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Message to incumbents by Utah Sen. Bennett's loss?
In Boston they threw tea into the harbor. This time around they're throwing incumbents into the street. And it's a wonderful thing.
[cnn-photo-caption image=http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2010/images/05/10/art.bob.bennett.jpg caption="Bob Bennett (R-UT) was ousted by GOP activists."]
Utah has become the first state to oust an incumbent this year - three-term Republican Senator Bob Bennett lost to more conservative candidates in a second round of balloting at the state party convention.
It's the first time since 1940 that an incumbent senator in Utah has failed to get his party's nomination.
Bennett was a powerful and likable Senator, that just wasn't enough this time around. If anything, Republicans in Utah seemed to be turned off by his seniority.
Bennett himself acknowledged what he called the "toxic'" political atmosphere.
The country is in an anti-incumbent rage, and Bennett's loss may be an ominous warning sign for other incumbents. We can hope. National polls show deep-seated unrest and discontent with Washington. And other incumbents are feeling the heat.
In Iowa, long time Republican senator Charles Grassley is in trouble... he's still barely ahead but has dropped 20 points in a hypothetical match-up against his Democratic opponent.
In Pennsylvania, Republican-turned-Democrat turned turncoat Arlen Specter - the state's longest serving senator - may finally be shown the door. His lead over his primary challenger is evaporating. The Pennsylvania district held by the late Democratic Congressman John Murtha is in Jeopardy of going to a Republican for the first time in 35 years. It's all good.
Ironically, like the first one, this revolution also began in Massachusetts... with the election of a Republican to fill the Senate seat of the late Ted Kennedy.
Here's my question to you: What message does Utah Sen. Bob Bennett's loss send to other incumbents?
George in Illinois writes:
The upcoming elections will be like cleaning out your garage: You get rid of the obvious junk, then get rid of half the junk you have doubts about. What's left, you put back in the garage. And then you throw out all that stuff the next time you clean out the garage, regretting that you just didn't get rid of all of it the first time. In the end, you feel better.
Larry in Springfield, Ohio writes:
Jack, The message is: If you won't listen to the public, the public will pink slip you and get someone in office who will. And, party no longer matters!
Steve writes:
It would seem that the polarization will get worse. Everything I have read about Bennett indicated he was willing to work for the good of his state through many different administrations. When compromise and bipartisanship is a no-no to the "fringes", and I mean either side, there is big trouble brewing.
Gary in Poulsbo, Washington writes:
Democrat or Republican, it doesn't seem to matter. Finally, FINALLY, it seems that the American public is - if nothing more that just opening a sleepy eye to swat at the annoying fly disturbing its deep slumber - acknowledging that the people we send to Washington D.C. are there to do what we want them to do, for us and our country, instead of for themselves, their PACs and those with the biggest checkbooks.
Albert in Los Angeles writes:
Jack, We are talking about Utah. Let's not read anything into this more than white radical reactionary religious right-wingers are having a fit over a black person being president.
Andrea in Gilbert, Arizona writes:
The message it sends is that Americans want term limits for Congress. Two terms should be all that is allowed. It gets them back into the private sector to see what we are all dealing with. Who is willing to write that law? It doesn't matter what party you're with, you've been there too long and we are not any better for it.
Arlene in Illinois writes:
The trouble with incumbents is they think their job is like the Supreme Court, a lifetime appointment. Well, guess again brother.
Filed under: Senate
The message to Republican incumbents and to the Republican Party should be that the teabaggers are creating a dream scenario for Democrats by splitting the Republican Party into the sane faction and the wingnut faction. The sane Republicans are unlikely to vote for the teabaggers and will either sit out elections or support Independents or Democrats.
Hugo Kijne, Hoboken NJ
The message that if you're a Republican with a minimum of a brain and/or a heart, you're vulnerable this year.
Nancy in Michigan
To stop taking money and perks from the lobbiests. As Americans, not progressive or conservative, we need to push for campaign finance reform. The greed is corrupting our government. Need I remind you of how the Roman Empire ended?
Dave, Brooklyn, NY
The message I hope it would send is that the rest of you fools better straighten out and fly right – and soon, read: do the PEOPLE's business, NOT your own or those of the crooks that line your pockets.
Unfortunately, the message it actually sends is that you better grab as much for yourselves as you can because your time in office may be limited. The inmates are running the asylum and no one is safe if a rational conservative like Bennett can be turned out simply for not being a lunatic radical right wingnut hate monger.
What message does Utah Sen. Bob Bennett's loss send to other incumbents?
That even Republicans are sick of those that just say NO to everything!
Roseville CA
David Bebeau,Springfield Missouri
Absolutely Jack
As I have said in the recent past on this fine blog.These guys from both sides have flat out mis-managed our government 100%.We
need new people from both sides and TERM LIMITS..................
Bennett will only be one of many.This system of good ole boys who stay in DC for life are taking us down a very dark road.
shera
Wait till november
If you were elected by the right and have demonstrated any degree of bipartisan leadership you will be unemployed come Nov. 2010.
Mike from Tallahassee, Florida
Humm...Time to look for a real job!!
The message is simple: out with the old, in with the new.
Ralph- Corpus Christi, Texas
Dennis in Grand Rapids
Basically it's time to pack your bags and leave office.
Bizz Quarryville, Pennsylvania
I think the messages been sent to the Republican Party incumbents that there is no room to the left. Your views must be that of Rush Limbaugh or Sarah Palin to survive in the republican party today. I do like the idea of a three candidate race. It gives voters like me a chance to vote for someone more in the middle.
altaloman
The American political system (meaning the voters) will not allow all incumbents in the U.S. Congress to be unseated this year. Even though that would be the only way the current office holders would know the full extent of voter disgust, there are still pockets of the political;y-entrenched who like the status quo and manage to hold onto office no matter how their views and votes differ from the majority.
Jerry Driskell
Message ? What's a message ? I didn't hear any message. That's what the incumbents are probably saying. They have all lived in their own little "bubble" for so long; they are not capable of understanding what the "common man" understands. But they will come November.
JerryinGa
Conservative Americans will no longer put up with pseudo-conservatives. Any self-proclaimed conservative member of Congress who is willing to reach left "across the isle" is not a true conservative and it is the main reason why conservatives are turning independent and libertarian. Why are conservatives expected to reach across the isle and compromise their values, when it is never expected of liberals to do so? These types of compromises are what has brought America to where it is now and look where it has gotten us–even farther left than Democrats of a few decades ago were. Socialist policies are killing the Constitution and economy and these policies have found support in both parties. Conservatives can not compromise any longer. Our country cannot afford it. We had the best and freest nation in the World–why would we want something less than that? The government is trying to buy the American People with so-called freebies that they continue to throw at us–"freebies" that we, citizens of the United States of America paid for. Nothing is free–including our freedom–it is all paid for by the citizens of this great country. We must return to true conservative values. It is the only solution to save our Democratic Republic! True conservatives will no longer succumb to the rhetoric of the left. As a Utahn, when Bob Bennett refused to listen to his constituents regarding the Bail Out in 2008, he lost my support and apparently the support of the majority of conservatives in his home state. He still thinks he made the right choice. Few of his constituents agree. We will not put up with less than a true conservative, one who is not willing to compromise his values nor the values of his constituents.
Santaquin, Utah
Heather from Indiana
The message wasn't sent to incumbents. It was sent to all Repulicans that are moderate conserative and even just conservative. It shows that the Republicans have officially lost their mind, their soul, their morals and their values as a party.
David Gerstenfeld
It means that the aisle between the Democrats & Republicans will get wider with less cooperation then we have now if you can believe that.
David, Las Vegas
CRAIG R. MCNEES
tampa, fl one down, a lot more to go. maybe this time our politicians will start quaking in their shoes when we legal, voting, taxpayers demand that they be removed from their positions, permanently. remember, vote them all out! let's see how long they last on unemployment.
Ed from Texas
As Bill Maher famously said, "Democrats have moved to the center and the Republicans have moved into the insane asylum."
Eugene from California
Jack, it means those pandering, feckless, entrenched incumbants better start worrying because "we'll remember in November". Anyone that votes for an incumbant is looking through rose colored glasss and deserves more of the same government.
Joe, Chicago IL
Bennett stood for amnesty and instate tuition for illegal immigrants. His opponents did not. Message from the people says they want immigrants that respect our laws.
bob z fr ,pa.
gov has got to big and we the people are going to change that
steve in florida
The message is that the GOP is totally fragmented at this point. Proceed at your own risk. Everyone's angry, nobody's thinking.
Lloyd Andrews
At some point the populace gets fed up with the lies and spin that career politicians use for self-aggrandizement. The elected folks in Washington are simply lost in some sort of egostitical power trip and have forgotten why they are there. It is indeed refreshing to see that the populace is voting out incumbents, putting integrity before the promise of seniority and its implied local porkfest. The political system and its
members are broke, and the sooner we can get honest leaders in the mix, the better. What we have now are corrupt, entrenched , pompous purveyors of piggish platitudes; espousing and promising anything to keep their jobs. We are losing this country because of this malfeasant
myopia. We all better learn to eat taco salad with chopsticks, because this is the future we are rapidly heading for.
I think the defeat of Bob Bennett indicates that ALL INCUMBENTS, not just Democratic ones, are on the chopping block when it comes to this year's midterm elections. I think it also shows that the ideological center of congress is being forced and pushed out by an increasingly polarizing right and left, which is odd, considering that the number of individuals who are not aligned with either party and are in the center of the political center are growing. All I know is that if you thought last and this year's sessions of congress were polarized and gridlocked, just wait, it is only going to get worse next year.
Mark Northern PA
As a Republican I would encourage every incumbent who is a moderate Republican to seriously consider running as an independent, as The Republican Party is in the process of imploding with this purging of moderates in favor of right wing radicals. After the Republicans loose in November maybe they will wake up realize its not the conservatives they need to court as they would never vote for a Democrat, its the moderate Republicans they lost in the last election. As a Republican who voted for Obama in 2008, I will vote for the Democrats in 2010 again unless my Party returns to its senses and stops acting like right wing facists.
Smith in Oregon
Obviously Jack Cafferty the message to Republican incumbents is that your time is over, your Party of NO is coming to a end. The time is NOW to vote in my Democratic Lawmakers into Congress and the US Senate for a brighter and prosperous America tomorrow.
Bob Fleming
The message sent by the defeat of Senator Bennett in Utah is that unfortunately the extreme right has taken over the Republican Party.
This does not mean that they will be succesful in states where the electorate is more moderate.
It is doubtful that the Tea Party will play too well in many states outside of the south and in a couple of states in the northwest
Jane (Minnesota)
I would hope it means that voters want their elected representatives to actually be working together to solve the country's problems instead of just saying no.
riley oday
I hope it tells the others Your Fired also.
Tom, Avon, Me, The Heart of Democracy
The candidate selection process needs to be changed so that the winner is a viable option in the general election.
Because political extremists are well organized and attend primaries and caucuses in numbers unrepresentative of their proportion of the electorate, Moderates like Charlie Crist will win office and the Republican candidate will not.
Larry from Georgetown, Tx
We can only hope that this is a wake up call to the rest of these bozos that either start doing a job for Americans or take a hike. To me it would be wonderful if all of them lost this year, Democrats and Republicans.
Thomas in Tx.
It sends the message to incumbents that some American voters have little use for moderates in government .It sends a message to the rest of us,too, that those same voters have either forgotten the eight year Bush Admin. nightmare, or they actually miss those "good ole days" and want a return to them.
Cheryl in Bluffton, SC
Senator Bennett is a staunch conservative who was targeted by the TEA party for daring to reach across the aisle in an attempt to provide healthcare for all Americans. The message is this: Bipartisanship is dead.
Greg in Cabot, AR
If I recall, Bennett is still in office after promising to serve only two terms when he was first elected in 1992 and maybe some voters are tired of broken promises from career politicians that do whatever it takes to get re-elected rather than doing the will of the voters.
But on the other hand, it might mean that our country has split even wider than we thought when angry sound bites and nasty campaign slogans translate into more votes than finding practical solutions to our problems.
southerncousin
We are not a leftist, socialist state and the working people of the country are tired of supporting the lazy, do nothing, dope smokers that elected Obama.
Byron, Atlanta
Along with the Charlie Crist situation in Florida, this is just further proof that the Tea Partiers have taken over the Republican Party apparatus and won't let anyone who exhibits any sign of moderation or ability to compromise through the Republican primary process.
Republican candidates will have to shift way to the crazy right extremes to get the Tea Party's blessing, or run as independents, like Charlie Crist is going to do.
Allen in Hartwell GA
Maybe it tells incumbents, especially Republican incumbents, that people are serious when they say we need to clean house, or both houses. I said several months ago that if the TEA partiers are serious then Republican politicians would be particularly vunerable, since most of the TEA protesters are in Red states. Maybe this will come true, but I have my doubts.
Ed Fazio, AZ
Resign.!!! We Want Representation That Does Not Lie, Cheat, Steal, Play Party Politics, & Spend Our Money Like Drunk Politicians We Want a Smaller Central Government That Works For & Listens to All of the People, Not Just to Their Political Party. We Want Our Representatives to Serve a Short Time & Return to Normal Lives. We Do Not Want Career Politicians Who Have Never Held a Regular Job. To Middle America, the Career Politician is Lower Than a Snake Which Crawls on It's Belly.
bonnie from nj
I say it says BEWARE!!! The key word is "incumbent" not democrat or republican and we are coming after all of them!!
Adam Simi Valley, CA
The people are tired of being ignored. I would invest in Washington moving companies, there's going to be a lot of people changing addresses in November.
Al Brown
The message to incumbents ( in particular those that have been in power too long) is to get your resume updated and join the ranks of the unemployed. There are too many dinasaurs in Congress that have forgotten why they were elected. Time for term limits!
Gorham, NH
John from Alabama
Jack: Senator Bennett was a conservative with common sense who believed just saying no was not enough. The ultra conservatives are running the republican party. The ultra conservatives and ultra liberals have something in common they are both extremes of their parties. The extremes have always been dangerous.
B.J., Quincy, Il
Apparently he wasn't doing the job that Utah wanted him to do.
RON in washington state
It says that the gop is about to self destruct. With the help of the tea party.
JFC in Colorado
Arlene, Illinois
The trouble with incumbents is they think their job is like the
Supreme Court, a lifetime appointment, well guess again brother.
Jerry Jacksonville, Fl.
People are damn sick and tired of of the worthless jerks we have in congress now. Time to vote them all out of office, most have been there so long they think that the office belongs to them until they decide to leave, usually after becoming millionaires by taking money from ever lobbyist in Washington.
Elmahdi Oummih
The message is that we need to have more than two parties controlling political discourse in the United States. For the life of me, I cannot tell the difference between Democrats or Republicans anymore. The party that is out of power always claims to send a message, but we would all do well to remember that it was a Republican administration that allowed 911 to happen, and it was a Republican administration that lied America into an illegal war in Iraq.
Ryan in Galesburg, IL
Jack, if anti-incumbancy is the new theme, it is a shallow as single-issue voting. What we need is for Americans to actually pay attention to issues and actions, not the simple-mindedness of voting out everyone. Democracy is not a mob.
That the Tea baggers are mad enough to kick real conservatives out of office.
Mark, Oklahoma City
It disgusts me to hear media people refer to Bob Bennett being "out of a job". HEY, the guy is 76 years old, will have a great retirement and medical package.....so I say get out and let someone with youth and new ideas take that seat! We shoud all "lose our jobs" at age 76 with a great retirement to look forward to! Give me a break!
A note to all politicians-" Don't plan on retiring from your elected postion with a pension "!
Brian Smith Ph.D. San Diego CA
The messages is......Keep your night job because you day job is gone !!!
My job as a teacher....then there will be 50 kids in a classroom and if you want to see real chaos, then try teaching in that environment.
Victor G. Hughes
Well Jack, as they say in house repair, your 'foundations' are coming apart!!! This doesn't bode well for the future as the new 'repairs' are done by the loudest but NOT those that can see past their insular viewpoints!!!
Bill in TX
Take heart. Any significant change will be very temporary. The corporate-persons's cash carrying minions will arrive on any newly elected's office doors with the marching orders. One election cycle or less and the rich will be feasting on taxpayer dollars as always.
Ask the tea baggers how the "drill baby drill" is working out for FL, MS, AL LA and TX. and those of us who liked fish. In a year of so they will be voting the right-wing-nut line, as usual, if they change at all. Sen. Lincoln will survive to help maintain the traditions of our corporate rulers.
Rick Medina,OH
Sen. Bennett was the first ... only 534 to go!
Medina,OH
seattle,wa* well,Jack the message seems quite simple in a broad view,this tea party movement is gaining some momentum and pushing people including the incumbents more to the right, being a republican just isn't enough any more these days for the people on the right it seems they want pure pro life conservatives,
It means that unless your politics are to the right of Atilla the Hun, watch out!
The chickens have come home to roost.
I can only hope that America continues to throw out all incumbents who refuse to represent us in enforces are laws for example with immigration, etc. Throw them out Regardless of which party they belong to. Take back America.
The loss of Incumbent Senator Bob Bennett should send the message that Americans are sick and tired of issues not being addressed in an effective manner. In business, it is up to upper management to determine the top 3 to 5 issues the company is to address in the next period of time, and establish the resourses to address those issues. Government should be able to act in the same way, and keep other issues from clouding the primary issues. They need to focus. Unfortunately the ideological issue of big government or not will alway get in the way. We expect our government to work through these issues.
Paul Austin, Texas
They should all have their bags packed and be ready for a plane ride home. The Tea Party claims victory however most of us iregardless of party are feed up with the incumbents. Term limits need to become law. The days of elected one's moving in for life will soon be over. If it is not law then it will be done by the people at the ballot box.
Gail, Plano TX
In my state, incumbents reign supreme. Nothing will have any effect, no matter who runs against them.
U saw what happened to Kay Bailey Hutchison. And I am wondering where she is now. Are we paying her senate salary while she licks her wounds? John Cornyn is like a boil on the backs of Democrats from TX. But u can bet your last dollar that he will be reelected when he runs again.
Citing Scott Brown, Jack, is very difficult to understand, as he is so unqualified for the Senate.
Sometimes the devil u have is better than the devil you get.
It's to bad the Utah process avoids letting citizens vote. Representatives of Republicans voted for candidates and let the top two vote getters participate in the primary. So if you can stack the deck, you can beat the house. But, maybe Utah voters don't care that they don't personally get to vote. Each state is different in their election process, so as an incumbent I would take note, but look to my own state's process to determine the impact. Mr. Bennett was a conservative, but at least he was a voice of reason. Marlene in Mich
It would seem that the polarization will get worse. Everything I have read about this man indicated he was willing to work for the good of his state thru many different administrations. When compromise and bi=partisianship is a no no to the "fringes"..and I mean either side, there is big trouble brewing..
Michael, Alexandria, VA
Grassley and Bennett are not comparable cases, since Grassley is not being challenged from the right. Bennett's loss is more about Tea Party extreemism than anti-incumbency. This won't hurt the GOP in Utah, but it will in Florida and possibly Arizona.
Gregory Tripp, Mechanicsburg, PA
Incumbents beware! As a Pennsylvanian, I am looking forward to showing the door to Arlen Specter. He should've retired before this for health reasons while he was still a Republican. For me, his kiss of death in the Democratic Party came when he first switched parties, not for ideological reasons, but for the sake of his job. Obama did himself a disservice when he became a strange bedfellow for expediency's sake and jumped on the Specter bandwagon, but hopefully he'll wake up and support Sestak, the real Democrat, come election day.
Rich McKinney, Texas
The message i am getting is that America is tired of Washington's business as usual. People are beginning to see that we can not keep electing the same fools into office and expect different results. Personally I say, "Good riddance" and applaud those voting these scum bags out.
Joe CE
The message is for Rpublican incumbents. The party is being taken -over by the right wing fring – a move toward becoming a premant minority party.
Lori - PA
I know when the November elections take place, I won't be voting for anyone that's an incumbent. My elected officals turned their backs on me, so I'm done with supporting them. Based on what I've been reading, and watching, in the news, I'm not the only one who is done with their elected representatives. I want elected officals that won't turn their back on me. I'm going to do what I can in Novemer to insure that. I hope those that do get elected don't sqaunder our trust and faith in them.
It is long past time to get rid of these dust bunnies and get fresh, new thinkers in. I am voting out all incumbents here in Tx
Ray, Florida
Jack, I think it is a good idea to get rid of the 'Party of No' incumbents. And the Democrats that did not vote with the president on the health care bill should be voted out as well. What good is a majority if you don't take advantage of it?
Tim Sullivan stationed in Germany
Historically speaking, I think that the American system of government simply does not work well with a President and a Congress whose majority shares the same party. I am a conservative leaning towards libertarianism, but just a couple of years ago I was so fed up with our single minded government that I checked the block that said "all Democrats" on my voting ticket. I thought we needed a balance of power more than anything else. Now that I've seen what a Democratic President can do with a Democratic Congress, I admit that I am far more disgusted with this country's progression towards socialism. I care about freedom and I have learned my lesson. I only hope that the emergence of the tea party values will bring forth candidates who understand and will uphold the Constitution, and the values that made this country great in the first place. The present powers really just don't get it, and I regretfully share the responsibility for the abomination that they are making of this once great country. Lesson learned, I hope. Vote the socialists out. I am an American, and that means that I love and appreciate my freedoms.
The message is pretty clear. Stand up for the conservative values that make up the republican party and whats best for American people or you will be voted out. I sure hope that they hear the message loud and clear. The Florida race shows just how they scramble when the heat is on when judged on their record.
bud rupert
The message, in my view, is a sad and almost pathetic one.
When someone with the respect and qualifications of Bob Bennet is booted out of office because of being "not conservative enough" it shines a light on exactly what the founding fathers were afraid of. That a substantial number within the electorate will vote more on emotion and ideology then with reason. Both Madison and Hamilton considered it a real problem and wrote about it extensively.
What's sad is – Not much has changed in 223 years.
adios amigos poof all incumbents on both sides of the aisle prepare for landing outside of congress
Mr D
Politicians-your time has come. We will help you find the nearest exit and try some new blood that hopefully will not be attached at the hip to the lobby faction in Washington. I can see the "payoff people" getting nervous. Now, if we can make it work over the long haul, perhaps we can get this train back on the track.
Mike, Lindsay CA.
The message from my prospective is: ignore your constiuency at your political peril. With all the backroom, and "smoke filled rooms" that are prevalent in Washington, it becomes too easy to get caught up in all the sleazy money, and lobbyist promises of power, and endless re-election. For once, maybe it means that the people and citzenry of the US have finally had enough of politics as usual...One can only hope!!
Jeff in E. Lyme, CT
I think it's obvious Jack, "Don't screw with us". We're fed up with Congeress serving Congeress. My home State of Connecticut is getting rid of both it's incumbents. Chris Dodd this year, and Leiberman as soon as possible. We need people who never falter in their support of the AMERICAN people, 1st & foremost. NOT Israel Joe.
Larry,Springfield,Ohio
Jack,the message is if you won't listen to the public,the public will pink slip you and get some one in office that will,and party no longer matters!
Albert K. in Los Angeles, CA
Jack, we are talking about Utah, let's not read anything into this more than white radical reactionary religious right-wingers are having a fit over a Black person being President. These races fools who speak of the Boston Tea Party have no clue what the message to the monopolist King was when three ships loads of global corporate cargo was dunked in the bay. Those real Americans would never vote for these GOP global corporatists of today!
Jim Z..Ft. Worth...Texas
Jack, It just tells us all that the right wing, especially the far right in Utah, are like a sow hog, they will eat their own. Utah is a convoluted society of own immoral devices that is twisted with religious ineptitude, inter-twined with inbreeding. What they need more of is Im-Palin influence to set them down their Yellow Brick Road towards their high valued and self-important ignorance and sip it down with the deflated sacks of Tea Bagger potions..
Jack, we are talking about Utah, let's not read anything into this more than white radical reactionary religious right-wingers are having a fit over a Black person being President. These racist fools who speak of the Boston Tea Party have no clue what the message to the monopolist King was when three ships loads of global corporate cargo was dunked in the bay. Those real Americans would never vote for these GOP global corporatists of today!
The message should be that Americans are tired of being ignored at the expense of special interests who line the pockets of these bums.
I can only hope that the people are finally awake and fed up enough with these self serving pukes to show them all the door. It's LONG overdue!
Jim In Miami
Jack-
Generally, the democrats are quite happy with their elected representatives – the conservatives, should, however, feel free to dismantle their political party.....
boog
Time for fresh blood, all around. The old guys and gals in Washington have screwed it up enough, lets get some in there that might actually work for us.
Will from San Jose, CA
It send the message we need run-off voting or at least open primaries. Otherwise both parties are going to elect their ideological extremes. When no moderate can win, we all lose.
Craig in Houston
The message they're sending is that the Tea-Baggers will eat their own before trying to start on the Dems. I'm of the opinion that this whole movement is going to backfire and reduce voter's choices this year to one between a democrat, and something even less palatable than a democrat.
Susan from Idaho
Don't get comfortable with that seat, you may be shown the door.
Kenneth in the High Desert town of Pinon Hills, California
It says they are going to get kicked out of office for doing what their constituents have been doing, borrowing when they have spent more than they take in. It is ironic the public hasn't had their own Tea Party going on with their own personal finances. Maybe government would have taken note and acted more frugal.
Both government and the public have lived incredibly beyond their means incurring crippling debt. Is it a case of monkey see, monkey do? Did our servants in Washington become money careless by observing their constituents, or visa versa?
Dennis north Carolina
it is time for change.
I think it sends a fantastic message. It's telling these do nothings in Washington we are tired of them and this broken government. That it does not matter what your party or whether you are on the local,state or federal levels. We are going shopping at the government depot. Because, its time to fix our governments and clean out those who are not doing the citizens business. We cannot afford nor can we wait another ten years for immigration and financial reform because they are afraid to make a stand. We all suffer while those fat cats in Washington smile and lie in our faces and then turn around and stab us in our backs. We need a government that is elected and governed by the people for the people. All the people! What we have in this country is a club for the elite rich and our congressional leaders are the doormen .
Donna from Colorado Springs
It means that if you're a liberal or even know a liberal, you're in danger of being shown the door! Conservatives have made it their cause to take over the country again, and frankly, that scares the hell out of me! I don't know if I can live through Bush part two and I'm afraid that the conservatives are winning the war. They refuse to even give the President a fighting chance, and I thought people in this country were smarter than to fall for Republican conservative dictatorship once again!
Michael Lorton, Virginia
Jack: No message is being sent to other incumbents. There are the "winners and loosers"---he lost-–Democrats and Republicans-–are all a figment of our imaginary mind that we create. Do you honestly believe that his replacement and other incumbents are going to do anything different than what is already being done? If you do---you are very naive-–and I'm not politically savy. The 10 percent of the population that controls 95% of the wealth run this nation.
Meg from Troy
The message is that Congress has not done enough to serve its constituents since the last election. I am fed up with Congress members who do nothing but talk and/or just say no and soak up the bennies and collect from the lobbyists that they really work for in Washington. It's time for some new blood. Senator Bennett is the first victim–but I don't believe that he will be the last.
Gary H. Boyd
The message is not as significant as you might think. Utah is a very conservative Republican bastion and always has been. As such it would be a perfect place for the Tea Party to ferment and that;s just what happened. Bennett got too liberal and too partisan.
The Tea Party will only prevail in predominently Republican states.
Gary in Scottsdale, Arizona
DON IN WESTPORT,MA.
The message is "Ok guys, its over. We hid in the shadows long enough. They noticed us. Its time to move on."
The message is we shall no longer tolerate Professional politicians who do nothing but feather their own nest. Be they democrat or republican they are all about to learn what term limits are. The ramming through of this huge new health care entitlement was just the right thing to awaken the citizens of this great country. There is one message. Stop Spending money you do not have!
I didn't exactly expect the Tea Party to like my side the Democrats, but I think that the message to the Republicans is that they are reaping what they sowed. They have won themselves voters who refuse to let them think when they are in Congress, I hope they are happy being the official party of Hell No. Maybe they are paying a moral price for not actively denouncing racism.
Randy from Texas
There's no doubt that the party is over for those who have made a career in national politics while selling their so-called constituents down the river. Business as Usual is no longer good enough for the American People, no matter if one belongs to the Tea Party, the Democratic or the Rebublican Party. The only mission statement these guys have nowadays is to get re-elected; in-between elections, they make bad laws (see Healthcare) or no laws at all. After mis-spending the taxpayers' money for God knows how many years (see Stimulus, Bailout and others), their track records are finally catching up to them and good riddance, I say. Now, if we could just trade in a couple of these current Supreme Court Justices, our country would definitely be heading in the right direction.
Alex in Gig Harbor, WA
When will these career politicians realize that they are not in a lifetime appointment? A little fresh blood will hopefully enable congress to function again. I fully support the conservative purity purges since it is good for the Democrats. The Democrats are not perfect, but they are certainly less evil than the corporatist Republicans.
Greg H - Minneapolis
Jack, the message to incumbents is a simple one. Do not assume that "your" seat is safe! Do not take the voters for granted! Right now, America is fed up with "do-nothings" on both sides of the aisle. Business as usual is the surest way for an incumbent to wonder "What happened?" after the November elections!
honest john in vermont
It should be telling Congress we have had it with them. Don't let the door hit you in the butt.
Minesh - Troy, MI
The incumbents should watch out.
The party lines are becoming more clear. Moderates are no longer welcome.
(Conservative)Republicans want their candidate to be pro-life, deficit hawk, anti-bailout, anti-illegal immigration and strong on national security.
(Liberal)Democrats want candidates who are pro-abortion and love huge government entitlement programs with amnesty for illegals.
Dan Herriott
As shown in the now viral YouTube videos "America Rising – An Open Letter to Democrats" and "Too Late to Apologize: A Declaration"; "We tried to warn you... but you wouldn't listen – No more taxes, spending or socialism" i.e., [it's] "Too Late to Apologize". I think that says it all.
Michael in Phoenix
We sent the message when we ousted the republicans and elected democrats. We are tired of the same old rhetoric! The democrats did not get the message. Time to vote third party to send a real message. Term limits should be added for set for senators and congressmen. It is time to stir the pot and get rid of the people that have been getting rich while the country falls apart.
Jeff In Minnesota
The jig might be finally up. It's possible that the American electorate might actually understand that Congress needs to be replaced. Unfortunately, the replacements appear to be more partisan than those they will replace. That just means more gridlock, not less.
Doc Price
I hope it means that these idiots need to start polishing up their job interview skills. About the only things that they may be qualified for is lawyers, bankers, and insurance sales. They're GREAT at lying to people with a straight face!!
Doc, Moore, Ok
steve- virginia beach
The message is simple- this is our country and We the People are taking it back, changing it back, and fundamentally un-transforming it. Whether they like it or not.
Sean McCoy
Hopefully it will be a bloodbath on both sides of the aisle. Politicians from both camps have long forgotten who they really work for, and until voters start sending them packing nothing is going to change.
leon anderson
I would hope we remove all incumbents' regardless of their party affiliation, I am sick and tired of their corruption.
Gary - Woodhaven, Michigan
The message it sends is the populous still does not get it.
You can replenish the flock with new sheep, but as long as you have the same shepherds and the same wolves there can never be change.
As long as there are lobbyists (shepherds) doing the bidding of the 1% of the population with 98% of the wealth (the wolves), the only thing different is the meat is a little fresher.
123skidoo
The message is simple, if you're a Republican... there is no middle ground, no room for compromise. You're with us or against us.
It's a shame that a handful of talking heads are taking a once proud political party away from its roots based in tolerance and compassion... I wonder what Lincoln would think.
Chaotician
Hell, every politician, in office or not needs to be booted and every political party ignored; we should elect only independents.... and they should be required to sign a pledge to only serve 3 terms as a rep and 1 term as a senator to even be considered! We must break the power of corporations, Falwell religious right ideologues, and FOX indoctrinated air heads! We need a purge from top to bottom of our government...OUR government...hello, OUR GOVERNMENT!!
Ken Lewis
I think this is great. I'm from PA, and Arlen Spector was actually a Democrat, switched to Republican to win senate (PA is very split, house is mostly Rep, Senate and Gov is always split). After being in the Senate, he flipped back to Dem. Now, who knows what he's thinking. Time to clean out house all accross the country.
Too many politicians say what they need to get elected, then just follow the party line (which most of us regular folks don't even agree with, we just choose the lesser of 2 evils). Get them out, Get term limits instituted, and do like many states do, legislature sessions are limited to xxx days, not a whole year mess with our laws kind of thing.
Conor in Chicago
Let's not be overdramatic Jack. All this means is that Utah Republicans doubled down on conservatism.
The blame game is over.
Matt in NY
When I go in the voting booth I plan on voting against the incumbent regardless of which party I end up voting for.
Join me.
olivia knoxville
It is time to kick the long term do nothing incumbents out. The incumbents have a history of irresponsible spending, negotiation of backroom deals, and allowed health care to skyrocket. The incumbents have cause a deep division in the country.
Timothy Bevin
And it's not just the incumbents, but those whom the incumbents are endorsing as well. Just ask Trey Greyson who has been endorsed by Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. Sorry! The people of Kentucky prefer who Rand Paul is and what he stands for.
Tim Bevin
Scott Stodden
The message is clear if your an incumbent you better be well aware that your job is in jeopordy! There are to many Congress people and Senators who have been in power way to long and its time to form a new Congress and a new Senate!
Scott Stodden (Freeport,Illinois)
Dallas Parker
Pack your suitcase your are moving. Dalton, Ga.
Jack, this just isn't a Tea Party movement. This is a grass roots effort by all Americans to take back our County. For far too long both the Left and Right have been ignoring voters. We are a Country of moderates on both sides and we're mad as hell and not going to take it anymore!
Lance, Ridgecrest, Ca
Jack, I hope it says we will NOT forget and our votes WILL count. If you can't do what we want, we will send you packing. I can only hope that some other states will follow Virginia/New Jersey/Mass/Utah, and send these power abusing jerks home. Maybe somehow they will get the word and stop jamming unwanted/unwarranted laws down our throats just because it is the politically expedient thing to do. Nebraska, Arkansas, California, Louisiana, Delaware, Montana, are you listening?
rocky krokus
I wish they would do the same thing with media pundits! They should all be replaced or looking for jobs too because they're the one's, THE ONLY one's stirring up controversy, just for ratings and advertising dollars. Watch out Jack!
The upcoming elections will be like cleaning out your garage. You get rid of the obvious junk, then get rid of half the junk you have doubts about. What's left you put back in the garage, then throw out all that stuff out the next time you clean out the garage, regretting that you just didn't get rid of all of the it the first time. In the end you feel better, and have a fresh start at accumulating more junk.
Seriously, it is time to start fresh. And that goes from the bottom all the way to the top. Next step? Campaign finance reform where everyone who runs get a pot of money from the Treasury. No PAC money, no contributions. Everyone starts the same whether they are incumbents or challengers. (Wishful thinking!!!!!!)
Jack - Lancaster, Ohio
Bob Bennett, what a GOPsaurus, would retiring be so bad for him?
Anyway, the message it sends is that it is incumbent upon us (the voters) to throw the bums out ! If the challenger is a bum, then he or she should be thrown out next. It should be as risky for a political science major as it is for a structural engineer for gainful employment.
Gigi Oregon
My vote for Oregon will be for Democrat incumbents. They need not worry. They have not been an embarrassment to the Good State of Oregon.
Martha Andrews
it's a sad day when a political party DEMANDS of it's people to vote against anything put out there by the other party NO MATTER how good it is for the country!
It's saying that the Conservatives don't care anything about their country only their party! How sad is that and it's too bad that other people can't see them for what they are–norrow minded bigots!
They think only their way is right (correct) and if you disaggree with them they won't even listen to your side of the issue. That is NOT democracy but some horrible "growth" that should be removed.
Gary in Poulsbo, Washington
Democrat or Republican, it doesn't seem to matter. Finally, FINALLY, it seems that the American public is, if nothing more that just opening a sleepy eye to swat at the annoying fly disturbing it's deep slumber, is acknowledging that the people we send to Washington D.C. are there to do what we want them to do, for us and our country, instead of for themselves, their PACs and those with the biggest checkbooks.
Understand that this is nothing more than a passing flirtation with consciousness from the American public, who does not know, does not want to know, and actually runs from any knowledge about how our government is supposed to work and how those they elect are supposed to serve us. But, it is SOMETHING.
My feeling is that once all the hoopla is over with, and we go back to the status quo then the American public will return to sleep, and then things can return to 'normal' for Washington.
There is a difference between swatting a fly while you're half asleep, and being fully awake, alert and ready to do something because you're house is on fire. Oh yes, the house *is* on fire, has been for a long time, but we haven't noticed that little fact yet, we're just swatting flies. Maybe though, just maybe, while we're awake enough to swat the flies, we'll notice the smell of smoke, and hear the flames licking at the foundations of our home, and get into action quickly enough to douse the flames of destruction before it's too late.
You think maybe?
Gary Carter
Both parties have failed us.They are both tied into corporate greed and serve them not the people.Wall street gets bailed out on taxpayers money and mainstreet loses everything.Wake up people Republicans and democrats are in bed together at the top.We have to now bring in one or two more parties.We have been lied to and betrayed too long.Lets all rise against the sick greedy empire and make our voices count with our votes.
xer0sum
Here's my problem with this "revolution." Unless we're electing people who will bring change, then all we're doing is passing the potato to see who failure can be blamed on today. A democratic do-nothing is just as bad as a republican do-nothing.
The message is that the Republican party is splitting in two – Neocons who pass a "purity test" and people who want to actually vote according to their own platform. Some point to Republican unity in voting as strength and focus – I am among those who think it is basically an unelected fascist cabal.
Linda in Arizona
Are all incumbents bad? I don't think so. You are way too simplistic with your thinking about this issue.
Andrea from Gilbert, Arizona
The message it sends is that Americans want term limits for Congress. 2 terms should all that is allowed, it gets them back into the private sector to see what we are all dealing with. Who is willing to write that law? It doesn't matter what party you're with, you've been there too long and we are not any better for it. Let's try some new blood!
Why is it that republican conservatives vote exclusively for corporate interests and that's good? While democratic liberals vote exclusively for the little guy and that's not good? I say just get rid of ALL republicans!
NM in NM
Jack, it should tell incumbents that Americans are tired of the stalemate and partisanship that has begun to unravel the very fabric of our society. Unfortunately the message for many of these incumbents will probably be that they are losing their seats for not being conservative/liberal enough. The polarizing effects of the Becks and Moores of this world compounded with Big Business buy-outs will bring Washington to a grinding halt. What we need are moderates, not follow-the-line extremists. I can only hope that Americans will wake up before Washington is more polarized than ever.
Ian from MN
Getting ride of incumbants is fine, but not when the replacements are even worse partisans.
What I'm seeing is middle of the road Republicans loosing to extremist republicans. Bennet lost to two more conservative challengers. Charlie Christ is willing to work across the aisle with Obama on a few things and he's kicked out of the Republican party for it.
John McCain a man known for being a middle of the road guy and he has the potential to loose to a crazy right wing talk show host.
Yes we need change in washington, but what is broken is the partisan bickering that takes place 24/7. Replacing moderates with extremists doesn't help that.
Scott from Dallas
Why are we excited that incumbents are being replaced by more polarized politicians.
If incumbents are bad, extremists are horrific. The only thing that will change if less moderate people get elected is that violence will increase.
Dick Vaughan, Albuquerque
Maybe Washington will start listening to the American people instead of just having their fun in the good old boys club.
Chryssa
If this keeps up, moderate Republicans will sit on their hands on election day and we Democrats will clean house, again. The Tea Party's 15 minutes of fame is set to expire precisely on November 3rd at midnight.
Kj`
Jack I have been a Republican most of my life...
I also believed in "Trickle Down", however I am the one that trickled down! All money rises, and it usually never comes back i.e. billionaires don't spend their billions. The GOP in my mind has NOT done their work and haven't for years. We all want CEO's to be responsible in their compensation packages, if so the GOP owes the public around 3 years in wages.
With that said I am now leaning left.... Throw the incumbent GOP bums / the obstructionist out.
We need to get to work and find solutions to this debt crises before this great nation is gone. Oh it can be done by either party, I just happen to think the Dems have a better chance of getting it done.
Annie, Atlanta
It tells me the tea party is destroying the GOP, with their permission, apparently. Incumbents need to go, but I personally don't want to see the lunatic fringe of either party in Congress – ever.
Bob L.
I think they should all get to work on their resumes, it sounds like many of them will be in need of employment soon.
John from San Antonio
Hopefully Americans don't forget that sending politicians back to congress inevitably turns them into corporate lackey's. We do not have term limits but we can easily turn them out after one term if we remember we are Americans first and "Republicrats" second.
Terry-Boca Raton, Florida
Jack, the issue is not solved by throwing out the incumbents if their replacements are politically farther to the right or the left. The solution is to LIMIT terms to 2 four-year terms for Representatives and two six-year terms for Senators and then OUT. Perhaps without looking over their shoulders to elections our Congressman will work to do the people's business and do the RIGHT thing.
i hope it tells them the middle class [or the people who actually work]in this country are fed up with the gov. giving our hard earned money to the people in this country that do not work.the free ride is over!!
Tom Battin
Voting against someone just because she or he is an incumbent is ridiculous. One should at least have one policy position that she or he for or against. Voting simply anti-incumbent is as inane as voting for someone strictly for his or her ethnicity or religion
It sends a message that instead of thinking we are again acting out of anger and emotion. What unknows and unexperienced will be replacing these incumbents. We may get some more "cowboys" a la Busch. Be careful what you wish for.
I plan to vote for the first time in 20 years and will vote against all incumbents regardless of party. Time to clean house.
Jilli
I wouldn't consider it a strong warning. After all, Bennett was ousted by 3,450 delegates many of who admit to being tea partiers (not the most rational or intelligent group) – is this really a true representation of the will of the party or population? I don't believe so – or should I say – I would hope not.
CLUE: The message is clear: WE THE PEOPLE are the government, we elect people to Congress to represent OUR interests, not their own.
Peoples Republic of Maryland
Jack what you are seeing has absolutely nothing to do with incumbents or throwing the bums out. It has everything to do with the religious right flexing their muscle and showing that 2008 was not a sign of them losing pull in the political realm or the overall public sector. I am sure you are smart enough to see that and are just using it to further your talking points on incumbents. I am sure you also see the future a year or two down the line where you can complain about those that end up elected for their radical right wingnut stupidity. I guess what is good for Jack's talking points does not have to be good for America.
Bob Scott, NC
Proves to me that both the Republicans and Democrats, BOTH US political parties are in danger of being voted OUT in toto! Maybe we should resort to TRUTH as being a qualification to being a politician? U tell me?
kathy from phx,az
As far as I am concerned it won't change a thing. They will just elect another jack ass and that doesn't mean that Mr. Bennett is one it's that nothing will change. It's all about politics and not for the people. It's about the left and the right and a few that say they are in the middle. A 5 year old could do a better job that most of Congress.
Likely, this change in dynamics has more to do with the Tea Party variation on conservatism..than a message sent to the electorate in general. it seems to me at least, that the GOP is recreating itself in front of our eyes, one only hopes it manages to do so for the betterment of our country.
Yes Jack – we should kick out all the people who are knowledgeable of how to write legislation. Who the hel*l needs that ! We don't need people who actually know how to do their jobs of writing legislation - let's jsut hire the newbies – then we can spend two years complaining about how incompetent they are - right!
Deb from Texas
The status quo doesn't work anymore. "Change" didn't seem to work much either.... We want ACTION, HONESTY, TRANSPARANCY. A good healthy serving of American Patriotism, fiscal responsibility, and tough love wouldn't be half bad either.
Mark in California
Jack, as long as the Lobbyists continue to rule Washington, throwing out incumbents is a waste of time. Right or Wrong, we are a Capitalist society and money is God,and in Washington, money rules big time. America has lost it's soul to Money and I'm afraid we won't get it back.
Art Sarasota fl
Be not the first to vote for the new, nor the last to vote for the old.
bud hand
The message is clear and I support it 100%. It's time, past time, for the entrenched Senators to be voted out. They've had years to help create a more perfect union. Look at what it is now and what the Senate is like; so toxic that the entrenched members need to be removed and new members needed to be given a chance to help create a more perfect union. That can only be done at the ballot box.
RickintheForest
Jack – There is a very clear message here. Two actually. #1 – The Tea Party folks don't like anyone who favors or has supported big government, big deficits and activities that go beyond the limited enumerated powers granted to the government by the U.S. Constitution. #2 – Incumbents of any and all stripes ignore the Tea Party folks and others who think independently at their own peril.
Many thinking people are beginning to favor term limits for politicians at all levels of government. The idea that public service is a "career" as Republican Senator Bob Bennett said this past weekend has simply got to cease. The whole concept is too incestuous. Family dynasties in politics are very likely to become a thing of the past in the very near future.
john F
Whether you are a Republican or a Democrat send the incumbent out! The bums are working for themselves, not the people the they represent. It is time that the people take their wrath to the polls in November. The incumbents should take heed to the Bennett departure, quit or be fired by the voters!!
Leonard Covello
Jack, You sound smug as you cheer the loss of nomination by Sen Bob Bennett and you shout to "throw the bums out"! Maybe some bums need to be thrown out but shouldn't the choice be selective? Why is national law making THE occupation where job experience is DISqualifying? I am not a supporter of Bob Bennett's policies but he's probably a valid representative of his state. I *know* that my representative (Chris VonHolland) and two senators (Ben Cardin/Barbara Mikulski) do represent my district and state. They are experienced and qualified!
Stop being empty and pompous. Get real!
Every congressman serving now is responcible for our county's devastating debt. It appears from the record of meny years, that they are irresponcible and their main concern is their re-election. Their uncontrolled spending and the letting of American jobs to flee the country to places like China, India, Mexico and others is turning our Country into a third World country. 90% of them need to be fired. We need to demand that their benefits are trimed to half of what they are now. Demand that the terms of future congressmen are reduced to one term. Power has corrupted them.
Matt from Munster, Indiana
This serves as a warning to incumbents on both sides of the aisle that it is no longer okay to be a centrist. With Senator Bayh retiring and Senator Bennet without a chance in his primary, the days of moderates in the Senate are over. Unfortunately incumbents will need to polarize their views in order to keep their jobs.
It tells me that the far right wing that ACCEPTS their Social Security checks, Medicare and Medicade, and other government monies....does not understand the very terms they throw around like Socialism, big government, taxes, etc.
This country will NEVER go totally to the right, or totally to the left. Compromise (yes even the liberals compromise) is the ONLY solution, or in 8 years the country will be too polarized to function.
The message wont matter, only the results will. And in this case it would mean a more republican congress that the one we have. Why? because Obama has not waved his magic wand to turn around the economy in just over a year. Amazing, after 8 years of republican control that brought us to the brink of a depression, lost respect in the world and a war against the fundamental civil liberties that this country holds dear, Americans yet again will vote to put republicans back in power. Pathetic, to say the least
It is so sad, he seems like a much better person than the one running against him. The same is true with Crist's and Mccain's seats. I think they are better canidates than the ones running against them too. It seems like our Country is getting too much like Germany in the 30's and 40's, ever since the tea party started spewing their crap. Jack don't follow Dobb's path, stay middle road. You can be for your party, but please don't try to get votes for anyone.
Carlos in LA
Jack, so you think that incumbency alone is reason enough to oust politicians and replace them with ideologues from the fringes of the political spectrum?
There goes the last remaining shred of respect I had for you.
Sean, St. Louis
Just another item to check off on the far right's list of things to say "NO" to. If you aren't as far right as the base has become, you're gone.
T.E.A. partier
quite simply we have seen threw the two party lie. if you are subverting
the nation with out of control spending then you need to go regaurdless
of party affiliation. so all those who would say that the tea party is a republican effort need to wake up and see that we only care about how you vote in congress. you can talk all you want about what you will do for
the nation but your voting record will speak for its self.
Duane Coad - St.Petersburg Florida
The government has set a very bad example by spending (both parties) more than they bring in and these old timers are getting the brunt of it. We are in debt up to our eyeballs yet we keep spending, creating new programs to "help" people when all it's going to do is hold this country back. Here's a novel idea, lets live within our means and stop all the entitlements. It's making us fat and lazy………
We will see if Utah is REALLY serious and get rid of Old Orrin Hatch. He along with many others have been in Congress way to long. Will the Republican party finally gets its wits about itself and can Orrin?
I will certainly eat cake if that happens.
Mike in Tampa
I wouldn't put too much into this. So they kick out an ultraconservative because he is too liberal. Utah is slighly more centrist than... Iran. This should not come as a surprise.
Dylan from Pennsylvania
Jack, we can only hope that it tells them we're tired of politics as usual. We're sick of a minority voice controlling political parties and presenting us with these self interested, career politicians that are in bed with every major interest group or corporation they can find.
When did America stop being about Americans, Jack? Anymore it feels like it's just about company profitibility. It's time for us to take it back and give people more rights than the special interests.
Barbie from Hollywood, CA
There may be a "back-fire" awaiting...
Will, MI
Jack; getting rid of one incumbent in Utah isn't going to change anything. Getting rid of -every- incumbent in congress would still be only a small, symbolic, but ultimately empty victory for the American people. The -real- incumbents that need to be ousted aren't the individuals, but the parties themselves. Merely burning an effigy of a tyrant accomplishes nothing.
Jim Blevins
That people look at only surface facts and don't bother to understand what is really happening.
Jim, Craig, CO
Catherine Ives
Hi Jack;
I don't think "out with al the incumbents" is always a good message. In my opinion the loss of Sen Bennett it's not good for UT where I live because I don't happen to be a T Party fan. The other candidates are far right "heck no, no you don't" T Party types. They didn't like Bennett voting for Obama's stimulus plan. These folks want their police, teachers, medicare, medicaid, highways, student loans and other help which might come from federal government programs but don't want to pay their taxes. If that makes sense to you then you understand more than I do. I guess these folks must be hoping for Manna from heaven. Let's see how that goes for them.
both parties have to be shown the door in mass this next election... if the past is the best they could have done then fresh people will probably do better... for the people by the people!!!!!!!!
Jill, Downingtown, PA
Jack, it means "their life as they know it is over." And rightfully so. I don't think this is what Obama meant by Hope and Change. . .but it couldn't have come at a better time. The constituents have no other choice but to take the concept of Hope and Change into their own hands, because Obama has failed to provide a single change for the positive in the past year and a half. Our only hope now is to ditch Congress in 2010 and wait patiently for 2012.
Bottom line is this. I think we want our leaders to lead. Not perpetually seek re-election. So,if they are unwilling to lead and make tough choices, we will try to find someone who might.
Sotero
Jack, your obsession with incumbents doesn't allow you to see clearly. Bennet lost not because he was an incumbent, he lost because he wasn't conservative enough. Ask the republicans in Utah. In the case of Specter, he has never showed he is a real democrat. Period. Remember, you cannot generalize. There are good incumbents on both sides. How about us saying that all journalits are like Beck or Limbaugh?. Would you be happy?. Are you going to have the guts of showing this message?. Maybe not.
Sotero in Vancouver, Canada
walt jerrell
The message should be clear to both parties. Their underhanded deals and selling there vote to the highest bidder, have finally been noticed by the voters. Unfortunatly for all incumbants, they have "Woken the sleeping giant" as the Japonese did at Pearl Harbor.
Ralph Spyer
Why do you think Ron Paul stand out, or why Obama got elected. The American people wnat meaningfull change. Obama is now in bed with the wall street money men. Just look at his choice for treasury secretary, or to keep Paulson, why? The country is broken
manuel in az
What's happening in Utah says that we are tired of any incumbent who simply goes through the motions. We need intelligence and leadership from all elected officials or they will be removed. We Americans have had enough of the footdragging by all levels of government.
Andres Saenz(ABQ, NM)
All incumbents will be ousted from Washington come November, both Dems and Repubs. The American people are absolutely sick and tired of the Obama administration force feeding things to us. The gov't is functioning against the collective will of the American people and against the Constitution.
That's the message that Bennett's loss is sending to the incompetent incumbents of Washington
Supposedly we have an anti-incumbent mood in this country right now, and that we all want to vote out sitting politicians. But Obama nominates someone to the Supreme Court, and people complain she doesn't have enough experience.
So which is it? Does that really mean we want inexperienced lawmakers creating the law, but experienced judges interpreting it? I'd prefer we have experienced lawmakers as well as judges.
It makes sense. When a pipe breaks, we want an experienced plumber. When the car breaks, we want an experienced mechanic. When it comes to government, why do we suddenly want the people who will write the laws regulating these people (and all the rest of us) to be complete neophytes?
Sue, Tallahassee, Florida
T'row da bums out...and install more obstructionist right wing wackos? Yeah, sure Jack, that'll move the country forward.
I agree with Matt in NY. Now that Bennett is off the ticket, I can vote for a Republican in the Senate race. I'm going to have to look at another party for the House.
sgg - Nashua, NH
after reading all the other comments, I think the Dems are loosing it. This action in Utah deals only with the illegal immigration issue. We want Washington to listen. Those that don't will be replaced. Repub or Dem, they will be replaced. The Health Reform vote will do in most of the dem incumbents. The repubs who supported Tarp and citizenship for illegals will be replaced as well. Follow the bouncing ball. These responding dems just don't get it.
zak41
Its a good thing we need to vote all of the incumbents out .It should not matter which party they belong to they are all corrupt.
lets have a vote on terms for these guys that they cannot serve more than 2 terms these guys have a mentality that the seat belongs to them for life it should not be the case there has to be term limits just like retirement for us guys same should be for them.its fair the president serves for 2 terms and so should these senators 2 and no more.
Happyfrenchman
Message to incumbents? I doubt it. It is the right wing reactionaries committing party suicide. They have a huge sense of entitlement. They will toss perfectly responsible politicians to install their tin foil hatters. i
john lane
I hope a few dems get the boot as well, they can start with carl levin in
michigan. and if they have any mojo left durbin of ilinois needs to be retired.
AZ Dem
It should be a warning to all parties. I'm fed up with them all Repub and Dems alike.
I never vote by party, (IMO it's just flat stupid. Keep going by pary and you end up with the same jerk in the office.) I'll vote for the one that I feel with to the better job and will care for the State, and Nation that they represent. None of them have been doing that lately.
Don't think it's a message per se to incumbents – think the all (regardless of party) understand this will be a tough season. I do think it's a wake up call for the GOP who are falling over themselves to purge moderates or conservatives who don't 100% echo the misguided views of the Tea Party.
They'll regret pandering to this crowd... all it does is weaken the GOP, and make it that much easier for Dems to exploit the internal fractures.
Simon/Orlando
Both Democrat and Republican congressmen should take this as a big wake up call. If you don't listen to what your voters want, they will cancel your ticket to the big show.
Fred Dobbs
The GOP will crank up the old hate and fear machine. Conservatives love blaming and hating anything liberal and they will do what their GOP masters tell them to do. The GOP has no solutions and no plan to do anything but line their own pockets. Conservatives, including teabaggers, generally can't think on their own and they will fall into the party line come 2012.
Actually Jack, many other Incumbents won their primaries against "tea party" candidates. But don't let the truth stop you from making false claims that one data point represents a trend.
Perhaps he lost because he held unemployment benefits hostage for his own pet projects.
Tim from Mishawaka, IN
Ousting the incumbent is a good idea. But it is the current political system that is corrupt. Born and bread from the days of the Rockefellers and big business, we the people, stands for Us the rich and few. Obama was supposed to be about change, but he got sucked into the current system, and his legacy will be one of stagnation, higher taxes, and no real jobs.....too little, too late.
Terms limits in Washington, the President can only hold office for 2 terms, why not congress.
Bristoll
Bye-Bye Incumbents.
Hello, Term Limits!
Wow...The thread started with alot of Right/Conservative bashing...Did any of you that did that actaully read the article?? There are Democrats that are in position to lose their seats too...OMG NOO!!
EVERY incumbant has the chance of losing......
Allen Lancaster Ohio
So the question really is: Do you think that the people that they are replacing the incumbents with are better qualified, more intelligent or for some, just better at sucking up?
Someone still has been unable to define exactly what "conservative" means in this country.....ask any "tea-bagger" and you will get dozens of answers ranging from "religious" to "libertarian". I'm still scratching my head on how the Republicans thought this "movement" was going to put them back into office.
David in Los Angeles
The voters are caught between a rock and a hard place....especially in the House. Everyone agrees that Congress is a mess and that incumbents are the problem....but not OUR guy or gal (in the House.) S/He lives in our neighborhood, they go to our church, our kids play soccer together, she bakes pie for the rummage sale, and he buys his suits in my shop. They are the okay guys....it's everyone else in the House that suck. So....the incumbents keep getting re-elected. Hope it changes in November.
Alex, Escondido, Ca
The activists in Republican party complain that the Democratic congress pass bills without republican support but if any republican congressman or senator attempts to work with his democratic colleagues he branded a traitor by his party and punished. What is means is that congress will be come more divided with members less willing to work across the aisle.
Compromise has become a dirty word. Benjamin Franklin said that Compromise doesn't make Heros but it is good for democracy. We need fewer heros but unfortunately the electorate are demanding heros.
Oh, and @Will:
If the plumber is fixing the pipes while he's raiding your jewelery box, is he still a plumber?
The message is that it's time to brush up the resume. However most will find they have no skills to get another job. They only know how to talk a good game - not carry out a good game
Chaney, La.
While I am unhappy with Congress as a whole, I certainly dont want a knee jerk reaction to lead us to vote in extremes, and I am concerned that the TP,s are too hard nosed, intolerant, and bigoted to suit me.
Michael Armstrong Sr.
These guys had better get use to being kicked to the curb mid terms is coming .
The message is that the people in this country are fed up with the lying & deception from Washington.
sunsohot
extreme right or extreme left, either one will promote extreme unrest in this country; find a place at near right or near left or even near middle, the unrest will continue, it just won't be so extreme....
sun so hot in Southern California
I am voting to oust all incumbents whether they have been there one term or 10.
I really don't care who the opponents are but they at least are not poisoned by government service. It is not possible for a newcomer to do a worse job than an incumbent.
Vote them all out!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Brian Coles
The message???: If you are a RINO, you get ridden, shot and buried. Next, we hunt down and thrash America-hating stinking lib DemoNcrats–especially the Chicago thug species and the limousine liberals.
Mike S., New Orleans
You can put a teabag on a Republican, but they're still a Republican.
Same wolf, different sheep's clothing.
Diane Dagenais Turbide
voting out of anger or making decision out of anger does nothing good and it will not give us more of what we as voters want!
The more we vote out the incumbents because they are incumbents the more we will get people with more left and more right views elected instead of getting people who can show common sense and compromise! So my point is just let's be smart about our duty to vote in full consciousness because voting everybody out will not move us in any welcome direction as we will be more divided as a country and it sure will not serve the people and the nation! This is why this congressman was not selected because he is not enough to the right! I mean c'mon! Everybody has a different definition and opinion of what is someone too much to the left or too much to the right on any issues given and it serves no one! We have to take our vote seriously and consider all the weight of our vote! Take great care Jack!
When are we changing the Cafferty File to the Communist File?
You can all tremble trying to interpret the fact that the Republicans are putting their money where their mouth is. This column is flooded with fear that the conservative electorate is about to throw the posters socialist revolution out on its head.
As for the comment about splitting the conservatives in this country, what a dimwitted notion. I guess the fact that we have primaries has slipped your radar screen. No one will vote for this adminstration again.
jeff jackson, alabama
Do you really think you would have said
it's a wonderful thing if he had been a
democrat ? Your true colors are shining
again, Jack.
The problem is not just with incumbents. The problem is with career politicians. If we oust one incumbent only to replace him with a horse of the same color from a lower political office, we've done nothing more than given that position a face-lift. We need to oust the politicians, and replace them with people interested in genuine change. The change we need is not necessarily a change in WHAT we do, but a change in HOW we do it – we need to go back to a system where our elected leaders truly govern and get things DONE. For example, we need to go back to a system where those in office work together on EVERY bill, to get the RIGHT solution, rather than filibustering everything the opposing party tries to accomplish. The idea that if the Democrats hold 60 seats in the Senate they must therefore have a filibuster-proof majority makes the toxic assumption that because one is a Democat, then one will necessarily vote to reject a Republican filibuster.
Benjamin in D.C.
The message is that we want someone equally incompetnet, only younger and more ideologically rigid.
I don't really understand the fascination with throwing out incumbents. Incumbents are replaced by people, no better or worse than the people they're replacing, usually. Then, next election, you've got a whole new batch of incumbents to throw out. Seems like a pretty shallow angle to take on politics. Keep the good people and throw out the bad, incumbent or not.
Lynn from Utah
Having been at the Utah Rep. Convention last Saturday, the message was clear.
And it should be for the rest of the nation;
If anything about a candidate smacks of "Good ol' Boy" Washington Club, or the same ol' game, they've had it, they are done.
The message included the need for REAL change, Constitutional change. The legislative branch should legislate and rein in the other 2 branches of government. Period. NOT spend what they don't have, and NOT let a mis-guided President, run over them or the American people. Also, that federal socialist policies and programs are NOT welcome nor will they be tolerated.
It is a message for incumbent and newcomer alike.
Robert W, North carolina
The message is "yes we want change but good change only". Obama started the change ball rolling but can he stop it from rolling the other way? We shall see in Nov.
Mike From Mass.
Throw all the bums out republican and democrat ,they have all become corrupted by the system . They do not care what the people want, all they care about is there cronies.
JiminNM
Vote for the person you believe will best represent America as a patriot. Voting for the lesser of two evils is wasting your vote. Bad people get elected by the people that vote for them, not by the people that vote for a patriot who doesn't win. Repubs and Dems are both controlled by the same puppet masters and equally bad for America.
Nurse Lisa in Shelton CT
don't let the door hit ya on the backside when you leave. While many incumbents are in jeopardy, I think the shockers are the repugs or independents that will be ousted when their terms are up (Joe L – are you listening?)
James cash
I am voting to oust all long term incumbents.Both parties need to be on Notice.
Some Dems think this will split the Republican party, more Dems will be thrown out in Nov then Republicans...
Voter Rage is here ...
ValerieNYC
Well Jack, it goes to show us all that this isn't just about incumbent Democrats. People are fed up with congress, regardless of party period. I hope that our officials wake up and see this as a lesson to stop all the corruption, the blockages and stalling, and the stagnant behavior done in favor of political gain.
amigay
From Ft Lauderdale, FL – Until you take money and lobbyists out of the equation, you won't see a d**n thing change. All this talk of ousting incumbents is just a lot of hot air because all that will replace them is the same or worse. It wouldn't hurt to have an informed electorate either. As I paraphrase what HL Mencken once said "no one ever lost money underestimating the intelligence of the plain people."
The message is for "pro government intrusion" politicians more than incumbants. People are terrified of the overreach of the Obama administration and don't like that the solution to every problem seems to be bigger government. When Obama said he was going to "re-make" america, I don't think most people took it literally. He meant it. So any politician that wants to put power back into the hands of the people is going to do well this year.
I you think this is splintering the republican party you are way off base. No way a Tea Bagger will vote for a Dem over a Republican, no way!
Virgil Wilson
It better send all incumbants a message that we are tired of their crooked, B.S. politics. It is time for people to represent us, the citizens of the country, not the lobbiest and the highest bidder for their votes.
We seriously need term limits on Congress.
" you can put lipstick on the pig, but it is still pig"


While anyone just starting a new exercise regimen may want to save money by choosing a manual treadmill, anyone looking for serious athletic training or a good indoor running workout will want a motorized treadmill. Although they can cost four times as much as manual machines, motorized treadmills offer the best option for runners with larger running areas, faster speeds and more of the features athletes want.
Remember that motorized treadmills are very heavy. They can weigh as much as 400 pounds. Anyone who feels uncomfortable assembling a machine of that size and complexity may want to consider paying a service to deliver and set up the machine in the home. Many units require lubrication during set up, which is a challenge for some. If you don't hire a service, make sure you have a mechanically inclined friend handy to help you lift and assemble the machine. It's not a one-person job.
Also, take into account that this large machine will take up as much room as a small couch. Be sure you have the space before you buy. While folding models can help save space, check reviews to be sure the unit is easy to fold and put away; otherwise, you will end up leaving it out anyway. Be aware that even when folded, most machines won't fit through doorways, being just an inch or two wider than a standard 32" doorway.
One concern that often arises with motorized treadmills is safety. Small children are curious and can become injured if they lose control while on the running deck. Safety keys ensure safer operation, but parents must be careful to keep them out of reach from small hands to minimize the danger. Always tether the key to your person when using the machine to be certain the belt shuts off should you stumble and fall.
Obviously, you want a treadmill that will hold up to the abuse hours of pounding feet will put on the deck. Experts recommend the deck is at least 1/4 thick to accommodate the abuse. You'll also want to be sure that the deck is large enough to be comfortable while running. For tall users, look for a deck at least 18" wide and 50" long. Average-height runners can get away with a 16" wide deck that is at least 45" long. Finally, make sure it can handle your weight, especially if you currently overweight.
Generally, runners need a treadmill with a speed of 10mph. Most treadmills also come with incline features to offer a more intense workout. The motor on a good treadmill must put out at least 2 continuous-duty horsepower.
Although you don't need all the features you'll find on a quality treadmill, you'll find them included nonetheless. While monitoring heart rate, calories, workout time and distance are the essentials, you'll find many more features designed to entice buyers. Be sure the basics are included. The rest is just gravy. The best heart monitors are bands you wear on your chest, but most machines monitor heart rate through grip handles. These are less accurate, but the savings on the machine will more than pay for you to buy a separate heart rate monitor. A good one will cost you between $50 and $100.
Expect to pay between $600 to just over $1,000 for a quality treadmill. ProForm, Horizon, and Lifespan are the best brands in this price range, though we were able to find an incredible deal on a Nautilus for just over $1,000.


Products are offered for manual nucleic acid sequencing, including equipment, reagents, and accessories for sample preparation, sequencing reaction cleanup, electrophoresis, gel drying, imaging, and data analysis.
The Sequi-Gen GT nucleic acid sequencing cell makes it easy to cast and run sequencing gels. The system's design ensures smile-free patterns and offers an easy horizontal casting method.
Vinyl sharkstooth combs and spacers, multichannel pipet-compatible combs, machined vinyl wedge spacers, plastic combs, and spacers.


I'm heading tomorrow morning to meet with a Pakistani friend who I met back in January. This young man, whose name I'll keep anonymous for security purposes, is a native of Islamabad, Pakistan. He arrived to Dublin via work visa over eight years ago.
When his work visa ended he filed the necessary paperwork to live (legally) in Ireland. His paperwork, however, even to this day, has yet to be handled properly by the Irish authorities. No one even responds to his phone calls or letters. The solicitor he hired years ago has failed to even find his papers.
I, as anyone with an open heart, was disheartened, frustrated, and a bit disgusted when I heard his story.
In a nutshell, he's a solid man who's contributing positively to Irish society. He's well-educated (business degree from Pakistan), caring of his neighbours and family oriented, all qualities which have been associated to some degree with 'Irishness'.
Aside from the aforementioned, it should also be noted that this man wouldn't even hurt a fly. He's calm, carries an easy-going demeanor and treats strangers with the utmost respect and courtesy. This last point was obvious when he welcomed me into his surroundings with the typical (and famous) Pakistani hospitality.
His positive qualities don't end there. He's clearly a hard worker, which is evident in his successful business endeavor. He's well-respected by the local community in which he works and resides. He also told me about his clean record and how he has never once broken an Irish law (or any law for that matter).
For me the hardest part of his story is the present situation with his mother, who is now ill back in Islamabad. Unfortunately he can't even visit her because if he leaves he probably won't be allowed back into Ireland.
This man, quite obviously, exists in a state of fear, paranoia, and overall insecurity.
These conditions, speaking frankly, if I may, are in violation of his human rights.
One has to wonder – why is this happening to him?
Is it because he's from Pakistan?
Does he have the wrong skin colour?
Is Ireland a racial state?
I'm interested in hearing your thoughts on his story. Perhaps I could use your comments as part of my research.
hi the last one about his mother really the sad one i m from Pakistan too……..
Indeed, it's sad, and what's even more sad is I can't find any Irish outlet to publish this story. They've expressed interest, but never come through. I want to share his story and improve the situation for him and others.
It is sad that his papers are lost and he has no option but to stay illegally.
But I feel in all these years he has made enough money and now should go back to his homeland and stay with his mother and family.
Is money the only factor in life. ..
where do you strike a balance.
Pakistan is also a good place to live .. why not live there in your own culture and and people with your religion and language especially now that he must have saved enough money for establishing business in Pakistan itself..
But if family and emotions come first for him then he must leave … and be happy .


text:
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President Obama Announces US Troops Will Be Out of Iraq by Year's End [VIDEO]
Shauna Wright
In a White House briefing held Friday, President Obama announced the remaining American troops in Iraq will be home by the end of the year, closing a war effort there that has killed more than 4,400 US servicepeople and wounded 32,000 more since 2003.
"After nine years, America's war in Iraq will be over," the president said.
The US and Iraq had been negotiating over whether several thousand military trainers would stay behind or if all of the remaining 36,000 troops would depart as planned by December 31. When Iraq could not guarantee legal immunity for any US forces that stayed in the country, the president made the decision to bring them all home.
According to a White House official, "This deal was cut by the Bush administration, the agreement was always that at end of the year we would leave, but the Iraqis wanted additional troops to stay. We said here are the conditions, including immunities. But the Iraqis because of a variety of reasons wanted the troops and didn't want to give immunity. So that's it. Now our troops go to zero."
Friday's announcement fulfills a key promise Obama made during his presidential campaign. He once called the Iraq intervention a "dumb war" and later vowed that, if elected, he would bring troops home during his administration.
[ABC News]
Read Original: President Obama Announces US Troops Will Be Out of Iraq by Year's End [VIDEO]
Filed Under: iraq, obama, troops
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I have yet another great Fall lipstick for you today.
This is 'Plum Perfect' from Maybelline.
'Plum Perfect' is a lovely, deep plum red.
it went out smoothly and beautifully.
With flash, you can see the deep red a bit easier, but none of the pics really do it justice.
It's even darker in person.
and I definitely plan on wearing it more often.
wow that's a gorgeous shade. it looks amazing on you!
So vampy! This is gorgeous on you!


TKK, IAMX, DB19, The Horrorost, Das Ich + More!
Taimur Agha spins Thursday 10/8 – FREE ENTRY all night!
NEW SHOWS: Kevin Hart, Jewel, The Roots, Scott Weiland & more!
NEW SHOWS: Carly Rae Jepsen, Phish, Café Tacvba & more!!
RSVP for Pink Droyd Tickets!
Lunch, Dinner, Appetizers & Oktoberfest!


Jhove; check sum generator; GIMP; IrfanView; Heritrix crawler; Wayback Machine web archive replay software.
we might integrate it with Archivematica.
Starting to use Archivsts Tool kit, some use of DSspace.
Considering California Digital Library Web Archiving Service for web preservation and CDL's Merritt platform.
Looking at Archive-It for harvesting websites.
Looking at ways to archive websites.
Plan to contract with CDL Web Archiving Service this year.
Plan to use Archive-It's web archiving service.
Several under consideration for archiving websites.


text:
Press Clips: Three Columns and a Bird In the Hand
Score one for old school: The best columnists are first and foremost good reporters, as George Skelton proved anew this week, with a splendid 848-word takedown of Meg Whitman for the latest in her string of brazen departures from the truth. Capturing the coveted Calbuzz Little Pulitzer for Investigative Punditry, George did an honest day's worth of Actual Reporting to absolutely nail eMeg with a piece called "Meg Whitman's Radio Whoppers" (memo to copy desk: nice hed).
The L.A. Timesman painstakingly demolished her phony claim that state spending has increased 80 percent in 10 years – for those keeping score at home, the true, slightly smaller, figure is, um, 27 percent:
We instinctively grant latitude to advertisers, whether they're peddling politicians, dog food or miracle paring knives. But we do expect that an ad will not flat-out lie…
Now, in the very first series of radio ads in the 2010 gubernatorial race, comes blatant baloney from billionaire political novice Meg Whitman, the former chief executive of EBay who is running for the Republican nomination.
Blatant baloney indeed. This is now at least the third time in a few weeks that Her Megness has been exposed as an almost total stranger to the truth. After her ceaseless dissembling about her disgraceful voting record and the bald-faced lie she told conservative radio yakker Eric Hogue in promising to debate Steve Poizner three times before winter, this latest bit of stinky cheese has the full aroma of something rancid.
As we used to say at the city desk, if it happens once it's news, twice it's a coincidence and three times, it's a trend.
Weintraub Watch: Ahem, ahem (sound of ponderous throat-clearing):
The last time California elected a governor who was pro-life, Ronald Reagan was president, Vida Blue was pitching for the San Francisco Giants and Gavin Newsom, now San Francisco's mayor, was a sophomore at the University of Santa Clara . It was 1986 when George Deukmejian beat Tom Bradley in a re-match of their 1982 nail-biter.
We offer that ersatz column lede as an antidote to this unfortunately real one:
"The last time California elected a governor from Northern California, John F. Kennedy was president, the San Francisco Giants had just won their first National League pennant, and Gavin Newsom, now San Francisco's mayor, had not been born. It was 1962 when Gov. Edmund G. Brown won a second term by defeating Richard M. Nixon."
Now, Calbuzz is simply delighted that Dan Weintraub got himself a forum in the ByGodAllMighty New York Times (even if only in the NYT's skimpy Bay Area pages), but we really wish he'd borrow a page from Skelton's book and do some actual reporting so he could write something relevant about California politics.
The stop-the-presses premise of last Sunday's column – that the state in 2010 will elect a governor from Northern, not Southern, California – is nothing but fluffy flapdoodle. (Especially when, just the week before, Weintraub teed up a chin-stroker quoting a top legislator as saying, "The whole Northern California versus Southern California frame is so 1980s. It's different now").
Lest this seem unduly harsh, we hasten to add that we, of all people, understand how truly difficult it is to come up with ONE COLUMN A WEEK(!!!). Because we're collegial and collaborative fellows who understand that There Is No "I" in T-E-A-M, here are some suggested ledes for future – strange but true! – political anomaly columns:
1-The 2010 governor's race is the first in memory in which 60 percent of the candidates have first names with five letters while only 40 percent have three, The Times has learned.
2-Next year's election will mark the sixth consecutive contest for governor of California without a strong Armenian-American in the field, according to veteran political professionals on this coast.
3-For only the third time this century, a gubernatorial campaign will be conducted without a contender named Angelides strongly positioned to win his party's nomination, sources said.
You could look it up.
Going, going, con-con: Our Department of Drill Down Policy Analysis and Professional Wonkery is still working its way with a yellow highlighter through the 8,000 words of the second of two initiatives sponsored by the Bay Area Council aimed at convening a constitutional convention in California.
While awaiting what we like to call their work product deliverable, we deduce that the best online package put together on the proposals to date may be found over at Fox and Hounds, where proprietor Joel Fox, the estimable Joe Mathews and the inevitable John Wildermuth cobbled together an examination of the matter from various perspectives.
The reliably nimble Mathews piece,which posits a batch of not-so-frequently-asked questions, is the best place to start, as he gets elbow deep in the crankcase grease of the thing, and pulls out some surprising spare parts:
So what's not on the table?
Raising or reducing taxes and fees. Specifically, the convention's revisions, amendments or suggested statutory changes "may not include new language, or alter existing language, that (1) directly imposes or reduces any taxes or fees; (2) sets the frequency at which real property is assessed or re-assessed; or (3) defines "change in ownership' as it relates to any tax or fee.'"
It was just a few months ago that Calbuzz was defending con con sponsors in their dispute with Capitol Weekly, which had reported that Bay Area Council types were quietly maneuvering to banish debate about Proposition 13 from the convention agenda. Now it appears CapWeekly had it right along.
A Middle Finger Scoop: Mega-kudos to Tim Redmond, our mildly eccentric old friend at the SF Bay Guardian, who scooped the world with his blog post demonstrating that Governor Schwarzmuscle had issued a veto message about one of SF Assman Tom Ammiano's bills that spelled out "I Fuck You" with the first letter of the first word in nine consecutive lines.
When we emailed Redmond (who apparently was not wearing a Dr, Hackenflack decoder ring) how he'd cracked the code, he said:
Honestly, I got a tip to look at it (as you know, once you've been doing this for 25 years people call with all kinds of stuff), and once you look at it it's pretty clear. Amazing, huh?
Absolutely bro. Another amazing thing was that rival news organizations jumped in to follow Redmond's scoop, rather than pooh-poohing it or pretending it didn't exist, in direct violation of traditional San Francisco journalistic practice. The consistently quick off the mark S.F. Weekly, the Guardian's chief rival, came back with its own scoop, reporting that a top mathematician put the odds at 1 in 2 billion that the governor's salute to Ammiano was a coincidence, while the dry-witted John Diaz at the Chron used the same technique to embed his own secret message to the governor ("grow up girlie-man") in an editorial tut-tutting at Arnold for the stunt.
Good times.
category: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bay Area Council, California Constitution, California Governor's Race, California Politics, Meg Whitman, Newspapers, Tom Ammiano
Sac Economist says:
RE: So what's not on the table?
When did we make Prop 13 the 11 Commandment? Any attempt at a constitution revision that doesn't put all fiscal provisions on the table will be an exercise in futility. If anyone connected to this initiative is actually concerned about putting the state's fiscal house in order they need to be honest and admit that voter-imposed tax and spend restrictions (with Prop 13 topping a long list) are the heart of the problem. Picking and choosing which ones to touch and not touch reveals a serious bias and represents a formidable blind spot. Abiding by this restriction will make the convention a spectacular "rearranging the deck chairs" event. Just look what happened with the Parsky Commission's work when it made the same strategic blunder.
SezMe says:
teapot.