GOP 2012 – Pre-Debate Prattling – Perry To Debate, Romney’s Economic Plan, Bachmann Loss of Ed Rollins, Paul & the Youth Vote, MSNBC Wed. at 8PM EST

The September 7th Contenders - photo 2012 Presidential Elections.com via Politico



The GOP Debate at the Reagan Library is co-sponsored this cycle by NBC (MSNBC) and Poltico.com. The schedule and pre-debate guide is available at www.politico.com/news/stories/0911/62275.html,and, as noted on Politico each debate presents a “crucial test” for each candidate in the arena. Brian Williams of NBC and Politico’s Harris will be the moderators, and the post debate analysis will be in the hands of MSNBC’s Matthews, Maddow and Sharpton! In this instance, those included are: Michelle Bachmann, Herman Cain, Newt Gingrich, Jon Huntsman, Ron Paul, Rick Santorum, Mitt Romney and Rick Perry, the next debate will be September 12th in Florida sponsored by CNN and the Tea Party Express which will take place in Tampa Florida.

As each debate passes, one more candidate (or two) shine, while others are forced to face the inevitable, however, it is still too early for those in the current “top tier” to consider doing anything but staying in the game. In past election cycles, debates and early caucus and primary states, generally leave the field depleted, with one or possibly two candidates pushing through to “Super Tuesday”. The debate forum allows prospective voters to hear candidate’s ideas on crucial issues, as well as to view how well they perform under pressure. In the last televised debate on Fox, both Bachmann and Romney appeared to fare the best in this opinion, however, with Rick Perry in the arena, all bets are off. Going into the debate, the latest round of GOP candidate news is, as usual, somewhat biased (sarcasm) and there may be actual infighting among the candidates (also sarcasm – as there is supposed to be jabs, barbs, and remarks made in any political competition – it is the fact that one can deliver a well timed barb, and the fact that one can deflect it with grace and ease, that makes for grand political theater and allow the “rest of us” the ability to decide how well both the attacker and the target sparred – let’s call them verbal gladiators.

From the Press pre-NBC-Politico Debate:

Mitt Romney unveiled his Economic Plan this week and immediately was met with widespread criticism – perhaps the most dismissive from Time Magazine’s Swampland. Included in the article is a quote from Brad Woodhouse of the Democratic National Committee:

If Mitt Romney has expressed a single original idea on the economy in the entire time he has been running for President – for the second time – you could auction it off on eBay in the rare stamp collection area.”

He goes on to tie Romney to the Tea Party (Fear Factor for the Left) (source Time Magazine).

Michelle Bachmann cleaned house, cutting loose two of her campaign officials, yet the New York Times headlines: “Loss of Top Two Aides Raises Questions About Bachmann Campaign; referring to the loss of Ed Rollins, former campaign manager for Ronald Reagan and most recently for Mike Huckabee in 2008. Bachmann, in losing Rollin’s early, does nothing but lighten the campaign load (in this opinion, given the Huckabee experience in 2008). The headline might have better read: Bachman Cuts deadwood from Campaign. Campaign staffers come and go on a regular basis in the early stages of campaigns, and one must remember that this is the early stage of the campaign. Bachmann, although called “crazy” by Time, is smart, savvy and understands her positioning, both in the polls, and most likely with the “Republican Establishment”.

The "Republican Establishment" (i.e. members of the political class) feels it has the right to pick the next GOP candidate – something akin to the Democrats Super delegates, and the wonder of how Obama got elected (except the Republican Establishment does not have an ACORN).

Meanwhile, Ron Paul the Libertarian leaning “Republican” is racking up support as usual, or more than usual, across the youth spectrum, specifically on campus’s. Paul is a very smart man, his understanding of the Constitution and the laws governing the U.S., is exemplary, what he lacks in foreign policy gravitas however, is in equal measure to the aforementioned.

Rick Perry, who shot to the top of the polls upon announcing, knocking Mitt Romney off his pedestal for a moment, (as polls will remain fluid through early 2012), was at first, not attending this debate due to the disastrous wildfires in Texas, however, Texan’s, are tough, and Perry is flying over to California to the debate after all. He receives advise from the Houston Chronicles “Texas on the Potomac”. Included in the article are “Five Things Rick Perry Should Avoid at Tonight’s Debate” (that’s actually the title). It appears that Texas are all in with a native son, (whether that advise is satire, or heartfelt, is often difficult to determine.)

That said, regardless of the media calling each of their own debates – crucial, while constantly harping on the “lateness of the hour” – there are these factors to consider. Debates are crucial in that they winnow the chaff from the wheat, just a bit. However, one must understand, outside of the media and the political junkies, very few people on the street (with exception of those Tea Party Members who actually pay attention) know who these candidates are, and won’t until the Nominating process is at or near it’s end! In fact, during the 2010 election, coming out of the polls, some individuals polls immediately following casting their vote were unable to tell who else was on the ticket, including Vice Presidential candidates. Therefore, as those who pay attention early, are those who again are political junkies, and are also able to forecast a train wreck well in advance (example: The 2008 Democrat nominating process: throwing Clinton under the bus, and Super delegates made up of members of Congress, bypassing the popular vote, and nominating Barack Obama.)

In some bizarre state of political Machiavellian tactics, that may have seemed like a grand idea at the time, however, normally letting those that go to the polls, have their say early in, and through the entire nominating process may be the better of the two ideas (see Republican Establishment).

In this bloggers mind, the candidates tonight who manage to get in barbs remain animated, and engaging, while not going over the top of reality, and maintaining their cool, will win the day. Early Projections: Perry, Bachmann and Romney will come out shinning, Santorum, Gingrich, and Huntsman will be heard, at any cost, and Cain, he may be the wild card. It will be, as a feminist, interesting to see how well Bachmann handles the two “top tier” candidates Perry and Romney, and how much equal time will be given across the board, to all candidates – or if the focus will be on the “Top Two”.

Again, the next debate will be in Tampa Florida, on the 12th of September and hosted by CNN and the Tea Party Express, >Wolf Blitzer will moderate – grab the popcorn!

A Full schedule of all debates is available at www.youdecidepolitics.com/2012, with 3 scheduled in Sept., two in October, one in December in 2011. In 2012, when the primary season begins to kick off: there are, at present, five additional debates scheduled from January through March.

AP-GFK Poll - Republicans More Vested in Current GOP Fieldtes – 43% Dems Included in Poll – Missing: Obama Clearly Unelectable

From AP-GFK Poll Toplines: Democrats Leaning Towards Republican Candidates - Image: From APGFK Poll PDF Toplines


From the Miami Herald – the Headline: “AP-GfK Poll: Most Republicans happy with GOP field” belies the fact that the majority of those polled were Democrat, or Democrat leaning Independents. The Poll toplines can be found here in PDF. Those with the highest favorability ratings in this particular schematic are: Rudy Giuliani at 50%, Michele Bachman at 35%, Mitt Romney at 39%, Sarah Palin at 36%, Ron Paul at 37% and Rick Perry at 33%. Rudy Guiliani taking a substantial lead in a Republican poll as an unannounced candidate gave this blogger pause. As a result, a closer look at the Toplines revealed the fact that 32% of those polled as Republican’s included only 9% “Strong Republican, as opposed to 43% of Democrats at 13% Strong Democrat, which skews the poll results if, in fact, this poll headline suggests a Republican poll only. That said, with favorability ratings at above 32%, one understands that Democrats are engaged in the GOP candidates. Are they more likely Tea Party Members? The Tea Party, much maligned by the press as well as the Administration and Democrat Congressional Reps and Senators, attract more moderate Democrats and Independents – although no official polling has been done, Tea Party Groups are a mixture of political ideology and parties, all however, are vested the Constitution and Fiscal Restraint, which attributes can be attributed to either major political party moderates.

However, if those Democrats polled are vested in Republican Candidates, across the board, then one has to ponder the fact that up to 18% of Democrats are seriously looking at the GOP field. If this schematic is accurate, any one of the GOP nominees would be the next President, which is in line with Generic Ballots from Rasmussen August, 23, 2011 Generic Presidential Ballot 2012, where any Republican bests the President by a margin of 48%, to 43% (Obama).

In addition, as of this week Gallup’s Presidential Weekly Job Approval, shows Obama holding steady at 40%, which is a low point for the administration. In addition, most pollsters understand that there is a 5 point deficit to that poll, including the margin of error. At this point in time, should the economy fare worse or maintain its current status over the next three to six months, it is highly improbable that Obama will be reelected.

Moreover, the AP/GFK poll headline should have read: “Across the Board, Democrats and Republicans are more Interested in the GOP field than in previous months” – a more accurate headline, however, unlikely to get any attention from the press.

Déjà vu Pervades US Economics and the Coming 2012 Presidential Election – Both Carter and Bush shadow Obama – Reelection: Mission Impossible

Carter/Obama and the Rule that History Repeats itself image: ututilis.com

Although it may not seem fair to the President, as both the Congress and the White House take a summer recess and Obama hits the campaign trail during, what has to be, one of the bleakest weeks in the economic lives of Middle Class American’s, the President is being, aptly, compared historically and accurately to one James E. Carter, one term economic fiasco and former President of the U.S.

After Jimmy Carter’s attempts at trying to right the nation (he inherited a recession), by spending his way out of it, including, but not limited to, job stimulus programs, the bailout of Chrysler, and an anti-military, anti-big oil and anti-wall street approach to economics, with the end result being a misery index that provided an opportunity for the nation to stand up and vote him out of office – Carter’s dismal record was such that even with a third party candidate in the mix, Ronald Reagan won handily.


Mitt Romney compared to Reagan - from the Daily Beast

Yesterday, while the stock market plunged, and world markets went wildly in the same direction, due to the fact that the US has hit its Obama requested debt ceiling, and has literally “nowhere to go”, those who own a 401K are now terrified of checking the balances – 401K’s have replaced traditional pension plans for most employees, including those who may be making a minimum wage – they not for the “rich” but for the average Joe. Anyone who may have taken what is considered a “hit”, stand fast and hold on to your socks until January of 2013, unless of course, it looks like the Republican challenger to Obama is going to handily best him in the Presidential Contest of 2012, around say September or October. If it appears there is no snowball’s chance in Hades Obama (see Carter) would be reelected, the markets will roar back. The alternative is unthinkable.


Pawlenty Compared to Reagen image Poltico

Here’s a take on the subject from an historical perspective: “Not Since Jimmy Carter” “Dow’s losing streak unmatched since 1978” Marketwatch – in reference to the Stock Market’s reaction to Obama’s Economic Policies a la former President Carter.

Just as American’s who lived through the Carter Years, and managed to survive (without eating cat food as a staple meal – reference to rising price of food, fuel and rentals, and those who were on fixed or limited incomes, who could not afford to pay bills and also eat – it was that bad), and now look at parallels too eerily similar to not make one start to look at any alternative candidate for the Presidency – the brand of the Democrats has turned just as toxic with a certain element of Déjà vu.

Deja Vu II Guilt by Association

The Posts note that those incumbent Democrats are now running away from any association with the President, especially on the campaign trail has begun: Headline: “Weprin distances himself from Obama” New York Post
In the Carter years, there was more loyalty, so to speak, and going “down with the Good Ship Carter” appeared to be the norm, however, with the ever Republican, Conservative, Right Wing, Tea Party, (i.e. anyone who is remotely “not progressive”, attitude of the Press, the constant bad news associated with one much maligned George W. Bush, Obama predecessor saw Republican’s distancing themselves in both 2005 (heading up to the 2006 mid-terms) and again in 2008: Headline: “Bush's calendar empty as McCain & Republicans avoid him” from:current.com

From an historical perspective this is a time period that most voters should be able to recall – it is another nail in the coffin of the sequel “Obama II – Let’s Finish off the Economy”, when the proverbial rats start jumping off the good ship Progressive, as it sails into 2012.



Bachmann Compared to Reagan - from the Daily Beast - getting warmer

What is perhaps, the saddest part and parcel of this entire mess, had history been viewed from a realistic perspective, by the President and by his ad visors, he could have changed course, before ever investing in a stimulus! Had someone, somewhere, taught the President in a History class at either of the Universities that he attended, on the politics and policies of the Carter Administration, and the end results, a tragedy could have been averted and he would have been, perhaps, the Hope the nation longed for. In other words, had the professors (who are progressives) had not held up Carter as the ideal, rather than in truth, the disaster, those who attended college, preparing for life, from the 1970’s onward (even while the nation was “burning” the “professional left” (i.e. university professors and Progressives in general) were holding Carter in high esteem, and, daresay, shocked to the core, when Carter’s policies, both foreign and domestic were booted to the curb. Yes, unanimously, by a vast majority of the states (including Massachusetts), Ronald Ray-Guns (see: Joan Baez) was elected to the Office of the Presidency. At that time, Reagan was not considered the conventional candidate, although a popular Governor of California, the man was an “actor” and fodder for the press, which apparently, from Walter Cronkite to the New York Times, was patently ignored by the voters. Unconventional, not the norm for the Republican National Committee, rather, someone who was considered a bit of a rogue candidate, a “Cowboy” an “Actor”, a “Clown” who in truth was a smart man, who had principals, and has a proven resume when it came to governing. Sound like anyone familiar that may not have announced?




The Comparison: Sarah Palin to Ronald Reagan (and Maggie Thatcher - not pictured) image: Newsrealblog

To those who fear the future and see no end in sight, recall, that 2012 “can’t come soon enough” (Sarah Palin), and that a ship that has almost gone under (see Carter/Obama), can be towed to safety and made ship-shape again, in a few years, if the right person is at the helm. (Note: Choose your GOP candidates carefully as one of them (historically speaking) will be the next President of the United States. The fact is that Obama (historically looking at Carters’ time tables) has no time to make the correction that should have been made pre-Stimulus.


Note: Making comparisons to Ronald Reagan has become some sort of Litmus Test for Conservatives and honestly can be a tad on the ridiculous side, especially when candidates try to out-Reagan each other at Debates. That said, some are obvious. No more or no less so than the Comparison of Policy, Faith in America, the Free Market System, versus, Progressive Values in the Carter/Obama comparison.

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
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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.

2012 Election Update: Massachusetts 2012 Primary Set for March 6, 2012, Pawlenty Airs First Ad in Iowa, Teachers Union Surprisingly Endorses Obama

Romney, Bachmann and Pawlenty - will the later compete in Massachusetts? - image New York Daily


The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has set its 2012 primary date for March 6, 2012, a movethat Democrat Secretary of State William Galvin suggests will give greater influence to the State due to Mitt Romney’s run for the Office of the Presidency.

Apparently, Galvin believes that other states would be watching Massachusetts to see how Romney fares in his “home” state, thereby lending said state more clout. However, it remains to be seen how well Romney actually does in the Bay State (think Tea Party). The Most recent polling data on the Bay State comes from Public Policy Polling June 15th, with 244 likely GOP voters taking part in the poll, Romney lec the field with 49%, followed by Michelle Bachmann at 10% and Sara Palin (unannounced) at 9%. The actual primary results will depend upon the number of the 51.6% of the Bay State’s “Unenrolled” voters who turn out to vote and choose a Republican Ballot. The Commonwealth’s electoral makeup is as follows: 36.48% Democrat, 11.33% Republican, 51.6% Unenrolled, .38% Libertarian and .2% other parties. It is “understood” that the Republican Party in Massachusetts is firmly behind Romney, and unless and until another candidate decides to step foot in the Bay State (Pawlenty, although polling low in PPP at 4%, and had visited the state for a Tea Party Rally in Boston – would actually have to have boots on the ground in the Bay State to put a dent in Romney’s numbers.)

Unfortunately, more often than not, major party candidates tend to avoid the Bay State unless there is a major donor fundraiser event (usually Democrat) in Boston. The Bay State is not a “winner take all” primary state – therefore, any Candidate in competition with Romney might be well served by spending more than 20 minutes in Boston and spend some time shaking a few hands in the once great industrial cities sprinkled about the state – keeping in mind that the majority party – Unenrolleds – rule the roost in MA and decide many a primary and election. (Note to Bachman, Palin and Pawlenty – this state did vote for Reagan twice! (See Jimmy Carter).

Tim Pawlenty has aired his first television commercial in Iowa and has hired political strategist, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, to lead his team in Iowa. The campaign ad speaks to Pawlentys ability to fight the Unions by holding the line against tax increases, The quotes from race42012.com go back to a 208 article from a left blogger entitled: “How Tim Pawlenty Made his Case for VP by Wrecking the Minnesota Economy”:

Voters across the country might be interested to know that no one has been more influential than Pawlenty in reversing Minnesota’s longstanding tradition of using progressive taxes to make prudent but significant investments in our social and physical infrastructure — education, transportation, health care and the environment (emphasis mine).
Among complaints Robson makes about Pawlenty:
“A biennial budget that contained more than $2.7 billion worth of tax relief” (It was more than twice as large, per capita, as any other state tax cut in the nation.)
“The very next year …returned hundreds of millions of dollars through an income tax cut and reduced vehicle license fees”.
“Lowered property taxes”
“Rebated $700 million worth of sales taxes back to citizens”
“Pawlenty had signed a pledge not to raise taxes. As billions of dollars’ worth of state programs were slashed, most of them in health and human services, the governor stood fast on his pledge”
“To dramatize just how radical this no-taxes stance was… Pawlenty has tenaciously rebuffed any income tax increases during his six years in office”

Although the Wall Street Journal, at the same time, posted an article that indicated Governor Pawlenty liked to impose “fees”, and even walked across the aisle more than once to get things done. (i.e. Tax Hikes and fraternizing with the enemy) Anyone who lived in Massachusetts under the Romney Administration understands “fees” all too well – especial when prefaced by the word “Increased”. Additionally, those GOP Governors who are virtually surrounded by Democrats in control of a State Legislature have to walk that walk in order to get anything accomplished.

Finally, the One of the two (yes there are two) National Teachers Unions, the National Education Association, while holding their annual convention in Chicago came out with a strong endorsement of the 2012 Obama campaign yesterday. Apparently after spending a day with Joe Biden, the union had no choice but to offer an early endorsement of the President. What your children will be learning in school between now and the first Tuesday in November 2012, might have little to do with math, science or reading – instead, they will be given a course on rhetoric. However that rhetoric may be wasted on those students faced with increased debt for college (under the government takeover of student loans which was added to the Omnibus bill that also included Mandated Health Care), and/or the inability to find a job in this “economic climate, as well as an ability to vote and a glaring lack of respect for what their teachers may have to say on any given day. One can assume, that unions members will be voting for Obama in this election, however, union membership in the nation is declining and represents only 11.9% of the U.S. workforce. (Bureau of Labor Statistics) Obama also has, what has become to be known as, “the mainstream media” and their members which will, no doubt, be actively supporting his reelection.

2012 Update: Gallup – Obama Approval Dips – Again – Trump Out, Romney In – Raises 10.25 Million in Vegas - The All Too Perfect Romney

Romney works the phone banks in Vegas - He Wants the Job! Either Crazy or a Patriot - photo Politico

Gallup’s “Daily Tracking” of President Obama’s Job Approval showed a drop of 2 points to 46% on Monday. The President enjoyed a brief hike in his job approval ranking after he gave the order for Osama Bin Laden’s demise, to a high of 52%, however, once the daily grind set in for those American’s that are either out of work or burdened by high taxes, uncertainty about job futures and high prices at both the pump and the grocery store – the economy “trumped” all else. With Donald Trump’s announcement yesterday that he was out of the race for the GOP 2012 Presidential nomination; something odd happened, those who were looking for alternatives that were “not typical Washington”, (someone who spoke their mind with abandon, echoing thoughts that were shared by many and spoken by few, and appeared to have the will to want the job), suddenly found a huge hole in the media sphere – literally sucking the oxygen out of the speculators and those who were hoping for “more” than the mere promise of hope and change.

An article, by one Marc J. Rauch, editor of the Autochannel.com, entitled “With Trump out of the Running for President, Expect the Worst to Happen” sums up the desperation those working American’s feel. First, Mike Huckabee passed on the race on Sunday, demoralizing his political supporters, some of whom considered Trump at least a possible light at the end of the tunnel of – political boredom – and the disappointment and speculation by the press only furthered that – in a word, despair for lack of a candidate that truly motivates, excites, is the combination of fiscal and social conservative that, truly, does not exist. If such a candidate did exist, would they honestly want the job and or the beating by a press that, put it simply, hates (that is not too strong a word in this instance), anyone who is not a socialist progressive – no Republican or Independent leaning Republican that is even briefly taken seriously, can expect the media to embrace them, even if, for a moment, they walked on water.

Which, no matter how strong a person might appear, the weight of the press, network and print, blogs and cable, in concert against one individual is almost as intimidating as cleaning up the mess that is now our America: of course, that is the economy, a war on several fronts, porous borders, lack of quality education, and a group of stuffed shirts and skirts in DC that appear clueless. Is it really any wonder that both Huckabee and Trump got out early?

It would take an individual of unshakeable faith in the American way of life, someone who is not afraid of the media, someone who feels they have the wherewithal to both run the nation economically as well as keep it safe from all, while raising to at least a standard that was set in the 1950’s of exceptionalism, which still exists, although dampened down by all this apologizing for things that men and women who were not our founders, may have done, over 100 years ago, or not, as the case may be, this nation is still the one that people are a) either trying to destroy or b) trying to get into by any means possible.

So, who wants the job? Mitt Romney does. Romney even mentioned it yesterday saying to supporters: “'We're activating our campaign today', but his statement was somewhat lost in the furor over Trumps decision to leave the race. Further, while no one was looking, Romney went on to raise, in all places, Las Vegas, 10.2 million dollars during an eight hour tele-thon - which is no mean feat, considering the economy, and its present state of “uncertainty”.

The Massachusetts Factor and what’s wrong with Romney

Although one would think that Romney is the recycled 2008 GOP candidate that is somehow “crowned” by the national GOP to be the next GOP Presidential candidate, and has more money that Midas, is a shoe-in, think again. Money in politics means very little when it comes to the early caucus states that will either make or break a candidate, and what happened in 2008 could certainly happen again in 2012, except – perhaps it has nothing to do with the concept of Republican royalty, or for that matter, the money at all, perhaps, just perhaps, Mitt Romney is one of the few capable individuals who actually want the job – he even said so – in a reserved manner – no excitement, nothing to see here, move along, it’s just the guy everybody appears to – dislike.

Here’s what’s wrong with Mitt Romney – nothing. He’s the guy in high school or college that was the perfect geek, the guy who had perfect hair and got straight A’s and the cheerleader to boot. His hair, unlike Trumps or any of the other announced candidates so far, (Gingrich, Paul, Pawlenty for example) is perfect. He appears to be slick or arrogant to some, especially some who live in Massachusetts and that’s all due to Romney’s ability to parse words – (paraphrasing here – I did not raise taxes, I raised fees.) His plan for Massachustts residents to access health care has morphed into a mission by those who hate Romney’s hair, to get the man to apologize for Obama Care – the question is why? Romney’s vision of health care for all, granted mandated, was not the plan that the Democrat controlled Legislature in Massachustts turned it into once Romney was on the campaign trail. That’s where Romney went wrong. He trusted Democrats to actually do the right thing – in of all places – Massachusetts. Perhaps they should be asking him if he is still as naive as he was when putting that plan into place – at least there those detractors would have a valid question. Then again was it naiveté or was it his willingness to trust a “peer” in order to do what was good for those who were without? No one really knows – The Man just doesn’t get enough bad press –yet.

Read the Politico article about Mitt Romney here regarding his Vegas Fund Raiser and look for the complements. Find any? Although not as much fun as say Trump or Huckabee, rest assured that Mitt Romney will come under more scrutiny than one may feel comfortable with –and a lot of what is written will be, in a word, pure hooey. One has to believe that Romney will take it in stride, while all of he world is secretly hoping he actually comes out and says something Trump, Palin or Huckabee would say and make life interesting. The likelihood is slim in that regard.

Romney, not for nothing, has led or been at the top of every poll to date, being bested only by Huckabee and Trump (briefly), the arguments that Romney cannot win in the south or Midwest, have left the building with Trump and Huckabee – with the economy in desperate straits, the guy that looks too perfect, even with Massachusetts Care, starts to look good, because, he has a record of being able to fix things and raise money. He has actually managed something.

What about national defense? It’s hard to tell, but shortly after 9/11 a visiting Al Queda proponent was on his way to Cambridge and demanding protection – which Romney most vehemently and vocally declined to offer, which gives those of us sitting on the sidelines at least a glimpse of the fact that he will stand up for us, should the going get rough.

Again, he wants the job when it appears very few do – a major plus.

Is he truly perfect? Absolutely not – there are no perfect people, one has to admit that, but perhaps perfect appearing people who excite the populace are not what is best for the nation, not now. Perhaps it’s time to look at the guy with the perfect hair, besides, there may be more interesting characters to enter the fray – Michele Bachman for one, has been bandied about over the past day or so as perhaps running. (Media savage alert). Back to Romney for a moment, his biggest failing was his attempt to Govern Massachusetts with a Legislature that had been, was during his tenure, and still is – so left of center that it is unmanageable, for the most part corrupt (count the indicted former Speakers of the Massachusetts House), and actually get something done. He did, which was above expectations – however, if the man goes to Washington to govern, and has a Congress or Senate, or both, on the same page, perhaps, just perhaps, we’ll get what we didn’t expect: vast improvement to the economy, and a President with perfect hair.

Things we don’t know about Mitt Romney:

How are his dogs? Do they pall around with him when he’s not campaigning? (When was the last time one saw the current occupant of the White House being followed by his pup? – Dogs know people.)

Although this was written, for the most part, as a quasi-satirical piece, there is much to be said for the boring field of candidates, the guy that may be too perfect, may also be the safe bet that the American people need – money and hair aside. It is, again, at this point, as it was a month ago, too soon to tell, but one has to start taking a hard look soon as what candidates are available and do due diligence because one of the Republican candidates will, most likely, be the next President of these United States. Anyone reading this blog understands that an independent minded Conservative who loves the nation, has not always been a fan of the aforementioned 2008 and now 2012 candidate, however, being a realist, it is a fact that one needs to weigh the pros versus the cons of all candidates, and should that Perfectly boring guy be the last man standing, so be it. Maybe that candidate is exactly what this nation needs.

Those who have yet to commit or announce one way or the other: Mitch Daniels, Governor of Indiana, Sarah Palin, former Govenor of Alaska and Michelle Bachman, Congresswoman from Minnesota.

2012 GOP - Trump Surprises Wall Street Journal/NBC Latest Poll

The Wall Street Journal/NBC's latest GOP Poll shows Donald Trump within 4 points of former Massachusetts Governor and 2008 GOP Presidential candidate, Mitt Romney and tied with former Arkansas Govern er and 2008 GOP Presidential candidate, Mike Huckabee. The poll included likely GOP primary voters; with one interviewee suggesting Mr. Trump's competitiveness, despite the "jokes" about him personally, was his appeal to "regular" people.

An article posted earlier today from the International Business Times suggests that Trumps stance on business, as well as foreign policy, although appearing "risky", would make American "Respected" on the world stage, and improve the economy.

The question now is when Donald Trump will formally announce his candidacy. With both Congresswoman Michelle Bachman and former Governor Sarah Palin, Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney in the mix with Donald Trump, the network ratings for the GOP debates might reach historical proportions.

Huckabee Continues to Lead Field of GOP Potential Candidates – Gallup Release Tuesday 3-15-11

Huckabee Continues to Dominate Early Polling on GOP 2012 "potential canidates" - image: Huckabee2012.com,

Former two and a half term Governor of the State of Arkansas, 2008 Presidential Candidate and political pundit, television and radio personality and bestselling author, Mike Huckabeecontinues to lead the field of “potential” GOP Candidates in Gallup’s latest release. The field of 12 candidates included: Huckabee, Palin, Gingrich, Romney, Bachman, Paul, Santorum, Pawlenty, Barbour, Daniels, Huntsman and Johnson.

Huckabee continues to dominate polling nationwide, with the bulk of news organizations noting that although Huckabee is the strongest of contenders (who have yet to announce), there is no clear front-runner out of the pack. Of course, it is logical to expect that those answering surveys about potential field of twelve candidates may result in a lower rating for a frontrunner, than say, if that field were reduced to 6 candidates (as in the 2008 presidential primary), where in early stages, Giuliani, who had not announced, led the field, while Mike Huckabee, then a newcomer to the national stage, was a mere blip on the radar. It will be when those five or six, or 10 for that matter, who firmly commit, that a more clear picture of a front runner will emerge, and that may not take place until the later part of 2011. Most announcements regarding the formation of exploratory committees and/or intent to run are not expected until Spring/early summer (based on comments made by those who are featured in the polling data).

Missing from the polling was business mogul and television personality, Donald Trump, who was recently profiled by Conservative Website Human Events, in an article entitled: “Can Donald Trump Save America?” , which includes a lengthy interview with “The Donald” and reflections on his intent to run for the office of the President. A summary paragraph in the article notes:

But Trump’s not just a businessman. He’s an American personality. He’s a man that can bring the constituencies of Rush Limbaugh and Howard Stern together, which, as he observes, is “probably tougher than [bringing] the Republicans and the Democrats” in concert.
(Source: http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=42269#)

Of the potential candidates, based on governing or business experience, there are clear choices in the pack, the obvious, Huckabee, who, although still considered “liberal” by those on the right, has the ability to relate to a broad electorate, (Arkansas for example),this alone gives him far greater electability in general that most of the field. Palin, who also served as Govenor, and in other administrative capacities, has the same type of experience, and her extensive knowledge of the energy industry will be key in the next election. The missing man from the poll, Donald Trump also falls into that category, what he lacks in governmental experience he makes up for in business acumen. Although early in the crystal ball stages of picking the frontrunners where no announcement shave been made, look to those three to lead the pack, with Huckabee the strongest – what one needs to keep in mind, the rock star electability factor still plays in the nation – those aforementioned are in the public eye consistently and would easily make the transition to the political stage, with the exception of Trump, who, would stand on his merits of outspoken patriotism, take no prisoners with no excuses, persona and of course, his ability to govern business. It is my no means, a stretch.

As to those who feel the name “Huckabee” might be a bit too much - one only needs one piece of evidence to dispute that whole silly theory: Barack Obama

Obama’s Trip to Capitol Hill to Push Health Care Postponed Until Saturday - Coincidence?

Obama plans meeting with Pelosi's House on Saturday - image rightpundits

The AP is reporting that the President’s planned trip to Congress on Friday , to push for health care reform, has been postponed until Saturday. The President, according to the White House, had planned a trip to Walter Reed Hospital, on Friday instead. The President has yet to visit Walter Reed, almost a year into his presidency.

Co-incidence or not, on Thursday, thousands of conservatives who would prefer an alternative to the current health care reform proposed by the White House, marched on the Capitol, visiting with members of Congress to let them know exactly how they feel. The rally, which was broadcast on C-SPAN, involved key members of the Republican Congress, including Michelle Bachman of MN, and tech savvy, Rep. John Culberson of Texas. Culberson was one of the leaders of the House Revolt last August when Speaker Pelosi, during the energy debate, shut off the lights, the C-Span cameras and headed on vacation to promote her book, while the price of gas was going through the roof. House Republican’s stayed, in the dark house, getting their message across, using whatever means necessary to stand up for the people in their districts and the country in general.

The majority of the media, along with Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, continue to dismiss protestors against health care reform, however, conservatives in general, have taken a page from the liberal playbook of the past, by becoming more vocal when issues matter, a stunning change from what had been the norm for decades. In the case of this dismissal (denial) of the protest yesterday, it is worth noting that the innuendo from the press and the White House, regarding “tea party activist”, and throwing words around such as “conservative”, along with “about 10,000 tea party protestors” marched on the Capitol yesterday, (abridged and in general), are unwittingly speaking to the majority of those who do not support the current proposal.

According to recent polling, 53% of American’s oppose the current plan, and perhaps more telling, 73% who do support the plan identify themselves as liberal. Therefore, one can conclude that 27% of the liberal base no longer is on board the Pelosi express. In addition, when one includes trends in American Political Ideology, Gallop indicates that those who identify themselves as Conservative (this was as of June, 2009), were growing, to pre-2004 levels. As of June, 40% of respondents considered themselves to be conservative, with 35% moderate and a mere 21% identifying themselves as liberal.

With unemployment numbers remaining above 9%, the rate of inflation poised to move, in line with the rising cost of fuel, those numbers may have changed in the past 3 months. Additionally, 2010 will bring a zero cost of living increase to those who rely on social security benefits, as well as any government pensioners. This decision was based upon low oil prices this past summer, which caused a negative rate of inflation (of course, there are three entities that rate inflation, of the three, The BEA, the Federal Reserve and the Depart of Labor, the Dept. of Labor was used in that calculation having the lowest figure). Of note, in 2010, insurance benefits for those very same individuals, is poised to rise by 10 percent. Should pricing on food and oil, continue to rise, and individuals living in high tax states, such as Massachusetts, who’s high insurance premium (Medicare supplement plans included), hike for 2010, lays mainly on the State’s Universal Health Care program, one can see that trend towards conservatism edging higher.

Although the recent Republican (i.e. conservative) wins in two statewide races are being pooh-poohed by the White House, and the Speaker, who are more energized by low margin wins in two special election races in New York and California(Historically, Republicans do not fare well in special elections. Surely, this fact cannot be lost on the President and his Speaker, Nancy Pelosi.

That Saturday trip to the Hill, although a coincidence, given the rally, the statistics on trends and specifically the legislation on the table, may do more damage to the Democrats in 2010 than the loss of two state-wide elections. Although the media is now pointing to “southern democrats” (i.e. blue dogs) as being concerned about their jobs, it would behoove all Incumbents to pay attention to the trends. One must remember that even the most liberal state of Massachusetts, when pressed, has elected Republican Governors, and was the state that embraced Conservative Republican Ronald Reagan, not once, but twice. This following the disastrous term of one Jimmy Carter, whose approach to governing is parallel to the current occupant of the White House.