be a welcome respite for the citizens- rather, it was this type of partisan division and the sense of entitlement and ownership among the political elite, that led to more individuals staying home due to sheer depressions, and those voting, having had enough.

They never learn.

Favorite part of this entire article is the point made that no matter who follows Obama as the next Democrat President, rest assured, they will be in lockstep with his policies.

Political Party annihilation for Dummies – should be a new “how to” for those who feel they are above it all.

Friday, November 07, 2014

2016 Begins – Dr. Ben Carson Announced as first Republican Presidential Candidate

ABC News is reporting that Dr. Ben Carsonis the first Republican Candidate for the GOP Nomination.

Carson, a famous pediatric neurosurgeon and conservative political star, will air a nearly 40 minute-long ad introducing himself to the American people this weekend, an aide to Carson confirms to ABC News.

The documentary titled “A Breath of Fresh Air: A New Prescription for America” will air in 22 states and Washington, DC. The paid video will detail some of his biography and family life, including his rise from being born to a single mother with a poor childhood in Detroit to director of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins for almost 40 years, known for his work separating conjoined twins, to potential 2016 presidential candidate.

How 6 Potential 2016 GOP Presidential Candidates Fared on the Campaign Trail Carson first became a conservative star when last year he created a buzz at the National Prayer Breakfast when in front of an audience that included President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden spoke out about political correctness, health care and taxes.

He also called for a private health care savings plan and a flat tax in a speech that went viral and led to an editorial in the Wall Street Journal titled Ben Carson for President. He is known as a fierce opponent of the president’s health care law known as Obamacare.

In an ABC News/Washington Post poll from last month of the potential 2016 presidential candidates showed Carson in seventh place garnering seven percent of the vote after other notables including Jeb Bush, Mike Huckabee, Chris Christie, and Marco Rubio.

(ABC News)

This announcement makes the 2016 GOP potential slate of candidates a lot more interesting!

Friday, October 31, 2014

2016 – Rand Paul Ready

Rand Paul has been everywhere as of late, lending a hand in GOP races at all levels across the US. What is most interesting is his continual investment in urban areas such as Detroit where Republican’s don’t’ look like the “white-bread-branded-old-men-only”, and where Paul speaks to parity in sentencing, urban growth and listens to concerns and then fires up a crowd(WEMU) – Outreach which drew criticism from the Standard Brand DC Republicans (otherwise known as the RNC), when he suggested that they were not unlike the first Domino’s Pizza crusts – they suck – the RNC took umbrage at that remark, they most resemble as of late.

Paul’s approach is winning hearts and minds, and is time well spent, despite the party heads who are busying praying for a Chris Christie or Jeb Bush – or, any Democrat to run against the firebrand Paul.

Not unlike Reagan who came in with new ideas that were like chalk on a blackboard to the same type of RNC elitist, Paul get’s under their skin by calling them out. The truth hurts, and as he is, according President Obama’s former campaign turnout director, the best position to win 2016 battleground states. Go figure, he has an origination in all 50 states, and yet, DC remains doubtful.

There are very few other potential candidates of note going into the general at this point. Cruz, who has won praise from, of all people, Barney Frank, for suggesting that the States decide Gay Marriage but Barney may not be aware that Cruz is a constitutional lawyer with all that implies, someone who is able to place the job of the states, with the states! (Brietbart), regardless of the issue.

Also, Governor Rick Perry is poised to take the national stage, more so than in the 2012 cycle.

As always too early to tell who else might enter the race for the nomination, but consider who may run on the side of the Democrats, and who the DNC will or won’t field. There is absolutely no contest going into 2016 –unless the National GOP gets in the way of it’s nominating contest.

Thursday, October 23, 2014

2014 – Senate Preparing for Party Switch – 2016 – Begins with Rand Paul

Barring any massive upheavals in the universe as it is today, the outcome of the 2014 mid-terms will, in all probability, produce a GOP majority. With that in mind the Senate is said to be preparing on both sides of the old aisle for the “switch” according to the Wall Street Journal, and Harry Reid intends to continue to drag down the Democrat Party – go figure. (WSJ)

Not wasting any time, nor letting grass grow under his feet, the Most Interesting Man in Politics, Rand Paul (Time Magazine) , has scheduled his first 2016 team meeting, this according to the National Jouranl(picked up as well by the Hill Blog.

It is that season, that political season, where the meek crumble and those that are either crazy and or decidedly dedicated or a bit of both, would take on the prospect of a grueling primary, and if one should win, take an even greater task, the general election – all for the booby prize of landing in the nations White House. In this wise, and in this time, the stakes are so high in the “can it be fixed at all area”, that one has to have a bit of crazy to even consider running. Either way, no matter which side, or who the candidate is, it behooves all citizens to thank them for even suggesting they might be interested in the job of dragging us out of this very deep ditch. Of course, this bloggers preference at this moment in time is the Kentucky doctor, Rand Paul. He meets the ridiculous criteria: younger, hipper, and more in tune with the entire population, he makes the covers of the magazines and most beautiful people’s list. Additionally, he is smarter than all that, has run his own business, is a doctor, has a deep understanding of the constitution the way it was written, and prefers individual to states rights. In other word, a Renaissance man that has his pulse on the country, which is a great prescription for this time and space.

Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Rand Paul - Salon Headline: “Rand Paul’s worthy goal: Why we shouldn’t laugh off his attempt to woo African-American voters” – and why it matters

Here is the gist as it goes, driving home from work and tuning into the local news channel, there was the Howie Carr Show, and I was floored for two reasons: One this is a conservative talk show, and two, the callers were African American and they were talking about their new party affiliation.

There is something that those who are vested in this nation consider a priority, that all labels be removed and that those who are recognized as being part of groups deemed underprivileged for whatever reason, are considered simply, citizens. All equal under the eyes of the law, and of more import of each other. Granted there will always be some idiots in the mix, who are blinded by whatever club or background or jealously or hate they are burdened with but – there is hope.

Therefore this treatment of Rand Paul’s outreach and goals in reaching African Americans by Salon, lent to that hope: the headline above begs the reader to delve in a bit more deeply, and in doing so, one finds a an article written in a way to drive home the point – it is not so much that the GOP has never done any outreach to the community, rather it is the point that one man is doing so – and where there is one, there is hope. All voters deserve choices, and now one is offering those choices to a segment of the population that has previously “belonged” to one political party.

Good for Rand Paul for setting that goal, and perhaps while he’s in New Hampshire, he should stop in Massachusetts for a second or two to find that his ideas might be readily accepted. So much so that he might gain much support. Understanding how ridiculous it sounds to bring a not-yet announced candidate to the Bay State – the Bluest State, the ever ignored by candidates unless they are Democrats in huge trouble (see this year’s election) state, it may help more than hurt for some to stop in the Bay State before running up to New Hampshire.

Besides my side rant and a selfish one at that given knowledge of the campaign cycles, and how critical first states and impressions are, the point is clear – making all citizens, regardless of culture, and offering choices to all voters is fulfilling the spirit of the Constitution.

Monday, September 29, 2014

016-The pre-GOP candidates – value voters summit significance

Focusing on two particular pre-GOP candidates, Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Rand Paul (R-KY), one finds a contrast of sorts, the biggest being that both men are not either Mitt Romney, Jeb Bush and or Chris Christie. Enter the Value Voters Summit , otherwise known as the Evangelical Christian look at viable candidates for the Presidency. Noticeably absent were the three previous mentioned. Generally, those are the candidates that the evangelicals and all the power of the vote they carry will vote for. If one’s name is not on the list, one can kiss the election goodbye. Both Cruz and Paul have fans from both sides of the Conservative bench and both were invited. Cruz won the straw poll, while Paul, not placing gets points for being invited. While the Boston Herald Op-Ed columnist Holly Robichaud describes Cruz as the second coming of Ronald Reagan., PJ O’Rourke came away with in some wonderment after interviewing Rand Paul.

Therefore one captivates the right, undoubtedly and the other, both the right and the left. But, the Religious vote in the nation plays a factor. Evangelical Christians are a larger force than Catholics who trend, for the most part, as Democrat voters according to Pew One only need to look at the turnout for the election of 2012 to notice that several million voters were absent. In 2004 – the general election vote tally was 68.4% of the nation’s vote, in 2008, when the African American vote was at a peak, the turnout was at 62.3%, but in 2012, the turnout was at 57.5% (CNN) –a group did not show up to vote. The outcome was obvious. When one is absent the “value voters” – those social issue voters that are, for the most part, single issue, Pro-Life, Pro-Marriage, they are also concerned about voting for someone they feel maybe in a cult – those are the evangelicals, to whom Mormonism is a cult. They will not come around and vote because someone is a Republican, they have had their dance, and the Catholic vote, which is slightly lower by a few million here or there, generally goes to the Democrats, regardless of the fact that they are pro choice, it is – what it is.

What will be interesting is how the rank and file GOP, when given a choice, hold sway in the voting process between say a Mitt Romney, or a Ted Cruz, or a Rand Paul. Should they vote in the primary and overwhelming support an anti-Romney candidate, in record numbers and should Romney win the nomination (or Jeb Bush or Chris Christie) the RNC should prepare in advance, to concede defeat to whoever it is on the Democrat ticket. Common sense, and a solid polling suggested that there should not have been a second term for this President, however..Without the full weight of the churches behind Romney, that did occur.

Friday, September 26, 2014

The Most Interesting – Rand Paul – Dr. vs. GOP and DNC Machine – What this means for 2016

According to Dan Pfeiffer, the top communications adviser to President Obama, Rand Paul is the Republican he finds the most “interesting”. This is due to his outreach to demographics currently believed to be “owned” by Democrats, and his stance on issues that would attract them. However, Pfeiffer went on to suggest that Paul does not have the organization heft. (BuzzFeed)

Buzzfeed is a left of center (for the most part) blogger platform, social media company, so articles written are more in the vein of “the top 15 this or that”. The audience is younger, which is what is playing to Paul’s favor. As to organizational heft, that’s to be determined, it is early in the game.

Although the rank and file members of the establishment GOP in DC have their hearts set on a standard Republican, a Mitt Romney, a Jeb Bush or yes, even a Chris Christie, it is not without a bit of angst on the part of those who would like to see a real change, that they are pushing the aforementioned. The simple truth is not one of them could actually win the Presidency. Breaking it down, Romney is a lousy candidate, nice guy, but he has baggage. It was not so much that he could not have won in 2012 – in fact, Mickey Mouse could have won in 2012, if, and this is the stickler – the 20 million evangelicals would have voted for someone in a religion they believe to be a cult. Simple reasoning suggests that were Romney to run again, the same religious fervor attached to voting, would once again rear its ugly head, and the Democrats could run say,. Biden, and lo and behold, we’d have a Biden Presidency. Bush has the name problem, part of a dynasty and one which there has not been enough time for the blind hatred towards his brother to elapse. Additionally, there is an anti-dynasty push through all demographics, therefore, not acceptable. Chris Christie, no explanation necessary.

What does that leave? Younger, qualified candidate that can attract not only the religious right base, but the independents as well as Democrats (some, not all), which is why this is going to be an extremely interesting race in 2016. If one understands that the vitriol pouring out against anyone who is not one of the Washington three (Romney, Christie, Bush), in the press, is due to the fact that populism is not in their favor, therefore they smear. The problem with this tired tactic is that while they retain their Washington lifestyle, Rome burns. Therefore, the man to beat, in this sense, would be Paul given the fact that there is grudging admiration on the left, and sheer hatred from the “standard right”. Of course that same may apply to Rick Perry and Ted Cruz, and other’s not yet known. This will be a determining factor in the sway of the entire nation towards a more constitutionally grounded government. Sometimes one just wants to throw the whole lot of them in a room, and suggest perhaps, just perhaps, they should let the process go its own way, and let the people actually decide, rather than their fully lined pockets. The aforementioned goes to both sides of the aisle.

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

2016 Update: Rand Paul – Washington Post “Profiles”, Politico Rand Leads Pack – but..Paul, the Current Threat to the Status Quo

The Washington Post article: Shifting his views Rand Paul Seeks Broader Appeal but May Risk his outsider Image” is an interesting piece, in so much that it relies on articles, his legislation, and of course, those surrounding him, in order to come up with a profile of a “politician”. What is most telling in this article however is the description of Paul by these same sources:

“He’s been characterized as an isolationist,” said Rob Givens, a retired Air Force general living in Kentucky, who has become one of Paul’s advisers on foreign affairs. “He’s not. He’s a realist.”

“I think that Rand has a picture of what a utopia would look like,” the friend added. “And he’s very realistic about how long it would take to get there.”

So what is that utopia, in Paul’s mind? His friend said it would look like 1792, with the government that existed just after the Constitution was ratified.

“You’d have a smaller federal government, where the presidency is probably the weakest branch; you’d have a robust Congress, led by the House of Representatives,” the friend said. “You’d probably have a heck of a lot less taxes.”

(Read full article at here at www.washingtonpost.com

The fact that in trying to define Paul as to who he is, politically, they have found that as he looks to larger responsibility, on a national rather than state scale, that he is pragmatic about his approach, looking at a situation in total, and then swiftly coming to a decision as to where he may or may not stand – it’s call evaluating and reevaluating in the real world. Paul, a doctor, may live in the real world, more than say, a politician who has spent their lives climbing up the ladder, having never been outside of the city council, state legislature, federal legislature, et al. Therefore, the flip-flop tag might not apply to Paul, as it would to say a “John Kerry”. Paul, rather than appearing to be a political opportunist, appears to be a man of prudence, much like a George Washington, Calvin Coolidge, or yes, Ronald Reagan. Therefore, try and they might, (media in general), those drawing conclusions, tend to run up against the brick wall of reality when it comes to defining the indefinable – a non-politician-politician.

Although it is too early to place bets on a 2016 primary let along the general election as the actual players are not known. Paul is leading in the polls in New Hampshire, by 5 points, which considering that the field consists of every known GOP except the deceased, that’s a win. The article by Politico is quick to point out that there are so many in the field, a win’s a moot point. Had the poll, not unlike early polling that pitted Hillary Clinton (only) against three or four GOP contenders, it may have been a much broader win for Paul. That said the polls that will be of most interest in the first of the nation primary state will come after the November’s midterm elections. Should Paul maintain an edge once other hopefuls have their boots on the ground, then, that pragmatic approach will have paid off. It is a matter of question whether the nation is looking for the next best shiny toy, or someone willing to take on the current mess and attempt to right a sinking ship, in a pragmatic yet decisive manner.

Monday, August 18, 2014

2016 Looking forward - GOP and DNC options

2016 Looking forward - GOP and DNC options

The New York Times article: “Taking Account of the Republican Presidential Contenders”, reminds that fortunes wax and wane years in advance of the general election. They cite Rand Paul and Ted Cruz as the most visible now, with Chris Christie, Marco Rubio and Jeb Bush not so much. Also included in the “not yet announced and may never announce” category are Rick Perry, Scott Walker, Mike Pence, Jindal and Ohio’s Kasich, with maybe, cannot and this or that “scandal” attached.. Although it is early in terms of announcements, it is time for positioning, as the 2014 midterms will be over in November, putting ground troops, and donors’ in line, is critical for anyone who is seriously considering a run at the Presidency.

Paul, who is, according to the times, and most other media sources, most likely to run, has received favorable reviews, from both conservatives and those who lean left, note an editorial in the Rochester Democrat & Chronicle in which the author outlines why the U.S. needs Rand Paul as President.

First, no matter who is in the field, from either major party, must be prepared to not only bat cleanup – but to take the heat when the nation does not transform overnight – it may take years for the jobs to return, and the legislation from Congress, the Senate and the future Oval office to correct or repeal laws that are hindering the nation’s growth. Therefore, it will take a determined and dedicated individual to actually put life, fortune and family before the very fickle people of the country. Running for the Presidency take’s fortitude and dedication, regardless of whether or not one feels a candidate is appropriate or not.

Counting out candidates due to “scandals” or other baggage (as in previously ran – i.e. Mitt Romney), is a bit disingenuous. Makeovers are so complete and comprehensive in today’s 24/7 news cycle and a short-attention-span electorate that almost anything is possible. (Although improbable in some cases, again Mitt Romney, and the evangelicals – although some would be on boards, millions would not due to the man’s religion, which most feel is a “cult”; therefore, they say out the last election. (Therein is the reason that Mitt Romney did not win the office. – the politicalization of the evangelical church.)

Two that are likely and able to connect with a broader audience, regardless of parentage or slander, are Perry of Texas and Paul of Kentucky on the GOP side. Either would do. The Democrats Hillary Clinton, and Elizabeth Warren, not yet announced, Hillary is a “given” and Warren, is not. There is also the Governor of Maryland, who would be considering a run at the office. There may be others, but at the moment, these are the three most likely.

Where we are now is in the arena of speculation, and until such time as intents are made known, that is all the media, or any pundit, truly has.

Friday, April 18, 2014

The 2016 Speculated Packed Republican Field versus the Speculated Democrat Field of One (?)

Senators Bernie Sanders, VT, and Rand Paul (KY)Presidential Hopefuls - image from Politico

So much is now being bandied about regarding the individuals who are “front-runners”, denigrating and complementary, depending upon which media one prefers it becomes a bit tired. What is somewhat as musing is that this is a pattern that occurs every four years, yet, somehow those pontificators (including this one) continue to spout the good and the bad of potential candidates for two respective parties. There are those who accuse the party establishments of colluding against the populace (sounds about right), and those who are so wedded to an ideology (either right or left) that should their favorite candidate not jump into the race, they need therapy. It is nothing new really, but more of the same and this is where that same old jargon takes a twist and gives one side of the “two-party” system a little bit more depth.

An opinion piece in Bloomberg states the obvious - Winnowing The Republican Presidential Field - which goes into a place few dare to tread – some will drop out, some will show up late to the dance, and eventually there will be a winner. As of this moment the polls are indicating that Hillary Clinton, the lone Democrat who has yet to announce, leads the field, but recall 2006, when there was no mention of one “up and coming” Democrat from the State of Illinois, who most of the nation never heard of – Barack Obama. Therefore, one can bet, Democrats being Democrats, that the nominee will not be Hillary Clinton, chances are better than average that a little knows Senator from MA, who hails from Oklahoma, will be in the limelight as this year wears on.

On the Republican side, much to the dismay of many, the front runners, Chris Christie, Rand Paul and another Bush, lead the field, with Ted Cruz, Mike Huckabee and several others vying for spots, and that depends on the pollster. Straw polls being what they are should be taken with a grain of salt – yet, they offer insight into who the political activists favor. Having a crowded field, in the end, offers choices, which is a bonus to those who are in the political cheap seats, and normally have little to no say as to the nominee, given the Party’s ability to choose long before the positioning begins. However, times are changing, and there is always hope for a little rebellion and resurrection taking place in both parties, going even so far as to form a third party – which for some would be the Holy Grail of political gains.

The aforementioned terrifies the powerbrokers as one would imagine, as that’s hard cash splitting three ways rather than two – which is why the Tea Party is so frowned upon and vilified.

This is the time of the season when those of us in the trenches choose favorites (plural) as one should know, the field will narrow, and like any gambling, with the stakes much higher, betting everything on one horse is not the best way to play –unless of course, things stay the course and one knows the Party Elite. However, if there is a crack in the wall of power that is DC, then all bets are off. Confusing to say the least, but, as it should be.

Current favorites: Senator Rand Paul and Senator Bernie Sanders. If one were to pick two, one for each ticket, they represent politics the way it should be in this nation. Paul, who is a Libertarian Republican (Jeffersonian) is representative of the middle and the left with some right thrown in for good measure, he calls them like he sees them, and that doesn’t sit well with lapdogs like Rep. Peter King. Sanders, for being the Independent Democrat who suggests he really is a Communist – which, frankly, someone not hiding their true political bent behinds a blanket Party Logo, is refreshing!

Wednesday, April 09, 2014

2016 – The Early Players - Update– Elizabeth Warren (D) Continues War on Women, Rand Paul (L-R) squarely in the Middle, Jeb Bush (R) – Name Brand

First and foremost, one must understand that Hillary Clinton is most likely, not going to run for the 2016 nomination – despite all rumors to the contrary – and hints from the Clinton’s – part of the reason is one Elizabeth Warren – newly elected Progressive Democrat Senator, former Professor (Part-time) from Massachusetts – as the Washington Post suggests: “A case for Elizabeth Warren in 7 Minutes”. The drumbeat is just beginning. Warren, the female equivalent of Barack Obama, is a darling of the far political left, and with past “Super Delegate” experience, Clinton certainly knows that the Progressive Wing is capable of ousting the actual popular vote winner, in a heartbeat. With this is mind, and years of service, she is undoubtedly tired and wary.

Therefore the equal pay for women drumbeat has begun, yet, it may sound, at this point, overly familiar to those who are in the trenches, or feminists who have seen passages of Equal Pay Acts since 1963. Although denying she is seeking Warren, she is the best bet the Democrats have of even making a dent in 2016.

Unless of course, the RNC is ridiculous enough to run Jeb Bush – former Governor of Florida, son of President George H, and brother to President George W. Political dynasties are well-liked by the public in the same vein as lifetime Senators and Congressional Representatives. Yet, as CBS asks the question Can Jeb Bush win over the Christian right in 2016? , the answer is – yes. The next question would be – to what avail? The Christian base is put a part of the electorate that either shows up or not, and is unforgiving and unpredictable at best. The ranks and file would be expected to vote for yet another Bush, but that leaves the independents, the Libertarians, the Tea Party and a slim yet viable chance for Warren.

However, there is one Libertarian that has the RNC wary, as well as the DNC, that doctor from Kentucky – Rand Paul, the Libertarian leaning Republican – In the Politico article the Libertarian Surge, it is apparent that suppression of freedom, the growing and ever domineering Federal government, loss of free enterprise, and jobs, is becoming more popular with the general public. What Paul represents is a hybrid of both, the Republicanism of the 1960’s aligned with the Libertarian small government ideology and his popularity is growing, along with his donor base.

It is, of course, far too early to suggest one may best the other, as pitfalls happen to candidates in the primary stages, and in the general election and the players change – constantly up until those in New Hampshire, Iowa, and the Carolina’s suggest who may or may not be the next President, but who will continue to move forwarded on that particular quest. For now, we watch we wait and we listen for someone who is not necessarily wedded to the “Party” but to the people’s best interest – so far, we have one who can break the mold, so to speak, set by his father.

Friday, March 21, 2014

The Rand Paul Effect – Media Love-Hate fest Begins on the National Election front.

Lately, the Love him or hate him effect from old and new media for Rand Paul, the Senator from Kentucky who is the current GOP 2016 frontrunner (though hardly announced) has been ramped up a bit. The reasoning is pretty clear to those who are of a political mindset – the Establishment GOP sees Senator Paul as a threat to their preconceived notions of a candidate, and the Democrats see him as a threat for the same reason. Oddly enough, Libertarian ideals appeal to voters on the left and right of the political spectrum, so therefore, Paul is a threat to the status quo.

In addition, with each major political party, there are those who are to the right of the right and the left of the left, absolutists that would never, for example, vote for a Mormon as they might see that religion as a “cult”, and there are those on the left that would never vote for a Democrat if that individual did not have a perfect NARAL (abortion lobby) score. It is the extreme’s that drive both parties, as they are “the base”. The base often lives in print and broadcast, so loyal to party affiliation they fail to see the forest through the trees – believing that a Hillary Clinton – Jeb Bush match-up is, somehow, perfect, (the political dynasty equaling name recognition), or some such nonsense.

Therefore, reading articles on the Senator is conflicting – as it is a love, hate relationship taking form – there are two from Politico one exemplifies the hate and one sits squarely on the fence of neither. This following a week of pluses for the Senator, especially the warm reception received in Berkley, by the millennial – those 18-22 year olds who are itching to vote for someone fresh.

The first is titled “Big in the Bluegrass, In Kentucky It’s already about President Paul”, written by Sam Youngman, who writes for the Lexington Herald Leader. He lays out the Paul phenomenon with clarity – what his challenges are on the right and the left, with personal inflections being confined to reminiscing about past campaigns and the reality of the right and the left. It is worth the read. It may well be state pride, or it may also be a career motivated article, considering there is always a special place for reporters that can become attached to a national presidential campaign.

The second is entitled “Ready for Rand? – by Kevin D. Williamson, a “roving” contributor to the National Review who suggests that American’s will learn to hate Paul, they just don’t know it yet – blaming his Libertarianism. Of course, he also suggests that most American’s would prefer to be government dependent on various programs, which in the end, will prevent them from pulling a lever for a man who may take away social security, or and suggests that Libertarians and Liberals are one in the same – as the labels are from the same root word. From the establishment comes a salvo aimed at suggesting Paul is a non-starter.

One might suggest the most egregious examples will come from the National GOP who undoubtedly has a candidate in mind who will carry the banner right up until the concession speech.

Frankly, at this early point in the game it is impossible to tell where the cards will end up falling, and who will be in the deck – for either political party. Therefore, early stone-throwing accomplishes the ground work for later – just in case. It is the way of it with the D.C. bunch, and as it has happened in the past, and will happen in the near future; those who would decide the issue of who will be the standard bearer may be surprised to find themselves overruled – by the simple act of a vote.

Monday, March 17, 2014

Scott Brown Forms Exploratory Committee – NH Senate, Rand Paul tops Polls

From the Boston Globe: Scott Brown, former Republican Senator from Massachusetts, had move to New Hampshire, and now exploring a run at a Senate seat in the Granite State. Brown, who was one of the more bi-partisan – non “hack” Senators in the august body, would serve the independent streak of the New Hampshire voter quite well. Brown his MA Senate seat to Elizabeth Warren, Democrat, College Professor and avowed Progressive in typical Blue State Massachusetts. It was, in this opinion, a loss for Massachusetts.

Meanwhile, Ron Paul, the Kentucky Libertarian-Republican Senator, recently won the CPAC straw poll, which he had won the prior year, yet another straw poll The Northeast Republican Leadership Straw Poll, also finds Paul in the lead(Fox News). Straw polls, or political activist polls, are not always a bellwether of a candidates future, however, an early CNN/ORC International poll, shows Paul in the lead. (CNN). That poll combines familiar names that will, in all likelihood, never announce a candidacy – Paul, who combines Libertarian and Tea Party values, would most likely pick up the share of polling (given like minds) of those who are never going to enter the arena. Time will tell, however, Paul is, in this opinion, the most worthy candidate the GOP could hope to have. If there were a third party, Paul would certainly lead, and it would be hoped that the change to a more constitutionally based GOP or third party, would bring common sense to the U.S.