Republicans Leading Generic Ballot

Republicans lead Democrats in a test of generic congressional matchups, a new poll found Thursday.

42 percent of likely voters said they would prefer a generic Republican candidate for Congress versus 38 percent who said they would prefer a generic Democrat, according to a Bloomberg News poll released yesterday.

16 percent said they were unsure who they'd support, while four percent answered not voting.

Hey Newbie! 10 Tips for Tom Wiggans

Hey, Tom. First of all, welcome to Kansas! The Heart of America. The Sunflower State. America's Breadbasket!

We know you haven't been back in the state in 20 or 30 years...or is it more? So we wanted to offer our services and help you out before you begin your big journey across our beautiful state. Hopefully these tips and suggestions will make your stay in Kansas a little more comfortable.

1. Before you hit the road, it's probably good to brush up on your Kansas facts. So feel free to take this quiz. It might take you a handful of tries to nail all the answers, but who's counting?
   
   
2. Now, this will be a long journey. We are sure you are used to flying in style - first class, private jets even. But once the campaign begins, you'll need to look like an average Kansan. So ditch the suit and tie for something casual like khakis and a button up (don't forget to roll up the sleeves). Ya know, this can help you connect with hardworking Kansans.
   
   
3. Buy a Garmin. For one, they are made right here in Kansas. Second, there are a whopping 105 counties in our state - yup, 105. We don't want you getting lost. You'll want to hit each county at least 4 or 5 times...you have to make up for lost time. And apologies, we don't have any bays, wind-surfing, or Rice-a-Roni..well maybe check for that last one in the local supermarket.
   
   
4. California isn't really popular here. They're basically bankrupt, liberal, and well, just keep quiet about your time there.
   
   
5. Did you only give Obama $5,000 to help elect "change"? Or was it more? Nonetheless, keep that hush hush as well. Kansans aren't big fans of Mr. Obama.
   
   
6. Kansans won't blame you for leaving the business world when you did. This Administration is running our economy into the ground and with all the regulation, taxes, and spending they're piling on, it's only going to get worse. So good timing on that one! But can we ask: do you want your $5,000 back?
   
   
7. You don't need to overplay Kansas stereotypes to jive with us. We noticed your wheat-inspired logo on your website. We are proud of what we do, but just keep the Dorothy, wheat, flat land, and cow references to a minimum. We know who we are.
   
   
8. Keep your supporters in line. Yeah, Democrats are pretty bitter here in Kansas and they tend to attack our patriotic inclinations, fondness of religion, and anything that isn't "progressive" enough for them. Please don't bash on us or stick your nose up at us...your party has already perfected that.
   
   
9. We had an individual involved in the pharmaceutical industry who ran for Congress recently. She didn't last long. Just sayin'.
   
   
10. Last of all, be yourself. We're pretty nice people once you get to know us. So best of luck as you get to know our state and the people of Kansas. Not a chance we want you in office, but enjoy the ride! And let us know how fun it is to spend millions of your own dollars on a political race. That has to be awesome!

Yours Truly, Right With Kansas

Poll Watch: Independents Move to GOP

Latest from the Gallup poll.

"The Republican Party's relatively strong position on the generic ballot in the latest poll, conducted Oct. 1-4, stems from the support of political independents, who now favor Republican over Democratic candidates by 45% to 36%."

Take a look at the entire results here.

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.

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.

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