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Ideas for Change: Straight-Ticket Voting

We don't want to get too far ahead of ourselves, but barring some cataclysmic event where most Kansas Republicans die, in 2011, the state will have a GOP governor and majorities in both the state House and Senate.

So what happens after that? Change! And we have a suggestion!

Since Dems always kill efforts to actually require some form of identification to vote, how about this? The Republican-led Legislature should consider and pass a straight-ticket voting ballot law. This type of system "allows voters to choose a party’s entire slate of candidates. Voters make one punch or mark on the ballot in order to vote for every candidate of that party for each office on the ballot."

16 states already have this option of voting and it has proven to be a success, including states such as Texas, Iowa, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and more.

J.R. Claeys and Kris Kobach are both running in the primary to become the next Secretary of State. Their opinion and efforts could really help to get a straight-ticket voting ballot passed. Contact Claeys and Kobach and ask them where they stand on this type of measure.

Kansas Reporters Recognized?!

The Best State-Based Political Reporters (2009 Edition)

Ladies and gentleman, Fixitas of all ages, we give you the 2009 Fix list of the best state-based political reports in the country!

As we have said before, political reporters out in the states are doing great work on a daily basis and, by aggregating the best of the best here, you have a chance to follow their work.

Kansas: Associated Press' John Hanna, Kansas City Star's Steve Kraske, Topeka Capital Journal's Tim Carpenter

Actually, What's the Matter With the KDP?

Hey, KDP...

did it ever occur that there might be something
the matter with your party? With your ideas?

You only have 9 out of 40 Senate seats.

Telling Kansans that there's something
wrong with them doesn't seem like a successful strategy.

Just some friendly advice.

If Dems Controlled Kansas...

The Kansas Democrats will once again make their case to the people of Kansas in 2010. They'll scream, complain, unleash their bitterness and sit there scratching their heads after they lose. Kansans have lived under judicial fiat (Supreme Court mandating school funding), Barack Hussein Obama's bff (Queen Kathleen), and the host of characters to step forward in 2010 should be equally as entertaining...Raj Goyle, Dennis McKinney, Larry Gates, etc.

But here is a great reminder of what the Kansas Democrats really want to do to our state.

Enter the Sierra Club. This morning the Sierra Club will "announce litigation against a Kansas electric utility." It's taking place in Lawrence...anyone want to bet on Westar? Besides the costly cap and trade tax Nancy Pelosi and Co. are trying to pass at the federal level, we have our own little green activists vying for more litigation right here in Kansas. Oh, and the press conference being put on by the Sierra Club is in association with the Sierra Club’s National Coal Day of Action.

Greenies are also holding up a project in Lawrence, Kansas according to Transportation Secretary Deb Miller:

Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Deb Miller said any long-range plan could include funding for the South Lawrence Trafficway, which is currently being challenged in federal court by environmentalists who say the project would harm the Baker Wetlands.

“Should this alignment survive that legal challenge, I don’t think there is any question it will be on the long list of projects that are highly sought after in a new transportation program. And then, whether or not the South Lawrence Trafficway is included in the bill will probably depend on just how big the program is,” she said.

And we can't forget Queen Kathleen's killing of the coal plant in Holcomb before she took her comfy position as HHS Secretary, where she's been showing reporters how to sneeze.

Democrats will try in 2010 to appear "independent" and "middle-of-the-road", but groups like the Sierra Club and radical environmentalists would have far too much control over energy policy if Dems somehow took the reins of power in Kansas.

Kansans to Six: Investigate your own!

Last week, Rep. David Crum, R-Augusta called on Attorney General Steve Six to investigate more than $700,000 in Medicaid funds that went to Community Living Opportunities in Lenexa. The problem with the funds is that it bypassed the usual process and went straight into the group's coffers.

This group is closely tied to our former Queen Kathleen and the Democrats' likely candidate for governor, Larry Gates.

From the KC Star:

Its board of directors includes state Democratic Party Chairman Larry Gates and University of Kansas Athletics Director Lew Perkins. Supreme Court Justice Dan Biles was a board member but resigned; he was appointed to the high court by then-Gov. Kathleen Sebelius, a Democrat.

Democrats constantly rant about how "independent" Steve Six has been in his appointed gig as AG. Well then step up to the plate Mr. Six and investigate members of your own party -- even if it damages their electoral chances in 2010. Let's have some transparency and accountability in our government, Mr. Six. We have a feeling this won't be the last of many shady dealings that will be uncovered from the Sebelius Administration.

Even the WE Blog weighed in this morning in a surprising moment of rationality

The situation looks more suspect because the group’s board included Democratic Party chairman Larry Gates and others with ties to then-Gov. Kathleen Sebelius.

Come one, come all - this FRIDAY

Our friends over at the Kansas Democrat Party are hosting 'Demofest 2009' this coming weekend in Wichita. Friday night, Oct. 2nd at 7pm they will be holding a screening of the movie What's the Matter with Kansas. The screening will be held at the Murdock Theater, 536 N. Broadway St.

We'd like to encourage all our fellow Tea Partiers, 9.12-ers and others who think Kansas is actually an example of what's Right with America to come out and let the Kansas Democrats know our thoughts. Since we're guessing none of them attended any of the tea parties and other similiar events - they need to be made aware that we are fed up with taxes, tired of all the bails out and paying for our neighbor's mortgages.

PLEASE come out Friday night and let the Democrats know they are wrong on the issues. Maybe if they focused on coming up with real solutions instead of simply pointing out what they think is the matter with our state, voters would be more willing to give their candidates a chance.

Young Republicans Needed

Deadlines for the Spring 2010 Washington, DC internship session with the Kansas delegation are rapidly approaching. If you or anyone you know are interested - check out the links below on how to apply to each office.

Senator Sam Brownback - Nov. 1st (Link)
Senator Pat Roberts - Oct. 15th (Link)
KS-01 Jerry Moran - Oct. 16th (Link)
KS-02 Lynn Jenkins - Oct. 15th (Link)
KS-04 Todd Tiarht - No deadline set (Link)

Students also looking to stick around Kansas can apply to intern at the Kansas State House - application deadline Dec. 4th (Link).

ObamaCare or Prison??

Now we're scared -

Sen. John Ensign (R-Nev.) received a handwritten note Thursday from Joint Committee on Taxation Chief of Staff Tom Barthold confirming the penalty for failing to pay the up to $1,900 fee for not buying health insurance.

Violators could be charged with a misdemeanor and could face up to a year in jail or a $25,000 penalty, Barthold wrote on JCT letterhead. He signed it "Sincerely, Thomas A. Barthold."

Click Here - to view the note to Sen. Ensign

Kansans are lucky to have Senator Roberts serving on both the Senate Finance and HELP committees. Hopefully he can make some headway on convincing his Democratic colleagues what Kansans already know - ObamaCare is not the Change Americans deserve

T.M.I. Steve Rose

After just a week officially in the race to unseat Congressman (Do Nothing) Dennis Moore - Steve Rose announced today that we was withdrawing from the race. Despite some much not needed details involving blood and weightloss - Rose said he was quitting on the advice of his gastroenterologist, saying the campaign is exacerbating his Crohn's disease, a painful digestive condition that he said he's had for more than 40 years.

Still in the race, Olathe Republican Patricia Lightner (http://www.patricialightner.com/). Rumors still circulating whether Overland Park State Representative Kevin Yoder will enter the race soon.

Nasty 9, vol 2: Oletha Faust-Goudeau

We'd like to introduce you to Senator Oletha Faust-Goudeau. She is currently serving her first term in the Senate after 3 terms in the House (replacing Sen Betts after his disappointing attempt to unseat Rep. Todd Tiahrt). Her occupation on the Kansas Legislature website says 'Community Act.' - we're assuming this would be along the lines of a community organizer? But you decide....

Although Faust-Goudeau won election with 69% of the vote - her record on the issues remains in lock step with the President and out of step with Kansans.

Oppose Late Term and Partial Birth Abortions - NO
Support the new Kansas Coal Plant - NO
Require voters to provide identification at the polls (to cut down on illegal residents voting) - NO
Support concealed carry - NO

While skimming over her campaign finance reports we notice she contributed $350 to her sorority (Beta Kappa Omega) from her campaign. Fiscally responsible - we think not.

Surely there's a Republican in Wichita willing to take on the Senator. We encourage readers to contact Faust-Goudeau and let her know we don't appreciate her votes.

316-652-9067
Oletha29th@aol.com

In Case You Missed It - KS-04

State Senator Dick Kelsey, who is running for Congress to replace Rep. Todd Tiahrt, is the first candidate in the race to go up on the airways. His first TV ad started running on Monday and his first radio spot began yesterday - recorded by former Governor Mike Huckabee who has endorsed the Senator's bid. Check out the TV spot below.



Other Republicans in the race at this time are RNC National Committeeman Mike Pompeo, State Senator Jean Schodorf, oilman Willis "Wink"Hartman, and retired pilot Jim Anderson. The only Democrat in the race at this time is Raj Goyle - we'll more on him and his liberal roots! So come back for more on Goyle!

Steve Rose to Take on Moore

Long-time Johnson County Publisher, Steve Rose, threw his hat in the ring today to take on Dennis Moore in the 3rd district.

“I think that under the current administration it’s a much further left government,” Rose said. “And Dennis Moore is voting with them. I think he’s left the mainstream of his constituency.”

Well said. 2010 is the year to finally Dump Dennis.

More to Come: Who's in and Who's Out in the 3rd district.

Good News: Guantana-NO

Yup, that's right. It looks like after the hard work of our Kansas delegation at all levels, terrorists sitting tight in Guantanamo Bay probably won't be headed to Kansas. So who are the winners and losers?

Winners:

• The people of Kansas: Most Kansans, especially the people of Leavenworth said NO to having these terrorists in their state and city and it reverberated to Washington.
• Sens. Roberts and Brownback: Our senators took the courageous and bold step to put a hold on President Obama's nominations until the senators got some real answers about Guantanamo. It looks like their leadership and strategy proved successful.
• Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins: Jenkins introduced legislation earlier this year to prevent funding to transfer the terrorists to Fort Leavenworth. If they go elsewhere, this will be a big accomplishment for Jenkins and one the people of her district should be proud of.
• Leavenworth officials: They weren't afraid to take a position and make it clear where they stood. Although local officials don't always get a lot of attention, we'll give them a shout out.
  

Losers:

• The terrorists: Isn't that one obvious? Looks like they may be headed to cold, crisp Michigan where the average temperature in the winter is an icy 30 degrees. Sure won't be the ocean side view that was Guantanamo. Hope they pack their warm jackets.
• Shameless "We Want Thems": Believe it or not, some Kansans wanted the terrorists in Leavenworth and use them for "economic development" Strange logic, but needless so say, that crowd consisted of the Wichita Eagle Blog, some KC Star editorial members, and the libs in Lawrence.
  

Schmidt Is All in for AG

Now we don't necessarily want to toot our own horn here at RWK, but we'll go ahead and do it.

State Senator Derek Schmidt apparently just needed a little encouragement to take on Steve Six in next year's Attorney General's race. And just like that, a day later Schmidt took the plunge.

And not wasting anytime taking a shot at Six. There is clearly an opening for some leadership in the Attorney General's office.

"Earlier this month, I picked up my hometown newspaper and learned that local law enforcement officers took down a meth lab only about a mile from my home in Independence. An armed fugitive was loose, perhaps somewhere in my town, perhaps somewhere in my quiet neighborhood, perhaps in a yard where my children and their friends play.

"Life's events sometimes have a way of opening our eyes to the obvious. The principal focus of my service in the Senate has been making Kansas a safer and more secure place to live, work and raise a family. This work is not done and I remain committed to it. This is where I can make the greatest difference for our state over the next four years."

So it's off to the races and Steve Six must have the sweats, being a virtually unknown around the state and it won't help having a "D" next to his name next fall.

This gets the Kansas GOP one step closer to sweeping the State next year. Now the GOP just needs to recruit a well-known and qualified person to take on Democrat Dennis McKinney, who was appointed state treasurer after Lynn Jenkins defeated Nancy Boyda in the 2nd district in 2008. We'll throw out some names for state treasurer and see if, like Schmidt, someone heeds our call.

Dems Hopeful Dark Horse for Gov?

We're hearing rumors around our capital city that KDP Chairman Larry Gates is in fact going to be the Democrats hopeful dark horse candidate to take on shoe-in Governor Senator Sam Brownback. Word is that Gates is shopping around for some campaign staff.

After looking on the Kansas Ethics website - there's currently nothing filed. I'm sure it's just an oversight and he hasn't officially started raising any money yet.

The only recent success of Dems in the state seems to be due to - party switchers (Boyda, Morrison, Parkinson, etc), nasty Republican primaries or Queen Kathy's assistance. It seems hard to imagine that the guy who is the voice and face of liberals in the state has much hope of appealing to Independents and peeling of Republicans in a year when Kansans are already fed up with the frivolous spending of the Obama administration and Nancy Pelosi Congress (Here).

The Nix Six Project: Contenders?

After the former Democrat Attorney General Paul Morrison's embarrassing, public affair came to light - after running on "family values" during the campaign - Queen Kathleen handpicked Stephen Six to fill out the rest of Morrison's term.

So far, Six is going unchallenged in his bid for his first elected term. Instead, some of the GOP's top candidates are deciding to run for Secretary of State after Ron Thornburgh announced he'd be stepping down. Who were the two most likely candidates to take on Six?

• Kris Kobach: Former GOP Chairman, congressional candidate, and law professor at UMKC. Kobach announced he would run for Secretary of State, setting up a primary with young, up and comer from Salina, J.R. Claeys. Kobach is known across the country as an anti-illegal immigration advocate and popular with the conservative base.
  
  
• Derek Schmidt: An attorney and having served nearly 8 years in the Kansas Senate, now as Majority Leader, Schmidt could be the likely candidate to take on and knock off Six. Schmidt's, however, has indicated he is "exploring" a bid for SOS to setup a three-way primary.
  

Six has raised some money for his bid, but nothing that can't be overcome. The reality is that Six is virtually uknown around the state and having a big fat D after his name come 2010 won't exactly be an asset. Schmidt has served well in the Kansas Senate and needs to step up to the challenge to help the GOP sweep the statewide offices in 2010. Contact Schmidt at Derek.Schmidt@senate.ks.gov and let him know we need him for Kansas' next Attorney General.

And just for the heck of it, check out Morrison's "family values" ad during his campaign. Sad.

Kathleen Doesn't Understand September 11

Remember when President Obama tapped our own Queen Kathleen for HHS Secretary? AFTER Tom Daschle was forced to pull his name after major unpaid taxes, that is. Kathleen was waiting in the wings to move to D.C. with the man she just couldn't get enough of on the campaign. Lucky for her, she got to be Obama's sloppy seconds.

Last Friday, on the anniversary of 9/11, most people celebrated it by remembering the families, the way that day changed America, and how we must continue to fight for the freedoms we have today. With H1N1 being all the rage these days in HHS, Kathleen couldn't resist giving it a plug.

In an internal memo sent out to HHS employees, Sebelius said:

"In the spirit of service, we're asking for your help to stop the spread of the H1N1 virus by forwarding the “5 Things You Need to Know About H1N1 Flu” (attached) to at least 10 of your family members and friends – and ask them to forward the attachment, too. Sending this information to as many people as possible is a simple way you can help prevent illness across the country this fall."

Really? Whenever Obama or Democrats get uncomfortable with rooting for America or just have run out of useful things to say, they've turned to time and again a "National Day of Service". Martin Luther King, Jr. Day? National Day of Service! 9/11 Anniverary? National Day os Service!

But Queen Kathleen is no stranger to gaffes and inappropriate comments about 9/11. When she was running for governor back in 2003, she said this during a debate with GOP candidate Tim Shallenburger.

"The roads in Missouri were much more terrifying to me than the attacks on the World Trade Center, because I really did think my life was far more at risk," she said.

Sebelius just really doesn't know how to handle 9/11. Granted, that's just one more reason we're glad Obama plucked her out of Kansas to get her out of our hair for good.

Nasty 9, vol 1: Marci "San" Francisco

Meet State Senator Marci "San" Francisco. She's one of the 9 (not so) powerful Democrats in the Kansas Senate. Yes, she represents Lawrence and no, we'll never unseat her, but we just feel it's about time to let her know that the other 104 - scratch that (Wyandotte) 103 counties in the state don't agree with her.

Oppose Late Term and Partial Birth Abortions - NO
Support the new Kansas Coal Plant (which will bring jobs to KS possibly for KU graduates in her town) - NO
Require voters to provide identification at the polls (to cut down on illegal residents voting) - NO
Allow Kansans to exercise their 2nd amendment rights with concealed carry - NO
Support English as Kansans' official language - NO

Who's in the party of NO now?

Contact Sen (San) Francisco and let her know she's representing Kansas, not California
(785) 842-6402
maf@sunflower.com

Health Reform - Med Mal

We heard from President Obama Wednesday night that he plans to look into eliminating fraud and abuse of the health care system.

"Finally, many in this chamber – particularly on the Republican side of the aisle – have long insisted that reforming our medical malpractice laws can help bring down the cost of health care. I don't believe malpractice reform is a silver bullet, but I have talked to enough doctors to know that defensive medicine may be contributing to unnecessary costs. So I am proposing that we move forward on a range of ideas about how to put patient safety first and let doctors focus on practicing medicine. I know that the Bush Administration considered authorizing demonstration projects in individual states to test these issues. It's a good idea, and I am directing my Secretary of Health and Human Services to move forward on this initiative today."

That's right. Who does he put in charge? HHS Secretary and former Executive Director of the Kansas Trial Lawyers Association Kathleen Sebelius. So we're trusting a person who used to lead the charge for the ambulance chasing trial lawyers to figure out how to reform the system so Doctors can stop wasting time and resources practicing overly defensive medicine.

We must give some credit to the KC Prime Buzz for pointing out the coincidence as well (Here). However, we're guessing our Kansas readers here find it a bit more outrageous than the Stars' regular readers do.

Fair and Balanced demonstration project - you decide...

America Must Never Forget

We must never forget what happened that day. The blood that was shed, the families that were ripped apart, and the way it changed America forever. God bless those who lost their lives on that day and the families they left behind.

ObamaCare Recap

Well, we'd all like to say we're surprised with the new and bipartisan approach President Obama took tonight in his health care address - but that's just not what happened.

Straight from the horse's mouth:
"That's why under my plan, individuals will be required to carry basic health insurance"
"Likewise, businesses will be required to either offer their workers health care, or chip in to help cover the cost of their workers"

So what we learned from tonight is that the President is sticking by the public (government-run) option, he supports mandates on individuals to buy insurance and mandates on business to provide insurance to their employees - even if doing so requires them to lay off some employees in order to pay for the insurance of others, his plan will cost $900 billion but it somehow miraculously won't increase the deficit one dollar, and that we should all support his reforms because Senator Ted Kennedy would.

One entertaining moment of the speech - Congressman Joe Wilson of South Carolina yelled out 'YOU LIE' when President Obama tried to defect rumors that his health plan would cause the government to pay for insurance for illegal immigrants. Jury's still out on this one since amendments to prohibit the use of funds for illegals failed in committee mark ups for H.R. 3200 - the current House Democrats proposal.

Guess only time will tell if he really has the votes in the House to support his grand ideas

Weekend Connect: Facebook

Kansas Republican and Libertarian Groups on Facebook:

University of Kansas College Republicans | Kansas City Young Republicans
Kansas House Republicans | The Kansas Young Republicans | Kansas Libertarian Party
Kansas Republican Party | Sedgwick County Young Republicans
Kansas Federation of College Republicans | Johnson County Republican Party
Libertarians Of Northeast Kansas | Kansas City Libertarian Club

If you know of other good groups, post in the comments.

Change: Unemployment nears 10%

News today put the unemployment rate at 9.7 percent, inching ever closer to 10 percent.

This is the highest unemployment rate in 26 years.

Comes after Vice President Biden, yesterday, touted how the stimulus is working beyond expectations. Really?

While Obama's on vacation, America waits to hear more excuses from Biden.

Dems: Don't Let the Debt Get You Down!

Kansans cannot keep every politician across the nation accountable, but we CAN keep our politicians accountable. While our Republican delegation - Todd Tiahrt, Jerry Moran, Lynn Jenkins and our Senators Sam Brownback and Pat Roberts are fighting against these outrageous spending packages, Democrats like Dennis Moore are out of control. Click here to donate to Defeat the Debt.com and to help them place more of this ad around the country. While Democrats could care less about the debt now that they are in power, it's OUR responsibility to hold their feet to the fire.

Officials to Kansas Taxpayers: No Waste...We Swear

Government bureaucrats have never really cared much about the way taxpayer dollars are spent. Bureaucrats aren't elected and therefore have pretty much zero incentive to be advocates for good money management in government. The sad truth is that after watching legislation be pushed through in Washington this year, it's clear many politicians don't really give a damn what citizens think either.

A story in the Lawrence-Journal World quotes Kansas officials saying "statehouse restoration has been closely monitored" after the project has gone almost $200 million over budget!

"Don Heiman, the state’s chief information technology officer, told the Capitol Restoration Commission that he has examined more than 15,000 pages of documents related to the project and that cost overruns have been minimal."

We realize Washington is spending taxpayers dollars in the billions, but really? The cost overruns have been "minimal"? Who cares if 15,000 pages of documents have been examined! A project that goes $200 million over budget is a disaster and the taxpayers should be infuriated. This argument is similar to those who think "transparency" will put an end to federal earmarking. Nope! It just allows legislators to flaunt the information in the face of taxpayers.

"It seems that legislators already have sent the message they they are willing to appropriate about any amount of money contractors say is needed to do this project 'right'". - Lawrence Journal-World World, 6/15/09

The story also admits that really, no one in the statehouse cares it went over budget: "The project’s cost, duration and inconvenience is a frequent target of criticism from a small number of lawmakers". Isn't that comforting? Let's be honest, folks. Republicans are in charge in the statehouse and Democrats sure don't have the spine to halt any form of spending. This whole statehouse renovation is a perfect example that when government runs something, it will be more expensive, less efficient, and usually run into the ground.

"Legislative leaders on the commission made no negative comments about the project, which is expected to be finished by 2012." Shocking.

Oh yeah, Cash for Clunkers sound familiar to anyone? Good luck with that health care thing.

Morning Brief: H1N1, Thornburgh Backs Brownback, Obamamaniac Takes a Bite, Liberal WEBlog

• Kansas Prepares for more H1N1: A cause for alarm or media hype? According to the CDC, as many as half of all Kansans could contract H1N1. Seems like a second round of the swine flu scare that happened earlier this year. Hospitals are preparing and schools are trying to figure out what to do to prevent an outbreak. Medical professionals says Hope'N'Change can't cure H1N1. White House takes issue.
  
  
• Thornburgh Backs Brownback: All smiles and hugs yesterday when Secretary of State Ron Thornburgh endorsed U.S. Senator Sam Brownback in his bid for governor after Thornburgh dropped out in July. The endorsement lines the entire GOP behind Brownback after Insurance Commissioner Sandy Praeger made her endorsement official last week. Kansas Democrats were pretty much neutered after Queen Sebelius took a mad dash to Washington...unlikely they'll have a serious candidate. Possibilities include Democrat Senator Chris Steineger and KS Dem Party Chair Larry Gates. Either would prove entertaining. Predictions on how much Brownback will report in January? Leave a comment with your estimate.
  
  
• Obamamaniac Takes A Bite: Just like it sounds. An Obamacare supporter and MoveOn.org fanatic bit off the finger of a 65-year old man who opposes a government takeover of health care. See interview here. Word to the wise: watch out for vigilers and health care proponents who tend to dwell in the Lawrence...they pack a mean bite.
  
  
• WEBlog on Dem Party Payroll?: For real. Have you read the Wichita Eagle's blog lately? Take a look. Enough said.
  

University Daily Kansan: Current Kansas GOP strength - a precursor to national revival?

By Tyler Holmes of the University Daily Kansan

"The only event in life that lacks a silver lining is the death of someone important to you. Unfortunately, it is a truth that I have been introduced to all too recently (though my pain pales to those closer to this tragedy, my heart aches more for them than itself).

So right now, death is all I can write about, all I can think about, until I can connect this to something I know — politics. (This transition in no way fairly compares the two.)

At the national level, the Republican Party is in disarray. Out of touch. Out of power. Sarah Palin. Rush Limbaugh. And trips to Argentina. The stench of death seems to be here, too.

But even without holding the cards in the legislative and executive branches of the federal government, the Republicans have hope — and I’m not referring to health care as being President Obama’s “Waterloo,” like Senator Jim DeMint.

I’m referring to the state of things here. I’m talking about Kansas." (FULL STORY)

Raj Goyle: the Democrats' Glimmer of Hope?

While the Republican field to replace Congressman Todd Tiahrt is crowded, state representative Raj Goyle, Wichita, is the only Democrat to file for that race so far.

Over at the liberal Forward Kansas blog, one of the contributors, Colin Curtis, admits that things "don't look bright" for Democrats in 2010 in Kansas, but that Raj Goyle is their "glimmer of hope". On that first point, we agree wholeheartedly. Spot on, analysis Curtis. On your second point...really?

Goyle is the darling of the left in Kansas and predictably frames himself as an "independent" leader - remember when Sebelius said such things? Now her "independence" has her leading the charge for government-run health care. And since Goyle's own campaign website makes the claim for being "independent", we will take the liberty to look at just what kind of leader he would be in Washington.

Without giving anything away quite yet, let's say Kansans won't want a guy like Goyle teaming up with the likes of Nancy Pelosi and Barney Frank. As Kansans learn more about Goyle's ideological roots, they'll see this man is far from the mainstream. And if he is the Democrats' saving grace come 2010, they are in even bigger trouble than they realize.

Moore's Seat Moves Closer to Vulnerable

The Cook Political Report, "an independent, non-partisan newsletter that analyzes elections and campaigns", sent out some good news that should make Kansas Republicans even more confident in booting Dennis Moore in 2010.

Cook rates political races as to how likely it is for a seat to stay with the incumbent, be a toss-up, or change parties. Before today, Cook found Kansas' 3rd district to be classified as a "solid Democrat" seat. That status how now changed to "likely Democratic" -- 14 months out from the election.

This is yet another sign that Moore's true colors are coming out and the people of the 3rd district aren't liking what they see. According to the Washington Post, Moore has voted with his party 98.1 percent of the time and makes his voting record the most partisan of any member of the Kansas congressional delegation.

With former state legislator Patricia Lightner jumping into the race and the probably of at least two more potential heavyweights, Moore is on the GOP's hit list. He's gotten off the hook before, but after revealing his partisan nature and disregard for his constituent's opinions, this will be the year to knock him off.

Poll Watch: Obama's Approval Numbers

Do you approve or disapprove of the job Barack Obama is doing as President?

January 2009: Approve - 61% Disapprove - 24%

August 2009: Approve - 45% Disapprove - 51%

Amazing the effect a nearly $1 trillion stimulus, thousands of pork-filled spending bills, cap and tax energy legislation, Big Labor card check bill, and a government takeover of health care can have on Kansans.

Real Clear Politics - Obama Job Approval Average

52.8% Approve
41.7% Disapprove

Moore Comes out of Hiding to Congratulate Spelling Bee Winner

After refusing to meet with the nearly 1,000 constituents who wanted to hear Dennis Moore's thoughts on health care, we thought he went off the radar.

Not so.

The 3rd district's own coward took a daring leap by going to an Olathe middle school to congratulate the winner of the national spelling bee. Now, we are the first to congratulate the young girl who accomplished such a great feat. Winning that competition takes hard work, lots of studying, and let's face it, a natural ability that many people don't have.

But really, Congressman Moore? Does it get much easier than this? Perhaps you should grow a spine and agree to meet with your voting constituents who have questions for you on why you support a "public option", why you voted for the detrimental cap and trade legislation, and why you continue to use taxpayer dollars to bailout Wall Street. Perhaps it's the thousands of dollars you've taken from the financial sector.

We suppose you like these feel good events, but whether you face reality now or in November of 2010, it's going to be ugly. So put an end to your cowardice and make yourself available to more than just middle school students.

Write Dennis Moore and ask him why he continues to hide from Kansans.

Common Sense of the Day

This takes the cake for its simplicity, brevity, and Kansas common sense.

"I look at this health care plan. I see nothing that is about health or about care. What I see is - What I see is a bureaucratic nightmare, Senator. Medicaid is broke, Medicare is broke, Social Security is broke. And you want us to believe that a government that can't even run a cash for clunkers program is going to run 1/7 of our U.S. economy. No, sir. No."

• Concerned citizen at a town hall with Senator Arlen Specter (D-PA)

Morning Brief: No Smokes, Jackasses, Jenkins Lands Olbermann, Rose on Moore

• Parkinson Says No Smoky!: It was nice to see Mark Parkinson slap the radical environmentalists across the face when he said "yes" to clean coal. Parkinson's next clean initiative? A state-wide ban on smoking in public places. 24 states currently have such bans in place...this sets up a public health v. business rights battle in the 2010 legislative session.
  
  
• The New "Jackasses": Ever since the Kansas Jackass had "gone fishing" earlier this summer, the blogosphere has been devoid of Kansas Democrat idiocy. The disappearance has been the cause of intrigue for wandering minds: alien abduction? a change of heart? under investigation? Nonetheless, some new jackasses have stepped forward -- dubbed Kansas Forward. Nothing beats a bunch of liberal, idealistic college students who try to blog their way to victory. Cute.
  
  
• Lynn Jenkins Gets Every Republican's Dream: You betcha -- being featured on token liberal Keith Olbermann's show. Republicans consider this a badge of honor...and being on there while serving in a red-red state is like having Christmas again and again. We can't think of too many things Kansans hate more than MSNBC & Keith Olbermann...who continue to get walloped in the ratings.
  
  
• It's Never Too Early: This was last week, but Steve Rose had a great article on why and who might send Dennis "the coward" Moore packing in 2010. It's getting considerably easier to visit Moore's district and hear people saying ABM: Anyone But Moore.
  

Mayday! Obama Mimics Clinton

Former President Bill Clinton gave a speech on September 22, 1993 in hopes of salvaging his disaster of a health care plan -- "Hillarycare". Obama will repeat the Clinton strategy next Wednesday, but obviously hoping for a different result.

Let's hope history holds and Obamacare takes the path of Hillarycare. See some of his speech below...click here for the text.

Obama To Give Health Care 9/11 Treatment

President Obama is sinking to a new low next week.

After he's spent his entire presidency lecturing the American people on how the health care crisis calls for major government intervention into our economy and lives, he's pulling out all the stops.

Next week, Obama will give a prime-time lecture to America, calling a special session of Congress to address health care.

When was the last time a president called in a special session of Congress that wasn't the State of the Union? When President George W. Bush addressed the nation after we were viciously attacked on September 11, 2009.

Really Obama? This health care "crisis" deems a special address from you? YOUR health care plan, which over 50 percent of the American people oppose, requires the attention from the nation that was received after 9/11?

President Obama can't suppress his gluttony for the prime time spotlight. He will once again lecture our nation and probably exploit the death of Senator Kennedy in hopes of passing a policy that Americans, with a resounding voice, have said NO to.

Shameless.

Dennis Moore: The Coward of Kansas

Across the nation, we've seen Democrats stand up at town halls and get screamed at by Americans who are fed up with their government overreaching and ignoring the will of the people. I'll give it to Dems like Claire McCaskill and Barney Frank who actually stand up there and take it. Our elected officials WORK FOR US and we have a right to be heard on the pressing issues of the day.

Unfortunately, our own Kansas coward, Dennis Moore, continues to hide from his constituents, saying his life has been threatened and now his staff has worked up an even more embarrassing excuse: fire codes.

Yup, fire codes were allegedly the reason Moore canceled an overcrowded town hall event yesterday. He was supposed to have a panel to "discuss senior health issues" but, oops -- too many people showed up and Dennis had to say sorry folks, maybe next time.

Not sure who is more to blame -- Moore's incompetent staff or Moore for his pathetic excuses. Luckily he won't be able to hide from the ballot in 2010 unless he takes the coward way out and doesn't run...which, let's just say, we've heard from credible rumors that's the case.

After voting for cap and trade, the stimulus, supporting a government takeover of health care, sponsoring the big union "card check" legislation, AND ignoring his constituents, this is the year to give Dennis Moore the boot!

UPDATE: Congressman Moore turned away nearly 1,000 seniors who showed up to ask questions about health care reform. Sad.

KU Quarantine

The likelihood of Secretary Sebelius saving us all from the swine flu, er H1Ni? Pretty slim.

And oh yeah, they'll be rationing the vaccine. So prepare to be quarantined!

Video from CNN

Morning Brief: Revenues, Dream Ticket, Jenkins' Town Hall, Dole Schools Obama

Some of the top headlines this morning:

• Revenues Up, For Now: The Associated Press is reporting that Kansas state revenues are up for August, coming in at $376.8 million, up from the predicted $369.9 million. Alan Conroy, director of legislative research was this was "modest" good news and Governor Mark Parkinson issued a statement, saying the revenue report is an "encouraging sign".
  
  
• The Dems Worst Nightmare?: Yesterday, the KC Star reported Senator Brownback, Secretary of State Ron Thornburgh, and GOP Chairwoman Amanda Adkins will hold a press conference at 11am on Thursday. Could this really be the dream ticket Republicans are waiting for or will it be a friendly, unifying endorsement? Seeing how the Democrats' bench is literally non-existent, especially after Jim Slattery's humiliating defeat in last year's election, a Brownback-Thornburgh ticket would seal the deal for the GOP to take the governor's mansion back for the next 8-16 years. But either way, Brownback will be governor in 2010. Such a ticket will surely send Dems running with their tails between their legs.
  
  
• Jenkins Fends Off MoveOn/Dennis Kucinich Clones: The Topeka Capital-Journal and Lawrence Journal-World highlights Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins' town hall yesterday at the Dole Institute in Lawrence. Single-payer loons, public option fiends, and "Health Care for All" advocates were there to spout their usual talking points. An enlightened KU student said health care is "the biggest social justice issue (in our time)". Riiiight. You know when liberals start making moral arguments like this, they've run out of actual reasons. A poll yesterday said only 40 percent of Americans support President Obama's handling of health care...if that's national number, I can't even imagine what the number is in Kansas. Stating the obvious: Kansas DO NOT want government in their health care.
  
  
• Bob Dole Schools Obama: In case you missed this goodie a few days ago, former Senator, and a great Kansan, Bob Dole, lashes the White House for its amateur handling of health care. Dole dishes out good advice for the president and if his Ivy League education taught him anything, he'd come down from his Hope cloud and listen.
  

Welcome to What's Right With Kansas

You won't hear it from bitter liberals in Kansas, the Media, or elitists on the East and West Coasts, but there's a lot that's RIGHT with Kansas.

We are here to talk about Kansas government, politics, elections and policy.

Ever since the 2006 elections, many predicted Kansas was turning purple. Since then, things have only become more red and in 2010, the GOP is looking to pick up even more crucial seats.

With Kathleen Sebelius finally out of our state and in Washington fumbling health care, the Democrats are scrambling to find their next savior. We'll be talking about several of the
"up and coming" Democrats, as well as Republicans that are running in 2010.

We firmly believe Kansans are an honest, decent, compassionate people and are quick defenders of liberty and freedom. We hope to bring insight into Kansas politics, reveal who are the movers and shakers, all while providing entertaining commentary on the news of the day. Come back soon and we look forward to hearing from you!

- The 'Right With Kansas' Team

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TELLING ALL THAT IS
RIGHT WITH KANSAS