Our Election Day PSA to Voters Everywhere

 

Our Election Day "PSA" to Voters Everywhere:

The role of the media should be to provide accurate and balanced news so that we can make informed decisions. That means the news media needs to be non-partisan in their reporting. At election time the media (particularly newspapers) like to make their endorsements and urge you---the voter---support their agenda. Their agendas don't necessarily represent our best interest best interest. Do your own research and vote your conscience. Don't vote to be "anti" anything. We don't need any more negativity in the world. Instead, make your vote count "for" something you truly believe in. Thank you, AnotherOpinionblog.com

The Illusion of Choice: Surveys and Polls

A few nights ago the AFL-CIO called me with one of those pre-recorded surveys designed to sound like a "real" person was on the other line. I'm fine with that. I actually don't mind answering their questions (at least some of them. They are certain questions that I

won't answer such as household income). Nevertheless, this survey centered on the upcoming Governor's race.

The survey started off by thanking me for my willingness to participate and added that I had been "chosen" because of my political participation in the past. While I didn't realize there were folks keeping track of my previous political involvement, I decided to play along. The first question asked me if I was aware that Republican Matt Bevin and Democrat Jack Conway were running for Governor of Kentucky. However, no mention was made of the Independent, Drew Curtis, which I found odd.

The next question asked me if I was Democrat or Republican or unsure. As everyone knows, I'm a Independent, so I guess that puts me in the "unsure" camp. Apparently whoever put the survey together doesn't consider Indies as a valid political philosophy or is aware that Independents are the largest voting bloc in America. The next question asked me if I leaned Republican or leaned Democrat. Well, like most Americans, I'm a Centrist. Is that Left leaning or Right leaning I wondered? Fortunately, there was a third choice----unsure, which was apparently inserted in case the respondent couldn't make up their mind whether they preferred to be accused of being a "Socialist" or a "Nazi". The reason I selected "unsure" is simply because I don't believe the political Left or the Right has got it right. Like most people, I support the Left on some issues, mostly social and the Right on other issues such as small government and tax overhaul.

I was then asked who I voted for in the last presidential election---Democrat Barack Obama or Republican Mitt Romney or the ubiquitous "some other candidate" as if there was really just two choices but if I had to be difficult, I could pick someone else. I really had a hard time trying to imagine who in their right mind would admit voting for Barack Obama these days but then again, who in their right mind would admit voting for Mitt Romney? It reminded me of being a kid and having to chose between chocolate or vanilla ice cream when all I really wanted was strawberry. So, I dutifully picked "some other candidate".

I guess they weren't satisfied with my answers, and so in another attempt to pin me down, I was asked who I voted for in the last race for governor---Democrat Steve Beshear or Republican David Williams, or (again) "some other candidate"? Well, once more, I opted for the latter just to maintain the consistency. After all, if I was going to buck the system, I wasn't going to be wishy washy about it. The survey closed with the usual questions "for statistical purposes" so they can attempt to identify their demographics (which is kind of interesting. If I was "selected" because of my past political activity as they said at the beginning of the survey, wouldn't they already know my demographic values?). I was asked to select an age range, which I did. The worse thing about that was that I was second from the last grouping ("65 or older"). That sure didn't help with my self-esteem. It made me feel as if I was slowing being ushered of the stage! Anyway, they asked my race (including "other" and "decline to say" which I thought was pretty cool). I was then asked to identify my gender. Apparently you still have to chose between male or female. (sorry Bruce...err...Caitlyn), and my zip code. I was a little surprised they didn't ask for my highest level of education completed, but maybe "skoolin" isn't considered an important value in determining potential voters for Governor.

This wasn't the only gubernatorial survey I've received recently. A few days before this survey, I received a "live" phone call from a somewhat husky sounding female who was calling on behalf of the UAW. I have to admit, this was a much more pleasant phone call. I guess that's because I was speaking with an honest to goodness human being, which made me like my opinion was a bit more important than the pre-recorded ones I get from an autodialer. I suppose that's also because I can ask questions back, which I consider important given my quizzical nature. The caller thanked me for taking the time to answer their questions, and volunteered that I was chosen because I was identified as "politically active", as well as "Democrat leaning" and a union official, which I found interesting on several levels.

I haven't been a registered Democrat since 2003 when I was forced to switch due to some unremitting harassment the local party refused to address for not actively supporting my 2001 Metro Council opponent (he had switched from Republican to Democrat at the behest of the State Democratic Party even though he had never been involved in politics or a consistent voter. In addition, I had been asked to run for Metro Council by the local Democratic Executive Committee and other local party leaders). I had been a long time mid level officer in the local Democratic Party organization and a prominent community activist, however, the state party leadership didn't think I could be controlled and wanted someone else. I had also been the state chairman of a national writers union for several years and served on the national steering committee as well as having served on the veterans and Victory Pac committees plus the AFL-CIO Central Labor Council (my wife is also a retired Teamster). After that, I was aggressively recruited to run as a Republican for State Representative in 2004 against a sentimentally popular but unproductive Democratic incumbent of some 30 years (though I lost the race, I came within 1500 votes of winning in a strongly conservative Democratic district, which resulted in him opting not to run again). However, I've been "clean and sober" from any political party since around 2008, though I've kept my contacts on both sides.

Nevertheless, the questions were much like the other survey I mentioned, however, I did get to ask a few questions of my own. Specifically, I asked what kind of responses they were getting. She said most people had indicated little interest in the race. Most were focusing on the presidential election, especially on Donald Trump. She added that "The Donald" seems to have tapped into an underlining current of distrust bordering on distain for the federal government and especially on Obama. She also mentioned that of those who were keeping up with the gubernatorial race, most of the respondents held negative opinions about both Jack Conway and Matt Bevin. I asked about their feedback regarding the Independent, Drew Curtis (I had noticed that no mention of the Independent was made in either survey). She said that a number of those familiar with the race mentioned that they supported or leaned toward the Curtis. A few who didn't recall Curtis' name also indicated they wanted to know more about the third candidate.

Obviously, there's a couple of factors going on here. First, neither Bevin or Conway are particularly strong candidates. Conway has run for just about everything but keeps losing. People just can't relate to him and Conway, no matter what office he's running for, comes across as a spoilt rich brat with a sense of entitlement. Matt Bevin seems to be popular with the Kentucky Tea Party set and the anti-Mitch McConnell and anti-GOP Establishment clique. However, Matt just seems to be unable to get his message out to a wider base, especially across party lines. Perhaps part of this is because people in general are sick and tired of "good ole party boys". They see both parties as inept, out of touch, corrupt, beholden to the corporate oligarchs and one percenters who are running America now. Of course, both parties continue to lose members while third parties and especially independents are growing. Indies are now the largest political segment of America, followed by Democrats and more distantly, Republicans. Within ten years, Indies are expected to outnumber Democrats and Republicans combined.

I guess the reason why neither survey (and I suspect this holds true for other surveys being conducted on the governor's race) mention the Independent's name or positions is because the race between Conway and Bevin is tight, and just perhaps, the sponsors of the surveys are trying to make voters think they only have two choices for governor. Perhaps too they are attempting to condition voters into choosing an "R" or a "D" as if that's all that matters when the reality is just the opposite. Even when it comes to debates, third party and independent candidates are rarely invited as if they candidacy is publicity stunt. Few people realize that the national Democratic and Republican parties have worked out a deal to keep everyone else out of the limelight and off the stage ever since they were grossly embarrassed by Ross Perot's performance. The corporate news media plays along and downplays, ignores, and makes fun of just about every third party or independent who comes along. It's like being onboard the Titanic and throwing ice cubes at the approaching iceberg! All the Indies and third parties are truly missing is charismatic candidates with a good campaign organization. Of course, they're going to need money, however, the corporate oligarchs who control the power in this country also control the money flow in politics (remember the Citizens United misruling by the not-so-Supreme Court?), but it can still be done.

I think it's time that the average voters takes third party and Independent candidates more seriously. Obviously, like most of us, they're are just as fed up, turned off, and discouraged by our broken political system as everyone else is, except they're willing to step forward to try and do something about the mess both parties and their benefactors have created. Most are closer to our ideals about common sense government than either party and let's face it, with more people leaving the other two parties and registering as Independent, the political tide is on their side. Besides, if the corporate news media and both political parties are so opposed to them, they almost have to be the better choice by definition! Finally, remember that the only endorsement which ultimately matters is your vote.


Drew Curtis for Governor
http://drewcurtis.nationbuilder.com/

Matt Bevin for Governor
http://www.mattbevin.com/

Conway Overly for Kentucky
https://conwayoverly.com/

When did you stop beating your wife?

I'm sure everyone remembers that old joke about misdirection and innuendo, which came to mind recently when I read an article by Courier Journal political reporter Joe Gerth, who recently wrote an article about gubernatorial candidates Jack Conway and Matt Bevin attending a private meeting being sponsored by the Kentucky Coal Association which excludes the media (specifically the CJ).

Even the date, time and location are something of a secret. The hosts of the meeting said that the absence of the media would encourage a more open and honest debate between the candidates and the association, which is what they want given the precarious status of coal these days. They went to claim that the presence of the media would hinder the ability of the candidates to provide blunt and direct answers without the media attempting to their answers (or the other candidate) out of context. Mr. Gerth even insisted that since the media (read "Courier Journal") were not invited, both candidates should boycott the debate. He then went on to take umbrage regarding the Republican candidate, Matt Bevin, who refused to answer questions from reporter because of the alleged nature and tone of those questions, which he---Bevin---deemed as unfair or biased. Given the climate of today's politics and lack of impartiality from the media, perhaps Matt Bevin was justified. Just look at the latest Republican debate hosted by the supposedly "fair and balanced" as well as "conservative" Fox News and note the differences in questioning between the status quo GOP candidates and Donald Trump (especially the questions from Bret Baier and Megyn Kelly).

In what's the worse kept secret in Kentucky, the CJ has often been accused of acting as the unofficial mouthpiece for the Democratic Party. It's so bad that it's become part of local lore and the butt of countless jokes. For years the CJ editorial staff has black listed me ever since I began reviewing and critiquing their "endorsement" process. Previously, they published practically everything I wrote---sometimes in separate box with an illustration added---and even gave me the byline at the top of the Editorial page! Then after I began questioning their process the only way I could give my opinion was on their online site, which was generally deleted. So I or someone else had to "like" my comment to avoid it's near immediate deletion. On the upside, one of my "demands" was to publish the entire unedited transcript of the endorsement interview or at least video tape it and make either available to the public, which the Courier Journal is at least occasionally doing now.

Don't get me wrong here. I'm not implying anything about Joe. He's a great guy and a pretty darn good reporter. Personally, I haven't had any problems with him and Joe isn't involved with his newspaper's "endorsement" process so far as I know . However, too many
times I heard stories from conservative candidates who claimed answers were wrongly attributed, misquoted, or "correct" answers or "wrong" answers deleted for the opponent not to mention endorsement made without so much as an interview---phone or in person--or

familiarity with a candidate's positions! I was never really sure if I should believe any of this until it happened to me personally...twice...as well as to personal friends of impeccable character who were running for office, but apparently on the wrong ticket. That's not how you go about trying to find the right person for political office or any job for that matter (the other part of my "demand" by the way has been to publish the names, titles, and party registration of the interviewers so the public knows the political leanings of the questioners, the nature of questions themselves, and maybe understand why endorsements often go the way they do. The voters deserve better. Now, it seems that some folks like me, who openly challenge them, can't even doing that. So, here's my comment that would have otherwise been directed to the article:

I've always thought candidates should respond to the press with direct and honest answers to honest and direct questions. However, when the media puts itself into the active role of trying to create the news or manipulate public opinion, candidates have a civic duty to either call that reporter, editor or manager out or by simply declining to answer the question after explaining to those present why and then moving on to the next reporter who will be hopefully "fair, balanced and honest". Of course, candidates shouldn't assume every question they don't like is necessarily biased. That's just as unfair to the public. Questions should be relevant to the race and issues being discussed.

Naturally the media has ways around that such as the innuendo. Fortunately there are some candidates, like "The Donald", who couldn't care less what the media pundits have to say and has the wherewithal to give as good as they're giving as well as having the financial means to respond to any attacks or negative reporting. Bevin may or may not have the bank account to get out his version of the truth in response to any media attacks, though I have no doubt that he and his Democratic opponent, Jack Conway, have the financial ability to get their message out against each other (if not them directly, then certainly the partisan oriented PACs do). From the content of Mr. Gerth's article, I have no difficulty understanding Bevin's decision not to respond. Nevertheless, perhaps other candidates of either political party might want to follow suit and demand honest and impartial reporting without the misdirection. Maybe someone will get the message.


Gov. candidates should demand open coal debate
http://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/politics/gerth/2015/08/15/gov-candidates-demand-open-coal-debate/31780119/

Louisville’s $63 Million Dollar “Rainy Day” Fund

$63 million dollars. That’s what Louisville, a third tier city, has squirreled away in its “rainy day” fund. “Mayor for Life” Jerry Abramson has proposed cutting $3.4 million dollars from the budget, which Abramson claims has a $20 million shortfall. Gone will general road maintenance, and community programs, especially those aimed at children. Community centers and libraries will be closed one day a week, and Otter Creek Park will be closed just to name a very few.

$63 million dollars. With that, Metro employees wouldn’t be facing mandatory unpaid time off or layoffs. Critical city unions, such as the police and firefighters, wouldn’t be looking at not only forgoing overdue pay increases (nominal as they are), but also possible pay cuts as well. And then there’s the issue of overtime pay the firefighters are owed by the City.

$63 million dollars. That’s three times the average amount that second tier cities, such as Nashville, Toledo, Cincinnati, and Indianapolis, keep in reserve. Nashville and Cincinnati have $15 million and $13 million respectively in their “rainy day funds”, and they are considering using a portion to avoid layoffs. Toledo, which is facing a $10 million deficit, has $6.4 million dollars in its “rainy day” fund. For now, their mayor, Carty Feinbeiner, has opted not to use those funds yet. Instead, he has been concentrating on cutting services. Buffalo, New York has $35 million dollars stashed away as a buffer in its “rainy day” fund according to the city’s financial controller, Janet Penksa.

$63 million dollars. Not a penny of that will be spent on either government services or to assist government employees. Abramson insist that this money is for “emergencies” only. In case he hasn’t heard, we are in a recession. We’ve been in a recession since December of 2007 (and we didn’t need some government accounting or economic office to tell us that either). Companies are closing. Income is being cut. Services are being reduced or eliminated. People are losing their jobs. I think that qualifies as an “emergency” don’t you? Instead, the mayor is worried that using any portion of the fund could jeopardize the city’s bond rating. In other words, it could jeopardize Jerry’s intended legacy, which is the oft-attempted revitalization of downtown Louisville. With all the cutbacks and layoffs, Abramson hasn’t cut back one thin dime on his downtown pet projects and he doesn’t intend to unless forced, which bring us to our last point.

$63 million dollars. That’s our money, paid for by people like you and me through our taxes. This isn’t “King” Abramson’s private piggy bank. If Jerry won’t let lose of the money for the benefit of our metro employees and community at large, will our Louisville Metro Soviet (formerly known as the Louisville Metro Council) force his hand? Long a rubber stamp (and hence the name), the Metro Soviet has shown little backbone when it has come to challenging the mayor’s directives. Now, given the crisis we’re facing, would be time for (as they used to say) “all good men---and women---to come to the aid of their country”, or in this case, their community.

It’s our money, so what are we going to do about it? Should the needs of people come first or should it be Abramson’s downtown legacy? From where I stand, it’s raining hard.

Louisville’s Metro Government and Public Input

A few weeks ago I received an email from Metro Councilman Doug Hawkins (R-25) announcing an urgent meeting at the Metro Government Center on Dixie Highway, in the Southwest part of the county. The subject of the meeting was the placement an ordnance storage facility on the levee wall which was responsible for the water supply to the residents in this part of the county, thus, could prove disastrous if something horrific should happen.

The meeting was well attended by some 75 seriously irate residents. The meeting was kicked off by Mr. Hawkins expressing his concern not only about the safety of the facility, given its close location to several resident neighborhoods, the local water supply, and several local schools. Hawkins claimed the 8x16x8 metal and wood unit could be used to store hand grenades, ammunition, and unexploded biological or chemical ordnances, not to mention shells, blasting caps, and so forth.

The Louisville Metro Police were on hand to refute any inaccurate statements and alleviate any confusion about what would and won’t be stored there. And in that job, they were outstanding. However, their “matter-of-fact” answers about the technical specifications of the facility did little to defuse the crowd, whose main interest was why the Southend was chosen, and whether any other location was ever considered. The spokesman for the Metro Police explained (with incredible patience I should add) that when Mayor Jerry Abramson sold the Southfields Training Facility in the eastern part of the county (to generate funds for his downtown projects), provisions for the two state-of-art storage locations weren’t made. The existing ordinance storage was shifted to the Algonquin site; described as a “leaky” metal container located near Louisville’s West End. The police could not address issues such as the affect the unit would have on neighboring property values, although it was generally conceded that adjacent property values could be adversely affected. They did assure those in attendance that the unit was well protected and all safeguards to insure public safety were in place.

But what I found to be the most damning comment was that Mayor Abramson had sole authority to put this unit anywhere he wanted too without consideration to the Metro Council, the police or fire departments, or any other Metro agencies, and certainly not to residents. Although residents were “assured” that the ordinance disposal unit would not present any danger, no one present representing the Metro Government could explain why there wasn’t a public hearing or, if the unit didn’t pose any danger as suggested, why the Mayor didn’t put it three blocks from his resident at the Crescent Hill Levee as a show of confidence. The meeting wrapped up with the announcement that the following Tuesday would be a “Mayor’s Night Out” as the Fairdale High School. Here, I thought, would an opportunity to ask the man himself.

“Mayor’s Night Out” was conceived as an opportunity for residents to meeting with various departments within Metro Government; ask questions and get answers to nearly anything on their minds. Well, I was there, along with 100 other residents. Everyone was in their seats waiting for the meeting to begin. After Mayor Abramson made his usual customary introductions, two ladies asked the Mayor about the ordnance storage unit and why it was being located in the Southend along with every other project the City doesn’t want. What came next was totally unexpected.

The Mayor immediately held up his hand and announced that he wasn’t going to answer any questions regarding the unit. He made the decision to put it at the Southend site and that was that. There would be no questions or discussion. He would not address the matter further. The matter, as far as he was concerned, was closed. With that, the majority of those in attendance meekly walked out.

Now perhaps it’s just me, but I thought the Mayor worked for us, and as such, had the duty and obligation to answer any question put to him by the residents of Jefferson County. Apparently I was mistaken. It has been Mayor Abramson’s increasingly autocratic attitude which is earning him outright contempt in parts of county, and even among those who work for Metro Government. Here is a Democratic mayor who has as much use for unions as a dog has for ticks. He has kept some unions on hold for three years now without as much as a cost of living increase. He has repeatedly tried to rein every agency he could find. There will be no independence of thought under his regime. Is it any wonder he is openly referred to “the King”, “Mayor-for-Life”, or “His Excellency”? Bossism is alive and well in Louisville Kentucky (for those keeping track, Abramson served three terms as Louisville Mayor, then after aggressively pushing for a City-County government merger, was elected the first Metro Mayor. He is now on this second term in that position. The residents in the county are still waiting on city services promised by the merger).

What I don’t understand however, is why unions, who rarely support him, and the numerous community groups and activists (especially those in the county) don’t band together to get rid of this homegrown “Boss Tweed”. With the first Saturday in May fast approaching and the running of the famous Kentucky Derby, wouldn’t that be a terrific time to stage a protest; with the world’s media right there? Wouldn’t that force the Mayor to address issues like stale contracts; the lack of government services for county; the different taxing districts between city and county residents; and arbitrary decisions without public input? Perhaps the time has come to put aside differences and focus on government reform right here in the River City—Louisville Kentucky.

Our occasional guest writer, “Moderate Man”, has decided to wade in on this issue too:

The Southend has been bypassed like a road around a progressive town. We have a mayor who didn't deliver on a retail shopping center like Kohl's at the old Bacons Shopping Center in Shively. A long time regional Christmas event called the Iroquois Winterfest at Iroquois Park was killed and the lights and figurines were taken and absorbed into the mayor’s event, called Light Up Louisville in front of his office downtown. The old 3rd District LPD command center was turned into a training center after the mayor signed off on the sale of the Southfields training center. They were moved into the Central Park 4th District, leaving a delayed response time for those in the 15th council, as they were farther away from their southern beats, including Iroquois Homes housing project. Community Development Block Grants to fix up residential housing in the north half of the 15th council, have been hijacked for downtown housing thus allowing a greater South End rental market with tenants who lack pride in ownership. The mayor tried to have Christopher 2X place a memorial in the Wyandotte Park renovation to honor abused children who were killed. Why wasn't it placed in Jefferson Park with all the other memorials, instead of at a Police training building? Guess the mayor didn't want to look at it out of his office window, as south end residents will now get to drive by it daily on Taylor Blvd. Iroquois Homes is being demolished over a 5 year period and the Abramson administration has no plans currently what will replace it. This includes the Dumeyer Community Center. Where are the kids in this area to play? Two pools, Hazelwood and Wyandotte have been closed and no pool replacement is called for by the administration for the South End. When will someone stand up for the Southend other than the Mayor's puppet council people?


Dark Clouds on the Horizon

The New York Times recently published a chilling set of statistics. According to the April 4, 2008 article, Americans of nearly every demographic are sick and tired of being sick and tired with government and the economy. 81% of those polled said they believe that “things have pretty seriously gotten off the wrong track”. That’s up from 69% just last year, and 35% from 2003. 78% of respondents said the country was worse off than it was five years ago (I’m reminded of then presidential candidate Ronald Reagan asking voters if they were better off now than four years ago, referring to his opponent, President Jimmy Carter). The article went on to point out that there is now a national consensus that we are facing serious problems (duh). Also of interest was that the article pointed out that public opinion usually hits lows only in the months and years after an economic downturn, not at the beginning of one. That's a very bad sign folks.

The public holds both political parties to blame for the current economic and political malaise. 58% of the respondents said they would support an increase in taxes on households making more than $250,000 to pay for tax cuts or support programs aiding the working poor (Napoleon once quipped that the only use for religion was to keep the poor from murdering the rich). However, no breaks would be tolerated for businesses. 43% said they would support a larger federal government that provided more services, which is the highest number since the poll began in
1991. Interestingly, however, 43% said they would support a smaller government that provided fewer services. Basically, people are looking for an out anywhere they can find it.

Historically, its numbers like these which have often produced great social upheavals, and even revolutions. With raising gas and oil prices, a pending health crisis, a recession, an increasing public division on the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, global climate change, and now the possibility of food shortages, whoever is elected president in November will have their work cut out for them. There will be absolutely no room for mistakes or “on-the-job” training. The next president is going to have to hit the ground running hard. They will have to have all their players in place and ready to put to their plans in action starting from Day One. And what’s more, they had better tell their lobbyists friends to sit the next four years out. This has to be a populist term. Failure to do so, may bring America to the brink…or worse


Poll Results

Our last poll asked you whether or not you thought we there was a global crisis coming. 70% of you thought so. That’s good enough for me!

Takes on the Election

The cheering, along with the sobbing are over. The lights have been turned off and everyone has gone home. It’s sad to say, but true nevertheless, the Kentucky Republican Party took a beating and perhaps rightly so. Ernie Fletcher’s promise of four years ago to “clean up the mess in Frankfort” became little more than a hollow echo. Mark Hebert, reporter for WHAS 11 said last night that in an interview with former Congresswoman Anne Northup, she had remarked that Fletcher lost the election when he pardoned his aides and then took the 5th the following day. She said during her campaign for the Republican nomination for governor that Fletcher was unelectable. She was right, and Fletcher took most of the Republican slate down with him. Fletcher campaigned primarily on the issue of equating casinos with sin, and that in a state with a long history of gambling. As pretty much anyone but his campaign advisers could tell him, this was a non-issue from the start. Then, toward the end, his veiled accusations that the Democratic frontrunners were “gay” was another blow to his credibility. But the fact was that by then, nobody cared; attention was being focused on the down ticket. His campaign in some quarters became little more than a mockery.

Those that follow this blog will note that the predications I made in the last issue were a 100% accurate. Trey Grayson won a pretty tough race over Bruce Hendrickson. Trey is perhaps the only rising star left in the Republican stable, and the fact that he didn’t listen to GOP strategists and tie his race to the governor probably saved him from certain defeat. Henderson had no real chance of winning. His only shot was hoping that the anticipated Democratic landslide would be enough. It wasn’t.

“Young Jack” Conway beat up the Republican Stan Lee as expected. When will the Republicans get serious about running someone who can actually win Attorney General? Maybe by the next time they win the governorship, which may be in another 20 or 30 years. Democrat Todd Hollenbach had no trouble with Melinda Wheeler for State Treasurer. I guess we can assume that position won’t be eliminated anywhere soon. Republican Linda Greenwell had to sideline her campaign for State Auditor for personal reasons. It turned out her mother was, and remains, quite ill. However, the anticipated outcome was never in doubt. She simply didn’t have the money or party support to take out the incumbent, Crit Luallen. There’s some talk Crit may take on US Senator Mitch McConnell. Good luck. I think you’ll need your big girl panties for that one. As for Linda, I wish all the best for your mom’s swift recovery. Hope to see you out there again. Republican Richie Farmer plowed his opponent, David Williams to keep his seat as Agriculture Commissioner. The real question is where does he go from here?

As for the Library Tax, no surprise there, except perhaps for the Courier Journal’s editorial board and Abramson & Company. Most of us bloggers out here in county had a strong sense it would fail. Of all the people I heard from, none expressed any interest in an additional tax. Frankly, who can blame them? After all, we’re paying record gas prices, plus with winter coming, we’re expected to pay record heating and heating oil bills. Our sewer rates just went up, as did our water bills, and our electric bills are going up an average of 11% per household. Even our garbage bills are keep going up (and we’re paying the cost of fuel for their trucks as part of the bill). Food staples are on the rise. Of course, health care costs are always going up, as is cable, and then of course, we have the holidays to think about! I suspect Abramson & Company may try to push the Library Tax through again, but next time it may be done in away that denies the voters a voice.

So, where do we go from here? Well, first I’d like to address the Democrats. Enjoy your victory. It was well won, but don’t get arrogant. This wasn’t a mandate from the people. It was a rejection of Fletcher (and, in part, of Bush as well). People voted for Beshear holding their nose. And don’t forget, you wouldn’t have gotten your near record margins of victory without the crossover votes of Republicans and Independents. You owe them a word of thanks. But here it is—your opportunity. Don’t mess it up this time. Don’t do what you’ve done in the past. Try actually working for the people and not for special interests groups. No bribes. No vote selling. No petty bickering. Think past party lines and do what’s right for everyone. And for Pete’s sakes, keep your britches on. We don’t want another “Pants Droppin” Paul Patton scandal. Now go do your job.

As for the Republicans, what do you think about a long vacation in a third world country to regain your sense of perspective? Seriously, what are you all thinking? Who is advising your candidates? Find them and fire them! It’s time for a top to bottom house cleaning. Spare no one. The “I know what’s best” ivory tower mentality has to go. Find people who know what’s going on in the hinterlands. Find people who can think past base social issues and focus on the issues that matter to people like healthcare, daycare, lower taxes, smaller government, and jobs with decent wages. Most people didn’t give a hoot about the moral implications of casinos. What they care about is the jobs they bring and putting food on the table and roof over their heads. Why haven’t you reached out to minorities? It’s not like they’re going away any time soon!

In Jefferson County, the GOP has completely imploded. It’s time—no, it’s way past time for the current “losership” to go before everybody quits and there’s nobody left to turn off the lights. Forget that “East End Only” mentality. If you want to win elections, you have to think past (and West) of I-65. You have to think middle class, not country club. You can’t keep on promising potential candidates support and abandoning them as soon as they file (and that goes for the state leadership just as well). And remember, I don’t care if it’s “just politics” or not, you can’t keep lying to your candidates and expect them to keep coming back. Until you make serious changes, you will lose and keep losing. It’s time to rebuild from scratch.


Now, here’s another article from Moderate Man. He’s got a really good idea here. See what you think:

Prepare For the Future

The Louisville Metro Region, including Southern Indiana, Oldham, Bullitt and Shelby Counties need a Monorail. It should be operated by a private company, like the cities of Seattle, Las Vegas and Tokyo. All of them operate accident free at a profit. Taxpayer subsidies not needed. Capital costs will cost as much as Light Rail, but construction time is much quicker, knocking years off construction schedules. Capital costs can be bonded by these private companies and recaptured thru innovative financial methods. However, a fully linked system to all the outlying regions may take up to a hundred years to fund and build. Chicago’s elevated system comes to mind. They even have the South Shore line to South Bend, Indiana. Mass transit is not a one item cure all for our transportation needs. Yes, buses are and will always be needed. They are flexible for routing and a systems custom needs. Monorails will bring spurs to the center of downtown Louisville from places like LaGrange in Oldham County beside I-71, Shelbyville in Shelby County along I-64, Mt. Washington along Bardstown Rd., New Albany Ind. over the Ohio along the Sherman Minton Bridge, Shepherdsville along I-65. But we already have a system in place to put commuter trains on to bring workers into the downtown Metro area. There is the Paducah & Louisville Railroad along Dixie highway, the CSX line along LaGrange Rd from Peewee Valley, and the Louisville-Jeffersonville Line in Southern Indiana. An operating agreement and rail cars are all that is needed, as the lines are in place. If all these items listed above were in place, how much longer do you think it would be before the United States Congress allocated funding on an Amtrak intra city line from Louisville to Chicago, like the old Kentucky Cardinal Express, but this time upgrading the rails for faster service? This is the ultimate goal, to be connected to the federal rail commuter transportation system, so that at a future date when high speed rail replaces or supplements automobiles, our region is ready and willing to be connected to other cities for fast and efficient transportation, just like our airports are.

Moderate Man

My Election Predictions

Is it just me or are the elections this year a bore? Judging by the lack of yard signs, it looks like I’m not the only who feels that way. Sure, there’s the occasional sign for some judge, but very few other signs. The most I’ve seen so far have been for Steve Beshear or “Young Jack” Conway. I think I saw maybe one or two battered Fletcher signs. It could be because there’s no huge groundswell of any one candidate, or contentious issue (except maybe the matter of casinos, but even that hasn’t got anybody’s goat as Fletcher hoped). I think folks are pretty tired of politics as usual. The Democrats are running retreads and the GOP is imploding in slow motion. I think the Democrats will be successful because people have had enough of Bush, Cheney, the Iraqi War, the dismal housing market, the lackadaisical economy, the high gas prices, the frightening environment, the government’s do-nothing approach on illegal immigration and its failure to make English the national language (not that the Democrats will necessarily do any better mind you). And then there’s Ernie Fletcher.

Could any one person muck up an opportunity for entire political party as much as he did? The Democrats had messed up just about as much as they could when ole “Pants-Droppin” Paul Patton (D) showed us so much more and his apparent affair. The folks in Kentucky wanted a change, and Fletcher offered change. He was the first Republican governor in almost 30 years. Well, we got change alright in the form of scandals and indictments almost from the get-go, and arrogance to boot. Now it looks like it may be another 30 years before the GOP will see another governor. So, with that said, let’s look my predictions for the November elections.

For Treasurer, we have Republican Melinda Wheeler facing off against Democrat LJ “Todd” Hollenbach (you remember his pop don’t you? Yelp, it was former Jefferson County Judge, “Terrible Todd” Hollenbach as he was called back then. He helped to cram forced busing down our throats with this “partner in crime”, Mayor Harvey Sloane back in 1975). Ms. Wheeler would like to do away with the job and save taxpayers several thousands of dollars. However, a lot of people would like to keep this stepping stone office. Given the mood of Kentuckians and the vested interests of the good ole boys on both sides to keep this office, I look for Democrat Todd Hollenbach to win a close victory.

Next we have Commissioner of Agriculture. Democrat David Lynn Williams is challenging incumbent Richie Farmer (don’t you just love that name for an Ag Commish?). Farmer, a Republican should have no difficulty winning reelection.

Democrat Crit Luallen is the incumbent Auditor of Public Accounts. She facing former opponent Linda Greenwell, a Republican. In their first race, Luallen barely beat Greenwell despite having a large monetary advantage, which showed Linda’s campaign tenacity. This time, Crit has about a 10:1 dollar lead and frankly, hasn’t upset anyone. Try as she might, I don’t Linda Greenwell is going to be able to pull this one off, which is shame. She’d be good as Kentucky’s next Auditor. But be that as it may, Crit Luallen has done an excellent job and will be overwhelmingly reelected.

Louisville’s “Pravda on the Ohio”, as the Courier Journal is often called, has run several articles of late implying that incumbent Secretary of State, Trey Grayson’s reelection bid was in trouble. Grayson, a Republican, is fending off Bruce Hendrickson, a Democrat. Grayson is one of the classiest guys you could ever want to meet. He’s managed to stay clear of the Fletcher disaster, and has actually improved the office’s efficiency (what a concept). Hendrickson’s claim to fame seems to be the fact that he’s a Democrat and he’s hoping to slide in amid the anticipated Democratic onslaught. Not only will Trey Grayson be reelected, but he represents the GOP’s best hope for any higher office.

The Office of Attorney General has emerged as one of the most powerful offices in state government. With the incumbent Greg Stumbo (D) out, this is an open seated contest between Republican Stan Lee and Democrat “Young Jack” Conway. Conway cut his teeth working for Paul Patton, while Stan Lee serves in State House of Representatives. Stan has endorsements from just about every Republican State Senator and State Representative, along with several county attorneys, sheriffs, and Kentucky Right to Life. Conway’s endorsements come from about every union, the Sierra Club, as well as several prominent individuals such as Louisville Mayor, Jerry Abramson, former Governor Brereton Jones and Congressman Ben Chandler (all Democrat of course).

I think Conway will win this hands down, but not because he’s that good, but because the State Republicans haven’t learned to take this office seriously despite the beatings they took from Stumbo and put up a seriously qualified candidate. Conway has been looking for a platform to run for governor. After November, he’ll have it.

Finally, we arrive at the race for Governor. I’m never been short for words, but where do I start on this one? To use a nautical description, the Fletcher “Ship of State” is going bow up and slipping beneath with waves of history. This was one of the great “what if” governorships in recent history…anywhere. With decades of Democratic control of the State’s Chief Executive Office, and equally decades of Democratic screw-ups, embarrassments and scandals, Fletcher came along at the right time. He was a successful Congressman and medical doctor. But right from the outset, Fletcher found himself eyeball deep in the muck he promised to clean up. Did he, in his giddiness of being Kentucky’s first Republican governor since Louie Nunn, think he was going to be able to pull the same stunts the Democrats pulled for years? If so, it was either arrogance or simple stupidity. Did he not realize that things don’t work in the halls of Frankfort the way the work in Washington? Several businessmen-turned-governors have found out the hard way that what worked in the boardrooms didn’t mean zilch in Frankfort. We could have had to a competitive two party political system in Kentucky, which would translate into better government for all Kentuckians, but that was not to be.

But to be fair, people aren’t exactly clamoring to get on the Steve Beshear bus either. He’s just another ole Democratic retread with the same rehashed ideas and the same tired old rhetoric. People aren’t suddenly embracing Democratic ideals as much as they are rejecting what Fletcher and Bush (yes, George W. Bush) has stood for. I think it’s time for new ideas and new solutions that go beyond the outdated concepts of “Left’ and Right” or “Conservative” and “Liberal”. People are not as black and white on issues has they once were (if indeed they actually ever were). We need politicians who think outside the box and in ways that represent the best interests of the people they were elected to serve. Until then, look for us to continue to jump back and forth from incompetence to scandal. With that said Kentuckians will hold their nose and vote for Beshear and hope for the best.

Bridges to Tomorrow

The following is an article "Moderate Man" sent me. I thought you'd find it interesting:
Louisville needs the proposed 2 new bridges over the Ohio River, plus the redesign of Spaghetti Junction. But not for the reasons most mentioned. I hope to expand your thinking on the subject. Yes they will be expensive, almost $4 billion dollars. Yes it will take almost 20 years to build. Yes they will last a long time, maybe a hundred years. But it comes down to what type of town do we want to be? A sleepy backwater river town. Or do we dare dream about a larger regional megalopolis that has the population base to draw lifetime residents and quality high paying businesses for a growth community? If that is the goal, then we need more than 2 bridges and downtown bottleneck fix. I don’t usually agree with Councilman Doug Hawkins, but we also need a third bridge in southwest Jefferson County to make the Snyder Freeway a true ring/bypass around Louisville. Look at the other towns that have them: Atlanta, Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Houston, Dallas, Jacksonville, etc. They have developed planned growth and made their town user friendly. However any transportation plan would be incomplete without mass transit. Buses alone are not enough. We need a light rail/monorail combination. This would truly give regional mass transportation to the hundreds of thousands of new workers in the outlying growth areas of the future. Only by building for the future will the growth become a reality. It was at one recent trip I made to Charlestown Indiana that I saw the real importance of the proposed bridges and a modern state of the art mass transit system. I-265 ends near there, awaiting an expected bridge connection from Jefferson County over the Ohio River. Lots of old and new factories, businesses, farm land for buildings, potential subdivisions, etc. The Clark county area ripe for growth, is huge. It’s about 25% the size of Louisville Metro. All those workers, owners, shoppers, residents, visitors will cross the bridges each way to add to the regional economy with jobs, education, tourism, businesses, etc. Everybody wins. And the cost of these transportation items is small, when compared to the economic benefits over their 100- 150 year lifetime depreciation. You have to spend money to make money. How to pay for all the transportation items mentioned so far? I’m sure the price would be enormous. The same arguments were made in the 1950’s in Michigan on how to pay for a huge 5 mile bridge to connect the Upper and Lower parts of the state with the Mackinac Bridge. A private investment banker became interested in the project and offered to manage a group of investment companies which would underwrite the sale of bonds. The Michigan Legislature in an effort to make the bonds more attractive, passed an act whereby the $417,000 annual operating and maintenance costs would be paid for out of gasoline and license plate taxes. Then in June 1953 almost $100,000,000 of bonds were bought by investors all over the country. A large sum by today’s standards. And yes, there are tolls over this bridge. It costs $2.50 a car and more for a truck with additional axles. But they have had over 100 million crossings since it was opened to traffic in November 1957. The last of the Mackinac Bridge bonds retired in July 1986, but fare revenues are now used to operate and maintain the bridge. Our transportation needs could be paid in the same way, including a light rail/monorail, which I have more to say about in a future edition.

Moderate Man

Money Matters

Former candidate for Governor, Billy Harper spent a phenomenal $6.1 million dollars in his attempt to win the Republican Primary. In a recent article by the Courier Journal, Harper, a Paducah businessman who owns a construction company, outspent incumbent Governor Ernie Fletcher, who raised $3.2 million dollars and former Congressman Anne Northup, who raised a comparatively paltry $1.6 million dollars. Most of Harper’s money came from out of his own pocket. Whenever you see a candidate funding their own campaign to such a degree, the first thing you should ask yourself is why?

Generally self funding is the result of one of two possibilities. First, the candidate is trying to make a statement that they aren’t for sale. The candidate often feels that by accepting money, particularly from Political Action Committees, better known as PACs, they are subscribing to that group’s agenda, and by accepting their money, is beholden to whatever piece of legislation is either introduced or needs to be “chaperoned” through committee. Of course, a candidate may accept money from a PAC without either agreeing with their agenda or agreeing in any way to support any issues which comes his or her way, but it’s a pretty sure bet that if they don’t offer some measure of support, not only will that individual not see any more money from them, they can expect that PAC to actively work against in every way possible.

The other reason a candidate self funds is more telling, and often the more likely scenario. They are unknowns. They have little support or name recognition among the general populace and/or among the moneyed power brokers. This belies the importance of a candidate laying their groundwork at least a year to eighteen months in advance of their intent to announce they will be candidate for a particular office. Unless you just happen to be well known by everyone in your district, a candidate needs to get out and meet as many people as possible well in advance of the election kickoff. This serves several purposes, but key is letting people meet you (called “getting the name out” and “pressing the flesh”). It also gives the candidate and the voters an opportunity to start a conversation about the issues. As a candidate, you may have certain ideas about what you think the issues are, but after meeting with the people, that may change. You may find that the citizens of a given district have completely unrelated ideas as to what is important. So, you get an opportunity to start defining your message. It also lets the power brokers learn a little bit about the candidate and decided whether or not this is someone they may be interested in supporting.

All too often the big money goes to the incumbents. Unless there’s a compelling issue which can be capitalized on, the candidate has to seriously consider self funding or dropping out. Fletcher was able to redirect the issues which landed him and his administration in so much hot water. As an incumbent, he was still going to be the odds on favorite unless someone came up with some deeply incriminating information (I’m thinking pictures here folks). This is often when races start going dirty, which, if not substantiated, will have a backlash on the accusing candidate. In the end, Harper wasn’t able to get his message through to the voters. He violated the so-called “Golden Triangle Rule”, by picking someone from the same part of the Commonwealth as where he came from rather than from Triangle. What he needed was someone from the population centers of Louisville, Lexington, or Covington, which would have given him a statewide audience rather than keeping his voter base locked up in Western Kentucky. I guess this election should put to rest the old notion that money can always buy an election. As for Harper, I hope he isn’t done yet. He had some great issues. He needs to keep his name out there and give it a go again.

MSD Meeting

I want to give a brief update on the MSD meeting which took place on June 3rd at the Government Center on Dixie Highway. The meeting was hosted by Metro 25 Councilman Doug Hawkins and representatives of MSD. There were approximately 60 to 70 people in attendance, including several Southend community activists and two other Metro Council members. Basically this wasn’t a meeting to discuss if there was going to be an increase, but why there was going to be an increase of just under $7.00 on your water bill. The estimated annual cost will be $390.00 for each household.

It seems that MSD is 1.4 billion dollars in debt. The EPA has ordered the City Louisville to rebuild its sewer and water system to a tune of $800 million dollars. This unfunded federal mandate, we were told, was not open to discussion. If the City failed to comply, a federal judge could introduce their own plan, which would leave the city with no recourse (and we all remember just how well forced bussing worked out after it was ordered and implemented by a federal judge).

The revamping will affect approximately 225,000 homes and cover some 3200 miles in total. One piece of good news came out of the meeting; seniors (and presumably those on a fixed limited income) may be eligible for a 30% discount on the increase. So, when does this go into effect? We expect seeing the increase showing up on our bills in September and continue through 2040 (I have my doubt that once added, it will ever come off).

Lastly, I’d like to thank Doug Hawkins for taking the time to schedule this meeting with MSD. We, the public, need to be aware of the actions of our government and how our money is spent. Councilman Hawkins made this possible.

Odds & Ends

I was watching one of my favorite talk shows Saturday night, Glenn Beck, and heard a really interesting statistic. Did you know an estimated 2/3 of eligible voters don’t vote? Only 1/3 of Americans actually show up at the polls on a regular basis. One of the main reasons I suspect is the utter disgust the people have for Washington politics. According to Glenn, some 80% of Americans describe themselves as centrist. I doubt the number is actually quite that high, but there a large and significant amount of people who feel alienate by both political parties, and the folks in Washington just don’t get it. The majority, and I dare say, the overwhelming majority of Americans feel a complete disconnect with government. But what can we do? Well, there are a number of thing, but none more important than voting (to that, I add that we should vote for the individual and their stance on issues not the party label…ever).

Politicians, and the special interest groups which control both major parties, want us to believe that we have no choice. We have to take what they offer, be it on the issues or the candidates they put up. There’s nothing we can do about the way things are being run. Like hell there isn’t. We---you and I---have the ultimate power. It’s called the vote. We can remove any politician we collectively decide to. I don’t care what you’re registered as, Democrat, Republican, Independent, or Third Party. Just vote, and get others to vote. The one thing politicians and their masters fear more than an independent prosecutor, is a large voter turnout because they can’t control the outcome.

But we need to go further than that. We need term limits. The longer a politician is in office, the more beholden they become to the moneyed special interest groups and the less they listen to the people. If we can limit a president to two four year terms, then why can’t we limit Senators to two six terms? Why can we limit Congressman to six two year terms? We also need to limit the money which goes into campaigns, and we need to make it instantly available to public. If these people are going to represent us, then we deserve to see who is giving them money. I can assure you they aren’t going to do it themselves. We will have to force the issue by intentionally voting for the challenger candidates no matter who they are, especially those having the courage to step up and publicly endorsing term limits and campaign spending limits.

Lastly, it looks like the Senate is trying to revive the “Amnesty” Bill. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) is key to the bill’s success or failure. Please contact Senator McConnell and tell him we don’t want any part of an “Amnesty” Bill for illegal immigrants.

Post Election Clean Up

Well, in case you missed it, the elections are over…for now. Voter turnout was a low 15 percent of the state’s registered voters. One Democrat said she voted for the ones who didn’t bother her with phone calls while another Democrat told me, “there’s nothing to vote for”. She didn’t like anything see saw or heard about any of the candidates. Her only regret was that there wasn’t a “none of above” on the ballot. If there was, there would be a lot of embarrassed politicians suddenly out of office.

As for my predictions, it looks like I was pretty right on. It looks like I missed just a couple. For State Treasurer, I said Republican Lonnie Napier and Mike Weaver on the Democratic side would win. Well, Melinda Wheeler, who wants to do away with the office, won on the GOP side while Todd Hollenbach, son of the former Jefferson County Judge Executive during the forced bussing episode of 1975, won for the Democrats.

For Agriculture Commissioner, Richie Farmer (R) won as I thought he would, while my other pick, David Neville lost to David Williams, a current Democrat. Williams is a sometime Republican and sometime Democratic candidate. Looks like Democratic suits him well this time! Congratulations to both Todd Hollenbach and David Williams on their win.


If Jody Richards is serious about Kentucky’s best interest, he should forget about running for Governor or any other office than the one he currently has. He needs to stay right where he’s at as Speaker of the House. Sometimes one can do more good by not having the top job.

My thanks to John Y Brown III for being a good sport. He did a great job as Secretary of State. I think if John has higher aspirations, he should look to either a State Senate or State Representative seat, and then come back for another run. I’ve heard rumors that John and Jack Conway had considered a possible at the Governor’s Mansion. I think that would make a formable team. You listening John?

Gatewood Galbraith has made some four attempts for Governor. Gatewood, you’re always a hoot, but it just ain’t gonna happen pal. Have you ever considered running for Agriculture Commissioner? If not, you should. You’re a basically country lawyer. You know about the problems of farmers and obstacles they face. This is a rural state. You could do a lot there. Go for it!

Jeff Hoover. What can I say? You’re tough. You’re experienced. You’re intelligent. And I like that. But like Jody, you may be at your best right where you are. Besides being a thorn in Larry Clark’s side (I like that too), you might consider making it your mission to bring talented people interested in public service into the Republican Party, and even helping them run for office.

Billy Harper. You’re a heck of a guy. I admire your convections. I especially admire your willingness to back up your convections with your own money. It’s rare in politics these days that someone will “walk the talk”. I’d like to see you in a position where you could ride roughshod over the financial abuses and mismanagement in Frankfort. I bet you’d clean house! Like my advice to Jeff, I think you can offer much to people aspiring to public service from the Republican side of the fence. You’d make a terrific “Dutch Uncle”!

Finally, Anne Northup. You had just lost your seat to John Yarmuth. Perhaps you felt compelled to run. You’ve done it for so long. Maybe it was outside pressure, but I suspect it may have been the sting of defeat and the need to prove yourself again. You did what you felt needed to be done. You’ve been a State Representative. You’ve been a Congresswoman. You did well. You really did. Now, take some time off for yourself. You’ve earned it.

Congratulations to all the victors and thank you to all those who time out of the busy lives to run for public office. I’ve been there and done that. It isn’t easy.

Pre-Election Predictions

I must get asked about a dozen times a day about who I think is going to win the upcoming elections. There are days when I lean one way and then something will come along in the news, or I’ll see some political spot which makes me change my mind. But like any good political prognosticator, I consulted my tarot cards, stared deeply into my coffee grounds (I know it’s supposed to be tea leaves, but it was really early so cut me some slack), and finally, I examined the entrails a pig. After all, one can talk politics without pork right? So, here we go:

For Commissioner of Agriculture, I expect Richie Farmer to pick up a win in the Republican Primary. He’s done a great job and I can’t see why the voters wouldn’t want more of the same. On the Democratic side, it will be David Neville.

The State Treasurer’s race has an especially good crop of candidates this time around. But I like Lonnie Napier the best. He has some great credentials. On the Democratic side, I look for Mike Weaver to pull out a win.

We all know the potential power of the Attorney General’s office. I think this one goes to Jack Conway, the former Pattonite, to win the Democratic Primary. I suspect Jack has plans to use this office as a jumping off point for Governor. Stan Lee looks like a winner for the Republicans. The GOP would be well advised to go all out for AG in future races (just a suggestion).

Bruce Hendrickson will be the Democratic nominee for Secretary of State. He’ll do battle in the fall with incumbent Trey Grayson. I have to tell you right now, Trey is one serious class act. Trey is probably one of, if not the brightest stars in the Republican camp.

In the Republican Primary for Governor, Ernie Fletcher will be re-nominated. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Harper come in second with Northup running a close third. Fletcher hit the ground running and never looked back. I really like Harper’s approach. He deserves a spot in Frankfort where he could put his energy and ideas to work for the citizens of Kentucky. Anne Northup just never found her voice. She seems like she’s just going through the motions. There’s no fire in her eyes. Personally, I think her selection of Michael Clingman as Campaign Manager was strategic mistake. Anne knows better than anyone that to take out an incumbent, you’ve got to have generals with brass. Anne, I like you. I really do, but you need a break. Spend time with Woody and the kids. Relax for awhile and enjoy life. Then I urge you to take a serious look at Metro Mayor. We need someone with new ideas down at City Hall.

The Democratic Primary is going to be a slugfest until the last vote is counted. They'll go after each other like a pack of ravenous hyenas. Richards, Galbraith, and Hensley are essentially out of the race, as if they were actually ever in it. Jonathan Miller has already dropped. At first, I thought this dance was between Henry and Lunsford; Steve’s popularity (well, actually Heather’s) versus Lunsford’s money. Both have baggage. Both have made some serious political mistakes. Steve’s running mate, Renee True seems like quality material, but she’s an unknown (by the way, does she talk? I have yet to hear her speak) and people are mistrustful of unknowns. Lunsford’s second is the outgoing AG, Greg Stumbo. Greg has “issues” all his own, but never underestimate the power of money in politics, especially Kentucky politics and Lunsford is loaded.

Now here’s the kicker, Kentuckians are tired of the mudslinging, corruption (real or implied), and back biting. Sure it’s good entertainment, but is that what we want in Frankfort? Stumbo is seen a mudslinger following his investigation of Fletcher. Lunsford quit the last time out and supported Ernie Fletcher, and that’s been a bur in Labor’s saddle ever since. Steve Henry has all sorts of problems. Frankly, none of the Democratic candidates should be pointing fingers (the really sad thing is that out of all the Democrats out there, this was the best crew they could field).

So, who is a known commodity with little (relatively speaking) baggage and good fundraiser capabilities? The only answer I can come up with that everyone in the Democratic camp can live with is Steve Beshear and his running mate, Dr. Dan Mongiardo. Don’t get me wrong. They’re not Teflon, but they seem to offer a little something for everyone with minimum garbage. I think Beshear would stand the best chance of all the other candidates of beating Fletcher in November. The big question is how badly this Primary damaged the Democrats ability to come together in the fall. Will the pack be dining on elephant in November or each other? Time will tell.

Finally, remember: there's only one opinion and one endorsement that really matters, and that's you--the voter.

Working Class Stiff

Well, it’s been awhile since I’ve had the opportunity to sit down and write an article. Actually, I’ve been pretty busy. The company I’ve worked for over the last 18 years was recently bought out by a French-Belgian business insurance concern, so you can imagine the changes we’re experiencing as we adopt a whole new outlook on business. Of course, the workload has dramatically increased as their claims are transferred to us, where we’ve had to familiarize ourselves with the business insurance industry while updating, correcting, following up with clients and attorneys, and generally jumping in with both feet as we take over the handling of their claims.

We’ve actually increased our day-to-day handling of claims by a third to half (I’ve gone from working approximately 400 claims to well over 600). Naturally there are all the normal concerns arising from a takeover over like salaries, benefits (especially health insurance), holidays, and so forth. I guess only time will tell what we can expect since management has been very closed mouth about how this will effect us, as they’ve been from the beginning. Management, which owned the company and have remained on staff since the buyout, made out like the proverbial “bandits”, or at least that’s our general perception judging by the expensive new cars and SUVs showing up in the parking lot and the number of vacations to expensive hot spots they’re taking.

I suppose some would argue that’s just the “Capitalist Way”, and I guess they would be right. Management rakes in big bucks while salaries for everyday working stiffs have been cut or remained stagnant. Benefits are cut or eliminated. Plants are closed. Jobs are outsourced overseas. The result for the average American employee is less and less earned “real” income, which has created a dramatic gap in income levels between the rich and everyone else. Have you been reading what the salaries of CEO’s are making? According to a Forbes article in 2005, salaries for CEOs increased 54% from 2004. Mine didn’t. Did yours? I was cut 1/3. The average compensation package for a Fortune 500 company in 2005 was $14.78 million dollars. Even lousy CEOs who’ve been canned are walking away with packages worth tens of millions of dollars. Here’s an interesting statistic I came across in an old USA Today article from March 3, 2003 (which just goes to show you how bad a problem this really is). According to the article, in 2002 the median CEO income was $1,017 an hour. Obscene. I am reminded of a quote by Napoleon, who once said that the reason for religion is to keep the poor from hanging the rich. Amen brother.

Back to what I’ve been doing of late, as some of you know, I’m an “education fanatic”. It seems like I’m constantly taking a class, attending a seminar or lecture, participating in a survey or even more likely reading a book (I generally keep about three going at all times). I think education is the key to just about everything from personal wellbeing to creating economic growth. Well, about eight months ago I was invited to attend an interview with the prospects of teaching college part time. As you may well imagine, I couldn’t resist. As most everyone said at the time, “you’re a natural”. I found out that some 100 or so folks were also invited. It was quite a diverse group. It was the most incredibly interesting and talented pool of people since I attended my MENSA meetings in San Francisco back in the ‘70’s.

We each had to give the prerequisite brief bio of ourselves in the front of everyone, and then we broke up into two groups. We were asked to put on a short instruction before the group (we were warned to prepare for this during our initial interview). Mine was a SWOT analysis of my decision to run for State Representative in 2004 (SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats). There were former and current professors (many with doctorates), engineers, business owners, HR folks, and the list went on and on. I was fascinated with each one and could have spent hours picking their brains. Roughly 30 folks were selected to come back for the faculty training program, including yours truly! I don’t think I could have been more ecstatic.

We went through a pretty intensive five week training program covering just about everything from grading papers to group and individual presentations (given my years of public speaking experience, I really relished that part). Finally graduation came. We lost a few individuals, but the class remained pretty much intact. Around a month later, I was invited back to begin teaching part time at night, and I’ve loved every minute of it since (I later learned that only about 5 of those who graduated were asked back to teach). I can think of few jobs which so aptly combine my love of learning, reading, debating with speaking (and to think, they actually pay me to do this!)


Kentucky Politics

Have you all been keeping on the governor races? I haven’t been following it to close lately. Frankly, they’re a little boring this time around. No one really seems to be standing out. On the Democratic side, it looks the race is coming down between Steve Henry and Bruce Lunsford. Neither is exactly burning up the campaign trail. Steve seems to have the “common” touch with most people (especially among the veterans) while Lunsford has the bucks. Both men have more baggage than a mule train. Steve’s running mate is virtually unknown former Property Valuation Clerk from Fayette County named Renee True. She seems likable enough, but Steve really needed someone with a bit more pizzazz. Attorney General Greg Stumbo is Lunsford’s running mate. His reputation has taken some serious hits too, especially over the handling of his investigation of current governor, Ernie Fletcher. Even the unions appear to have abandoned the Lunsford/Stumbo ticket despite Stumbo having Larry Clark’s half brother, Danny Ross on his staff as Labor Liaison (I’m still not sure why an Attorney General needs a labor liaison). As some of you may know, Larry Clark (D-46) is Speaker Pro Tem. As for the rest of the pack, they’re fading fast, mainly because of a lack of name recognition, money, key issues, or a combination of all three.

On the Republican side, Governor Fletcher is pulling ahead of his nearest competitor, former Congresswoman Anne Northup. At last count, he was up 9%. While this is good from his perspective, I would expect to see an incumbent governor a lot further ahead. Of course, one could argue that he’s facing a “name” opponent in Northup. As for Anne, she appears to be struggling in getting her message out. I’ve read on several conservative blogs, in addition the Courier Journal, about Anne’s fundraisers all but falling flat. I find it hard to believe that someone as experienced as Anne would be having so much trouble getting attention from the loyal GOP money crowd. But then, Anne isn’t a Congresswoman any more while Ernie is Governor. Even the once vaulted “Anne’s Army” of volunteers isn’t what it used to be.

Perhaps I’m being a little over cynical, but Anne has shown she is vulnerable in her loss to John Yarmuth (D) and while Fletcher has taken a beating from Democrat Greg Stumbo and the press, most feel it was politically motivated (though no doubt, some of it was justified). I guess it just boils down to backing an incumbent verses a challenger, no matter who that challenger is. I also think her current campaign manager Michael Clingaman has a lot to do with it to. It’s his job (as it is with any campaign manager) to make sure their candidate gets their message out; that it’s on target; and it’s accurate. I’m just not seeing that happening from Anne’s camp, and the interest in her campaign seems to bear that out. To use a historical analogy, Anne needs a General Grant not a McClellan. After inaction following on inaction, Lincoln told McClellan he would like to “borrow his army” if McClellan wasn’t going to use it. Lincoln went through a lot of generals before finding Grant. Like Lincoln, Anne needs to “borrow” her campaign back and if she can’t find her “Grant”, she needs to become her own general and go for broke if she’s serious about winning this.

As for Harper, he’s preparing a new set of commercials which are loosely based on the tongue-in-cheek ads that Mitch McConnell aired in his successful bid to unseat Dee Huddleston. His race has just never gained much traction. Maybe the humor will get folks talking about his campaign. Harper hasn’t had much success in the fundraising department and has had to fund his campaign mainly out of pocket. As an aside, I read where his campaign manager resigned, citing personal issues, so for now it looks like he’s on his own.

School Bus Safety

As everyone who drives in Kentucky knows, we have a mandatory seat belt law. Buckle up or else as the commercials says. The law, which took effect on July 12, 2006, states in part:

A person shall not operate a motor vehicle manufactured after 1981 on the public roadways of this state unless the driver and all passengers are wearing a properly adjusted and fastened seat belt (unless the passenger is a child of 40 inches or less in height - see additional requirement below)
If a person is unable to wear a seat belt for medical or physical reasons, they must have in their possession a written statement from a physician or licensed chiropractor.
A conviction for a seat belt violation shall not be transmitted by the court to the Transportation Cabinet for inclusion on a person's driving history record.
Law enforcement agencies shall be prohibited from erecting roadblocks for the sole purpose of checking for seat belt use violations

The law makes no mention as to any exceptions to the above statements as shown on the Kentucky State Police’s website (http://www.ghsp.ky.gov/seat_belt_ky_law.htm). 2/3 of those killed in accidents were not wearing seat belts according to the post by the Kentucky State Police. That’s 960 deaths and 46,000 injuries in 2004. 70% to 80% of those involved in light truck or SUV accidents were protected from ejection in a rollover crashes.

Sounds good right? An ounce of prevention to prevent a pound of ouch. So, what about our children who ride school buses? Why aren’t they protected? They are when they’re in your car, but not when they step out of it and on to the school bus. Why are our school buses apparently exempt? Some individuals cite existing laws pertaining to school buses (such a requiring vehicles to stop when kids are loading or unloading, kick out windows or extra doors) as protection enough and yet children are repeated hurt…or worse. Of course, many of those are folks are opposed to seat belts in general. Well, that may be a decision for an adult to make, but not children and certainly not when their lives are at issue.

There are approximately 23.5 million elementary and secondary school children ride school buses nationally. Of those, some 12,000 were injured in 2005 according Keystosaferschools.com. Fox News reported 4 students from Lee High School in Huntington Alabama were killed and 14 were injured when their school bus fell 30 feet from a highway overpass on November 22, 2006. November 30th saw a school bus run off the road and roll over near Herndon, Kentucky. On January 17, 2007, 17 middle school students were injured when their Grant County school bus hit a utility pole. A few weeks later, when 13 students from Blake Elementary were suffered minor injuries in an accident on March 5th. Then on March 6, 2007, eight school children were injured in a bus accident involving another vehicle near Churchill Downs. And of course everyone remembers the Carrolton bus crash when, on May 14, 1988, a drunken Larry Mahoney killed 27 students and injured another 34 when he drove his truck the wrong way down the Interstate 71 near Carrollton, Kentucky into the oncoming school bus. Mahoney walked away with only minor scraps and bruises (a great reason for the death penalty if there ever was one in my opinion). The incident remains the worse school bus crash in US history.

We all know bus drivers have a hard time focusing on driving, making stops, the traffic, the weather, the noise, and kids running up and down the bus (yeah, they’re supposed to be seated, but who’s stopping them?). If mandatory seat belts were in place, it would one less (and key) issue the bus driver had to worry about, plus in the event of an accident, the students wouldn’t be bounced around like sacks of potatoes. Some states, such as Florida and Texas are already seriously considering mandatory seat belts. The average costs are between $300 and $500 per seat. Seems like a small price to pay to protect our kids don’t think? Is there any legislator here in Kentucky willing to step up to the plate for the sake of our kids? I suggest visiting the National Coalition for School Bus Safety at: http://www.ncsbs.org/yellow-school-bus.htm for additional information.

Mattress Savings Accounts

Everyone knows that savings accounts aren’t what they once were. There was a time you’d get a toaster, “Green Stamps”, or a set of glasses for opening up a savings account. Interest rates weren’t too bad either. My how things have changes! You’d almost be better off stashing the money in your mattress. No wonder we have the lowest saving of most industrial nations in the world (of course, we’re penalized by our government for savings—it’s called “income tax”). Moderate Man recently visited his bank and got a shock of his life. He asked if he relate his experience, so I said “why not”. Of course, I have to include the usual disclaimer that the opinions expressed by Moderate Man aren’t necessarily those of this blog:

I went into the bank the other day with my tax return refund and with the goal of opening up a savings account to park it in. It has been a while since I had one and have had several over the years before closing them to put the funds to good use. I was shocked when I learned the saving account interest rate was .35%. That is less than one percent. And the banker did try to sign me up for a credit card also. I might as well have put the funds in a Christmas Club or put it under a mattress. I didn’t and instead choose a CD. I went home to research this unbelievable thing. Something is really wrong here. Come to find out the United States saving rate is the lowest since the Great Depression. It is even lower than the great stock market boom of the late 1990’s. The Commerce Dept. calculates the national savings rate at ZERO! This has fueled consumer spending and kept the economy growing. But this is a ticking time bomb and will explode in our faces. If we start saving instead of spending, the economy goes into a depression. And the Baby Boomers when retiring will draw down their savings leading to greater pressures on the saving rate. And millions are unprepared for retirement. Where is the incentive to save? This squeezes the middle class who are hammered with flat wages and high prices. Have you checked out the price of a gallon of gas lately? Guess which country has the greatest saving rate in the world? China, big surprise. And over in Europe, home of the Euro dollar, the average saving rate is 20 %. There should be a law that lets people check a box on their tax returns that transfers their refund directly into a savings account. There should be a law that says a financial institution that deals in stocks, bonds; CD’s, credit cards, and annuities must provide a required minimum interest rate set by the Federal Reserve Bank. One that has a comparable rate to CD’s. Did you ever ask yourself what happened to the old Building and Loan’s that used to be so popular? Big business walked over them and they now have the long standing responsibility to increase the saving rate without endangering this countries economy. Are they up to the task or should government step in?

Do You Want to Upscale That?

I read an article in the March 14th Courier Journal’s "Neighborhood" Section about a petition to bring upscale stores to Jefferson County’s Southend. Wow, I couldn’t wait to sign it and send it to just about everyone I knew. I don't know about you, but I'm tired of the Southend being everyone else's dumping ground. We really need to bring some upscale restaurants, stores, and other businesses to the Southend. The only way things are going to change is if we forget about petty party politics and come together as a community to demand change with a united voice. It’s time the people lead the “leaders” and this is a great way to start! So, if you live here in Louisville, please sign the attached petition and pass along to everyone on your list. Click here: Retailers Welcome on Dixie Highway Petition : [ powered by iPetitions.com ]. You’ll be glad you did!

Politics Anyone?

Believe it or not, it’s already time for the 2008 races. It seems like it was just a few months ago were talking politics (well, actually, it was just a few months ago; November to be exact). So, what was learned from the November races? Well, we learned that the people are tired of Bush’s handling of just about everything. The Republicans lost across the board. Was it a cyclical fluke? A slight correction? Or was it a signal that the mood of country, and the political momentum, was swinging back to the Left? Are we, as a country, becoming more liberal, perhaps as a result of aging Hippies (yeah, that would include me) taking one more swipe at affecting the country’s political climate? Is this the decade of the “New” Democratic Party? Interesting questions all.

We do know that the voters turned out in droves to oust Republican incumbents (which is no mean feat). Especially hard hit were Republican Moderates, who ironically, helped the one time minority Democrats get through or soften certain pieces of legislations. In turn the Democrats targeted their one time allies. I guess it goes to show that the enemy of my enemy is still my enemy. We know the anti-war movement is growing, and Bush’s ratings keep getting lower and lower. We know too that the ultra conservative Religious Right movement didn’t show up at the polls. Many stayed away to voice their frustration with what they saw as an increasing hypocritical Republican Party.

We know blue collar folks, especially union workers in the auto industry came out heavily, no doubt to vote their opinion of the state of the automobile industry, especially Ford (which beg the question “Has anyone driven a Ford lately?”). With Bush’s continued refusal to admit the existence of global warming (he recently, albeit cryptically, acknowledged there may be some sort of climate change afoot but continues to deny the human impact despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary). This “head-in-the-sand” stance brought out thousands of environmentally concerned voters, including ironically Fundamentalists, who have joined with environmentalists because of their belief that we are “caretakers” and “protectors” of the Earth and all that’s on it.

On the other side of spectrum, we know folks are very concerned…and frustrated…over illegal immigration and the Federal government’s refusal to do anything. They are equally frustrated about the government’s unwillingness to require immigrants to learn English. We are finding ourselves as outsiders in our own country. We are the ones who are being forced to adapt to those who refuse to learn our language. We are the ones being required to “press one” for English (something I refuse to do). We are the ones spending millions of taxpayer dollars to train police, EMS, and firefighters to speak Spainish, not to mention hiring special tutors for students who don’t speak our language, as well as for those whose parents don’t want their children to be taught in English (seriously), and this doesn’t even include all the money spent on various social services. We know that we are very concerned about a nuclear Iran, as well as a possible nuclear Taliban, Hezbollah, or Al Qaeda. Are these “conservative” issues or simply issues of national interest? I don’t know frankly, but I do know they will impact the 2008 elections, and beyond. Meanwhile, let’s take a look at some of the upcoming Kentucky races.


AND THEY’RE OFF!

As many of you know, I’ve been active in politics for nearly 30 years. There’s not much I haven’t done in politics. I know how the Democrats operate, and how the Republicans handle themselves. I also know personally many of the candidates running. With that said, let’s look at the Governor’s race.

The GOP has big problems. Darrell Brock, head of the Kentucky Republican Party announced on February 9 that he’s resigning next month (he’s expected to be replaced by the highly competent Gail Russell). Darrell, never a big fan of Republican Governor Ernie Fletcher, easily survived a failed attempt at ouster by the Governor as you may recall. Still, it’s never a good omen when the head of the incumbent’s party quits at the beginning of a major election cycle (sends that “deserting-a-sinking-ship” message). Ernie Fletcher is the first Republican since 1969 to be elected governor, which is impressive given the 2:1 Democrat voter registration. Yet successfully got himself indicted over a hiring scandal, and managed to limp from one crisis to another (even his Lt. Governor, not to mention most of his staff, has quit). Fletcher’s running mate is virtual unknown Robbie Rudolph, a Cabinet Secretary. His chief benefactor and GOP “Godfather”, US Senator Mitch McConnell (who was instrumental in getting Fletcher elected) has dropped him, as has Senator Jim Bunning. Most of the GOP operatives (and financial heavy hitters) have also abandoned him. In what has to be highly embarrassing for an incumbent governor, he’s been forced into a Primary against two strong opponents.

The headlines for former 3rd District Congresswoman Anne Northup on February 7th could have read "Northup throws in the Towel" when it was announced that she canned her campaign manager, Cam Savage. Not so much for firing him, although his handling of her thus far lackluster campaign certainly warranted it, but by hiring former Kentucky Executive Director Michael Clingaman (officially Savage “resigned” for “personal reasons”). I had the…er…opportunity of working with Michael when I ran for 38th State Representative in 2004. His job was to provide assistance to all challenger State House candidates. Specifically, he was to be our liaison between the House Leadership, Party Leadership, and the Governor’s office.

Now why I can only speak for myself, many of my fellow candidates voiced these same concerns. The walk sheets Clingaman provided were incomplete, and usually outdated. The phone lists were incomplete (I received only a partial list—even my name wasn’t on it--though I was assured it was a complete list. This resulted in me paying more my phone banking than I should have and yet reaching fewer people). Although he was supported to arrange to get “names” to come out and walk with us, he never did. He was supposed to arrange photo-ops with the Governor and others, but failed to do so. He was supposed to notify party and House members of our fundraisers, but never did. And, by the way, money specifically set aside for challengers, was diverted to help the incumbents. His demeanor was rude and arrogant. His advice to the less politically experienced was disastrous. While I was not active in the ’06 races, my understanding was that Clingaman offered more of same. Her saving grace may be her running mate, House Minority Leader, Jeff Hoover. Jeff is a popular politician who knows the ins and outs of Frankfort politics better than most. But even his popularity and expertise may not be enough to overcome Clingaman.

Paducah businessman Billy Harper is making a name for himself with his self-funded campaign commercials. Barely was the ’06 election over when Harper started running his ads. Harper’s inexperience may have already caused a fatal error in his election bid. As everyone who follows Kentucky politics knows, to win a gubernatorial race, you need someone on your ticket from the “Golden Triangle”, that is, Louisville, Lexington, or Northern Kentucky, which are the main population centers of the state. Harper made the mistake of selecting Dick Wilson, also of Paducah. Wilson may be a great guy and all, but it could show Harper’s lack of statewide appeal and experience.

On the Democratic side, they smell blood in the water, and we have quite a selection of sharks to pick from. Former Lt. Governor Steve Beshear is running with State Senator Dan Mongiarino. Not much to say about Steve. Good guy. This may be last try at the top job. Perennial candidate Gatewood Galbraith and retired highway engineer Mark Wireman are giving it a go. Galbraith is best known for wanting to legalize Pot. Guess we should call this the “Doobie Brothers” ticket. Former Lt. Governor Steve Henry finally decided to jump in the pool. I’ve known Steve for many years. Steve has had a lot of troubles lately. He was indicted, and later acquitted of Medicare billing fraud. He’s also being investigated for possible campaign finance violations over his failed 1998 bid for US Senate. Steve’s best asset is his wife, former Miss USA, Heather French Henry. Heather has made a reputation of caring for veterans, especially disabled veterans. Steve and Heather regularly come out to veteran events (including a few of mine). However, Heather has her own baggage. Several years she accidentally hit and killed a bicyclist on her way home. While it was determined she wasn’t at fault, this is Kentucky politics, and it’s bound to come up. All in all, Steve and Heather would make a great First Couple for Kentucky.

Louisville businessman Bruce Lunsford is running with Attorney General Greg Stumbo. While this is a classic example of using the “Golden Triangle”, both men have serious baggage issues. Like Harper, Bruce is a self made multi millionaire. He ran for governor is 2002, and then quit toward the end of race. While bad enough, he endorsed Republican Ernie Fletcher. In Democratic circles, that’s tantamount to political suicide. Stumbo has made his term of Attorney General a crusade against Fletcher. Despite repeated denials of a “witch hunt”, including a public statement denying any interest in running, Stumbo accepted Lunsford’s offer for the number two position. Stumbo, of course, has a number of personal issues, among which comes his failure to pay back child support.

State Treasurer Jonathan Miller and Jefferson County Attorney Irv Maze are also weighing in. Both are good guys. Jonathan and Irv are very likable. I only see two possible flaws with their race. Jonathan is Jewish, which (sadly) may not play well in heart of the Bible Belt, and neither have the fundraising ability it’s going to take to win this race, which is too bad. Jonathan is without a doubt one of the best the Democrats have in their current stable of raising stars. As for Irv, this is possibly his last shot at higher office.

Finally we come to House Speaker Jody Richards and former Secretary of State, John Y Brown III. Jody comes off as dull and uninspiring, which belies a very intelligent man. Jody too is reaching the end of his political career and this may well be his last grab for the golden ring. I went to school with John Y. Let’s just say he wasn’t the sharpest crayon in the box. I have to admit, I always delighted in debating him in every class we had together. After his tenure as SoS, John publicly admitted to having a serious drinking problem; something I seriously hope he’s got under control.

Missing from our list of political “Who’s Who” is current Secretary of State Trey Grayson. Trey considered a run for governor but wisely decided to seek reelection for SoS instead. Trey has done a great job as SoS and should win. Trey quite possibly represents the best of the Republican Party in Kentucky, and its future. He has everything one needs to be successful, except experience, and time will take care of that. I know that when I needed his help, he was there—no questions asked. And that says a lot in my book.