2012 GOP Update – Herman Cain – Guilty Until Proven Innocent? Chicago CBS 2 Anchor, Bill Kurtis, Debunks Cain Accuser Bialek – Audio from WLS-AM

From the windy city: a local anchor, who has more credentials than most of today’s journalist, one Bill Kurtis (biography here at Chicago.cbslocal.com/personality/bill-kurtis), was a recent guest on Chicago’s WLS-AM’s “The Roe Conn Show”, and has plenty to say about Bialek (who worked for a short time at CBS), along with Cain’s ability to ride out what he appears to note as a manufactured scandal, apparently more to the story on several levels. There is a brief note below from Media Bistro:

Citing what he heard “in the elevator at work,” legendary WBBM anchor Bill Kurtis discredited Herman Cain accuser Sharon Bialek in a conversation last week on WLS-AM.
Speaking as a guest on WLS’s “The Roe Conn Show,” Kurtis said that Bialek, who worked for CBS in Chicago from 2006-2007, “has a history.”
“There’s a lot more to this story,” Kurtis said of Bialek’s account of sexual harrassment. “I ride in the elevator at work and I hear very quickly a different kind of story.”
“Let’s put Herman and Sharon in the car at the same time,” Kurtis said, “and the roles may even have been reversed, given [her] track record here.” Here’s the audio…

Video appears below (audio)



What is most interesting is the amount of conjecture on the subject, given the fact that guilty until proven innocent has been tossed out the window – however, here’s several scenario’s in which this blog has been given over the past few days, most of which, although “hearsay”, may make more sense in the long-run given the team of Bialek and Allred’s lack of credibility.

In an attempt to push Cain out of the way, as his climb to the top was gaining momentum and he represented a threat to other candidates in the GOP (some of whom have been known to play a dirty trick or two in Presidential Primary politics), but more so to the Obama campaign, given the fact that Cain’s message might resound with both Democrats as well as Independents – the best way to get rid of a Republican is to throw a scandal against the wall and hope it sticks (similar to cooking pasta), and, logic follows, that candidate would immediately withdraw from the race, or resign from Congress, or the Senate, or the local post as dog-catcher. Apparently, what they did not count on, should this be the case, is the fact that Cain is not a politician, as and such, when accused did not act like a politician, rather like a novice, which, instead of being the kiss of death, lent more credence to Cain’s innocence.

With fewer Conservatives and moderates for that matter, not trusting news sources to be as “truthful “as say a blog, or alternative source of news, Cain’s poll numbers, although in a slight decline (due more to one debate performance than any scandal), the majority of Republican Voters in (pick any poll) would prefer that Cain stay in the race (a little poll fact that is often left out of those news stories, noting the has dropped in the polls (by a few points mind you ), because of the allegations of sexual harassment (based on conjecture not fact). Those in the media, and the Obama campaign, appear to have run up against a dead horse.

Should Cain survive (and this appears to be the case at the moment) and go on to win the nomination (or be on the ticket at all), the fact that he has had allegations against him, has been made moot by the same party who has, for decades, lived by scandal and the fact that a sexual scandal is no reason for a candidate or sitting Congressman or sitting President, to leave office (See: Barney Frank and Bill Clinton, and an entire cast of characters). Therefore, they have created a scenario by which, in protecting their own (the DNC and Democrat Political Operatives); they have made it the “norm” for their constituents to look upon this type of scandal as “no big deal”. Fast forward to March (after super Tuesday), and should Cain be in the lead, or say Gingrich, and one or the other look to be heading hand in hand towards a solidified ticket, then Cain would appeal to Democrats across the board who may have had trouble voting for a “typical white man” (sorry Newt), but not for the affable, African-American, Cain.

This particular ticket, (which could, again, go either way), would solidify the
Conservatives, and surprising Democrats desperately seeking an alternative to Obama.
Also of note, the Republican Establishment and their pundits, continue to push Mitt Romney as the front runner, and, with no offense meant to the former Govenor of Massachustts, nothing short of a miracle will get that man past Super Tuesday with enough primary points to seriously continue the campaign.

This means that the Republican Party has more than one front runner, who is totally unacceptable to the Beltway, and totally acceptable to those Conservatives in the party, as well as those outside the Party.

This is not to say it would be a landslide, and that the fight would not get even dirtier (surely David Axelrod’s building must be full of Sharon Bielaks’ or someone else just as horrifying to voters that could be attached to either Newt or Cain.), but most likely to win this general, there will have to be a third party candidate, one that can peal enough votes away from the Republican, and allow the current occupant to win by even 1 point (See Massachusetts, David Axelrod’s testing grounds and the last Governors race). Therefore, a 5 point lead over an incumbent with a third party candidate in play will hardly be enough – that said, a healthy 10 point lead in polls like, for example a Gallup, would indicate that, although a tight race, more than winnable for team GOP. Of course, that all depends on how the candidate’s fortunes turn out – at the moment, in Iowa, the latest poll shows: Cain, Paul, Romney and Gingrich in a virtual tie for 1st.
The interview is worth a listen in its entirety.

2012 GOP Update: Newt Gingrich At the Top of the Charts – Latest Poll: Gingrich, Cain, Romney

The brilliant and affiable New Gingrich Tops the GOP Charts - image Letsgetrealblog

From Public Policy Polling: (PDF), latest national poll consisting of 576 Republican Primary Voters (4% very liberal, 3% somewhat liberal, 18% moderate, 39% somewhat conservative and 36% conservative, shows New Gingrich in the lead with 28%, Cain at 25%, and Romney at 18%. The balance of the field in this poll in order of %: Perry (6%), Bachmann, Paul (tied 5%), Huntsman (3%), Johnson and Santorum (tied 1%) and not yet sure rounding out the field at 9%.

A good majority of the questions focused on the fact that Cain has been accused of sexual harassment; the results, a majority believe the allegations are false, and that Cain should stay in the race. Newt Gingrich, who has made what, is touted in the accompanying article by Public Policy Polling, a remarkable gain in a short period. While Romney remains stagnant and/or in this case has lost poll numbers. Perry, despite a solid performance in the last debate, ended up losing % points in this PPP poll.

Although in this point in the game, with approximately 8 weeks before the Iowa Caucus, the polls show a candidates strength (advancing or maintaining % in the polls) or their weaknesses (losing points, or under double digits). That said, this is a very fluid field where a candidate all but given up for “politically dead”, is able to rise to the occasion, by a win in Iowa, or South Carolina, propelling that candidate forward through the South and Midwest come Super Tuesday. From this perspective of the current field, at this time and with this poll, the outcome would be either Gingrich/Cain at the top come Super Tuesday. This is probable should the polling remain the same in regards to the allegations against Cain (plus positive for Cain).

With Newt Gingrich on the top of the polls, one can expect a media assault to begin on the former Speaker, any second. This will be the most highly vetted GOP field in history, given the media’s penchant for the current President, and an obvious distaste for any GOP Candidate (see CNN Reporter asking Obama if the GOP candidates are uninformed, out of touch or just irresponsible (Real Clear Politics video).

Depending upon which side of the political aisle one sits, there is good and bad news - trust in the media (both print and broadcast) is at an all time low according to a recent Gallup “Trust in Institutions” poll, with only 25% trusting Newspapers or TV News.

GOP 2012 CNBC Debate Winners – Gingrich, Cain, Bachmann – Full Video - Latest Florida GOP Poll: Cain, Romney, Gingrich

The CNBC GOP Debate Team - image Telegraph UK


CBNC hosted a GOP debate last evening from Oakland University in Rochester, MI. The debate opened to the introduction of the candidates – applause for Gingrich, Cain, Romney and Paul were an early indicator of the sentiments of the crowd – Romney was expected to do well from one of his home states, however, appeared less on top of his game than normal – Cain was effective on message and delivering crowd pleasing punch lines and Gingrich appeared most presidential –steady and obviously the leader of the debate team. Bachmann remained on message as well and had what was, perhaps, the most blazing and memorable remark of the night’s debate: On Obama: ”I would say that President Obama’s the one that’s wrong because President Obama’s plan for job creation has absolutely nothing to do with the true people that know how to create jobs. He should be going to the job creators if he wants to know how to create jobs. Instead he continues to go to General Axelrod in Chicago to look for his orders to figure out how to deal with the economy”(From CNBC Transcript)

Although after watching multiple debates, allowing only for thirty or sixty second answers and rebuttals, the candidates punch lines may sound a bit tired (putting it kindly), specifically Herman Cain’s 9-9-9 plan and Romney’s continued denial of the boondoggle that is Massachusetts Commonwealth Care – it goes without saying that candidates must repeat in a matter of seconds their key points – for those who may not have tuned into the last ten debates – however, puts the candidates at risk with hard core political junkies who are constantly seeking something “new” from each candidate. The Presidential debate platform, with the exception of only two that were held so far, is designed for sound bites and opposition research. (See highlights from The Washington Post). The two debates referred to that allowed for more time and interaction between the candidates were CNN’s Tea Party Debate, and the Lincoln Douglas Gingrich Cain Debate hosted by the Texas Tea Party (Video on C-Span and this blog).

What this debate, as all future debates will tell those aficionados’ of the political arena – who is comfortable in the forum, and who stands up to the pressure, not only of the debate but of the events affecting the candidate as well as the nation. From the CNBC Debate, the composure shown by Cain, Gingrich and Bachman and Ron Paul was remarkable – Romney appeared less at ease than in previous debates, Rick Santorum appeared harried as well as Huntsman, and Rick Perry is simply not cut out for public debates. (See Video’s of Texas Gubernatorial debates: example: YouTube, Texas Governors Debate )

The next GOP Debate will be held, for a second time, in the Lincoln Douglas style, on November 19, at 4 to 6 PM from Des Moines Iowa (C-Span will carry this debate). The debate will feature candidates Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain, Newt Gingrich, Ron Paul, Rick Perry and Rick Santorum – Mitt Romney has yet to confirm his invitation to this particular forum.

The CNBC video in its entirety appears below.

Cain continues to maintain a lead in the polls – the latest out of Florida by Rasmussen shows Cain leading the field with a familiar spread: Cain 30%, Romney 24%, Gingrich 19%. It goes without saying that Cain’s rise to the top, and the subsequent, multiple allegations which have been leveled at Cain in a growingly apparent attempt at character assassination, are being, for now, brushed aside by the most staunch conservatives (Florida). Two of the detractors remain anonymous, the others, one has a history of multiple complaints at multiple job sites,(AP) and also works for the Obama administration in “communications” and the second and most visible (Gloria’s latest attempt at demeaning the GOP anyway she can), shared an apartment building with the aforementioned David Axelrod and also filed multiple complaints for harassment.

Overall, to date, the top three candidates appear to be holding steady as the political season turns the corner towards Iowa and New Hampshire in a few short weeks – what one can anticipate, (crystal ball here), Romney will do well in his own backyard, which includes the states of NH, Michigan, UT and WY while Cain and Gingrich will pick up the balance. A repeat of the 2008 GOP presidential nomination appears likely, with Romney out by March/April, and either Cain or Gingrich in a battle for first. A Cain Gingrich ticket would serve the nation, putting a non-Washington outsider together with a man who has extensive experience as the Speaker of the House, and enough distance from Washington to stymie detractors. Bachmann would also make a great second, however, from a pragmatic (heartbreakingly so) point of view, would herald a repeat of the media frenzy foisted on Sarah Palin, and although tough as nails, the focus would be on Bachmann as female, rather than as the capable tax attorney, small business owner, and tough legislator. Although we appear to have overcome stereotypes, the incident with Herman Cain proves that the U.S. has not, especially as far as conservatives are concerned, and the media and DNC use this to their full advantage. It is also obvious, that without a third party candidate (be so very wary of this scenario – and look to Massachusetts’ last Gubernatorial election as the proof in the pudding – Axelrod watched with intent for a purpose), a scenario exists where should one surface (say a Democrat who suddenly get’s religion, breaks from his/her party and runs as an independent), the election results will show a 3 to 5 point margin going to the “third party candidate”, making a 1 point lead not only possible but probable for the current Occupant of the White House. The only way in which a third candidate should be taken seriously would be if that candidate was affiliated with a prominent and strong third party. Since the Tea Party is not yet formed (legally) as a third national party, it is doubtful that a candidate emerging to challenge this late in the game is anything more than a Trojan Horse for David Axelrod. (Again, kudos to Bachmann for her remark).




Part I


Part II




Part III

Cain-Gingrich Debate Tonight 8 EST C-SPAN

Herman Cain and Newt Gingrich will participate in a Lincoln-Douglas style debate tonight at 8 PM. CSPAN will carry the debate live.

Herman Cain’s Accuser’s Lawyer Seeks Release of Confidentiality Agreement To Make Anonymous Statement of “her side” of story – Anonymous? Seriously?

Cain Tops the Polls - After Allegations by Anonymous Sources - photo Iowans for Cain

There are limits when it comes to credibility – and this may be the limit – from the Los Angeles Times article headlined: ”Restaurant group to respond Friday to Cain accuser request” – speaks to one of three anonymous women who have come forward with allegations of sexual harassment against the GOP frontrunner. Apparently, a lawyer who originally negotiated a severance package (not a settlement, note) for his “client”, is now seeking permission from the Restaurant Association Board, which would allow is client to release a statement on her side of the “story” (emphasis now on story) – anonymously. His client, apparently, does not wish to reveal her identity due to the backlash received by one Anita Hill. Hill, the woman who claimed improprieties against Justice Clarence Thomas while he was going through the nominating process for the Supreme Court remains one of the most figures associated with egregious false allegation claims based on political bias. Justice Thomas, an African American conservative, continues to sit on the lands highest court, while Hill is virtually obscure.

Cain’s accuser remaining anonymous does not make for good book deals and/or continued suits brought by lawyers against an association – hoping for more likely than not, “hush monies” instead of a simple “severance package”. The service package, it should be noted, was not of such a high amount that it would even have reached the board of the Association. Apparently, the amount was considered so minuscule, that a former board member during Cain’s tenure noted: ”Severance agreements, he said, were — and remain — “common” in human resource management. “You offer people severance agreements, unless they are for cause, all the time,” he said. (Daily Caller).

The phrase “for cause” is the key to this particular case – if there had been cause (i.e. the allegations had “teeth”), then the amount would have been much higher reaching the board and giving both Cain and the Board members knowledge of the case. Therefore, the allegations were considered to be baseless at the time the claims were made, and the staffer (accuser) released with a small severance. Severance s packages can run up to six figures or more depending upon the reason for release of an employee, a $35,000 to $45,000 severance suggests an annual salary, more of a “lay-off” than hush money.

More over is an anonymous statement going to have legs against the Cain Camp?
Very doubtful – if anything it would increase his capital among the rank and file Democrats, who stood firmly behind Bill Clinton through an Impeachment! (Fact and Satire).

The proof is in the latest polling: Rasmussen Reports released yesterday where Cain tops Romney outside the margin of error, giving him the first lead in a national poll – the poll was taken 3 days after the “story” broke about these “anonymous accusers”, and 76% of respondents were well aware of the accusations.”

In other words, unless they’ve got the 8 X 10 color glossies, there’s little more that the opposing political teams, or opposition press for that matter, will be able to do to stymie Cain’s popularity – apparently the reverse is true – his stock is raising.

Importantly, Cain, who has not backed down – not one bit – regardless of his vague recollections of the incident (which if it was such a low level severance, that may have been the reason why he had difficulty recalling the incident at all) is considering a suit against Politico. (The Washington Post): Cain’s statement on a talk radio program: “When Anderson Cooper asked someone from Politico point blank, were you tipped off by a rival campaign, the person from Politico would’t answer. What does that suggest?” Cain continued. “All I’m saying is we are just looking at all the facts.”

What that suggests is a hatchet job, perpetrated by a press organization in order to kill a campaign by publishing statements without checking facts, or knowingly publishing a story that did not hold water, hoping the outcome would be that Cain would drop out of the race. Cain may have a case against Politico, and the Washington Post may want to put a muzzle on Dana Millbank before they are faced with a similar suit.

What is most likely occurring: those who no longer trust the media to deliver a fair basement, and also have a healthy distrust of anonymous hatchet jobs, are now more interested in Cain as a candidate – it is because Cain is authentic. Although he sat on boards (by invitation and by eventual salary) that were tied into the government (Restaurant Association – lobby, and the Federal Reserve Board), they were seats held as an “outsider” and short in duration, rather than a “career” in the public sector. His claim of being a Washington Outsider, therefore, holds water. He’s more popular now, which must make those ideologues a bit more contrite. One other note on the other two accusers – both working within the federal government – have not, yet, found lawyers willing to try and get them more cash, while increasing Cain’s popularity.

Crystal Ball: (Definitely way too early, but for the sake of some fun). Since Obama is most likely not to be reelected, although a third party candidate may peal enough votes away to make it a very tight race, should he run up against any of the GOP candidates, it is unlikely he will retain a second term. Unless he steps aside, and Clinton takes the helm (see past blogs for constitutional procedure to get this done), the Democrats will be lucky to hold onto house and senate seats, let alone the Presidency.

The Primary – Iowa – Cain, New Hampshire, Romney, South Carolina, Cain, Florida, Cain, Texas Cain, Massachusetts, who has a late primary – and is not winner take all, may even be a split between Cain and Romney. Romney should handily take Utah, Wyoming and Michigan and then bow out. Gingrich may take Huckabee’s place as GOP cheerleader, and hang in there long enough to keep the GOP candidate and process in the spotlight.

Cain can take one more item off his bucket list, become President of the United States, fix the economy and go onto his next challenge. Short of the New York Times, Politico, the Washington Post, the Republican establishment and Rham Emanuel literally kidnapping Cain and keeping him in an undisclosed location until the primary is over – he will remain a very competitive, if not the most competitive GOP candidate in 2012.

As this story, has all but collapsed at this point, it is the last word on “Cain” from this blog on this story, unless someone comes forth without cover of atomicity, and has the 8 X 10 color glossies to confirm.

Herman Cain – Decades Old Sexual Harassment Allegations Conveniently Surface – Is Cain Similar to Clarence Thomas or Bill Clinton and Does it Matter?

After Politico Story Breaks on Decades Old Harassement Allegations - Iowa apparently Not Concerned - image Politico - article referenced below


Herman Cain, who has been trading places with Mitt Romney, for the front-runners position in the GOP 2012 nomination process, has suddenly been slammed in the press for decades old allegations of sexual harassment by two former Restaurant Association employees. The story first broke, as far as one can tell, from the blog Politico wtih the headline: “Herman Cain accused by two women of inappropriate behavior”, immediately following a statement by Cain that he anticipated he would be (Paraphrased) “Lynched by the press” as he is the current frontrunner in the GOP presidential contest. Not for nothing, but Cain is most likely dealing with both the rapid liberal press and the Obama Campaign (who, with the release of this so-called “bombshell” and the furor with which the New York Times, Washington Post, and other MSM outlets are printing articles which are increasingly salacious in nature, filled with innuendo’s and little else.) or alternately, the Republican Establishment – those who would not see an outsider – a non-politician. (for that is what Cain is – a man who has worked in all phases of the corporate world, from a line cook at Burger King to its President, and finally CEO of his own firm – increasing with each position the strength of the company and each company’s ability to hire additional employees – he is the quintessential self-made man. The story more poignant and compelling simply because he came out of the segregated south, is a true African American, and he succeeded based on his own goals and drive.)
Therefore what we have in Herman Cain is the most serious threat to the Obama administration and Politics as usual for both parties in Washington simply because he has no ties to lobbyists – period.

Unless you count the Restaurant Association for which he held a position on the board, and said organization is now being slammed in the press along with Cain due to these alleged incidents.

From the numerous articles to date from The Washington Post, to the New York Times, what one finds is that in the 1990’s two anonymous complaints were filed against Herman Cain who was then at the Restaurant Association. Cain did not leave his position, and these “charges” were never made formal. There was no legal settlement against Cain, but there was a settlement for one or both of the women, who were let go (i.e. fired) and then given a severance. This severance (reading between the salacious innuendos) apparently was not a settlement that had anything to do with the claims made by these “anonymous” women. One of which is now a Federal Employee in Maryland. The incidents happened in 1990 – it is now 2011 – and both women signed a confidentially agreement in order to receive the severance pay.

A confidentiality agreement with severance is normally given to employees who may have a working knowledge of trade secretes which the company and or entity wishes to remain confidential – for obvious reasons. That said, one has to look at both sides of the story – however, it’s a bit difficult when both “sources” are anonymous and subsequent articles are filled with additional anonymous sources who are “friends” of those who were allegedly harassed by Cain. Are we all sufficiently dizzy yet?

Additionally Cain has been blasted in the press for not recalling, in detail, the allegations and the “settlement” (which was a severance, not a settlement having anything to do with the allegations made) – apparently what he does recall is that one of the women was told she was as tall as his wife! (Call out the Guard!), and the other one is apparently alleging an incident took place at a social event held by the Restaurant association, with co-workers who had too much to drink. Seriously.

That’s all they’ve got.

Although Cain anticipated a public trashing – especially for doing so well in the polls – one can almost bet the house, these allegations came as a total surprise – however, given the fact that the media has been digging for months as Cain’s rise in popularity has grown, desperation appears to have set in.

There have been calls for these women to break there confidentially agreements and let all the words be revealed, all the allegations that were made, and the details of the settlement agreements specifically be made known. One can bet the house that the agreements had nothing to do with the allegations – the reason: the press would have leaked those documents sealed or not, if they had any juice, or if the allegations contained therein referred to Cain, most likely complementing a co-worker by telling her she was “As tall as his wife”- and as anyone who knows anything about Cain, his wife is put on a pedestal. Therefore, we have one claim of being complemented and then we have another with multiple situations that made a woman “uncomfortable”. In that case Cain may have said something similar – or he may have simply complemented the woman - something that is written up in almost every corporate handbook – what one can and can’t say that may be construed as sexual harassment – one simply cannot complement a co-worker on their nice cloths, a hairstyle, or, Lord help us, a new pair of shoes. Inappropriate gestures can be a pat on the back for a job well done; touching in any manner is out. It would be, from this point of view, a bonus to see those a) allegations, and b) confidentially agreements upon being fired from the firm, with severance. One can bet they could be torn asunder in less than sixty seconds.

Therefore, what one would have in the above scenario is a Justice Clarence Thomas scenario – one in which a young women comes conveniently forward (remember Anita Hill?), just as Thomas is being considered for an appointment to the Supreme Court. A republican and an African American to boot! The claims, naturally, were found to be born more of political expediency than having any real substance and, Thomas took the bench, while Hill took obscurity.

However, what if, as it was suggested by Fox’ contributor, Charles Krauthammer, that Cain’s defense of the allegations and the contradictory statements made by Cain (he didn’t recall many details, then some details), appeared to be Clintonian in nature. (Daily Caller). Clintonian in nature – translate to Democrats: A man who would run the country similarly to Bill Clinton.
My apologies in advance to Herman Cain – but if Cain were the Bill Clinton of 2011 through to the White House in 2013, so what? This coming from a Conservative Feminist who felt that Clinton may have gotten away with a bit much when it came to women, (that’s sarcasm) however, the nation, as a whole, could have cared less. The nation as a whole was more concerned with his job performance.

There’s the key word: Cain’s ability to create jobs, a man who is not a Washington insider, and one who likes to “shake things up a bit” – going after whomever he pleases when he feels the need to call someone out, apparently regardless of party.

Which may be why Politico (also known to have ties to the Obama administration), and other outlets are harping on these allegations. Cain is popular, and that’s a problem for Obama. Cain is also a Republican and normal Republican behavior when it comes to allegations is to roll up in a ball, apologize profusely to everyone and anyone, and then resign. It was on this premise that one can bet the house the allegations were made and put into print with such veracity – based on allegations that may never come to light due to the confidential nature. (One can also bet that the severances received by these two women are tied into that agreement – in other words, they may have to repay the Association is they break the agreement (trade secrets, not sexual misconduct by a board member or President of the Board). Additionally, these women have lawyers, at least one of them, who speaks also on condition of anonymity, and is looking for ways to released the severance, most likely this lawyer has seen the document, found it to be baseless, and ironclad, and is hoping for a Gloria Alred book deal, rather than any fact finding. Otherwise, one can bet the house, if this were a real case, where there was a settlement for sexual misconduct, the agreements would have been broken long ago, simply because Cain has deep pockets himself, there would have been books, movie deals, and such – but nothing – nothing but allegations and anonymous sources. Most importantly, Cain, even as the press ratchets up the heat, has not resigned, has not back down, has been, in a word(s) – not a typical Republican in response to a potential “scandal”.

Apparently, this “scandal” has not stopped Cain, or cost him any points in the polls, as the media would have hopped (as well as the Obama administration and the Establishment Republicans (see Mitt Romney – who is, incidentally a good candidate – they (MSN) are using Wall Street Ties, and anything else they can find on Mitt) The latest on the non brouhaha come from the outlet that started the whole shenanigan’s – Politico – who, judging form the headline this morning is simply astonished: Iowa yawns at Herman Cain allegations”:

“MARSHALLTOWN, Iowa – While Herman Cain struggled for a second day in Washington to push back against sexual harassment allegations, the high political drama almost went unmentioned Tuesday in one of the most important courts of public opinion — Iowa.
On the campaign trail, on local conservative talk radio and in conversations among activists, Republicans here have so far greeted the story with a shrug.”

(Politico)

Apparently, aghast, what with all the newspapers printing up these salacious stories, with anonymous sources, these Iowan’s appear to care less. The question and answers one can just hear (again Sarcasm) “Do Iowan’s read? Do they Watch CBS or NBC or MSNBC or ABC?!!” – “They Must Watch Fox!!!”

These outlets also must not have read the polls on themselves, whereby, they have fallen to repeated new lows in credibility (actual word by Gallup Polling: trust), and it is most likely that yes, they are read, and then they are ignored.

Had Politico done its due diligence, and instead of printing allegations by anonymous sources, waited to get the documents in hand, along with 8 X 10 color glossies, areal photo’s and DNA, then those “pesky masses” (i.e. voters) may have paid attention. Therefore, to the individual reading that piece, or subsequent pieces by both main newspapers, news outlets and bloggers, it’s nothing but another hit piece by the media on a Conservative – period.

As a feminist, Conservative or not, (Conservative, by the by, comes with age), one finds those women who make false claims, or who are so “fragile” that they cannot stand a complement, or stand up for themselves and follow through with more than a severance – if as implied these are fireable offences and Herman Cain would not have maintained his position, long after these two anonymous women were gone What one must keep in mind, this allegedly took place in the 1990’s, not the 1960’s, and if the harassment was as severe as implied, and they either did nothing, or went for the cash, as appeasement, or worse, trumped the charges up in order to get cash - then they do a disservice to all women. It’s akin to crying rape, where none exists, for whatever reason, leaving all rape victims to defend themselves as potential “fabricators”.

There stands Herman Cain, a man accused by the media (mainly Politico) by anonymous sources, with murky details coming out from all parties involved, and looking more like a fabricated Witch Hunt by the day – and if not? Does it matter? Apparently, it didn’t make a difference where Clinton was concerned, in fact, his poll numbers went up!
In closing and seriously, Cain is a threat, and these allegations, which could have come out at any time, suddenly and conveniently surface. If Cain does not recall the incidents immediately, the Press claims he’s hiding something, instead of a case of an incident that was of little consequence in the grander scheme – two employees trying to cash in – or crying wolf for either the Obama Administration or even the Republican Establishment (remember Cain – Outsider).

After fairly thoroughly looking into Herman Cain’s life, his biography, and articles written about the man during his tenure at several corporations as well as letters written during the years, by both men and women, thanking Cain for his mentoring and inspiration, one can, with a fair amount of certainly, look at this man with some level of appreciation for what he has accomplished, his ability to lead, and his overall credibility as a candidate, and most importantly, his dedication to his family, his nation and his country. (In all honestly, this blogger does not recall which order he places all three, but does it matter?) In not one instance, scrubbing the web, reading old newspaper articles, (microfilm exists), were these allegations brought to light, and they would have been newsworthy. From this point of view, it’s all about Politics, money and a good book deal.

2012 GOP 10-18 CNN Debate - Battle of the All-Stars – Cain Stands Ground, Romney-Perry Chew Up Time, Bachmann, Gingrich Benefit – Opinion

The CNN-Western Republican Leadership Conference GOP Debate held last evening in Las Vegas was a debate worthy of two bags of popcorn and a front row seat – Anderson Cooper’s CNN appeared to have lost control of the candidates at several points – and Cain and Romney were targeted, with Cain coming out no worse for the wear, and Romney with some explaining to do as Rick Perry consistently hammered home barbs on both immigrations issues and the Massachusetts Mandated Health Care Plan.

The entire video is below via www.rightscoop.com worth watching as it beats the “sound bite” videos that don’t always tell the full story (and leave off an important point or two being made by one candidate or another).

In brief, and from this perspective, the biggest winners of last night’s debate were the so-called lower tier candidates, Bachmann, Santorum, Cain and yes, Ron Paul, while Herman Cain held ground, and Mitt Romney and Rick Perry dominated the debate time and appeared to be having their own debate within a debate – Rick Perry shot back at Anderson Cooper at one point: (paraphrased): “You asked the question, I get to answer it any way I want” – then hammered away at Mitt Romney.

What this debate, from a Massachusetts Perspective tell us, is that Mitt Romney is still in denial over the mess that is the Massachusetts Health Care Program, or otherwise known as “Romney’s Albatross”. There were several discrepancies between reality and Romney’s version of how this plan works, and how it has evolved. The fact that the original concept may have been somewhat innovated, is not the end result. Firstly, Romney noted that the his plan allowed only private carriers, not the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to get involved in the insurance game – he must have forgotten Commonwealth Care – which is state run, and which tells individuals that they either buy the right dollar amount of insurance coverage and/or face penalties (the program is tied to the Department of Revenue). If one cannot afford insurance (and that’s a growing percentage of Bay Staters, one is made to pay a fee, to the Commonwealth’s IRS equivalent.) The only way out is if one’s employer does not offer insurance, and if one is an employer, one faces fines if one does not carry enough insurance (standards set by the Commonwealth) for each employee. It is a socialist nightmare, one which has prompted a call to action to remove the program that is the largest line item expense on the State Budget, with additional funds from the Federal Government, all the while unable to cover all uninsured, (those who are assessed fees), and those that are insured through private carriers, realized a minimum of a 30% increase in premiums over the past three years (source: this bloggers health insurance premiums). The move to http://repeal-romneycare.com is building steam across the state.” Romney is, of course, not responsible for all of the problems faced by those left behind in Massachusetts, but he needs to own up to the fact that is it a program that is far from perfect, and should be replaced. (There are options, such as the opening the state up to more than three carriers for instance – thereby dropping premiums and making health insurance more affordable. Tort reform at the state level might not be a bad idea either.

Rick Perry cannot hold his own in a debate – he loses his train of thought, and until and unless he can get enough sleep or get off the one issue answer, he is going to see his poll numbers continue to drop.

Which leads us to the fact that money and politics is, unlike the constant drumbeat of the press, the end all.

Herman Cain came out, although purloined for his 9 9 9 Plan, (which granted may raise a few questions, but it is a plan, one that has extremely good points, and should be read by everyone) unscathed – As a tax conscious blogger, the Cain Plan makes sense, it is not a simple as Cain suggests, however, some of the accusations leveled at Cain over the plan were not correct (Read plan here: at www.hermancain.com/999plan for perspective and questions.) but is any plan perfect? Ask Mitt Romney.

Michelle Bachmann came out confident and also had the most level answers of the evening, and one would have liked to see more of Bachmann’s common sense answers, if, and only if, the two schoolboy could have been controlled by Anderson Cooper long enough to hear responses and give time to both Bachmann and Gingrich – to this mind two underrated candidates that have the potential to rise above the fray. The most insulting part of this debate, the obvious ending where Bachmann, and Gingrich had to fight to give a closing statement – time was up, granted, but the time management of the debate, (with a heavy focus on beating up Cain, and then the Romney – Perry ad nauseum mini-debate,) left the American Public short.

Therefore, from this perspective, one is encouraged to give to the campaigns of the following candidates in order to ensure that their voices are continued to be heard, as they all offer the American public solutions and options that are not currently forthcoming from the White House.

To Anderson Coopers’ questions as to which one felt they could best President Obama in 2012, the answer is obvious: any one of those standing on that stage (ok, maybe not Rick Perry – unless he goes to teleprompter school with the President). The fact of the matter is, as Mike Huckabee proved in 2008, money isn’t everything – with Huckabee’s campaign in single digits, he blocked Romney and his millions from moving beyond Super Tuesday. The difference between these “lower tier” candidates of 2012, and Mike Huckabee, is that they all have a willingness to raise funds – whereas, Mike Huckabee, who would have, in this opinion made the best option for 2008, (once they removed Hillary Clinton – who was strongest on defense of all candidates running), is known for his lack of fundraising ability. It is not the millions, but it is the ability to go to donors and ask – not just the grass roots but the bigger donors, many of whom are still not committed. Therefore, in theory the field is complete, but as to calling out one right now who would best the balance of the eight – hard to tell.

Technical winner: Tie: Bachmann, Gingrich, for substantive answers. Losers: Romney and Perry. The one man who will benefit in the national polls: The ever likable Herman Cain. (Despite the fact that Romney will be immediately called the winner, as he is best loved by the Republican Establishment – something this blogger feels is a negative at times.

Best line of the night goes to: Newt Gingrich: (on the budget negotiations currently underway: via NYTimes “Now the idea that you’ll — the idea that you’ll have a bunch historically illiterate politicians who have no sophistication about national security trying to make a numerical decision about the size of the defense budget tells you everything you need to know about the bankruptcy of the current elite in this country — in both parties. (Followed by)… I’m a hawk, but I’m a cheap hawk. But the fact is — (laughter) — the fact is, to say I’m going to put the security of the United States up against some arbitrary budget number is suicidally stupid.”

Therefore, keep the voices of reason and those that hold the entire field accountable and intimately still stand to rise above the fray in business:

Donate:

hermancain.com/donate
michelebachmann.com
http://www.newt.org



Full GOP Debate from www.tehrightscoop.com

You Know Herman Cain is a Contender when: He’s Skewered by the Press Using former Bush Staffers to quote!

Herman Cain’s rise in the polls ‘and his ability to connect to the individual, has both the media and those who on the Republican Side of the Street (Washington, Pundits, etc.) in fits as he has taken the lead on favorite son, Mitt Romney, in recent weeks.
Therefore, it’s time to mess with Herman:

From: Reuters headline: “Cain to face tougher scrutiny at Republican debate”

From CBS: ” Does Herman Cain really have a chance?”

From CNN: ”Why Herman Cain can't be president” (as well as negatives on balance of GOP field


There are about 500 more, but herein lays the problem for Herman Cain – he is liked, capable, and smart, he has the support of the grassroots conservatives, which includes those who do not care one whit about what Washington, or those inside the Republican Elite want. Those inside the Beltway and the Republican Elite want Mitt Romney. Here’s the skinny: Although Romney and Perry have amassed millions, their campaigns are still struggling (Romney honestly not at all), and yet, Cain is besting them in the polls. They ask if he’s serious, as he scrabbles to add staff in New Hampshire, and Iowa, due to the Republican Party moving up the primary schedule! (Almost as if by design to impede candidates that have no cash (no real basis for that statement, other than observation). So, can Herman Cain go the distance? Yes. Not everyone is going to like Herman Cain, and no, we don’t know enough about him - yet, but as a nation, we need to see all candidates, especially the candidate that is backed by a party, not the members of the Party and that includes both major political parties.

The CNN Debate is on tonight, begins at 8 eastern.

2012 GOP Bloomberg Debate Winners: Romney, Bachmann – Best Quote of the Debate – Full Video - Opinion and Analysis

The GOP Field - Capable - image The Blazed dot com


Mitt Romney and Michelle Bachmann were the obvious winners in the Bloomberg – Washington Post – WBIN TV GOP Debate held last evening – Romney for his measured responses, cool composure and a show of humor more than met the expectations set by the nature of the forum – the economy. Bachmann, who is not performing in the polls as well as her counterparts, did an outstanding job last evening – it appeared, during two particular exchanges as if Romney and Bachmann would make a perfect pairing – both agreeing, calling upon and complementing each other. In the second segment of the “kitchen table” style debate, moderated by PBS’s, Charlie Rose, the candidates asked questions of one another – Most were aimed at Romney, not without criticism: Romney however, turn to Bachmann, asking a question that invited a serious response, rather than critique – she more than met expectations – later Bachmann acknowledged Romney very positively in response – setting up a candidates chemistry with one another. The fact that the field of eight offers six extremely effective candidates: those who have solid ideas and plans on the economy, the background, knowledge, and most importantly, the drive to take on the most difficult task at the most difficult economic time, makes this one of the best GOP fields seen in decades.

In this opinion and in order of performance, the field placed: Romney, Bachmann, Santorum, Paul, Huntsman, Cain, Gingrich, Perry. It is not without some prejudice that the focus on Romney and Cain and Perry, left little time for other candidates to show their worth in both previous and this debate. Based on the tone of answers, the content and overall demeanor of the candidate: Santorum, if given more time, is solid and knowledgeable, and has risen substantially in expectation, Paul, who is more Libertarian than Republican, gave solid answers, and appeared to feel most at home in this environment – again, with Paul as with Santorum, a lack of focus on the candidates does not give full time for viewers to assess the individual merit. Huntsman also held his own, although appearing a little less confident than in previous debates while Gingrich, the one that can be counted on for both wit and worthy answers in the forum, appeared to sit this one out – as if he were not feeling up to par. Cain, needed to expound on more than his 9-9-9 plan – and when asked his choice of the individual he would choose to replace Timothy Geithner answered Greenspan. Cain was on the board at the Kansas City Federal Reserve in the 1990’s – this was a time of virtual prosperity, and although that may have been his basis, it belief the fact that Greenspan, as notably pointed out by Ron Paul, was in his career assessment entirety at the Fed, “A disaster”. Paul chose Volker an appointee of Jimmy Carter, who served until 1987 at the Fed and was, in Paul’s (and this bloggers) opinion, responsible for holding the line on inflation during the 1980’s. It would be Paul’s preference to eliminate the Federal Reserve and re-institute the gold standard.

Finally, Rick Perry’s performance in this debate mirrored the past performances – dismal. The Governor of Texas does not appear comfortable in the debate forum.

Best line of the debate goes to Michele Bachmann during a discussion on the merits of Cain’s economic plan and the distrust by most of those on the podium of giving Congress another “revenue stream” (Bachmann): “When you take the 999 Plan and you turn in upside down I think the Devil’s in the Details”

If one is a reader of this blog, it is apparent that, residing in Massachusetts does not make for a Mitt Romney “fan”, however, in looking at the performance, and content placed in the performance, one must give Romney his due. Additionally, in honestly recalling his performance as Govenor (based on being a constituent only), the Commonwealth fared well – given the fact that Romney was the sole line of defense against a legislature that is comprised of an overwhelming majority of Democrats, the vast majority Progressives. (Thus giving the handle: The Peoples Republic of Massachusetts” to the Commonwealth when locals speak to the state government). Negatives from this point, are his refusal to acknowledge that although his health care plan was sound in theory, that once he left office, it fell to the Democrat controlled legislature and under the control of the new Govenor, Deval Patrick. In that time, mandates appeared, which have driven the cost of the program over the edge. In addition, private insurance in the state (there is limited choice of carriers) is consistently (on an annual basis) rising in cost by double digital percentages. Commonwealth Care, the State’s plan, is no longer accepting new “clients”, and those who cannot afford either the state insurance (if it were available) or the more costly private plans, are able to obtain a hardship waiver, and avoid the fees assessed for non-compliance to the mandatory program. Mandatory and Fees are what make this health care program in Massachusetts a Conservatives’’ nightmare. Granted Romney, at the time did not have a crystal ball, however, trusting the Democrats controlling this particular state (home to Barney Frank, Richard Neal (known as Pelosi’s Tax man) and the balance of the state’s Congressional democrats) not to drive a limited savings program into a billion dollar giveaway, which ultimately hurt the middle class, was, in a word: naive. Therefore, choice of Romney is not out of out “state pride”, or any “GOP” label, but an honest assessment of the man and his performance – he appears more than capable of taking on the task at hand.

As does Bachman, Santorum, Gingrich, Paul and Cain.

The full video via the Washington Post is shown below.

The next GOP Debate will be held on the 18th of October: CNN is the Network, sponsored by the Western Republican Leadership Conference and held in Las Vegas, NV.

In closing there is a good reason why the Obama Team is attempting to diminish the field of eight, outside of the obvious From Bloomberg: Obama Aides Seek to Counter Republican’s Message on the Economy Before the Debate” worth the read. It is that the field is effective and has the plans that are proven, are confident that they are able to take on the task, and hold no illusions as to its difficulty – noting this all with both the gravity of the situation, however, with the clear point that as a nation, the American People will prevail, and perhaps most importantly, they have a sense of humor.

Perhaps the most telling as to winners and losers and the overall appeal of the field comes from personal conversations during the debate, from a conservative viewpoint and one which many might consider the “typical New York East Coast Elite liberal viewpoint: These diverse individuals saw and agreed on the same points in this debate: favorite quote of the conversation and most telling for Michele Bachmann (from a devotee of the press) “I’m not hating her” – translation: She’s capable, worth watching and I may be changing my mind – The fact that those Democrats who are Democrats (rather than Progressives, and even some who may be Progressive, but on the fringe, are now desperate for an environment and a leader who will get us on the path to “out of this mess”. They are looking towards the GOP field, and they, as well as Conservatives, like what they see.

The Washington Post Debate in its entirety

Bloomberg GOP Debate Eve: Cain Up in Gallup Polling, Refuses to be intimidated by Professional Left, Calls Occupy Protestors Like He See’s Them.

Herman Cain when he announced his candidacy for U.S. President defied the odds his entire life - image Fox News

There is a reason Herman Cain is surging in the polls, he’s an individual who deflects criticism that is baseless, and is not afraid to say what the thinks (which is rare in the Political Class, but then again, Herman Cain is not from the Political Class).

Gallup Polling over the weekend shows Herman Cain neck and neck with Mitt Romney, followed by Rick Perry (all three with double digits), Romney has the highest “score” at 20%. That said, 20% are undecided, a few more debates will see that number tighten up, now that the field is complete.

Meanwhile, Cain is out there being – Herman Cain. If one has the opportunity to read his book (suggested), one can get some insight into Herman Cain, his youth and influences, and his penchant for setting personal goals – a novel idea lost on those U.S. citizens born after 1980.

Cain has some “harsh” words for the “Occupy” protestors (See LA Times Herman Cain Steps up Attacks on Occupy Wall Street Protestors), words that basically tell them to go out and get a job. Of course this is met with horror by the professional left, who wholly supports President’s Obama’s “jobs” bill that is going up to vote today – the bill extends, yet again, 99 weeks of unemployment and monies to teachers, and other government employees in order to avoid layoffs in the only sector that does not create a job! It is not as if there are a great deal of highly paid positions available, or even service positions in some parts of the nation, however, when one is able to extend unemployment for four or five years, one has little incentive to take a lower paying job, or two lower paying jobs, rather than let go of the government handout. Herman Cain understands that hard word, even taking a step backwards, (or four or five) if one sets goals, can lead one upwards. A novel concept, especially to those who expect everything should be handed to them on the proverbial silver platter.

Cain also, apparently is not “black enough” for the likes of Harry Bellefonte, and the Academics, (especially the MSNBC crew who, for the most part, are slightly paler than Casper) who feel is his danger – (see video below) – Cain’s response (Paraphrase) “I came off the Democrat Plantation a long time ago. Here’s the difference, I’ve been working in the real world, and the Professor has spent his life in academia”.

The debate tonight, one in a series between now and the primaries in January, will allow Herman Cain to take the stage, with Romney and Perry as perceived political class frontrunners, and “raise some Cain” – should he continue to be himself (and there is no reason why he should not) in a debate that is focused on the economy, one can anticipate that some of those undecided’s (referring to Gallup polling) and able to watch this debate on Bloomberg TV (check upper tier channels) and/or view on the Washington Post website, may change to a Cain fan after this debate. Time and polling will tell. However, at this present time, Cain appears more than able to take the mantel and run with it.

Palin Will Not Run for the GOP Nomination in 2012 – Will Work for Historic GOP 2010 Repeat in 2012

Via the Mark Levin Show: Sarah Palin, former 2008 GOP V.P. Candidate and Governor of Alaska, will not seek the GOP nomination for the Presidency in 2012. The text of her letter to supporters follows:

October 5, 2011
Wasilla, Alaska
After much prayer and serious consideration, I have decided that I will not be seeking the 2012 GOP nomination for President of the United States. As always, my family comes first and obviously Todd and I put great consideration into family life before making this decision. When we serve, we devote ourselves to God, family and country. My decision maintains this order.
My decision is based upon a review of what common sense Conservatives and Independents have accomplished, especially over the last year. I believe that at this time I can be more effective in a decisive role to help elect other true public servants to office – from the nation’s governors to Congressional seats and the Presidency. We need to continue to actively and aggressively help those who will stop the “fundamental transformation” of our nation and instead seek the restoration of our greatness, our goodness and our constitutional republic based on the rule of law.
From the bottom of my heart I thank those who have supported me and defended my record throughout the years, and encouraged me to run for President. Know that by working together we can bring this country back – and as I’ve always said, one doesn’t need a title to help do it.
I will continue driving the discussion for freedom and free markets, including in the race for President where our candidates must embrace immediate action toward energy independence through domestic resource developments of conventional energy sources, along with renewables. We must reduce tax burdens and onerous regulations that kill American industry, and our candidates must always push to minimize government to strengthen the economy and allow the private sector to create jobs.
Those will be our priorities so Americans can be confident that a smaller, smarter government that is truly of the people, by the people, and for the people can better serve this most exceptional nation.
In the coming weeks I will help coordinate strategies to assist in replacing the President, re-taking the Senate, and maintaining the House.
Thank you again for all your support. Let’s unite to restore this country!
God bless America.
– Sarah Palin

From this conservative feminists’ point of view, Palin’s decision in not seeking the office of the Presidency, is, at this juncture, a best use of her talents in shaping the race for not only the Presidency, but the Senate and Congress as well. It is a fact that she was a major force in the 2010 elections, turning the midterms into an historic gain for the GOP, especially with the addition of Tea Party members to the Congress. Although one would have loved to have seen Palin in the debate forum, those eight that have taken the podium are more than deserving, specifically, in this opinion, Herman Cain and Newt Gingrich. From a pragmatic point of view, those donors and supporters are now free to support the candidate that most respects the values of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, a limited Federal government and freedom from excessive taxation that our Founder’s had in mind. In addition, the candidate who is not afraid to put those, in the media and in both major political parties, that are disparaging, in their place. The country needs a leader who has the intellect, the judgment, the character and the will to govern at this most critical time in our nation’s history. In this opinion, there are those in the current GOP field that fit the bill. God Bless Sarah Palin and her family for all they have put up with, for all she has given of herself for these United States and for all that she intends to do to serve our great nation.

2012 Update - Cain Tied With Romney in new CBS Poll – Speculation: Palin Decision – After October 11th.

The rise of the Second Tier to First Tier - Cain with Gingrich? - image bookerrising.net



From CBS News: A poll released today by CBS News shows former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney tied with conservative businessman, Herman Cain. The CBS poll was conducted over a five day period ending October 2nd, and included 1012 adults, however, there was no indication of party affiliation and or voter or intent to vote status. Of the eight GOP candidates, both Cain and Romney are at 17%, followed by Perry at 12%, Gingrich at 8%, Ron Paul at 7%, Michele Bachmann at 4%, Rick Santorum at 3% and John Huntsman at 2%. The undecided are currently at 18%, down from 22% two weeks ago. Herman Cain has shown a meteoric rise in the past two weeks, going from a 5 to 17% tie with Mitt Romney.


CBS Poll from CBS News.com


Marginals are not available on the CBS News website, however, the fluidity of the polls at this juncture is normal, and although there may be “front-runners”, their fortunes are subject to change as debates take place, and positions are solidified. Sarah Palin, former GOP Vice Presidential candidate and Governor of Alaska, has yet to announce her intentions. She had stated in an interview in Iowa in early September that she would make her decision public by September or October. It would not be out of character for Palin to announce as a late entry at the end of October, given her name recognition, and fund-raising ability. The next GOP debate will take place on October 11th, at Dartmouth College sponsored by Bloomberg Television, the Washington Post and WBIN TV. It is unlikely that Palin would make an announcement prior to that debate as she is schedules to speak at the World Knowledge Forum in South Korea, the same day . However, the next schedule debate will take place on the 18th of October, in Las Vegas Nevada. That debate is sponsored by CNN and the Wes tern Republican Leadership Conference.

The best option for Palin to enter the field in October would be after her appearance at the World Knowledge Forum and before the CNN debate on the 18th. This would give time for the current field to have one more showing at the debate forum - which should give Herman Cain a solid advantage over both Perry and Romney, while allowing Gingrich enough air time to gain ground and push ahead of Rick Perry. Therefore, Palin would have the advantage of coming into a level field - using CNN limited data, assuming no changes to the undecided’s, she would pull the undecided’s, while peeling votes from Perry and Bachmann to take the lead going into the November debates. Should Palin decide, against the odds (given her grassroots campaign –in-waiting, and appearances giving every indications she will be a candidate), not to run in 2012, one can see Cain with his populist, upbeat and take no prisoners persona, pulling well into the lead running into November, as he would pull any Palin “undecided’s” to his campaign.

Additional as of October 4, 2011 via Politico: "Sarah Palin-affiliated law firm made early-state deadline inquiries": Note: Palin is the only other candidate that comes to mind, uses this law firm and is considering a run for the Presidency - Those odds just got better.

2012 GOP Update: You Know Herman Cain is Rising – the Left Begins Concerted Assault

Herman Cain - skewered by the left - image Black Star News


One has to really like Herman Cain, he’s personable, knowledgeable, and a straight shooter. He’s also the DNC’s and Progressive Socialist Democrat’s worst nightmare: an African American Republican running for the office of President. Apparently, that’s not allowed, because, logic follows in Democrat circles that only certain groups belong to Democrats: African American, Latinos, Women, Students and the Union Rank and File (one or two may have been missed). Therefore, when someone from one of the aforementioned “owned” properties, goes astray by becoming a Conservative and worse running for office as a Republican – it messes up the message that is broadcast across campus’ and grade schools nationwide. The speech mongers don’t’ take kindly to this scenario, so, they go on the attack.

Women, who were the last group to be allowed to vote, suffer the most, regardless of political party, and when a woman dares to run for office, either Hillary Clinton, Michelle Bachman and or unannounced, Sarah Palin, they are fair game for all sorts of ridiculous attacks, so numerous and so covered that it is, by now, common knowledge.
Here is a sampling of Herman Cain articles that came out over the weekend:

Herman Cain is No Booker T Washington, The Atlantic

Herman Cain and Black Republicans ThyBlackman.com

Brain Dead? Herman Cain is Clarence Thomas Soul Mate Blackstarnews

Herman Cain is winning Because GOP Lacks Strong Candidates!(Policymic.com).

That’s a smattering from today: my favorite being the last: one with any real inside knowledge of the GOP and its makeup would understand that Herman Cain is currently winning because he is resonating with those who would vote in the GOP.

Granted it is early, or late, in the game, depending upon who one is working for or with, however, Cain’s rise in the GOP field of 8 qualified individual candidates, is a testament to the refusal of the left to let go of their given ethnic groups, down to the man (or down to women), and the fact of the matter is: Herman Cain, should he continue to do well across the board, maybe the next President, forever exposing the “White Man’s Party Myth” propagated by the left (Democrats). The problem lays in the hypocrisy considering that those that run the DNC, for the most part, are overwhelming white men.

Go Figure and Go Herman. With the attacks on the rise, from the left, Herman Cain can be satisfied he’s doing well.

2012 GOP Update: Herman Cain Wins Florida Straw Poll, SNL Spoofs Fox (and All Media) Debates, Chris Christie Ponders Run - Palin Silent

Cain and Gingrich - Take them Seriously - image aaiusa.org


2012 GOP Presidential Candidate, Herman Cain, trounced the field of candidates, including Rick Perry and Mitt Romney, in what is being classified as a “surprise” win. One should understand that just perhaps, this early in the game (although by media standards it is “late” in the game” therefore, frontrunners must be chosen, except front runners, generally end up forgotten at this same period of time from an historical perspective), Cain’s future in the nominating process, along with Newt Gingrich, and, perhaps, just perhaps, other candidates who may yet enter, is not surprising, rather expected.

After the poor performance (from this perspective) of both “front runners”, Mitt Romney and Rick Perry, in the last Fox debate, the balance of the field began to take on a whole new meaning to Conservatives, Republicans, Republican Leaning Independents, and yes, Republican leaning Democrats, who are now searching for who makes the most sense to lead this country forward – They understand there is no rush to jump on board with one candidate. Michelle Bachmann put it best at the Fox debate, when she noted that “Conservatives don’t have to settle” and “Obama’s poll numbers haven’t even reached bottom yet” (paraphrased from FOX news debate), as it very true this time. Perhaps that is why, from those who this blog snap polled immediately following the debate (and who make up a cross section of the aforementioned demographics, the big winners were Cain and Gingrich.

It is about choices: making the best choice to move the nation forward, and yes, there is still time for others to enter the debate arena, up until November of this year (filing deadlines).

Although one might want to look at straw polls in general as “paid polls for contestants, and fundraisers for local or state political parties”, there is some meaning to be derived from winning such a poll, those paying to be invested in the poll, as surrounded by the base of that party – in this case, the base in Florida was quite clear – Herman Cain was their choice.

An interesting aside: the debut of Saturday Night Live, featured a segment on “the 8th or 9th GOP Debate, using the usual comedic DNC talking points, in the intro, but the point was well taken: when watching the Fox Debate, it was evident that other than Perry and Romney, the other candidates were largely sidelined or ignored (giving CNN the win so far on debate management and production). Best lines awarded to Florida Straw Poll winner, Herman Cain, with a routine on Pizza delivery. One thing is evident, SNL needs to find less “tired” lead in jokes, and come up with something new – surely there are more than a few jabs of a comedic nature that, not unlike the pizza stunt, would have made this clip more entertaining.



Perhaps that will take place once New Jersey Governor, Chris Christie, decides whether or not to run for the GOP brass ring, in a “few days”, unless of course, those anonymous tips that were used by Politico to push the “story” were pulling a leg somewhere. Christie, who won the seat as Governor in a special election in 2009, had already stated on several occasions that he was not interested, however, given the current field (Cain, Gingrich excepted – so far), then he may feel obligated to jump into the fray.


Silence from the Palin camp(aign)- So Far - image mediaite.com

Additionally, there has been virtual silence from Palin, who, of all candidates (or potential candidates), would be the only one with a clear record on taxes, governing, and yes, bonus, she can debate. Regardless of naysayers in the Republican establishment and skewed polls indicated she would lack Republican support (easily done if one uses a majority of Democrats for a sample – see Fox and McClatchy), the general fascination generated and evident in the MSN, what one does not see, more importantly - the grass roots in place for Palin which is – in two words: astonishing and intimidating. One has to ponder, when Palin is silent for an extended period of time, expect an announcement of some nature. She too has until November, and a smart strategy is to let the early front runners implode, especially when one has had time to organize.

2012 update: Colorado Straw Poll – Cain Bests with 48%, Romney at 10%, Perry Takes Second Place.

Herman Cain, GOP Candidate 2012: image: theblackconservative.org

From: the Washington Times Herman Cain, businessman and GOP Presidential Candidate for 2012, had a commanding lead in the Western Christian Summit, straw poll, at 48% of the votes.

The Summit which was sponsored by Colorado Christian University, took place in Denver. The sold out Summit included speakers: Herman Cain, Rick Perry, Mark Steyn, Dennis Prager, John Bolton, Juan Williams, Dick Morris, Arthur Brooks, and Pat Caddell among others.

For a full list of the scheduled speakers visit www.ccu.edu/centennial/events/wcsummitlive.asap
.
Although Straw polls can be indicative of a candidate’s strength or weakness within a certain demographic, they can be exclusionary of other demographics in a State and or Party, as these are paid events. That said it is not surprising that Herman Cain won the straw poll, but that Mitt Romney, who is usually strong in Western States, came in behind Texas Governor, Rick Perry, who has yet to announce his intent to run.

At another Conservative Summit held this weekend, Smart Girl Politics Straw Poll, saw Cain come in second to Michelle Bachman. Although early in the process, what one sees in Herman Cain is an individual businessman with no ties to Washington. This may be why the strongest polling numbers are currently being pulled by those who have either been Governor’s or strong in Business, the exception: Michelle Bachman, a U.S. Congresswoman, and is an attorney, with a focus on: taxes.