The discussion is here.
Read it and respond if interested...
12.30.2008
Koschnick, Gossett, the Swift Boaters and Abramoff
Right-wing Judge and candidate for WI Supreme Court Randy Koschnick has recruited our Republican DA to be the treasurer for his spring campaign, according to the footer of his website.
That would mean that Gossett is in charge of fundraising. Funny thing, they are using a service called donationreport.com for online collections.
This is a service of the Donatalli Group. Where do we know them from? The Swift Boat Veterans for Truth:
The Donatelli Group were also fundraisers for Abramoff lackey Ralph Reed:
Why is it important that DA Gosset is the Treasurer using this service? A Treasurer has an important role in a Judicial campaign. Judges are not allowed to collect money themselves. All of this needs to be done by the Treasurer.
It was Gossett that had to approve this. I would hope he would look deeper into the people he chooses to work with.
That would mean that Gossett is in charge of fundraising. Funny thing, they are using a service called donationreport.com for online collections.
This is a service of the Donatalli Group. Where do we know them from? The Swift Boat Veterans for Truth:
The Swift Boat Veterans for Truth's SWIFTBOATVETSFORTRUTH.ORG website was registered July 30, 2004, with CD, Inc. (Connell Donatelli Inc.) as registrant, administrator, and the tech organization. The Swift Boat Veterans for Truth's SWIFTBOATVETERANSFORTRUTH.COM website was also registered July 30, 2004, with CD, Inc. as registrant, administrator, and tech organization for the website.
The Donatelli Group were also fundraisers for Abramoff lackey Ralph Reed:
The Network was coordinated by Gary Marx, "a political consultant for George W. Bush's campaign at Century Strategies in 1999, when its founder and president Ralph E. Reed was allegedly helping his long-time friend Jack Abramoff swindle over $1.2 million from the Choctaw Indians" and "coalitions organizer for the Bush-Cheney campaign in 2004" [12], and Wendy E. Long, a "former clerk for Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas" [13].Other Donatelli/Donationreport.com hits include a David Horowitz Red Cross scam.
Why is it important that DA Gosset is the Treasurer using this service? A Treasurer has an important role in a Judicial campaign. Judges are not allowed to collect money themselves. All of this needs to be done by the Treasurer.
It was Gossett that had to approve this. I would hope he would look deeper into the people he chooses to work with.
12.29.2008
Ziggy tries to get by on $125,900
Manitowoc County Exec and State rep Bob Ziegelbauer announced today that he "will be returning my scheduled pay raise for this session."
Brave action Ziggy, maybe in your press release you should have mentioned that you also will be receiving $75,813 in pay as County Exec in Manitowoc.
Ziegelbauer, however, rightly points out in his press release:
Now, I don't point this out specifically to dump on Ziegelbauer. I do it to point out the stupidity of the entire exercise.
Lawmakers, like any other worker, are entitled to a fair wage. It is not out of line to increase their pay by a level close to inflation.
But, stupid politics dictates that these leggies need to deny themselves this raise. If a Rep had some guts, they would say that the raise is not out of line, and they have bills to pay just like any other WI resident. Most of them are your representatives as their only full-time job.
If anything else, we should let the market speak, maybe if salaries were larger for these people, we might get a better quality employee to run...
Either way, Ziegelbauer is not a hero for refusing the raise, he is just another politician - making a symbolic stance that is in essence meaningless and of no consequence to his entire pay package.
Brave action Ziggy, maybe in your press release you should have mentioned that you also will be receiving $75,813 in pay as County Exec in Manitowoc.
Ziegelbauer, however, rightly points out in his press release:
Note to the press: Since these raises occur only once every two years, in fairness, this increase ought to be described as a "5.3% over two years" or "equivalent to a 2.65% annual increase", not simply as a "5.3% pay increase".What he doesn't point out is that his scheduled annual pay increase as County Exec is about 3.5%, from $78,500. Even greater than his increase in Legislative pay.
Now, I don't point this out specifically to dump on Ziegelbauer. I do it to point out the stupidity of the entire exercise.
Lawmakers, like any other worker, are entitled to a fair wage. It is not out of line to increase their pay by a level close to inflation.
But, stupid politics dictates that these leggies need to deny themselves this raise. If a Rep had some guts, they would say that the raise is not out of line, and they have bills to pay just like any other WI resident. Most of them are your representatives as their only full-time job.
If anything else, we should let the market speak, maybe if salaries were larger for these people, we might get a better quality employee to run...
Either way, Ziegelbauer is not a hero for refusing the raise, he is just another politician - making a symbolic stance that is in essence meaningless and of no consequence to his entire pay package.
12.17.2008
11.06.2008
11.05.2008
Recount in the 18th? Results below...
180 votes out of over 83,000 cast in unofficial results.
County - Jess King - Randy Hopper - Difference
Dodge - 981 - 1,303 - (322)
Winnebago - 24,451 - 20,213 - 4,238
FDL - 16,232 - 20,328 - (4,096)
Total - 41,664 - 41,844 - (180)
There are also provisional ballots to be decided, as well as the results being unofficial.
In Winnebago County we use 2 types of voting machines - touchscreen and scanners. The results on the county website are sometimes shown as complete for a ward even if the ward only has one of the machine types reported.
There are several questions about these results. Lets get to the bottom of this.
County - Jess King - Randy Hopper - Difference
Dodge - 981 - 1,303 - (322)
Winnebago - 24,451 - 20,213 - 4,238
FDL - 16,232 - 20,328 - (4,096)
Total - 41,664 - 41,844 - (180)
There are also provisional ballots to be decided, as well as the results being unofficial.
In Winnebago County we use 2 types of voting machines - touchscreen and scanners. The results on the county website are sometimes shown as complete for a ward even if the ward only has one of the machine types reported.
There are several questions about these results. Lets get to the bottom of this.
11.04.2008
11.01.2008
Help Get Out the Vote in Winnebago County
Hello Members, Friends and Volunteers for the Winnebago County Democratic Party!
It is time to Get Out the Vote (GOTV)!
After the long primary, the general campaign, it comes down to these last 3 days.
Your Winnebago County Democratic Party will be working for the election every day, through Tuesday evening.
To volunteer, please contact:
Winnebago County Office – (920) 426-2262
Scott Jacobs
(920) 426-8060 - sjacobs@obamacampaign4change.org
Info on our Victory Party:Winnebago County Victory Party!
Come out to celebrate our hard earned victories!
8:01 PM – Tues, November 4th
Beckets Center Court – 1 City Center (Old Park Plaza Mall Center Court, Oshkosh
Refreshments, DJ, Returns on the Big Screen and Fellow Democrats!
Please help out whenever you can! Every vote will count for all of our local candidates as well as Obama/Biden!
10.30.2008
Why I love YouTube...
I woke up this morning with an obscure 90's song in my head.
I went to YouTube.
There is was...
Everyone, Mr Bungle:
I have this on cassette tape...
I went to YouTube.
There is was...
Everyone, Mr Bungle:
I have this on cassette tape...
10.29.2008
Volunteer for Election Day...
Don't let this happen:
Call 920.426.2262 (920.42-OBAMA) to volunteer at the Winnebago County Democratic Party Headquarters.
Call 920.426.2262 (920.42-OBAMA) to volunteer at the Winnebago County Democratic Party Headquarters.
10.19.2008
Is it just me....
Or does it make sense that a man with 7 houses and a wife worth $100 million would be worried about spreading the wealth a little.
10.15.2008
10.07.2008
9.27.2008
Quote of the Week...
Krugman on his NYTimes blog, discussing the illogical Republican solutions to our current financial situation:
Well, if a party runs on economic nonsense for 25 years, eventually many of its foot soldiers will be people who actually believe the nonsense.
9.24.2008
Save Wisconsin's Vote... Investigate the WI GOP
Perhaps you have heard about the absentee ballot applications the WI GOP has sent out to Wisconsin residents.
They have, in may instances, sent a ballot application with an incorrect return address. In one instance, a local Winnebago County Democratic Party member received an absentee ballot form from the WI GOP with a return address to go to the Town of Neenah clerk, when she lives and votes in the Town of Menasha.
I have several instances of this happening.
What are the results of this? Our member, if the application is sent in, may be denied the vote. By applying for voting in the incorrect town, she will not receive a ballot. When the ballot is not received, it will be too late to apply for another one. Her only option would be to vote the day of the election.
Then, this elderly woman would have to potentially stand in line for hours to vote. Her knees are not that good, maybe she would decide not to wait that long.
The other consequence would be for the local clerks to sort out the problem. Something our stretched thin municipal governments can not handle. The hours spent correcting the WI GOP mailing will eat into needed hours to prep for what could be the highest turn-out election in Wisconsin history.
Whether the WI GOP address problem was a mistake or a dirty election tactic, they are setting up the mass disenfranchisement of absentee voters, and a chain reaction that will lead to havoc on Nov 4th.
This issue needs to be investigated now. If the WI GOP cannot prove there was a mistake made, there should be prosecution.
One Wisconsin Now has a petition online about this issue, you can sign it with the links in this message:
They have, in may instances, sent a ballot application with an incorrect return address. In one instance, a local Winnebago County Democratic Party member received an absentee ballot form from the WI GOP with a return address to go to the Town of Neenah clerk, when she lives and votes in the Town of Menasha.
I have several instances of this happening.
What are the results of this? Our member, if the application is sent in, may be denied the vote. By applying for voting in the incorrect town, she will not receive a ballot. When the ballot is not received, it will be too late to apply for another one. Her only option would be to vote the day of the election.
Then, this elderly woman would have to potentially stand in line for hours to vote. Her knees are not that good, maybe she would decide not to wait that long.
The other consequence would be for the local clerks to sort out the problem. Something our stretched thin municipal governments can not handle. The hours spent correcting the WI GOP mailing will eat into needed hours to prep for what could be the highest turn-out election in Wisconsin history.
Whether the WI GOP address problem was a mistake or a dirty election tactic, they are setting up the mass disenfranchisement of absentee voters, and a chain reaction that will lead to havoc on Nov 4th.
This issue needs to be investigated now. If the WI GOP cannot prove there was a mistake made, there should be prosecution.
One Wisconsin Now has a petition online about this issue, you can sign it with the links in this message:
|
9.23.2008
Oshkosh Really is the Center of the World...
As I pointed out here...
...and MSNBC confirms today.
Obama leads the money chase in key counties
Scouring the latest campaign finance data for a Palin bounce, other trends
Beaver County, Pennsylvania. Ohio's Ashtabula County. Winnebago County, Wisconsin.
These are the counties where the 2008 presidential election may be decided. They're battleground counties in the battleground states.
9.18.2008
Is Randy Hopper Against Maternity & Family Leave?
Another greatest hit from WIEye...
In an interview with Candidate Randy Hopper at the Winnebago County Republican Party Corn Roast, he stated (and I paraphrase)...
"I spoke with a business that sold off a million dollar unit because they were about to go over 50 employees. That is absurd."
Why would that happen? Because of the Family and Medical Leave Act. Once you have 50 employees, you need to offer maternity leave. Once you have over 50 employees, you need to allow employees to care for their spouses when they are critically ill.
I believe it is important that we allow new families the time to adjust and recuperate after a birth.
I also believe that families need the time to care for loved ones in times of dire need.
I guess Randy Hopper doesn't.
In an interview with Candidate Randy Hopper at the Winnebago County Republican Party Corn Roast, he stated (and I paraphrase)...
"I spoke with a business that sold off a million dollar unit because they were about to go over 50 employees. That is absurd."
Why would that happen? Because of the Family and Medical Leave Act. Once you have 50 employees, you need to offer maternity leave. Once you have over 50 employees, you need to allow employees to care for their spouses when they are critically ill.
I believe it is important that we allow new families the time to adjust and recuperate after a birth.
I also believe that families need the time to care for loved ones in times of dire need.
I guess Randy Hopper doesn't.
9.14.2008
9.09.2008
So Much for a $400 Haircut...
Vanity Fair editors estimated that (Cindy) McCain's fierce saffron shirt dress with the popped collar, diamond earrings, four-strand pearl necklace, white Chanel watch and strappy shoes totaled up to $313,100.
9.06.2008
In a more diverse America, a mostly white RNC
Only 36 of the 2,380 delegates seated on the convention floor are black, the lowest number since the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies began tracking diversity at political conventions 40 years ago. Each night, the overwhelmingly white audience watches a series of white politicians step to the lectern - a visual reminder that no black Republican has served as a governor, U.S. senator or U.S. House member in the past six years.
9.02.2008
Rove on VP Material...
"With all due respect again to Governor Kaine, he's been a governor for three years, he's been able but undistinguished," Rove said. "I don't think people could really name a big, important thing that he's done. He was mayor of the 105th largest city in America."He goes on to say:
"So if he were to pick Governor Kaine, it would be an intensely political choice where he said, `You know what? I'm really not, first and foremost, concerned with, is this person capable of being president of the United States? What I'm concerned about is, can he bring me the electoral votes of the state of Virginia, the 13 electoral votes in Virginia?'"
Of perhaps a short term Governor and Mayor of a tinier town to maybe chase the female or Libertarian vote?
It's just politics.
9.01.2008
One Quote Says It All
"This is really unbelievable, let everyone vote and see what happens," said Bob Spindell, election commissioner for the city of Milwaukee and chairman of the GOP's 4th Congressional District. "This could be the presidency of the United States on the line here."
We wouldn't want to let everyone vote?
8.27.2008
WCDP Events - Witness History on Thursday
Hello members and friends of the Winnebago County Democratic Party!
We invite you to spend Thursday, August 28th witnessing history with your fellow activists as Sen Barack Obama accepts the nomination of the Democratic Party for President of the United States.
This historic event will take place in front of 75,000 in Denver, and in front of friends and fellow activists projected on the big screen at the Winnebago County Democratic Party HQ at 480 N Main St, Oshkosh.
Please bring a dish to pass if you can. Refreshments will be supplied by the WCDP. We will start watching the convention after 6:00 PM.
Then on Saturday and Sunday, take Sen Obama’s message to voters during our weekend of action. There will be canvases and lit drops in across Winnebago County. If you can help, please contact:
Neenah, Menasha, Clayton, Winneconne: Caitlin Hurley – 414.803.5697 or caitlinhurley@gmail.com
Oshkosh, Omro: Casey Giltner – 920.410.6668 giltner.case@students.uwlax.edu
You can also call the office at 920.426.2262 (42-OBAMA).
Even if you can’t help out this weekend, please let Caitlin and Casey know if you can help in the next 70 days (that’s all) until the election.
Then help us show our support on Labor Day!
Neenah/Menasha Labor Day Parade
When: September 1, 9:00AM
Where: Germania Hall
620 Chute St
March & wave in the parade, then enjoy music and food at the labor celebration at the union hall, 157 S Green Bay Rd, Neenah
Oshkosh Labor Day Celebration
When: September 1 12:00PM
Where: South Park
Oshkosh
Roasted corn, classic cars, good music and good people! Come out and enjoy!
Open House for County Exec Mark Harris
Please join the Harris Family in celebration of the first annual birthday fundraiser for County Executive Mark Harris
When: Thursday September 4th
Open House from 5:30 to 9:30
Where: La Sure’s Hall
3125 S. Washburn St.
Oshkosh, WI
Suggested contribution $25.00
For more information
call 920.232.8688 or mharris1@new.rr.com
2 events today:
Pool Party for Mark Westphal
When: Wednesday, August 27th 5-7 PM
Where: Don Winter’s home
451 Hawthorne St, Neenah
Info: Mark Westphal
920.727.4781 or sswes@earthlink.net
Come raise money to help take back the Assembly. Good times in a beautiful setting with fellow Fox Valley activists. Suggested donation $25.
Sen. Barack Obama Campaign for Change Young Professionals Night
When: Wednesday, August 27th 5:30-7:30 PM
Where Water City Grill
107 Algoma Blvd, Oshkosh
Info: Casey Giltner
920.426.2262 or giltner.case@students.uwlax.edu
Watch the Vice Presidential Nominee address, ask questions about the campaign, discuss the issues that face our generation, and learn how you can get involved in the campaign this election.
As always, please contact me at anytime with questions!
-jef-
Jef Hall
Chair, Winnebago County Democratic Party
2nd Vice Chair, Democratic Party of WI
224a Scott Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54901
920.203.6883
Authorized and paid for by the Winnebago County Democratic Party – Jef Hall, Chair
8.25.2008
Obama Events
Make sure to stay in touch with the events on the Barack Obama campaign website by clicking on the Obama Wisconsin Banner.
8.22.2008
Winnebago Dems Upcoming Events!
We have a few events for you to attend with your fellow Dems!
Winnebago County Democratic Party Corn Roast
Sen Obama’s Acceptance Speech for the Democratic Party Presidential Nomination!
Pool Party for Mark Westphal
Sen. Barack Obama Campaign for Change Young Professionals Night
Volunteer for Sen. Obama’s campaign!
Help fund the Winnebago County Democratic Party and our Candidates!
Get your Obama Campaign Gear!
As always, please contact me with any questions,
-jef-
Jef Hall
Chair, Winnebago County Democratic Party
2nd Vice Chair, Democratic Party of WI
224a Scott Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54901
920.203.6883
jef@jefhall.com
www.winnebagodems.com
www.jefhall.com
Authorized and Paid for by the Winnebago County Democratic Party – Jef Hall, Chair
Winnebago County Democratic Party Corn Roast
- When: Saturday, August 23rd 1-3 PM
- Where: Winnebago Community Park
- 76 & Y, Oshkosh Shelterhouse #1
- Info: Jef Hall
- 920.203.6883 or jef@jefhall.com
- Come out for all the Allen’s Corn you can eat! Mingle with your fellow Dems and local elected officials.
Sen Obama’s Acceptance Speech for the Democratic Party Presidential Nomination!
- When: Thursday, August 28th 6:00 PM
- Where: WCDP Campaign HQ
- 480 N Main St, Oshkosh
- Info: Casey Giltner
- 920.426.2262 or giltner.case@students.uwlax.edu
- Come see history made as Sen Obama accepts our nomination in front of 76,000 on the anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech.
- Bring a dish to pass, refreshments will be provided.
Pool Party for Mark Westphal
- When: Wednesday, August 27th 5-7 PM
- Where: Don Winter’s home
- 451 Hawthorne St, Neenah
- Info: Mark Westphal
- 920.727.4781 or sswes@earthlink.net
- Come raise money to help take back the Assembly. Good times in a beautiful setting with fellow Fox Valley activists. Suggested donation $25.
Sen. Barack Obama Campaign for Change Young Professionals Night
- When: Wednesday, August 27th 5:30-7:30 PM
- Where Water City Grill
- 107 Algoma Blvd, Oshkosh
- Info: Casey Giltner
- 920.426.2262 or giltner.case@students.uwlax.edu
- Watch the Vice Presidential Nominee address, ask questions about the campaign, discuss the issues that face our generation, and learn how you can get involved in the campaign this election.
Volunteer for Sen. Obama’s campaign!
- We will not change America without you!
- Contact Casey Giltner: 920.426.2262 or giltner.case@students.uwlax.edu
Help fund the Winnebago County Democratic Party and our Candidates!
- Giving online is secure and easy at:
- http://www.actblue.com/page/winnebagodems
Get your Obama Campaign Gear!
- We have buttons, stickers and t-shirts at the office for small donations!
- 480 N Main St, Oshkosh – 920.426.2262 (920-42-OBAMA!)
As always, please contact me with any questions,
-jef-
Jef Hall
Chair, Winnebago County Democratic Party
2nd Vice Chair, Democratic Party of WI
224a Scott Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54901
920.203.6883
jef@jefhall.com
www.winnebagodems.com
www.jefhall.com
Authorized and Paid for by the Winnebago County Democratic Party – Jef Hall, Chair
8.19.2008
Teddy Roosevelt Quote
The man of great wealth owes a peculiar obligation to the State, because he derives special advantages from the mere existence of government. Not only should he recognize this obligation in the way he leads his daily life and in the way he earns and spends his money, but it should also be recognized by the way in which he pays for the protection the States gives him.
8.14.2008
On Social Security’s Birthday, John McCain’s Plan
Would Leave 169,000 State Seniors at Risk of Poverty
Bush-McCain Privatization Plan Could Cut Guaranteed Benefits by
$181K per Senior in Wisconsin
Bush-McCain Privatization Plan Could Cut Guaranteed Benefits by
$181K per Senior in Wisconsin
MADISON – On the 73rd anniversary of Social Security, Senator John McCain’s privatization plan would leave 169,000 Wisconsin seniors at risk of poverty, according to a report released by Campaign for America’s Future.
“Wisconsin seniors cannot afford the Bush-McCain plan to gamble away Social Security on Wall Street,” said Joe Wineke, Chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin. “On the anniversary of Social Security, the seniors of this state will not allow Senator McCain to jeopardize the most successful anti-poverty program ever enacted.”
A report by Campaign for America’s Future shows that Social Security privatization could cut guaranteed benefits by $181,000 per senior in Wisconsin, placing 169,000 state seniors at risk of poverty.
In Wisconsin, 980,000 people depend on their earned Social Security benefit every month, according to the Social Security Administration. Senator McCain’s plan to divert a portion of payroll taxes into risky private accounts could force thousands below the poverty line.
“Senator McCain is again pushing George Bush’s plan, even after Americans rejected his earlier attempts to privatize Social Security and put profits ahead of families,” Wineke said. “We need to send a message to John McCain that Wisconsin does not want to gamble away our retirement security on the stock market.”
To view the full copy of Campaign for America’s Future’s Wisconsin Social Security report, visit: http://assets.ourfuture.org/documents/perils-of-privatization/wisconsin.pdf
8.13.2008
Why Evolution Matters...
From the NYTimes:
But for me, the most important thing about studying evolution is something less tangible. It's that the endeavor contains a profound optimism. It means that when we encounter something in nature that is complicated or mysterious, such as the flagellum of a bacteria or the light made by a firefly, we don't have to shrug our shoulders in bewilderment.
Instead, we can ask how it got to be that way. And if at first it seems so complicated that the evolutionary steps are hard to work out, we have an invitation to imagine, to play, to experiment and explore. To my mind, this only enhances the wonder.
8.12.2008
Not to Belabor a Point here, But... (Randy Hopper Response)
Here is what Randy Hopper (or at least his mouthpiece) has to say:
1. The Hopper Campaign is acknowledging that it would be illegal for Hopper and Townsend to have this discussion in the office, or else there would not be a denial.
2. Hopper and his campaign seem to be contradicting themselves. Once again, the complete quote from Randy Hopper in the WI EYE interview is:
Lies after the matter will not change the statement made before the complaint. And recorded.
See for yourself. The interview can be seen here. The statement starts at the 9:00 minute mark.
Nelson said the alleged misconduct never took place, as all political discussion between Randy Hopper and John Townsend happened at a lunch meeting, not in a Capitol office.This means 2 things:
1. The Hopper Campaign is acknowledging that it would be illegal for Hopper and Townsend to have this discussion in the office, or else there would not be a denial.
2. Hopper and his campaign seem to be contradicting themselves. Once again, the complete quote from Randy Hopper in the WI EYE interview is:
I came to Madison to meet with John to talk about my potential for running. We went to lunch and then we went back to his office and shut his door so we could talk about what I needed to do in the campaign. He had a great satellite map of the 151 bypass and I thought, “Wow, this is really a neat map.” I could see my office in the map and I said, “Let me see if I can find my house.” And I located my house and I said, “John, why does my house have pink lines drawn around it?” And it turns out, well I knew this already, but at the time I wasn’t assuming anything, but my house is an island with two other homes in the 53rd district and my backyard is in John’s district, but my house is in Carol Owen’s district.Hopper himself said that he spoke about the campaign after lunch, after closing the door, in a tax-payer funded office, with a taxpayer map.
Lies after the matter will not change the statement made before the complaint. And recorded.
See for yourself. The interview can be seen here. The statement starts at the 9:00 minute mark.
Complaint is Filed Aginst Randy Hopper for Campaigning with the Taxpayers Resources
A copy of the complaint is here.
The Journal has an overview here.
The FdL Reporter has a story here.
It is funny how the story out of the Hopper camp keeps changing. Here is the direct quote from the WIEYE interview:
This would mean that, unlike in Hopper's statement to the FdL reporter, they did discuss politics in his office.
Also, even if they looked at the map after they "shut his door so we could talk about what I needed to do in the campaign" and decided he was not in Townsend's district, they still discussed politics enough to get there, behind the closed door.
They are also admitting that whether they discussed campaign strategy or not, they were planning on it, right up until they saw the map.
Parse their words all they want, they broke the Assembly's rules, and perhaps the law.
The Journal has an overview here.
The FdL Reporter has a story here.
It is funny how the story out of the Hopper camp keeps changing. Here is the direct quote from the WIEYE interview:
"I came to Madison to meet with John to talk about my potential for running. We went to lunch and then we went back to his office and shut his door so we could talk about what I needed to do in the campaign."In the Reporter, he claimed:
"We stopped in his office — I don't remember, I think I left my coat in his office or I dropped my books off. We didn't discuss specifics of a campaign. In fact, I don't even live in his (Townsend's district), so it's irrelevant," Hopper said.The WI GOP claims:
Keith Gilkes, director of the Committee to Elect a Republican Senate, said Hopper and Townsend talked over lunch outside of the Capitol. They returned to look at Townsend's office but never discussed the campaign there because as soon as they arrived Hopper looked at a map of the district on the wall and discovered he didn't live in the district, Gilkes said.In the WI EYE interview, Randy Hopper did say he looked at a map in Townsend's office.
This would mean that, unlike in Hopper's statement to the FdL reporter, they did discuss politics in his office.
Also, even if they looked at the map after they "shut his door so we could talk about what I needed to do in the campaign" and decided he was not in Townsend's district, they still discussed politics enough to get there, behind the closed door.
They are also admitting that whether they discussed campaign strategy or not, they were planning on it, right up until they saw the map.
Parse their words all they want, they broke the Assembly's rules, and perhaps the law.
8.05.2008
Randy Hopper Admits to Potential Illegal Activity in the Capitol
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Rich Mantz
August 5, 2008 920-979-2317 fdldems@milwpc.com
Randy Hopper Admits to Potential Illegal Activity in the Capitol
State Senate Candidate kicks off campaign with closed-door meeting in taxpayer-funded office
Fond du Lac – Fond du Lac County Democratic Party Chair Rich Mantz today called on the Government Accountability Board to investigate accounts that State Senate Candidate Randy Hopper took part in an illegal campaign meeting in the State Capitol.
Hopper recently admitted in an interview with Wisconsin Eye that while meeting with Rep. John Townsend in Madison, the two "went back to his [capitol] office and shut the door so we could talk about what I needed to do in the campaign."
"After the caucus scandals of recent years, it is well known that it is unethical to campaign on the State's dime and with the State's resources." Mantz pointed out. "Candidate Hopper's actions show that he either doesn't understand the law, or that he doesn't care. Either way, the voters of the 18th District deserve better from their candidates."
In the interview, Candidate Hopper continued describing Rep. Townsend's use of "a great satellite map of the 151 bypass" that was in Townsend's taxpayer funded office to discuss political boundaries.
"We need to know immediately what other taxpayer supported public resources were used to convince Candidate Hopper to run for the State Senate." Mantz urged. "We do not need more of the dirty, back-room politics that clouded Madison in the Jensen years. Candidate Hopper seems to be enthusiastically jumping into the old-boys GOP club."
As Candidate Hopper continued in the interview:
Interviewer: "Are there any areas in which you break with the core Republican values?"
Hopper: "No. And I think that's important."
"Whether it is using big, special interest money to finance his campaign, taxpayer resources to plan it or tired Republican talking points rejected by voters across the district, Candidate Hopper has shown himself to be out of touch with the needs of the 18th district, and quite possibly on the wrong side of campaign & ethics laws." Mantz concluded.
"Hopper needs to understand that this type of back room politics might be acceptable in his home state of Illinois, but voters here in Wisconsin won't stand for it."
The entire interview can be seen on Wisconsin Eye’s website mms://71.87.25.133/cpn/cpn_080708_sen_hopper.wmv
Authorized & Paid for by the Democratic Party of Fond du Lac County Rich Mantz, Chair
August 5, 2008 920-979-2317 fdldems@milwpc.com
Randy Hopper Admits to Potential Illegal Activity in the Capitol
State Senate Candidate kicks off campaign with closed-door meeting in taxpayer-funded office
Fond du Lac – Fond du Lac County Democratic Party Chair Rich Mantz today called on the Government Accountability Board to investigate accounts that State Senate Candidate Randy Hopper took part in an illegal campaign meeting in the State Capitol.
Hopper recently admitted in an interview with Wisconsin Eye that while meeting with Rep. John Townsend in Madison, the two "went back to his [capitol] office and shut the door so we could talk about what I needed to do in the campaign."
"After the caucus scandals of recent years, it is well known that it is unethical to campaign on the State's dime and with the State's resources." Mantz pointed out. "Candidate Hopper's actions show that he either doesn't understand the law, or that he doesn't care. Either way, the voters of the 18th District deserve better from their candidates."
In the interview, Candidate Hopper continued describing Rep. Townsend's use of "a great satellite map of the 151 bypass" that was in Townsend's taxpayer funded office to discuss political boundaries.
"We need to know immediately what other taxpayer supported public resources were used to convince Candidate Hopper to run for the State Senate." Mantz urged. "We do not need more of the dirty, back-room politics that clouded Madison in the Jensen years. Candidate Hopper seems to be enthusiastically jumping into the old-boys GOP club."
As Candidate Hopper continued in the interview:
Interviewer: "Are there any areas in which you break with the core Republican values?"
Hopper: "No. And I think that's important."
"Whether it is using big, special interest money to finance his campaign, taxpayer resources to plan it or tired Republican talking points rejected by voters across the district, Candidate Hopper has shown himself to be out of touch with the needs of the 18th district, and quite possibly on the wrong side of campaign & ethics laws." Mantz concluded.
"Hopper needs to understand that this type of back room politics might be acceptable in his home state of Illinois, but voters here in Wisconsin won't stand for it."
The entire interview can be seen on Wisconsin Eye’s website mms://71.87.25.133/cpn/cpn_080708_sen_hopper.wmv
Authorized & Paid for by the Democratic Party of Fond du Lac County Rich Mantz, Chair
8.02.2008
NYTimes Profiles 3 Elections Where Voting Machines Could Have Made the Difference
A Tale of Three (Electronic Voting) Elections
Electronic voting has made great strides in reliability, but it has a long way to go. When reformers push for greater safeguards, they often argue that future elections could produce the wrong result because of a computer glitch or be stolen through malicious software. That’s being too nice.
...
1. The 2002 Georgia Senate and Governor Races — Senator Max Cleland, who lost three limbs in Vietnam, was defeated for re-election and Gov. Roy Barnes, a Democrat, was unseated. Polls had suggested that both men would win.
...
2. The 2006 Congressional Race in Florida’s 13th District — The machines said that Republican Vern Buchanan defeated Democrat Christine Jennings by 369 votes. But in Sarasota County, a Democratic area, up to 18,000 ballots, about 13 percent of the total cast, did not record a vote for Congress. That is extraordinarily high; in Republican Manatee County, only 2 percent of ballots didn’t contain a vote for Congress.
...
3. Alabama’s 2002 Race for Governor — Former Gov. Don Siegelman has been in the news because it appears that federal prosecutors may have put him in prison for political reasons. The controversy has brought attention to the odd way he lost the governorship.
Read it all here.
7.31.2008
WCDP Announcement
Hello members and Friends of the Winnebago County Democratic Party!
We need you to volunteer for a shift at the Winnebago County Fair!
Can you sign up? There is a schedule as it stands when this email was sent attached. I will update it online as it fills in here:
http://jef4wi.com/files/Fair08.pdf
Please sign up! We will have free passes for volunteer hours.
Get deputized to register voters in Oshkosh!
Want to work with the Winnebago Dems/Obama campaign to register voters? Sign up for a registration class on Thursday, August 7th. It will be at the HQ. Let Casey know if you want to sign up (Casey Giltner: 920.410.6668). You must live in Oshkosh.
Help staff the office for the Gallery Walk.
Oshkosh’s Gallery Walk is this Saturday, August 1st. We need people to staff the office and talk to voters. Please be there (480 N Main st, Oshkosh) between 6-10PM.
Volunteer for the Obama Campaign:
Casey Giltner: 920.410.6668
Caitlin Hurley: 781.254.5555
Let me know if you have any questions!
Jef Hall
Chair, Winnebago County Democratic Party
2nd Vice Chair, Democratic Party of WI
224a Scott Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54901
920.203.6883
jef@jefhall.com
www.winnebagodems.com
www.jefhall.com
Authorized and Paid for by the Winnebago County Democratic Party – Jef Hall, Chair.
We need you to volunteer for a shift at the Winnebago County Fair!
Can you sign up? There is a schedule as it stands when this email was sent attached. I will update it online as it fills in here:
http://jef4wi.com/files/Fair08.pdf
Please sign up! We will have free passes for volunteer hours.
Get deputized to register voters in Oshkosh!
Want to work with the Winnebago Dems/Obama campaign to register voters? Sign up for a registration class on Thursday, August 7th. It will be at the HQ. Let Casey know if you want to sign up (Casey Giltner: 920.410.6668). You must live in Oshkosh.
Help staff the office for the Gallery Walk.
Oshkosh’s Gallery Walk is this Saturday, August 1st. We need people to staff the office and talk to voters. Please be there (480 N Main st, Oshkosh) between 6-10PM.
Volunteer for the Obama Campaign:
Casey Giltner: 920.410.6668
Caitlin Hurley: 781.254.5555
Let me know if you have any questions!
Jef Hall
Chair, Winnebago County Democratic Party
2nd Vice Chair, Democratic Party of WI
224a Scott Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54901
920.203.6883
jef@jefhall.com
www.winnebagodems.com
www.jefhall.com
Authorized and Paid for by the Winnebago County Democratic Party – Jef Hall, Chair.
What Does Randy Hopper Stand For?
Interviewer: Are there any areas in which you break with the core Republican values?There you have it, Randy Hopper is not going to be an independent voice in Madison. Candidate Hopper is going to be yet another partisan tool for the discredited Republican agenda.
Candidate Hopper: No. And I think that’s important.
Do you want higher health care costs? Do you want stagnant wages? Do you want lower taxes for the top 5% of Americans, while we see service and infrastructure cuts for all Americans.
If so vote Hopper, there is no single way in which he breaks with that agenda.
Are you happy with republican rule? From Bush to Katrina to our own do-nothing Assembly, we have seen the failure of the GOP agenda. Randy Hopper does not break with that at all.
I think that is important to know as well.
7.30.2008
Another Quote From the Hopper Interview: Does WI have too few workers & too many manufacturing jobs?
In the words of candidate Randy Hopper: another greatest hit from the WI Eye interview:
Maybe I am a little off here, but I do not think that the problem with Mercury marine right now is that there are not enough workers:
We need someone in office that understands the forces at work in our local economy.
Mercury Marine is critical to our economy. We need to be able to entice people to come to our community so they have a healthy workforce to choose from because the last thing you want is them going, you know what? We’re going to have an employee shortage in Fond Du Lac County in the next 10 years due to baby boomers retiring.
..
What happens when one shift shuts down because there are not enough workers to work that shift and those jobs go someplace else, whether overseas or elsewhere in the country. That will give the business owners pause to think, “Well, I can operate at full capacity in this facility so why don’t I take one more shift?” Then pretty soon you’ve got one shift and that operate says that it is not cost effective for us to run here and the jobs go elsewhere.
Maybe I am a little off here, but I do not think that the problem with Mercury marine right now is that there are not enough workers:
FOND DU LAC, Wis. -- Boat engine maker Mercury Marine said it will cut 60 jobs and temporarily shut down production in Fond du Lac.
The company has already announced layoffs at other facilities in the U.S.
Spokesman Steve Fleming said slow boat sales and the poor economy have forced the company to cut costs. He said more layoffs could be coming, but he didn't know how many.
Along with the layoffs announced Monday, Mercury Marine will shut down production for three weeks starting Aug. 28. Fleming says a two-week shutdown had been expected but a third week was being added.
He said salaried employees will keep working during the shutdown. Hourly workers will not.
Mercury Marine is a subsidiary of Brunswick Corp., based in Lake Forest, Ill.
We need someone in office that understands the forces at work in our local economy.
7.29.2008
Voting History
In his interview with Wisconsin Eye, 18th Senate District Republican Candidate Randy Hopper claims that he is involved with local governments:
Voting records are open records. And it seems that Candidate Randy Hopper has not voted in an April (or municipal) election in this century.
These are open records, feel free to check them and contact me if you have questions...
I’ve been around Fond Du Lac County and I’m working with the County Executive to direct me into different divisions. It’s amazing to me how no one from the state is listening to the municipalities. They’ve got more efficient and effective ways to do the jobs that are required by the state but no one is asking them what those more efficient and effective ways are.Who are these people that are not concerned with local government? Well, one of those people are not Candidate Randy Hopper...
Voting records are open records. And it seems that Candidate Randy Hopper has not voted in an April (or municipal) election in this century.
These are open records, feel free to check them and contact me if you have questions...
7.26.2008
Jessica King’s Grassroots Support Trumps Hopper’s Deep Pockets in 18th Senate District Race
Jessica King’s Grassroots Support Trumps Hopper’s Deep Pockets in 18th Senate District Race
OSHKOSH – Recently filed campaign finance reports indicate stark differences between the campaigns of Democratic Candidate Jessica King and Republican Candidate Randy Hopper for the open 18th Senate District Seat.
King, a native of Fond du Lac and Rosendale, a UW-Oshkosh graduate, attorney, and current member of the Oshkosh Common Council received 486 individual contributions during the recent fundraising period, 90% of those contributions were less than $100.
Hopper, a radio station owner in Fond du Lac with no government experience and no public positions on issues at this time, had just 28 individual contributors, an average contribution of $682.90 and just 2 contributions less than $100.
“While Jessica King continues to reach out and receive broad support from Democrats, Republicans, and Independents throughout the 18th District, Mr. Hopper is relying on support from his big money friends. The fact that Mr. Hopper has not received a single contribution from anyone in Winnebago County is very telling of his campaign’s support and reach beyond Fond du Lac.”
Jessica King challenged the incumbent State Senator Carol Roessler before Roessler dropped out in March. Since then, Winnebago County Sheriff Mike Brooks announced and then dropped out; Mark Reiff had announced for the Senate Seat before deciding to move to the 54th District and run for Assembly; and Tim Lakin had been running for months before Republican operatives asked him to step down, leading to his withdrawal from the race.
“I understand why the Republican party establishment is backing someone with deep pockets like Randy Hopper. But the 18th Senate Seat is not for sale, and as Jessica King’s previous opponents have found out, she has broad support throughout the District from people who want real change in Madison and want someone who will bring ideas and experience to the table.
“Jessica King will continue knocking on doors throughout the District and make her priorities for Wisconsin clear. In the meantime, we will be waiting for Mr. Hopper to make some positions known. Is he on board with the Senate Republicans agenda, or is he with the people of the 18th Senate District?”
King vs. Hopper July Reports
Average Contribution:
King - $77.90 Hopper - $682.90
Individual Contributors:
King – 486 Hopper – 28
Donations Under $100
King – 90% Hopper – 7%
Total Raised:
King – $54,997 Hopper – $18,425
Cash on Hand:
King - $44,520 Hopper - $18,425
OSHKOSH – Recently filed campaign finance reports indicate stark differences between the campaigns of Democratic Candidate Jessica King and Republican Candidate Randy Hopper for the open 18th Senate District Seat.
King, a native of Fond du Lac and Rosendale, a UW-Oshkosh graduate, attorney, and current member of the Oshkosh Common Council received 486 individual contributions during the recent fundraising period, 90% of those contributions were less than $100.
Hopper, a radio station owner in Fond du Lac with no government experience and no public positions on issues at this time, had just 28 individual contributors, an average contribution of $682.90 and just 2 contributions less than $100.
“While Jessica King continues to reach out and receive broad support from Democrats, Republicans, and Independents throughout the 18th District, Mr. Hopper is relying on support from his big money friends. The fact that Mr. Hopper has not received a single contribution from anyone in Winnebago County is very telling of his campaign’s support and reach beyond Fond du Lac.”
Jessica King challenged the incumbent State Senator Carol Roessler before Roessler dropped out in March. Since then, Winnebago County Sheriff Mike Brooks announced and then dropped out; Mark Reiff had announced for the Senate Seat before deciding to move to the 54th District and run for Assembly; and Tim Lakin had been running for months before Republican operatives asked him to step down, leading to his withdrawal from the race.
“I understand why the Republican party establishment is backing someone with deep pockets like Randy Hopper. But the 18th Senate Seat is not for sale, and as Jessica King’s previous opponents have found out, she has broad support throughout the District from people who want real change in Madison and want someone who will bring ideas and experience to the table.
“Jessica King will continue knocking on doors throughout the District and make her priorities for Wisconsin clear. In the meantime, we will be waiting for Mr. Hopper to make some positions known. Is he on board with the Senate Republicans agenda, or is he with the people of the 18th Senate District?”
King vs. Hopper July Reports
Average Contribution:
King - $77.90 Hopper - $682.90
Individual Contributors:
King – 486 Hopper – 28
Donations Under $100
King – 90% Hopper – 7%
Total Raised:
King – $54,997 Hopper – $18,425
Cash on Hand:
King - $44,520 Hopper - $18,425
6.18.2008
6.16.2008
Fox Flooding in Princeton, Then and Now
I took pictures of the 2004 flooding on Father's Day, and again yesterday. It seems they are the same pictures.
I have all of them here.
The river is supposed to be behind the far row of trees. The creek looking thing is the road down to the river.
2004:
2008:
I have all of them here.
The river is supposed to be behind the far row of trees. The creek looking thing is the road down to the river.
2004:
2008:
6.09.2008
Is McCain's WI Campaign Weighing Racist Attacts?
Here's the headline:
If you don't remember the add, Plaisted Writes got it right here:
So now this is the campaign that the WIGOP is studying to run against Sen Barack Obama.
It is going to be a long election season. We will work hard, and we will win, even if our opponents dip this low.
McCain Supporters Studying Gableman Campaign
MADISON (AP) - A little-known country judge's road to the Wisconsin Supreme Court is being eyed by John McCain backers as a map for him to win the state.
Republican operatives are closely studying how circuit judge Michael Gableman, a conservative candidate from from Webster in far northwest Wisconsin who never ran a statewide race before, was able to oust a more liberal sitting Supreme Court justice in April.
They believe his win provides a guide for McCain to become the first Republican to carry the state since Ronald Reagan in 1984 and capture its 10 electoral votes.
If you don't remember the add, Plaisted Writes got it right here:
It was all a precursor to this – the most racist, unfair ad in the history of Wisconsin politics that started running on Friday. To his slight credit, it comes from the Gableman campaign itself, which chose not to hide behind the WMC or other surrogates and sponsors. To his never-ending shame (if he had any sense of it), the ad shows Michael Gableman to be a racist pig who will do anything to get himself elected on behalf of his wealthy patrons.
You thought Willie Horton was the scariest, ugliest black man used in a political campaign to scare the bejesus out of a mostly-white electorate? Meet the new "winner", Rubin Lee Mitchell, a former client of Justice Butler’s back when he was doing his usual exemplary legal work as an appellate lawyer at the State Public Defenders office over 20 years ago. Mitchell’s menacing mug shot is shown right next to that of the first African-American to serve on the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Black guy gets black guy off..."Can Wisconsin families feel safe with Louis Bulter on the Supreme Court?"
So now this is the campaign that the WIGOP is studying to run against Sen Barack Obama.
It is going to be a long election season. We will work hard, and we will win, even if our opponents dip this low.
NYTimes Cohen Gets it 100% Right:
Obama's right to play hardball to win. A core lesson of Republican methods these past four decades is that winning is everything.
6.06.2008
Quote of the week
From NYTimes conservative columnist David Brooks:
I've spent the past few years trying to find conservative experts to provide remedies for middle-class economic anxiety. Let me tell you, the state of free-market thinking on this subject is pathetic. There are a few creative thinkers (most of them under 30), but for the most part, McCain is forced to run in an intellectual void.
6.03.2008
5.29.2008
What would a (real) judge say if this was your defense...?
Gableman said last week he did not remember why he called the Republican Party headquarters, McCallum's fund-raising staff or people who gave to McCallum at the fund-raiser in Cable he hosted. But he said he did not think the calls were political in nature. State law forbids using government resources for campaign purposes.
5.27.2008
Explanation of Florida & Michigan Situation
From Jason Rae - a good explanation of the situation
Friends--
Over the past few days I have received several emails and calls inquiring about the situation with the delegates to the National Convention from Florida and Michigan. I wanted to take just a moment and provide some historical background to the situation for you. As always, if there are any questions after this, please do not hesitate to contact me and let me know.
I will start at the very beginning. Every four years, the Democratic National Committee establishes the calendar for the upcoming nominating period. This calendar decides when states will be allowed to hold their primaries and caucuses. A part of this calendar is known as the pre-window, which is a period of time in which only a select number of states are able to hold their primary or caucus. This pre-window had traditionally only allowed for Iowa and New Hampshire, but was extended this year to add Nevada and South Carolina in order provide more diversity into the early part of the process. For the 2008 cycle, the first date every other state was allowed to hold their primaries or caucuses was February 5. This date became dubbed "Super Tuesday" because every state wanted to be as early as possible, so over 20 states jumped forward to the first eligible date.
This is where Florida and Michigan enter the picture. Each state is required to submit a plan to the DNC announcing when its event will take place. Michigan submitted a plan that would have their event on January 15 and Florida submitted a plan that would have their primary on January 29. Both of these dates violated the DNC Call to the Convention and the Regulations of the National Convention as the first date they could hold their primaries was February 5.
The DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee reviewed the delegate selection plans submitted by Florida and Michigan and found them in non-compliance with the Convention Rules. As such, each state party was given thirty (30) days to submit a modified plan with a date in compliance. Neither state party was willing to move the date of the primary, because they wanted to have an early say in the primary process. As such, the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee voted to find their plan in non-compliance and as such they were told their delegates would not be seated at the national convention.
However, this was not the end of the DNC's attempt to work with Florida and Michigan to help get them seated at the Convention. The DNC had originally given each state those 30 days to make amends to their plan and the states refused. After that point, the DNC had been willing to work with each state to hold a new nominating contest, either a new primary or caucus. By doing so, the delegations from those states would be seated in Denver. However, neither state party agreed to do this and instead asked to be seated at the convention based on the original results.
Where are we now? Well, all states must complete their primaries and caucuses by June 21. Realistically, it is impossible for either state to put together a new plan in time that will be in compliance with DNC rules. So as stands, the delegations from those two states will not be seated at the National Convention. There is currently an appeal pending before the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee that will ask the DNC to seat 50% of the delegates from each of those states, as well as the state's superdelegates. I am unsure at this time what the decision of the Rules and Bylaws Committee will be. They meet on May 31 and I will certainly provide you with information following their decision. Whatever is decided can then be appealed to the Convention's Credentials Committee and ultimately all the delegates at the National Convention in August.
Those are the facts, as unbiased as I can present them to you. I just wanted to take a moment to make sure that you were all aware of what was going on, because in the next few weeks, we are certain to hear many more arguments regarding Florida and Michigan. I will add two personal opinions. One, it is important for us to find some way to work with those state parties because they are crucial states for Democrats to win in November. However, I am fearful that seating the delegates based on primaries held in violation of the DNC rules would only open the floodgates in 2012 and allow every state to jump before the first eligible date with the excuse "Florida got away with it, why can't we?" Its a two way street and I am eager for the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee to hear this case and move forward.
Regardless of the outcome, I will keep you all up to date on what is happening. Thank you for your emails and calls on this issue. I hope you have a fantastic weekend! Hopefully summer is on its way!
-Jason
- - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Jason R. Rae
DNC Member - WI
raejason@yahoo.com
715.790.4334
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