Breaking: Perry In - Bachmann Out! - Game on for Perry Heading to SC

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Rick Perry @GovernorPerry28m
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And the next leg of the marathon is the Palmetto State...Here we come South Carolina!!! Perry Headed to the Palmetto State.

This in the same time frame that Michelle Bachmann held a press conference to announce she was out of the 2012 GOP race for the nomination. (ABC News)

Game On? Insider Advantage – Last Poll Iowa 2012 – Romney-Paul-Santorum Tied – Gingrich Stable - Support Shows Uptick – Anyone’s Game

Romney, Paul, Gingrich, Santorum - any combination of wins possible - image from reddogreport.com

The headline fromthe Southern Political Report via Inside Advantage: “Iowa: Romney and Paul Neck and Neck; Santorum Surges; Gingrich Stable: Others…Gone” shows exactly how up in the air the Iowa Caucus is at this late date – in a statistical tie. This particular polling firm has called Iowa correctly in 2004 and 2008, the poll of 729 registered Republican voters taken after the Des Moines Iowa Register Poll has a margin of error of 3.5% gives the following results with a margin of error of plus/minus 3.5%: Romney 23, Paul 22, Santorum 18, Gingrich 16, Perry 10, Bachman 6, Huntsman 2, Other 1, and No Opinion 2. If this is the case, the ground game is going to come into play heavily today – giving those candidates with the most organization the edge – Santorum’s rise is, according to the firm, at the expense of Michelle Bachmann, which may be the result of Santorum’s endorsements from evangelical leaders.

What is most telling is that New Gingrich not only remains steady at the 4th position, but has gained points in this poll, given the amount of negative and misleading advertising placed on behalf of PAC’s in Iowa – the majority coming from Mitt Romney, followed by Ron Paul’s organizations. Gingrich, who had been last, in the middle, first, and then 4th has the opportunity in this particular year to capitalize on the Southern and Midwestern States, where Romney again, remains steady in the 20’s, and Paul’s rankings are dismal – Santorum will remain the wild card, along with Perry going into the South.

In Virginia, where Romney and Paul will remain the only candidates on the ballot, Paul trounced Romney in 2008 – Virginia, a Super Tuesday State, saw its AG at first attempt to change the Commonwealth’s primary rules, allowing all candidates ballot access, however, changed his mind a day later. As the states are proportioning delegates up through Super Tuesday, this will give Ron Paul an edge going forward. Should Paul upset Romney in Virginia, and the balance of the delegate heavy states put Gingrich and Santorum in the lead (as they head into the South) Romney may be out of the race by March – there is little that suggests he can, at this point, go the distance in the primary, with polling continuing to give him numbers steady in the 20’s.

The 2008 polling data from the same firm, gave Huckabee the lead, followed by Romney, Thompson and McCain with Paul coming in 5th above Giuliani with a larger margin of error at 5% (approximate), McCain who finished 4th in Iowa went on to win the nomination. The IA poll numbers 2007: Huckabee 30, Romney 24, Thompson and McCain both at 11%, and the final Iowa rankings were: Huckabee: 34.4, Romney: 25.2, McCain: 13.0, Thompson: 13.4, Paul, 9.9, and Giuliani: 3.4.

A big factor to consider in this race as in 2008, Romney remains at 23 to 25% in all polling, suggesting a repeat performance of 2008 – given the fact that Romney in 2008 not only outspent Huckabee by a wide margin but also was behind a barrage of negative advertising aimed at the former Governor of Arkansas, he could not rise above what is the Romney Benchmark.

Trying to call Iowa in 2012 is, as of this point, impossible – given the fact that there is no one candidate that has a lead outside the statistical margin of error in the top 4. For example, the final numbers could end up with Paul, Santorum, Perry, Gingrich, Romney, or Santorum, Paul, Gingrich, Perry, Romney - (Mindful of the fact that 41% of the Iowa Caucus participants are capable of changing their minds in Caucus – See article on the Des Moines Iowa Register final poll- here) The above reflects a tight race, giving credit to ground games and adding media attention now being shown to Santorum – and the possibility of Romney being pushed back, as Gingrich and Santorum combined have been seen as the “anti-Romney” to Conservatives. Should Romney remain at 22-24% he will place in the top four, however, should the Gingrich, Santorum or Perry supporters on the ground in Iowa, convince a portion of those 41% to change votes from Romney or Paul, the 24% could fall 10 points. It is a statistical nightmare. It is anyone’s guess – and tonight, the world will know the results, and the focus will be on New Hampshire.

This blog believes that Gingrich, given all the polling data will remain steady, and going forward into New Hampshire, will compare and contrast his record with that of Mitt Romney’s, specifically Romney’s time as Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, his only hands-on experience in Governing and working with Legislators. From a Bay State Perspective, Gingrich would have the edge would he use simple examples of Romney’s tax policies, while Governor, alone. Romney may blame the Democrat Legislature but it is the Governors’ office in the Commonwealth that has the final say – and a line-item veto. Should Gingers compare and contrast without going dark and negative in the Romney style, he may do much better than expected in New Hampshire, and one must not, in any way shape of form, discount Ron Paul in the Life Free or Die State.

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.

2012 GOP Update: McClatchy Marist Polling: Obama One Term, Palin, Unannounced Gains 20 Points, In Statistical Tie With Obama - Analysis

Palin in Statistical Tie with Obama - Madame President? Image NY Daily News

Although the cross-tabs are not yet available for the latest poll from McClatchy-Marist, one of the least conservative of pollsters, the chances for President Obama to be re-elected in 2012 are growing dimmer by the day. In the initial release by McClatchy Entitled: “Poll Obama Expected to Lose But Still Tops Any Republican One on One” is somewhat disingenuous when one factors in the margin of error at 5.5%. What is leading headlines yesterday and today is the following from McClatchy :

“The biggest gain came for Palin, the former Alaska governor who hasn't yet announced whether she'll jump into the fast-changing race for the 2012 Republican presidential nomination.
After trailing Obama by more than 20 percentage points in polls all year, the new national survey, taken Sept. 13-14, found her trailing the president by just 5 points, 49-44 percent. The key reason: She now leads Obama among independents, a sharp turnaround.”

Additionally this poll found that both Palin and Giuliani jump to the top tier if they are factored in the poll, with Giuliani showing the highest score against Obama. Currently, Perry, Romney and Bachmann lead with Republicans. Which begs the question – which demographic was used to calculate the overall approval among Republicans and Republican leaning independents in this poll? A Fox News Poll which was taken last month showed Palin losing in a Republican primary, and Giuliani topping all contenders, however, that poll included Democrats in the equation, the demographic which outweighed the Republican sample by a significant margin. When one took the % of Democrats out of the sample, the statistics changed dramatically, giving Palin the lead. One must wait until McClatchy Marist releases the cross tabs to truly parse this poll.

This is where the Republican’s stand in this poll against the President:
Giuliani beats Obama by 49 to 42, Romney is behind by 46 to 44, Perry behind by 50 to 41, Bachmann by 53 to 40 and Palin by 49 to 44*, which, should either Palin or Giuliani enter the race at any time between now and November of 2012, they would be in a position to start from a top tier position. What is interesting the poll also states that both Giuliani and Palin do not fare well with Republicans, similar to the Fox poll which used the same language in the release, yet again, in the cross tabs, included Democrats in the sample.

Additionally out of 1042 samples, 825 are registered voters, those two samples were combined, out of the 825 registered voters, 317 of those surveyed were Republican or Republican leaning Independents the balance, one might suggest were 508 Democrats and Democrat Leaning Independents or a 38% more Democrats and Democrat leaning Independents than Republicans’ which is hardly representative of voter registration nationwide. Moreover, if the poll is slightly skewed demographically by question, what is obvious is that among Democrats, Obama is losing significant ground, and in addition, those Democrats and Democrat Leaning Independents, along with Independents in general (where Palin leads Obama) one would suggest in a national match-up, Palin and Giuliani would be the most obvious choices to win the General.

However, lost in the polling, is the suggestion that Republican’s and those leading Independents, who happen to prefer Palin and Giuliani not enter the race, followed by both of the aforementioned either trouncing or within the margin of error, when it comes to a general election.

Polls at this point, of course, and the candidates mentioned are hardly an indicator of who might win the Republican nomination in the long run. Pundits now theorize that Republican’s will vote for the candidate they feel will have the strongest ability to beat the Incumbent. In addition, one must look at the primary ground game in three key states (which this year, may be a moot point) Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina have traditionally been the bellwether as to who will eventually win the nomination. However, (current polls aside) should Palin enter the race, and take Iowa, with Romney taking New Hampshire, it will go to South Carolina, where, either Perry or Palin could end up gaining ground, should Perry win in the Carolina’s, it would setup a Super Tuesday scenario where the candidate that is best positioned to pull ahead, and has the best grassroots organization to begin with, would be considered the front runner, and if those states are split, it would continue to the next Month and so on, until a clear leader were established.

If one looks at the 2008 presidential race, Romney was out of the race by Super Tuesday, leaving McCain in the lead, and Huckabee, holding on for several months in order to a) give the voters a chance, and b) keep the Republican brand in the “news”.

The next debate will be a Fox debate held tomorrow night, September 22nd, 2011, and it is doubtful that out of the nine candidates running, a “thinning of the herd” will take place. At most, one would think the current field (plus one or two) may hang in until well into November. The press and even those who wish that a certain not yet announced candidates who are, apparently, able to clean Obama’s clock in a national election, would do so sooner than later, can afford to wait.

From this blogs perspective, the “non-candidate” in this poll most likely to run would be Palin, whose announcement into the race would bring to bear a massive grassroots organization, that might be difficult for other candidates to amass, specifically those in the current top tier. In addition, unlike the Romney/McCain/Huckabee contest in 2008, Huckabee came out of Iowa like a freight train, and then lagged in fundraising and organization; however, it was his grassroots support that was pivotal in keep the former Arkansas Governor in the race to the bitter end. Palin, unlike Huckabee, is not shy about fundraising, which would change the dynamics of the 2012 race, especially against Mitt Romney, who does well among Independents (note: surprisingly to McClatchy Marist and most likely the Republican Establishment) so does Palin.

*Obama leads Romney by 46 to 44, and Palin by 49 to 44 in this poll: Therefore in the Romney Obama match up: 10% are undecided, while in the Palin match-up, 7% are undecided, the undecided’s are generally leaning independents. Therefore, without the crosstabs yet available, one cannot know which candidate does the best among independents in this poll. However, with a remarkable gain of 20 points in a short period of time, especially in McClatchy poll, one can suggest that the candidate yet to announce is the candidate to watch in future polling. It is fitting then, to finish with a “Palinism” (believe that was coined by the New York Times) “Polls are for strippers and Cross Country Skiers”. However, they sure make life interesting, and can be predictive, especially internal polls.

The Big Shift: Tribune Editorial Suggests Clinton Run in Obama’s Stead, Boston Globe Highlights Obama’s Cuts to Medicare, Gallup: Obama Steady at 40%

Hell About to Freeze Over - again - image from 2009 Inauguration, The Daily Beast



The “we’ve been there, done that” wake-up of the establishment press has some columns and editorials beginning to step to the right of the administration, or, more to the point, to criticize, either openly or using surrogates to do the same. With Gallup polling’s Average Daily Presidential Approval Rating, Obama is holding steady at 40 % which translates into a tough election season come 2012, and the end result, should those figures remain the same – defeat. Given the breakdown of their polling by demographics it appears that among “Whites” and “Hispanics”, Obama has lost substantial support, the pollster further points out that without the input of higher ratings from other demographics, the President’s approval would be a bit lower.

All this must not have been lost on the Editorial Board at the Chicago Tribune, where a call for the President to just quit, not campaign, stand aside and let Hillary Clinton run is the theme. The Tribune sees an opportunity to keep the Democrat “Brand” from imploding, mostly due to the low ratings of the current President, by bringing back the most Popular Democrat, one Hillary Clinton. That said, this year, may be difficult for any Democrat running for election or reelection, depending upon how one views the two special elections which recently saw defeats in Nevada, and most importantly a loss in New York City, where a seat that has been “held” by a member of Team Democrat from the 1920’s forward, went to a Tea Party Republican, by no small margin. Even former Mayor Ed Koch came out on election eve, to rally for the Republican. One had to check to see if “Hades had frozen over”. This begs the question, would Hillary Clinton risk running this year, when the brand is poisoned, and four years goes by quickly?

For perspective on Obama, like LBJ (an altogether intriguing comparison), stepping down instead of seeking office, and Clinton running – in the other direction, defer to HillBuzz.org’s Kevin DuJan’s take on why Clinton won’t run in 2012 which makes sense. Rumors of challenges to Obama from the left, are what they are, mere diversions, as the incumbent, unless faced with a strong opponent from within the party (which does not work as intended – refer to Ted Kennedy vs. James Carter) – which gives Hillary one more check on the “cons list”.

Meanwhile, the Boston Globe, paper of choice for those who live in the world of denial (i.e. Duval Patrick won reelection in a landslide (by 1 point), comes an article that almost criticizes, but not quite, the President’s plan to cut Medicare and Medicaid, mostly to physicians, and placing more of a burden on individual state and creates yet another agency:

Obama also wants to give additional authority to a new agency called the Independent Payment Advisory Board, which could force further cuts for medical providers.

.
among those cited as being against the President’s plan: AARP.

Shock and awe.

The problem with any proposals coming out of the administration is that they are neither people friendly, nor business friendly, and are framed by the left and the center, or by what the Obama Campaign feels will appeal to voters from the left and the center.
Again, refer to history, or just ring up Jimmy Carter, and ask him how that worked out. When one is viewed as an incompetent, ideologically driven incumbent, the chances that one would gain reelection are slim. Approval ratings are one thing, perception when added, is another. Those that would cry “race” have to get over it, specifically as it applies to elections. When one has competent, proven, leaders of all ethnic backgrounds, it is what it is, criticisms leveled on a person’s ability to do the job, nothing more and nothing less. In addition, the ideology, which is Progressive (i.e. Socialist), is also under condemnation, as other Progressive figures outside of the administration, i.e. the Congress, are viewed similarly. The economic policies of progressives and that Tax the Rich and grab the pitchforks, are going to be an extremely hard sell on the American general public.

How bad is it?

When Texas Governor, Rick Perry, 2012 GOP Candidate for President, can go to Manhattan, and campaign and fundraiser, within the Jewish and Latino communities, successfully, then there is certainly “Trouble in River City”.

When the New York Times, and Ralph Nadar, in the course of weeks, begin to either support or to view Palin as a true populist, one with ideas that resonate cross party, then there has been a shift of some magnitude in those who normally would neither defend, nor accurately quote said Governor Palin.

The President's latest plan to Tax the Rich, raise taxes (i.e. revenue) and bend to his base, by noting no compromise is a risk that the Campaign is taking - knowing that the President's Bill has no chance of passage, and pitting the Rich against the Poor - also did not work thirty years ago. The Romantic notion that since this type of Rhetoric worked for Lenin, in Russia, and therefore, why not in the U.S. - is - in a word - either a sign of serious desperation in reaching what is left of the base, or an administration so ideologically driven, it cannot see the forest through the trees.

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.

2012 – Trashing Rick Perry – From Conspiracy Theorists Attacks on Personal Life to Education, the reality of a Strong States Rights Candidate

Rick Perry, Governor of Texas, Sticks to his Guns (image: sodaheadblog)

Rick Perry, the Governor of Texas, and, at the moment, at or near the top of polls for the 2012 GOP field, has taken a lot of flak from the press for his positions on everything from States Rights to Education. There are those who may try to tie Perry to former President Gorge W. Bush based on geography alone, when there is little basis - other than both men are from Texas and both are designated as Republicans. It is a fact of modern media, which has a vested interest it appears, in promoting candidates of choice, rather than merely reporting unbiased facts, that parsing of a phrase, or the unwillingness or inability to research thoroughly, allows for blatant falsehoods to appear, in print, the airwaves and digital media. It is not Perry alone, as it applies to any conservative that rising in the polls, and who appears able to unseat President Obama.

A recent Gallup poll shows the President with a 38% approval rating, the lowest, to date, of his career. In addition, generic ballots pitting the President against an unnamed Republican gives a 5 point advantage to the Republican. This makes any Republican or Conservative Candidate a target.


From off the wall to Mainstream:

Politicotakes a look at what Rick Perry may or may not have said regarding Social Security as a “Ponzi Scheme”, specifically in his book, “Fed Up”. Perry’s book, the article notes, has been gone over with a fine tooth comb by both opposition research and the media (is that one in the same?) for any hint of inaccuracy. Perry is sticking to his guns, Texas Style, and unlike other GOP candidates of the past, he is giving clear and direct answers, unapologetically standing up for what he believes and what he has said. The Gist, a Perry spokesman gave an interview to the Wall Street Journal, in which is downplayed what the Governor might have said about Social Security, and how he feels about the issue now (as a Ponzi Scheme). Not to be deterred, Perry addressed critics, telling them that he has not changed his mind, and if they want a reference to read the book. (He then goes on to correct them as to what is contained versus what is reported.) Politico closes the article:

“The whole episode underscores how difficult "Fed Up!," which strongly favors states' rights and is getting picked over by reporters and opposition researchers alike, will be for Perry to explain on the trail.
Discussions of major changes to Social Security are alarming to seniors, and while there hasn't yet been public polling data on how the "Ponzi scheme" point plays in Florida, there likely will be.
For Perry, saying a version of "that's not what I said" is unlikely to do the trick.” (Politico 8/28/11 (latest update)

One might not like it when a Politician tells the truth, in pure straight Texas Talk, however, Perry makes his point, and makes it well – he also does not just say “That’s not what I said”, he specifically points to what was written in the book, or smartly, tells those naysayers, to go and buy a copy.”


From the Dallas Blog comes another angle of insanity when it comes to “opposition research”. ”Who's Behind 'Perry a la Clinton' Myth?” by Tom McGregor outlines, in detail, the ridiculous antics of someone who may or may not be playing with all 52 cards, and or, knows exactly what they are doing, vis a vis the “opposition”. a Texas based, member of the GOP, one Brandon Morrow, has been emailing whoever will listen (especially MSNBC), regarding Governor Perry and attendance at Strip Clubs, which, when confronted, with emails sent in the past by this particular person, regarding former President George Bush Sr., involved in a sex ring (seriously), the obvious crank, blocked Dallasblog’s email. However, Dollars to Donuts, MSNBC, and any nutty professor, will be spouting this as truth. After all, the person sending the emails is allegedly a Republican, so it must be true – however, as anyone with any sense understands political parties, like any other organization are made up of an entire body of people, some of which are well, less stable than others, and constantly seeking attention. Watch for this story to gain some legs, but given Perry’s obvious talent for standing up for himself, it will likely be very short-lived and confined to the Campus and MSNBC.

From My Sanantonio.com comes a different take on Perry being like former President Clinton, in a positive spin (no kidding), the article “Perry comparisons: Thompson, Clark or ... Clinton?” by Peggy Fikac reviews the comparison of late to Perry’s quick rise in the polls (see Thomas and Clark and Clinton), of the three, Clinton and Perry are compared by Ms. Fikac, comparing and contrasting campaign style and strategy, specifically when it comes to the all important south, where other GOP candidates cannot have a difficult time of it. Fickac’s article is supported by the 2008 election, and the fact that both Thompson and Huckabee played a part in knocking out one Mitt Romney, who did just fine in the northern tier states, but could not hold the south (and that is still open for debate – in a GOP contest, not a general election). It is that all important South and Midwest that brought Clinton the Presidency and it will be the same for the GOP candidate that can claim an affinity for the south and or its cousin the mid-west. '

Although, this blogger is Massachusetts born and bred, with a penchant for “Commonwealth Pride”, the reality of another “Kennedy-in GOP clothing” (or any nominee Republican coming from this particular state or points north) is limited. This due to the fact that on both fiscal and social issues, those politicians in the northeast, must, in order to gain election in the first place, compromise conservative issues to the point where, they no longer resemble conservatives – giving rise to the moniker: RHINO (Republican in name only). It is hardly fair, specifically when there are qualified candidate, however, it makes Romney’s road to the White House, a bit more difficult.

From Texas to Massachusetts, Education and Rick Perry.

So much has been written and touted about the press regarding Rick Perry as the destroyer of education (apparently shrinking the size of the State Government, cutbacks to teachers, and butting heads with the Teachers Union equals lower grades in Texas than elsewhere). Unfortunately, one can easily find that the facts are further than the “Truth” being spun by the usual oppositions (The Press and Pundits, and the Teachers Unions).
One particular source came from NBC, parent company of MSNBC, all owned by General Electric, which CEO has an “in” at the White House with the current administration (conspiracy theory – or Fact?)

NBC in connection with the national PTA (parent and teachers association), has a website that allows one to find out how their school district is faring on a national average. The project allows parent to see which schools are faring better than others, and gives a wealth of information on the nation’s public schools, as well as a scorecard. When one uses this database to find out how a school district is performing, one notes a huge difference between Massachusetts (which state allegedly has the best nations score card out of eleven states that competed for Federal Funding) and Texas? Texas schools Massachusetts in this particular “competition”.

Going from State Capital to State Capital:

Boston East Boston High School has a graduation rate of 55%, while Austin, Texas , Austin High School, has a graduation rate of 88%, or above average. Going through Massachusetts mid sized cities one finds the following: Springfield Central High School, graduation rate 78%, Holyoke High School, 64%, New Bedford: 58%, and Lowell, at 75%. Texas, on the other hand: Dallas High School is at 56%, Corpus Christie at 78%.

Therefore, one finds the same fluctuations in results from district to district and school to school, between Texas and the 10 States (9 and D.C.) that received extra Federal Funds in Race to the Top Program with similar results. Therefore, throwing money at the “problem” apparently does little to “fix it”. (Given the fact that these results are based on 2010 results, and Massachusetts latest scorecard is, in a word, dismal, in that the average student in 10th grade scores in the 50% percentile in reading: (See Article on Illinois Drops Standard Test Component, compared to Massachusetts 2010 released scores),

Therefore, one can kick that can down the proverbial spin road, as Texas Schools under Perry apparently are as good or better than those states receiving “extra funds” (i.e. stimulus!!) for education. Frankly, that plays in Perry’s favor.
Again, it is too early in the 2012 contest (although some might argue the opposite) and there are other candidates that may still enter the race (September), which would change the front runner, or give them at the very least fits (be it Romney or Perry), however, it is refreshing when candidates stand up for their records, are adult enough to admit when something that they proposed did not work, and stand firm in their beliefs when they are questioned by an obviously hostile and biased press.

Ron Paul Supporter Digs Deep on Ad Seeking Sexual “Misconduct” Dirt on Rick Perry, San Francisco Chronicle Takes the Bait!

Handful of Protesters in NH for Perry Event - Media Blows out of Proportion - image Pegasus News dot com

A Ron Paul Supporter (Ron Paul, being a Libertarian running as a Republican for President, having a following that is rather dedicated) had taken out an ad in a Texas paper asking for information from prostitutes and others of the same ilk, to come forward with information regarding any dalliances with the Governor of Texas, Rick Perry. The supporter is seen by the media (at large) as a “Republican” simply because he supports Ron Paul, who is labeled as a Republican (while truly not fitting the mold, with the exception of some economic theories), therefore, if this one so-called Republican, is seeking dirt on the Governor, then – “it must be true!” The Gate also refers to Karl Rove’s dislike of the 10 year Texas Governor, as additional “proof” that there’s problems with Rick Perry’s Character.
What is most amazing in all of this, is why certain print plus web publishers are surprised when the quarterly audits are out, and they show a loss of circulation and impressions – again. (Something like the monthly “surprise” in an increase in unemployment by the administration – there is a trend here.)

Call this blog crazy, however, given the fact that Rove is not happy with Perry is obvious – he’s part of the Texas Republican establishment, and supported Kay Bailey Hutchinson’s bid for the Governor’s office. Rove also is not enamored of Sarah Palin, who stuck her nose into Texas politics and supported Perry – who bested Kay Bailey – no one – surprisingly was shot. (Disclaimer: This is a joke based on the current state of the media ready to jump on anything as “proof”.)

How “dangerous” is Rick Perry as a candidate? (Dangerous to the DNC) – Apparently very: given the increasing number of ridiculous and negative articles, including this gem from the New York Times “For better or worse, Perry echoes Bush in many ways. Could that cost him swing voters?”
Therefore, on the one hand in San Francisco Gate Land – Perry is a possible sex fiend, began a Ron Paul Supporter is digging for dirt, and Karl Rove dislikes him, on the other hand, in New York Times Land, Perry’s a lot like Bush!

Give us all a break – and watch “The Undefeated!” – Stephen K Bannon’s gift to the nation on how the media can twist, turn and destroy a candidate, (or try to in the case of Palin), with malicious intent, not caring a whit if what they print is true, if what they broadcast is fact, as long as it is helping a “Progressive”. They apparently also do not care much about their stockholders or employees, who are disappointed financially and for the most part unemployed due to the “rising cost of printing the papers” and the decline in circulation.

Herein lays the deal. Although this blog has not committed to a candidate, as the preferred “horse” has not yet entered the race”, it is the absolute audacity of the press and their willingness to speculate the news, right or wrong, that is most annoying. Although Palin has not yet announced, at the rate the Press (both print and broadcast (blogs well, there are blogs, as is this one – for the most part opinion about facts sometimes with references sometimes without), Governor Rick Perry will make Sarah Palin appear to be the most electable Republican in the bunch – which may have been the plan all along – or not (Anyone jumping on that conspiracy theory?)

It is the fact that someone is standing up, a political newcomer to the press that does not leave their safety zone of Progressive think to actually ask questions, and report realistically, it is the fact that Perry actually stands up for his beliefs, which, apparently he is finding out does not play well with the Press. It appears that he may be undaunted. With one exception:

In a recent visit to New Hampshire Governor Perry, who, according to “The State”, was greeted by “protesters” even though he has so far, drawn the biggest crowds to the traditional Republican Primary events in that State. Those protesters, holding signs and dissatisfied with the Texan’s Reponses are one former State Democrat office holder and a few community organizers (see photos) (Note: New Hampshire is now a Red State, increasing its conservative base from fleeing Massachusetts conservatives (causing a loss of a Congressional Seat in the Bluest State.), and a “community organized group” - the state failed to mention the size of the group. However, WMUR, out of Manchester New Hampshire set a different tone on the “incident” – which is worth the read. (Due to the nature of the reporting - it is reporting!

Therefore, if Perry, in an authentic Texas manner (note to New York Times, Texas is a large state, and has many politician’s, both Democrats and Republicans, and not all Republican’s are like Bush! (playing the Bush Card in desperation), can stand up to the media (a la Palin) that will endear him to the rest of the nation (including Republican’s (who are not so moderate they might as well be Democrats, Democrats, who have not lost their minds and gone over to the “progressive” end of the party and most importantly independents who are looking for a straight shooter (from the hip, either by word or deed). The more the let looses it (and that is becoming glaringly apparent) the higher Perry’s polls will go.
The thought now that one of the Republican’s in the field cannot beat Obama in November should be a given, the nation has had it, and therefore, the job is to pick the right Republican, not necessarily the one the beltway would like to have as the nominee or the New York Times and co is comfortable with (watch for good press, it’s not a good sign), or Karl Rove Likes a lot, or the list goes on. The most authentic, non-groomed, under coached individual who has experience in government at the state level, is the most likely to be able to at least attempt to get us out of this mess – so to those voters who are on the fence this early, start digging and do your homework.

To every single one of the Republican Candidates – Visit Massachusetts!! Do not abandon us for the sake of the GOP – if you have Tea Party leanings, there are Tea Party’s across the state (See Scott Brown vs. Coakley) – it is not a “Winner Take All State”, and if anyone of you would like to stick it to another Republican candidate, this would be the place to campaign – it’s an hour and a half from New Hampshire to the Middle of Massachusetts and the Western Part of the state – Note to Guvnor Perry – Western Massachusetts residents have often wished to secede from the Commonwealth. You might find a stop in Worcester or for that matter the Springfield area, would contain supporters, in the form of Republicans, Tea Party, Green Party, Unenrolleds (which are the majority of vote share in the State) and yes, Democrats.

Rick Perry - Media Goes Into Overdrive – MSNBC Hosts Embarrass Themselves - Stewart – Jon Stewart – Skewers Media!

Maddow, Shultz and Matthews - One's Fictional "News" Source - image mediaite.com

From: Mediaite.com What’s happened to Jon Stewart? Stewart, a comedienne political pundit, apparently goes to the dark side, as MSNBC, in its usual ridiculous partisan style, makes claims regarding Conservatives that are simply over the top – In the video from Mediaite.com shown below, Stewart shows some commons sense with a bit of humor. Stewarts ratings, have taken late night’s 18-49 year demographic from NBC’s Jay Leno, and with this new twist, and the obvious angst against the media and current economic and political situation, is watched by more in that same Demographic than the target of the clip below – MSNBC.

Rick Perry, upon his entrance to the national stage, immediately shot past Michelle Bachmann and Mitt Romney in the polls, which led to:

”Klein: Is Perry Too European to Be U.S. President?”(Bloomberg)

”Perry can unify some parts of GOP, but all of it?”>(Kansas City Star)

Perry Draws Criticism for Noted Texas Talk(Your News Now Austin)

”Just Because Perry’s Undefeated Doesn’t Mean He’s a Good Campaigner”(From NPR)

”Perry Has Texas in Shambles(From Eastern Iowa Gazette)

The above from one Google News Alert! Considering Rick Perry is averaging 100 plus “Google News Alerts” per day (outpacing: Michelle Bachmann, Sarah Palin, Mitt Romney, Ron Paul, Newt Gingrich), and the majority is similar to the above – Perry must be thanking God that he’s not a Conservative Woman!! (Or for that matter, any woman who attempts to run for President be they Conservative or Democrat (See Hillary Clinton).

One person who is most likely grateful for the lack of Media angst (although it still exists) would be Sarah Palin, as her bus tour headed back to Alaska for the first day of school (her youngest daughter did accompany the family on this trip), the media was still wondering why?!! Why the “abrupt” decision to halt an Iowa Bus Tour?!!! Perhaps it was the fact that the road was being hogged by Greyhound One, and its caravan of SUV’s? Regardless, for now, Perry is taking the heat off of Palin, and the fact that the media has gone so overboard in such a short period of time, leaves one wondering if Perry’s candidacy was not without some design – When Palin makes her announcement in September, the media will, perhaps be worn out by the Texan, and have little left to skewer Palin (although that won’t happen in the real world).

In reality, the GOP field has a lot to offer the nation, which is why, with each entrant onto the national stage, the media seeks to find someone more suitable, knowing full well that no GOP candidate would suffice, unless Barack Obama quickly changed parties in a last ditch effort to gain reelection.

Moreover, this is not to say that each candidate should not be fully vetted by the public, however, this is made increasingly difficult, as the press is not grounded in reality, rather in ideology - to the point where there is a growing lack of trust in media in general. This obviously does no service to the nation, regardless of partisan politics, the public will vote, and it is increasingly probable that vote would be cast for a Republican. It would be hopped that, in some Utopian world, the media would take a fair and hard look at each candidate comparatively, including Candidate Obama, in order to give the country a fair shot at recovery. That is, if anyone is still listening.

Watch the video; it is both funny and to the point.

GOP 2012 Update: Perry enters Race Takes Lead in Polls, Criticisms Heat up on Perry’s form of Dress, Diction and Straight Texas Talk

For all the brouhaha from MSNBC over Perry's Hat, one finds few photos, if any of Rick Perry near a hat! (unless being worn by someone behind him - that said, he would at the very least appear authentic in a cowboy hat - image mtv.com.com



Texas Governor, Rick Perry, entered the GOP race for the Presidential nomination this past weekend, and is now leading the field by 10 points in a new Rasmussen poll, Rasmussen poll. In addition, the critique on Perry from the media has been ramped up a bit:
From Chris “My legs are tingling for Obama” Matthews comes this gem:

"He looks like a clown," Matthews said. "He dresses very fancy. There's something about the way that he puts himself together that doesn't look authentic. He looks like, I don't know, a wax figure pretending to be governor. There's something about him that doesn't add up to me. Maybe it's this Texas B.S., this boots and tuxedo thing they do down there. Why does it work? Outside of Texas it doesn't travel very well."

Apparently, Chris Matthews might think Obama is the "height of fashion" in this attempt at fitting in - while visiting Texas - of course, not terribly authentic, now is he? image:rickperryme.com




Apparently Matthews has never travelled to Texas, or for that matter, out of the studio – it is Texas, Big Texas, Big Hats, Big Boots – Matthew should at least try Nashville first, where they do wear cowboy boots, and there’s country music and all – to at least dim the culture shock of leaving the studio prior to going onto Texas.

Of course, not to be outdone, the AP now has a charming way of insinuating that those that live outside of the bubble that is the east coast elite (and those that consider themselves elite elsewhere – headlines ”Perry's colorful tongue takes the national stage”. Apparently, authentic local colloquialisms do not belong in politics – to whit – you sound funny, you talk funny, you have “Perryisms”, why, even the President is being magnanimous.

Obama said Tuesday he was inclined to cut the governor "some slack" since it was so early in his run. The president was asked on CNN about Perry's suggestion that military members would respect the Texan more than him because Perry served in the military and he didn't.
"I think that everybody who runs for president, it probably takes them a little bit of time before they start realizing that this isn't like running for governor or running for Senate or running for Congress," Obama said. "You've got to be a little more careful about what you say." AP Source


This from a man who held one term as a community organizer, one term in the Illinois Legislature and half a term in the U.S. Senate – seriously – The President uses “Chicago Gang” colloquialisms when on the stump, what scares the U.S. Public more? A straight talking and shooting (see coyote/dog) Texan or a smooth talking hipsters that will bring a gun to a knife fight?

Not to be outdone by the President, the RNC inner circle is in a tizzy:

"Inappropriate and unpresidential," tweeted Tony Fratto, a Republican who worked at the Treasury Department and in the White House under President George W. Bush.
That was his quick verdict after Perry said at a campaign appearance Monday in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, that Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke would be committing a "treasonous" act if he decided to "print more money to boost the economy." Perry said such action by the Fed would amount to a political maneuver aimed at helping President Barack Obama win re-election.
(What Perry Said:)
"If this guy prints more money between now and the election, I don't know what y'all would do to him in Iowa, but we would treat him pretty ugly down in Texas," Perry said, responding to a question from the audience.AP Source

This refers to the print of money by the Feds, a bad plan in some economists as well as a growing percentage of the American Public, who votes, and has a say in all of this (witness the 2010 election where historic gains were made in the Congress by “Republicans” of Tea Party Philosophy – many an incumbent Republican and Democrat were replaced by those rabble rousers. To which many in the nation were quite pleased. The other note to those who are clueless (Press, RNC, DNC) "Treat Pretty Ugly"in Texas is not a threat, it's a fact, it's like being shunned, or laughed at, or basically voted out of office, or confronted with strong verbal scoldings) Where's the disconnect? Look to the East!!

Therefore, Rick Perry stands up, and doesn’t back down, he’s not from Massachusetts, or New York or Washington, he’s from Texas. He speaks like a Texan, he dresses like a Texan, and he loves this nation like a Texan.

How long will it take the Photoshop maniacs over at Newsweek to slam Perry on a cover in looking like a Texan? (But with their usual creative twist) See other’s who have scared the left and the mainstream media and the Republican hierarchy: Palin and Bachmann come immediately to mind.

What’s wrong with Rick Perry – He’s authentic – that’s cause for concern in a political landscape where authentic is not the norm – illusion is all that counts, and business as usual, should stay that way – Not this time: Perry, Palin, Bachmann are not the usual suspects, (Although Palin has yet to announce her “intentions” – she has the time of Ronald Reagan on her side). The national debate should be a focus on who is most qualified to lead the nation. It is about leadership and frankly, if a tough talking, gun tooting Texan, a former Governor of the State of Alaska, that upended the Republican Party, the Democrats and Big Oil, in favor of her States Constitution, or a Tax Attorney, Congresswoman from Minnesota, who had stood firm in her conviction not to raise the debt ceiling, are on the ticket for the GOP, one might be surprised at how much the resonate with the individual – not Washington, or Debbie Wasserman Shultz harping on about whatever, on the local Sunday Talk Shows.

Fact of the matter is, one of those aforementioned will be the next President; none of them are out of the question, it is that the American voting public has had it with “the usual” and are looking for leadership in the form of someone who embodies the American Spirit of can do, must do, and must do it on your own, especially when that candidate has done exactly that.

Of course, this is one opinion, but when the President is holding steady at 39%, taking a bus tour in a glorified and armored greyhound bus into Iowa to tell the folks that he’ll have plan in September to fix the economy, it comes off more than a little disingenuous and somewhat insulting to the public who has heard the same line time and again. I addition, he’s lost his swagger, his sense of humor and appears to know he’s in over his head, with no way out, but for the gift of a general election – and that Tea Party that is much maligned and feared by the media, the elite and those sitting at the RNC headquarters in Washington, will be the ones to help make it happen. Those darn terrorist mothers, fathers, grandfathers, grandmothers, teens, working men and women who pay too much in taxes (combined federal and state) and support those yahoos in office (along with the fifty percent of the nation that does not pay taxes), those who prefer to follow the constitution, democrats, republicans and independents all, and they prefer that their politicians are straight talking, shoot from the hip, men and women. The hue and cry about evangelicals, tea party support, and well, just about anything the left thinks will scare the average Joe and Jane from the morning news to the eleven o’clock even news (running snippets on national news), with the catchphrases: Tea Party Candidate, Evangelical Right Wing Christian (emphasis on Christian), are only doing those candidates a favor. Those just happen to be the qualities that the American Public is seeking now, after having tried Carter II (or as some pundits who had worked in the Carter administration have noted – their worst nightmare since Carter (Pat Caddell) (paraphrased).

Why The GOP Presidential Field Is Insufficient and There Simply is No Candidate that Will Work for the American People.

Perry and Bachmann - Fear from the Left - Translates into "Ridiculous Press" - image Newsmax

With Texas Governor, Rick Perry’s entrance into the political arena of Presidential politics, the resounding theme from the media in general is one of anticipation, as in, what else you got? The problem is, that regardless of who runs for office on the GOP ticket, be they a moderate Republican, a staunch fiscal conservative or a candidate that supports both fiscal and social conservative issues, a candidate that supports both fiscal and social issues, and is also Christian, and lastly, a candidate that would combine all of the above, none of them, to the eye of the media, would be sufficient to run this nation.
The problem with the GOP or the Tea Party for that matter, is that no matter who is “leading” or a “leader” (a strong personality that has the ability to make sound statements that resonate with those that share the same ideology), is, simply, they are not Progressive Democrats or outright Socialists. Anyone expressing values, be they fiscal or moral, is anathema to those who would see the nation return to a Constitutional form of Government. Therefore, the media will never be honest, or positive about any one of the GOP candidates. In this specific cycle, the reason is clear, crystal clear.

During the two years leading up to the 2008 election (and previously) George Bush was abused by the press, regardless of whether the man was right or wrong, there as a no holds barred attack, and this attack went on day after day, in print and in airwaves, with the premise that “all Republicans” were George Bush. The result, in 2006 Congress, with Nancy Pelosi, (D-CA8), a Progressive Democrat, at the helm, Bush had little he would be able to do, and the nation was run, constitutional, with the power vested, not in the President, but in the Congress and Senate. With the election of 2008, it was a similar game plan, denounce every candidate as fringe, and promote only the most Progressive Candidate – and it worked. We now have Barack Obama at the helm – a man who’s obviously tried his best, however, there have been too many factors which have led to a downward spiral in his popularity, the economy and his handling of the same, being on the top of the list. He’s lost his mojo with the public, but he’s still the champion of the media, and anyone who might apply for his job, is the enemy.

The problem with the aforementioned is: no one is listening anymore, to the right or the left of the media discourse, the appearance of bias is so great, that Joe Citizen is no longer relying on the “news” to form an opinion. This is approximately what happened to Jimmy Carter, when one is an abject failure, and the media continues to be the cheerleader, eventually the people will get tired and hire someone else, no matter what may be said of the individual (clown, cowboy, dangerous, lacking intelligence.)

Ignoring history is one of the key elements of the mistake made on a daily basis – and the rank partisanship of the media is so apparent, that it is no wonder that there is no one Republican that is in the current field that appeals to “Republican voters”.
The reality is that the GOP contest is one that is not only interesting, it is becoming more so with the entry into the race of Governor Rick Perry of Texas, as well as the potential for Palin to enter in September. With Independents, Democrats disenfranchised with the Progressive road to Economic demise, and a general sense that Mickey Mouse could do a better job; the Republican Field looks mighty interesting.

Those reading the news regularly, (or more to the point, heading to the web, reading the news, doing their own fact checking, are distraught over the inability of the administration to see the forest through the trees when it comes to kick starting the economy – there is historical evidence in place that proves there are policies that work, and those that fail – yet, they continue to follow paths that are known to fail, and continue to come up with new ideas, that sound very much like the rhetoric of the 1960’s. With street gangs, and “flash mobs” robbing stores, and causing riots, from Philadelphia to Chicago, and into the Heartland, with inflation on food and essentials rising and the paychecks going now where fast, and with a leader at the helm, that appears to be either clueless or incapable of making a sound decision, they are looking carefully at the GOP field, and making choices – one can predict with a certainty, that the GOP primary process in 2012 will draw a great deal of attention, from all voters, including the Independents, the Democrats and the Republicans who make up the much maligned Tea Party, or not. This will follow into the general election.

What’s wrong with the GOP Candidates now? According to the media, everything:
From the Daily Beast (the online version of Newsweek which is print only) comes the article: “Dominionism Michele Bachmann and Rick Perry’s Dangerous Religious Bond. This piece insists that both candidates are connected to a cult that seeks Christian domination. The surreal idea that both candidates are connected by this type of common bond, smacks of the desperation of the media, and almost parrots MSNBC’s Rachel “conspiracy theory” Maddow.

In a nation that is disenfranchised with the economy, the fact that two candidates (or all candidates) are religious is not a deterrent, rather shows stability – to the average voter. From the left point of view, Christian’s are dangerous, because?

If that aspect doesn’t’ work, let’s look at dubious fundraising, no matter how deep one has to dig to get something dubious on a candidate: Rick Perry, Politico has uncovered may count on donors who have rather deep pockets, and he may have a donor who is also a lobbyist or may receive money from a PAC! Good Grief, that man is both a Christian and is raising funds to run for President!

On the flip side, the only mention of Barack Obama’s ability to challenge a candidate came from Yahoo news: Obama’s Bus Catches Buzz:a comparison of campaign buses, Obama’s (which looks like a hearse, and Palin’s (complete with American Themes). The opening statement (paraphrased) Obama’s bus is better than Palin’s bus. Palin has yet to announce her candidacy but the media is not taking any chances.

Palin’s Bus Tour, which one can read into that road trip, the road to the White House 2012, comes under the scrutiny of Politico Sarah Palin tour comes to abrupt halt, as if Palin is undecided as to what to do next – except head back to Alaska so her younger daughter who had accompanied the family on the bus tour of American Historical sites, (and yes political arena’s), could begin the school year. Abrupt end?

Herein lays the problem, in the face of one of the worst financial crisis, as well as growing social unrest and the potential for UK Type Mob riots (refer to Philadelphia, Chicago, etc. or just Google Philadelphia Youth Gangs, the Milwaukee State Fair attacks, etc.), individuals are looking for strong leaders, with fiscal conservatism as the primary key, and an ability to have some moral authority (i.e. a faith in the Constitution as well as a religion), and is not afraid to stand up and be – themselves. It is refreshing that what the field now contains (so far) one woman who has more chutzpah than twenty men, and is fearless in the face of scorn and criticism from the left or the right. (Bachmann), one gun toting, Texan of humble birth, who is, in reality, what the American Dream is about, telling the public, you too should have opportunities, your children should have opportunity, and (paraphrasing again) “I’m going to pray for that, and then deal with the fiscal crisis – There are jobs in Texas, private sector jobs! Perry, one can well imagine, won’t cozy up to the media either, or be well treated (that’s a given) by the media, but, both candidates are being looked at closely as potential replacements for the current “non-leader.

Should Palin enter the race – or when Palin enters the race, there will be three that have been maligned, tested and are standing firm in the face of the onslaught from blogs, to crazed Progressives, who cannot get past the “tax the rich”, dogma of Obama (who should take a hard look now, at London and see what that led to (he apparently has not been briefed on our own grab and stead from the “rich” flash mobs, who break into stores, attack innocent shoppers, and basically take what they want, because someone may be “richer” than they are.

Therefore, in reality, what is wrong with the current crop of GOP candidates, is that they are – right.

Not right-wing, but just plain right, about the state of the nations economics, the U.S. standing in the eyes of the world, and the fact that America is an exceptional nation, with boundless opportunity under a free market system with fair taxes.
This does not sit well with the 20% of the nation’s Progressives.

Tough

Therefore, as these individuals who have taken their time, their treasure, and their families on the road to the GOP nomination, be they Tea Party or GOP Regular (think Mitt), with the outcome being that one will challenge an already neutered incumbent, watch for the media to attack with a vengeance, regardless of fact, or fact checking that is correct. Pay strict attention to those men and women who are in competition for a job that clearly, no one should want, unless that person is so dedicated to this nation, and believes that the United States is worth fighting for, that they are willing to take abuse 24/7 for those of us who are not as courageous. It is that one of these people will be the next President.
Recommended: The Undefeated: which will be available in September on DVD – although focused on Palin’s political rise through Alaskan Politics to the National stage, one must understand that this film not only exonerates Palin, but more to the point, shows the press and it’s tenacious resolve to destroy anyone whom they see as the enemy – It was made for Palin, yes, but it applies to every candidate, from the Tea Party member who is running for Congressional office, or the Senate, to the Presidency – watch your media carefully, both from the right and from the left, and form one’s own opinion. It is “hard work” as one Democrat this blog holds dear once announced, when told how to research a candidate and their issues, to see where they stood, and how well their ideas match their own, and then decide whom to choose – that it was hard work. Yes, it is hard work, but it is well worth the time and the trouble.

One more thing: Run Sarah Run!

Obama Approval Below 40% - Heads to the Heartland – GOP’s Perry, Bachmann on the Move – GOP Candidates Don’t Forsake Massachusetts!!

Perry and Bachamnn - image Newsmax


From The Los Angeles Times, President Obama’s approval ratings have gone to a new low, according to Gallup Polling, at 39% approval, an approval rating somewhat reminiscent of the ratings Carter enjoyed as he began to campaign for his reelection in late 1979. Suddenly, Obama will head to the Heartland in a three state tour, the message based on economics, and the end result of the trip touted as not ‘political’ by the White House. (LA Times). That said, last evenings CBS 11 pm local broadcast of the national news, indicated that the trip was indeed political, given the attention paid to the GOP candidates in Iowa and elsewhere this weekend, one of which will ultimately force him into early presidential retirement. The trip is, according to UPI, funded by the taxpayers, and the President will speak in small venues, with the largest hamlet, with a population of 8,000. Immediacy following this exhausting three day schedule, Obama will be heading towards Martha’s Vineyard for a vacation with his family. Last year the most popular t-shirt on the Vineyard was “Miss Me Yet? With George Bush as the focus, this year, there appears to be no new designs on this island playground of the rich and famous – perhaps it’s the economy?

In contrast, both GOP Newcomer, Governor Rick Perry of Texas, and Michelle Bachmann, Congresswoman and small business owner, were at the same event in Iowa where the tone was polite to one another and no-hold-barred regarding the polities of the Obama administration. Bachmann, coming off her win at the Aims Iowa Straw Poll, shared the stage with Govenor Perry, who announced his intent to run, prior to the start of the polling. He managed to edge out the Wall Street Journal’s front runner, Mitt Romney, and with Bachmann’s win, Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty decided to call it quits.

It is interesting that the newscasts from all major networks after the entrance of Perry and the win of Bachmann in the Straw Poll, reference them as “Tea Party”, in accord with Democrat talking head, Debbie Schultz, who weighed in with the fact that all candidates in the GOP were attempting to be like the Tea-Party, and that they were like “Lego’s” (a popular child’s toy). Shultz has her work cut out for her, as the head of the DNC, turning the Tea Party into a villain may be the wrong strategy, but running on Obama’s record, being out of the question at this point, Shultz has little left. One has to wonder, just what did this Florida Congressional Representative do that got her this particular position? Understandably – being the Head Cheerleader for a team going down to the finals in flames is not the most desirable position to hold. It does beg that question.

Therefore, a look at what’s on Press for newcomer, Rick Perry (readers are most aware of what is being said about Michelle Bachmann, a press that despises conservative women more than anything else given the fact that NOW felt compelled to call out Newsweek, on their coverage of Bachmann as being Sexist!) is in order:

From ABC News blog, the note that Rick Perry’s wife told him to enter the race, and do his duty to the country, apparently given the tone of the speech, at the Red State conference, (shown below for reference), the fact that it was a speech that, although red meat for conservatives, was resounding with Independents as well as New York Democrats, and that leaves them little to say about Perry in the race. Next up: Perry’s and Bachmann’s evangelical base – (wait; there are a few hundred stories on that racing to print). There is nothing more frightening to hard core Progressives that the “religious right”, of course, the “Tea Party” is a strong second.

In New Hampshire, Governor Perry appeared to do quite well for his first foray into the granite state (with exception of national media report, therefore one should look to the New Hampshire Union Leader for what most likely occurred: Perry appeared to come across quite well on this, his first excursion into New Hampshire More than a few Massachusetts residents are waiting for his next trip to the Granite State in order to directly volunteer.

No Coincidence, to this point of view Sarah Palin, who will most likely announce her GOP (or Tea Party?) run for the Presidency, at a Tea Party even in Iowa, took a weekend road trip to the following states, by bus, (look for the similarities here), first to Iowa, then to Illinois, and could she possibly be headed to Minnesota? Is Obama stalking Sarah Palin? Considering the ridiculous claims from the left (including the White House and talking head for the DNA, Muppet Wasserman) it is not such an outrageous assumption.

Currently the Wall Street Journal online poll asks: To you think Palin should run (paraphrasing), and the answer, so far is “yes”, by a 51.5 to 48.5. . One has to understand this is the “Mitt Romney” paper of choice, however, as it is now, Palin would bring much to the conversation on the national stage, and she adds one more “Tea Party” “Lego Candidate” to Debbie Wasserman Shultz’s new battle cry. (Lest she be forced to contrast one of these candidates with the Presidents performance).

As first a feminist and a conservative feminist, there would be nothing more exciting that to see two qualified and outstanding women, compete for the GOP Nomination, which would be an historical first, and incidentally will also give fits to Traditional News Outlets as well as Democrats and Republican’s in Washington – what more could anyone ask for?

Note: Below is Rick Perry’s Speech at Red State, worth a listen. Secondly, the “Undefeated” video goes on sale and pay-per-view in December, after viewing the film in a Theater in Plainville CT, one understands it supports two objectives: one, that Sarah Palin, a viable Candidate can and should be a successful candidate in 2012, and 2) do not trust the media when it goes after any candidate running against Obama. Although not implicit in the script or the movie language, with Palin as the focus, every GOP candidate, or Tea Party Candidate, or anyone running against a Progressive Democrat, would be best served to watch this film.

Final Note to all GOP or Tea Party Candidates: Do not, repeat, do not, for once, and leave the Commonwealth of Massachusetts off your schedule. Keep in mind that in 1980, the State of Massachusetts voted for Reagan, and is at the point, where the interest is high. In addition, (check for updates with the Mass GOP), the state is not a winner take all; a Candidate needs only 15% to put them on the ballot. Of course, the thought that there may only be 12% registered Republican’s sounds as if it may be a waste of time, however, consider that has a fairly large Tea Party presence. Suggest visiting (on the way to New Hampshire), Western Massachusetts/Worcester County and the Boston Area, there are volunteers enough for every candidate; the investment should be minimal (unless one wants to really stick it to Axelrod’s other favorite candidate, the Governor Deval Patrick. Several Birds, one stone.


Rick Perry’s Speech at Red State:

GOP 2012 - Look to Texas For Rick Perry News – Texas Pride Belies National Press - Perry Expected to Announce GOP Bid Today – Poll Obama Loses NY

Rick Perry, 10 Year Texas Governor, Dog Lover, Job Creator, Private Sector, Government Reducer - image Dallas Morning News

As Texas Governor, Rick Perry is expected to make a formal announcement of his candidacy for the GOP Presidential Nomination in 2012 today, the media, both local Texas and National, appear to vary in each assessment of the 10 year Governor. A review of a few articles, of the many now available, both opinions from the “mainstream media”, as well as news from local community newspapers, one finds a slight discrepancy on how Perry is viewed. In all articles, criticism is from the “professional left”, by which one can categorize as College Professors, journalist, and those posters commenting on articles that are avowed Progressives. Therefore, a short comparison is in order:

From: KTXS, Texas: “As Perry Prepares For Presidential Run, His Big Country Roots Remain In Paint Creek” , an article that gives an overall perspective of the young Rick Perry and how he has failed to irritate his neighbors over this lifetime.

From: The Corpus Christi Caller Times: “Love him or hate him, Rick Perry's track record shows he's tough to beat”, an article that includes the obligatory “local professors” assessment, however, it paints a picture of the type of relentless campaigns the Governor has undertaken, and won.

Contrast, that with the national CBS and CNN Articles on Perry’s record (fiscal) during his 10 year term:

From CBS Evening News: “How Rick Perry created the "Texas Miracle", speaks to the fact that Texas has incredible job growth in the private sector, however, the Governor has cut state positions! The problem, Rick Perry reduced the size of Government: the obligatory Teacher, who received a pink slip – she’s taking it personally. (However, teacher’s contracts are not on the state level, rather the local level, and although local government is subsidized by the state, one must merely look at the nation’s educational scorecard to understand that having more teachers does not necessarily translate into a better education. (Search blog for articles on Teachers Unions, Test Scores and the National Report card for full statistics.)

From CNN Money: Rick Perry's Texas jobs boom: The whole story” follows approximately the same “theme” as the CBS article, complete with “teachers”, however, adds the new twist, that yes, Perry has increased private sector jobs, he has lured corporations into Texas with tax breaks, and he has lured workers in the same manner, which apparently is a problem, now that those unemployed from across the nation head to Texas, the article questions: can Perry keep up with job growth?!

Seriously, taking everything into context, and noting that most of the articles written are about Perry’s accomplishments on the one hand (local) and his potential for failure, specifically for government employees on the other hand, he sounds as if he has a handle on the way things should be done on a Federal Level, based on the Constitution, with the States carrying individual burdens, and the reduced Federal Government in charge of very little. (There were other subjects, more than a few Right-Wing Religious jabs thrown in for good measure – and one article (which one can assume there are more of the same – touting his average grades in College). (Those average grades in college, at least Perry has released them, or the individual who was not arrested for obtaining them (unlike those that tried to obtain the current occupant of the White House grades), tell us that Perry is not one of the “elite” – a plus in most voters minds).

To recap: Perry was able to maintain the respect of his neighbors, go onto college, win every election by campaigning hard, and while Governor of Texas, grew jobs, cut the size of the government and put people to work so much so that Texas is attracting people from other states (who lost congressional seats due to people fleeing the State – see Massachusetts).

Although a few articles does not research make, especially about how Texan’s view their Governor, a pending trip to Dallas at month’s end, will allow for a small amount of polling, on which this blog will report, both negative and positive, from people that work and live in Texas.

Just a side note: vis a vis, the Carteresque Presidency of Barack Obama:

New York State voters disapprove 49 - 45 percent of the job President Obama is doing, a huge drop from his 57 - 38 percent approval June 29 and the first time the president ever has had a negative score in New York, according to a Quinnipiac University poll released today.

Democrats approve 75 - 19 percent, down from 82 - 12 percent in June. Disapproval is 86 - 10 percent among Republicans, compared to a 74 - 23 percent disapproval in June, and 58 - 36 percent among independent voters, compared to a slightly positive 49 - 45 percent in June, the independent Quinnipiac (KWIN-uh-pe-ack) University poll finds.

Included in the article, and not surprisingly, as a result, Democrats congressional districts are also polling lower, which is looking more like an opportunity for Fiscal Conservatives to pick up a few extra seats in the House, and one cannot discount the Senate races, most of which must be defended by Democrat incumbents. This sets up a likely scenario where, one again, the country is faced with one-party rule, however, in this instance, the one party has two factions that are fiscally conservative, the Republican and the Tea Party running as Republican.

Pay Careful Attention to Rick Perry, Governor of Texas – Texas, the “Religious Right” and Influence over Presidential Politics

Palin Endorsement of Governor Rick Perry in 2010, a potential "merger" - image LA Times

Governor Rick Perry of Texas has, in recent weeks, become the most talked about GOP potential Presidential Candidate. He has been given that moniker for several reasons: he's a fiscal conservative who has run one of the largest states in the Union with fiscal sanity; they are working in Texas. In addition he's an avowed evangelical, causing a bit of a stir in liberal circles (the press), and it is fairly certain according to those same sources that he will announce his candidacy in a few short weeks. The brouhaha is his Christianity - refer to the Washington Post quotes below - and the fact that he has all but been given the Presidency prior to even entering the national spotlight.

From 10 a.m to 5 p.m., attendees are expected to pray, abstain from eating and listen to a series of speakers at Reliant Stadium. Organizers said Friday that Perry will address the crowd, as will major Christian conservative figures such as Richard Land of the Southern Baptist Convention, Tony Perkins of the Family Research Council and James Dobson of Focus on the Family.

Back in April of 2008, this blogs Headline read: a Republican President in 2008 against all odds” based on the following premise:
Evangelical leaders such as James Dobson of Focus on the Family were refusing to back any Republican running for the office, to the point where, they were actually “hoping” for (a Democrat) Obama to be the next president.

The reasoning was stunning, simple, and beautifully executed – elect someone like (Hillary) Obama, things would get so bad that the nation would overall reject not only that man, but anyone who was remotely like him. It was an interview with Sean Hannity of Fox News – Hannity was begging, cajoling and basically close to tears, as he, better than anyone behind a news desk, fully understands the power of over twenty million voting evangelicals and what they can do to an election. The video is below: These individuals met in Colorado and made those decisions, they were leaders of the various churches.

Watch here:



Meeting with Christian Leaders is, in and of itself, nothing new – both Democrats and Republicans tout faith as part of their personal “identity politics”, from Barack Obama’s Christian Roots, Richard Nixon’s Mormon roots, and John F. Kennedy’s Catholic Roots; the bigger the voting bloc, the better. It is why Congressional Leaders such as Nancy Pelosi (D-CA8) and Senator John Kerry are often seen entering churches (Catholics) with news crews in tow, to insure the “Catholic Vote”. (Which, the majority of Catholics, tend to vote Democrat regardless – with some exceptions in national elections?

However, the “Religious Right” and Rick Perry – is summed up quite nicely in a TIME piece (with obvious left leaning, “run it’s a Christian” adjectives) : ”Behind the Scene Christian Right Leaders Rally Behind Rick Perry read it, the date: July 5th, 2011.

However, Perry is not the first to meet these influential Church Leaders: from the Examiner: October 10, 2010 “Sarah Palin Meets with 50 National Conservative Leaders….”

Among the conservatives in attendance, president of Americans for Tax Reform Grover Norquist and Evangelical Christian activist Ralph Reed.

The assumption continues that Palin is running for President (being a tad more moderate than Perry, and well, this blog’s Title gives reason for obvious bias), however, if Perry has the nod from the so-called Religious Right, this early in the game, then it is a given that he will be the nominee, regardless of who the Beltway Republicans (see Mitt Romney) think will be the nominee.

Although at this moment all is speculation, but, within the coming weeks, as Perry announces, watch for specific endorsements from those very same “beltway Republicans” that would, in effect seal that deal.

At this point, it is all speculation, but what this nation needs at this point is leadership that will inspire, not frighten, and leadership that has experience in running a microcosm of the Federal Government, regardless is that State is Rhode Island! Therefore we welcome the Governor of Texas to the debate table, and it is hoped that Governor Palin will join her Texans counterpart - it would bring the best of what the GOP can offer to the debate arena.

RE: Rick Perry, from this perspective, one can appreciate the fact that he carries a firearm, shoots coyotes and protects his dog. On the other hand, one would like an explanation prior to offering even minimal support, on Rick Perry’s decision as Governor to mandate that all female teens be inoculated with the controversial Gardasil Vaccine: From Real Clear Politics:

In January 2007, Gardasil was put on the "recommended" immunization schedule issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control. Merck immediately mounted a massive lobbying effort of state legislatures around the country to get Gardasil added to their respective lists of state-mandated vaccines.
But in Texas, Gov. Perry chose to bypass the legislature and on Feb. 2, 2007, he issued an executive order making Texas the first state in the country requiring all sixth-grade girls to receive the three-shot vaccination series (which cost about $120 per shot). The move generated a fierce public debate. Conservatives slammed Perry for promoting what they saw as an intrusion by the state into private health decisions of parents and their children. Some also complained that the mandate would encourage promiscuity among teenagers.
Many doctors, including Bill Hinchey, the president of the Texas Medical Association at the time, questioned the wisdom of rushing to mandate a drug that had been on the market for less than a year.
"We support physicians being able to provide the vaccine, but we don't support a state mandate at this time," Hinchey told the Houston Chronicle. "There are issues, such as liability and cost, that need to be vetted first."
The controversy over Perry's decision deepened as it came to light that his former chief of staff was a lobbyist for Merck and that his chief of staff's mother-in-law, Rep. Dianne White Delisi, was the state director of an advocacy group bankrolled by Merck to push legislatures across the country to put forward bills mandating the Gardasil vaccine for preteen girls.

Therefore, to this mind, the Governor has some “explaining to do” – as to why he would mandate in the first place (regardless of what the mandate was medical mandates are contrary to personal liberty, and against most Conservative principles.

That said Mitt Romney mandated Health Care for all Massachusetts Residents.

Palin as Governor, mandates agasint personal liberty.....anyone?

Although: The LA Times sees things a bit differently making the case for a Perry Palin ticket in 2012, which is a ticket that at this point in time, would sweep in all but possibly 10 states.