POLITICAL UPDATE--Liberalism

This update focuses on liberalism.

Phyllis Schlafly: Obama Panders to the Feminists
Samuel Blumenfeld: Is Humanism a Religion?
Phyllis Schlafly: Organizing Kids for Obama
Phyllis Schlafly: The Problem Is Government Unions
Don Devine: Putting Unions First
Ann Coulter: Obama's Owned -- You Can Bank On It

Much information on liberal individuals and organizations can be found at David Horowitz's Discover the Network site.

Abortion Vote Tuesday

The Kalamazoo County Commission is expected to vote Tuesday on whether to prohibit funding abortion through the county employees' health plan. The resolution is sponsored by Republican John Zull and democrat Michael Quinn.

The board has nine democrats and eight Republicans. Sources tell this blog that three democrats are supporting the resolution, so it has a decent chance to pass.

Wrongest Statement Ever in the Herald?

"When it comes to making decisions about funding using students’ money, the Western Student Association does not take the responsibility lightly."

WSA throws support behind sustainability fee

Local news

Local news around Kalamazoo.

Turnovers reshape Portage Board of Education
No discrimination complaints filed since Kalamazoo ordinance vote
Demand without supply? Developers have been slow to build new housing options in downtown Kalamazoo
Manager of RACE exhibit to visit WMU next week
South Haven looks at regulating wind turbines
Airport terminal construction ahead of schedule: Bids coming in below budget so far
Proposed Western Michigan University medical school takes another step
Metro Transit ridership drops nearly 20 percent: Analysis needed to figure out why, official says
Resignations idle Minority Business Alliance: Nonprofit group aids minority, women-owned businesses
Residents voice opposition to potential WMU development of Colony Farm Orchard
Portage school board president says he quit because he was "not a good fit for the job"
Portage school board President Dale Posthumus resigns
Out of luck: Zoning board rules Portage preschool must remove shamrock symbol from roof
Western Michigan University faces a 'hard search' for a medical school dean
‘Green fee’ to be on WSA ballot
Concerns over Colony Farm Orchard aired at town hall meeting
WSA throws support behind sustainability fee
Candidate for governor proposes ‘Michigan 3.0’
Former WSA Presidents face off in state House campaign
‘Green fee’ on WSA ballot next week

Real Conservative Candidates

Things are looking up for Republicans in 2010. But to avoid a repeat of the policy disasters that caused voters to reject Republicans in 2006 and 2008, Republicans need to make sure that we nominate the right candidates.

We don't need ideologues who are enamored with Utopian ideas like fixing the world by invading other countries or destroying lending standards to win the Hispanic vote. We don't need hacks who call themselves conservative but vote for every big government boondoggle from the No Child Left Behind bill, to the prescription drug entitlement, to the TARP bailout.

We need conservatives who really mean it. What follows are a few candidates who do.

Constitutional Candidates for Congress
Chick Heileson vs. Mike Simpson
Constitution Candidates Expand Across States

Rand Paul [Kentucky Senate]
Dr. Paul is the son of Congressman Ron Paul, the most principled man in Congress. Rand is an ophthalmologist who shares his father's constitutionalist paleolibertarian views. This is his first time running for office. His previous political involvement has included running a Kentucky Taxpayers organization. Polls have shown him leading his Republican primary opponent and both democrats running for the seat being vacated by Republican Jim Bunning.

Peter Schiff [Connecticut Senate]
Schiff is a successful investor who has become famous for predicting our current economic crisis several years before it happened. He was an economic advisor to Ron Paul and is an adherent of the Austrian school of economics. He faces a difficult task to both win the Republican primary and defeat likely democrat nominee Richard Blumenthal, who stepped in after embattled Senator Chris Dodd exited the race.

Roy Moore [Alabama Governor]
Moore is known as the Ten Commandments Judge due to his courageous defense of the Ten Commandments monument in Alabama. He was ultimately unsuccessful and was removed from office for standing up to the federal government. Moore has proven by his actions that he will put principle above political expedience. He is a Christian constitutionalist conservative with an extensive knowledge of America's Founding Fathers. He is seeking the seat being vacated by Governor Bob Riley due to term limits; Moore waged a strong but unsuccessful primary challenge to Riley in 2006.

Pat Toomey [Pennsylvania Senate]
Toomey represented east-central Pennsylvania in Congress 1998-2004, during which time he was a champion of fiscal conservatism. He also became pro-life in office and accumulated a good record on immigration. In 2004, Toomey challenged Republican senator Arlen Specter in the primary, losing by only about 1% after Specter received endorsements from President Bush and Rick Santorum. Toomey went on to lead the Club for Growth for several years, helping to elect a number of fiscal conservative Republicans to office. Now he is again running for Senate, and is the presumptive Republican nominee now that Specter switched to become a democrat.

Marco Rubio [Florida Senate]
Rubio was the speaker of the Florida House of Representatives. He has taken solid conservative positions on taxes, spending, immigration, and more. Further, as a young, charismatic conservative, he would likely become a star in the Republican party if elected. He is seeking the seat formerly held by Republican Mel Martinez, and held since his resignation by Senator George LeMieux. Rubio's opponent in the primary is Florida Governor Charlie Crist. Crist supported the stimulus plan, increased spending, and appointed several liberal judges. Rubio was initially seen as a longshot, but recent polls have shown him leading Crist. Both lead likely democrat nominee Rep. Kendrick Meek.

Todd Tiahrt [Kansas Senate]
Tiahrt has been a member of Congress representing the Wichita area since 1994. He has been consistently conservative. He is known for the Tiahrt amendment to protect gun data from misuse. He was one of very few Republican congressmen to vote against the medicare prescription drug bill and its multi-trillion dollar liability. (In fairness, so did his opponent.) His opponent in the primary is Rep. Jerry Moran, who has a reputation for vacillation and has not championed conservative causes. No credible democrat is seeking the seat being vacated by Senator Sam Brownback to run for governor.

John Hostettler [Indiana Senate]
Hostettler represented southwestern Indiana in Congress 1994-2006. He was a leading opponent of illegal immigration who helped to stop President Bush's amnesty plan in 2006. He also opposed the Medicare Prescription drug program and compiled a staunchly conservative record. He faces a contested primary with former senator Dan Coats, who supported the assault weapons ban, and several other candidates. The seat is being vacated by Senator Evan Bayh, who suddenly decided to retire shortly before the filing deadline. The likely democrat nominee is now Rep. Brad Ellsworth, who replaced Hostettler in 2006.
Bye-bye Bayh And Amnesty. Hello Hostettler And Immigration Moratorium?

Randy Brogdon [Oklahoma Governor]
Brogdon has been a state senator in Oklahoma since 2002. He led the effort to pass a bill to cut off government subsidies to illegal immigrants in Oklahoma. He also led efforts to oppose the extension of the proposed Trans Texas Corridor into Oklahoma. He has sponsored several gun rights bills and has complied a staunchly conservative record. He faces congresswoman Mary Fallin in the primary. Several democrats are seeking the governorship being vacated by democrat Brad Henry due to term limits.

Chuck DeVore [California Senate]

Devore is a conservative state assemblyman who previously served in the military and worked in business. He championed many conservative causes including producing more energy through nuclear plants and offshore drilling. He has written regularly for Human Events. He faces Carly Fiorina and Tom Campbell in the primary. They are seeking to oppose ultraliberal democrat Senator Barbara Boxer in the general election.

J. D. Hayworth [Arizona Senate]
Hayworth was a congressman 1994-2006. Both before and since he was a conservative radio talk show host in Arizona. He was a staunch opponent of illegal immigration in Congress. He compiled a 97% ACU rating across the board. He is seeking to topple Senator John McCain in the primary. McCain has championed many liberal causes including amnesty for illegal aliens, cap-and-trade, campaign finance reform, banning gun shows, and John Edwards' 'patients bill of rights' to benefit trial lawyers.

Arizona Armageddon: J.D. Hayworth’s Challenge To John (“McAmnesty”) McCain

POLITICAL UPDATE--Government

This update focuses on government.

Gary North: Power to the People
Ron Paul: If Ron Paul Were President
Mark Steyn: Our Own Greek Tragedy
Gary North: The Fed Is Trapped
Charles Scaliger: Bailout Baloney - Banking
Joe Wolverton: State vs. Federal: The Nullification Movement
Gary North: Where’s All That Gold?
Terry Easton: 10 Steps to Fix the U.S. Financial Crisis
Patrick Krey: State vs. Federal: The Nullification Movement
Joe Wolverton: Signing Statements & Executive Orders: Obama's Tyrannical Tack
William Hoar: Scheme to Nationalize Student-loan Industry
William Hoar: Foreign Handouts: More Harm Than Good
Donald Lambro: Obama's Expensive Train Set
Gary North: Not Planning To Retire, Are You?

POLITICAL UPDATES are archived here.

Jack for Congress?

Former state rep. Jack Hoogendyk is considering running for Congress against Fred Upton.

Jack Hoogendyk hints at challenge to Fred Upton: Tea Party members are recruiting the conservative Republican

Many of the comments on the article sound like they were written by Upton staffers. One even uses the slogan that Upton used in 2002 when he was last challenged in the primary: "Why switch a strong horse in the middle of the race?" (What does that mean? You should always vote for any incumbent? Upton himself came to office in a primary challenge.)

Even more suspicious is how the comments go on and on about how conservative Upton is. But his biggest appeal has been to moderates because he often doesn't vote conservative.

Balkema Out, Gisler In?

Jeff Balkema is retiring from the county commission.

County commissioner Jeff Balkema won't run again; Republican John Gisler has filed to fill the seat

John Gisler, a spokesman for the local taxpayers' group, will run as a Republican.

County Abortion Funding

County commissioners John Zull and Michael Quinn want to eliminate abortion funding for county employees.

Two Kalamazoo County commissioners want abortion insurance coverage removed for 900 employees, their family members

Zull is a Republican and Quinn is a democrat. (Along with the arena tax, this is another issue for which Quinn deserves credit.)

Will all the 'pro-choice' people support the taxpayers' 'right to choose' not to have their money taken to fund abortion?

Local News

Local news around Kalamazoo.

Financial consultant Timothy Rogowski is named to the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners
Two Kalamazoo County commissioners want abortion insurance coverage removed for 900 employees, their family members
Western Michigan University students advocate to end the use of the "R-word" as part of national campaign
Marijuana proponents to start gathering signatures for ballot initiative
Rematch brewing for Kalamazoo County Board: Crabtree wants to take back seat from Nieuwenhuis
Commissioners raise questions about arena
Downtown arena debate gets under way at Kalamazoo County Board
Six file to replace Biby on Kalamazoo County Board: Commissioners expected to make appointment next week

Hoekstra on the Bailout

One of the chief impediments for conservatives considering supporting Congressman Pete Hoekstra for Governor this year is his vote in 2008 for the bank bailout. Hoekstra's conduct was particularly troubling, as he voted against the bill initially.

After the bill lost in the House, it was modified (made worse) and was passed after the executive branch applied more pressure to Congress. (Several members of Congress have stated that Hank Paulsen, then-Treasuy Secretary and former Goldman Sachs CEO threatened that martial law would be declared if the bill didn't pass.)

Hoekstra voted for the bill the second time.

Since then, we have seen that the bailout was used to funnel billions to politically connected firms such as Goldman Sachs and to coerce banks that didn't even want money to accept government control.

So what does Hoekstra say in retrospect? He addressed the question in a recent debate.

Darn Good Debate

But then the sharp contrasts emerged.
The federal bail out for the banks.
Cox would have voted no.
Hoekstra voted yes saying he had no choice because "no one knew what would happen" if we did nothing. "It saved the financial system," argues.
Cox who did not have to vote said the bail out was wrong regardless of what the consequences might have been.

Hoekstra was also asked about the bailout at a recent Tea Party event.



Unfortunately, this video cuts off Hoekstra's answer about a quarter of the way through. The video was produced by Ben Padnos, who has ties to Rick Snyder's campaign.

Jack Hoogendyk summarizes Hoekstra's answer thus:

One of the questions he was asked was whether he regretted his decision to vote for the bailout. His complete answer, paraphrased, was that he could defend it based on what he knew at the time and how essential he felt it was, but that looking back from where we are today and how the money was misused, he regrets it.

Hit and Run, Below-the-Belt Politics

Hardiman Will Run

State Senator Bill Hardiman has announced that he will run for the 3rd district seat in Congress.

Republican state Sen. Bill Hardiman to run for Vern Ehlers' Congressional seat

This is bad news:

"West Michigan has a history of sending conservative, thoughtful representatives to Congress such as President Ford, Paul Henry and Vern Ehlers," Hardiman said. "They carried themselves with dignity and integrity. I'm a thoughtful conservative and am excited about running for this seat."

Hardiman seems to be using 'thoughtful' as a synonym for 'not'. None of Ford, Henry, or Ehlers were conservative. Ehlers has a sorry lifetime 70% rating from the American Conservative Union. Henry's lifetime ACU rating is an even worse 61%. Ford may be an icon in Grand Rapids, but there's a reason Ronald Reagan ran against him in 1976. For example, Ford remained proud of his appointment of John Paul Stevens to the Supreme Court.

Justin Amash is looking better and better in this race.

Census Lies

With the 2010 census just around the corner, the federal government is ramping up its propaganda campaign to get people to fill it out.

One ad on a local radio station paints a grim scenario. A town has a couple traffic lights. A bunch of people move in. But they don't fill out the census! Pretty soon, traffic is gridlocked everywhere, but because people didn't fill out the census, the government doesn't know to put up more traffic lights. Oh, no!

How dumb do they think we are? Putting up a traffic light is a decision a local government makes based on studies of traffic volumes. (Measured by those black strips you sometimes see strung across the road.) The census has nothing to do with it. The idea that nobody would notice gridlock without the census is insulting. Do traffic lights only get put up in years divisible by ten?

If filling out the census is so important, can the government come up with a reason that isn't a lie?

After Biby

County Commissioner Grady Biby died a couple weeks ago. The county commission has the option of either holding a special election or appointing a replacement. With less than a year left in his term and the county strapped for cash, the commission has chosen to appoint a replacement.

Six file to replace Biby on Kalamazoo County Board: Commissioners expected to make appointment next week

Six candidates have applied for the position.

John Cross Sr., a retired Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s deputy.
Erin Hoogendyk, a Texas Township trustee and the wife of Jack Hoogendyk, a former state representative.
Timothy Rogowski, a banker.
Ronald Commissaris, a former Texas Township supervisor.
Thomas Batten, owner of a business called Prodesse Tutoring and a Democrat running for the 61st District state House seat.
Elrico Hurley, a former member of the Kalamazoo Public Schools Board of Education.

Erin Hoogendyk is a strong conservative like her husband. Both are members of the local Republican party. Tim Rogowski is a moderate Republican who is involved in the local party. Commissaris was Texas Township Supervisor until he was defeated in the Republican primary in 2008 by Dave Healy. He is a moderate who endorsed tax increases and was never active in the party. Batten is a 30-year-old democrat of unclear beliefs running for the 61st district nomination. This blog is unfamiliar with Cross and Hurley.

Who will the commission appoint? It currently has a 9-7 democrat majority. At least some of the democrat commssioners have endorsed the idea of appointing a Republican since Biby was a Republican. Of course, any democrat appointed to the seat would be all but certain to lose in November since Texas Township is the most Republican part of the county. On the other hand, the democrats may appoint a moderate Republican to give him a boost in the primary and hope to keep the seat from a conservative like Erin Hoogendyk. That would suggest appointing Rogowski or Commissaris.

There will likely be a primary no matter who the bourd appoints, as Erin is likely to run either way.

POLITICAL UPDATE--Immigration

This update focuses on immigration. Elites continue to promote amnesty, though it appears unlikely to pass soon.

Allen Wall: Evangelicals, The NAE And Immigration
Edwin Rubenstien: National Data: Ron Unz Vanishes Hispanic Criminality…Not!
Steve Sailer: Without An Immigration Moratorium, How Long Can The GOP Hold Texas?
Bay Buchanan: Immigration Enforcement: A Populist Program to Create Jobs
Washington Watcher: Why The Gutierrez Amnesty Bill Is So Bad—And Why It Might Pass Anyway
James Edwards: Obama's Homeland Security Hobbles Local Immigration Enforcement

For more on immigration, see VDARE.com.

Gazette Supports the Arena

It's no surprise that the Gazette has endorsed the downtown arena proposal.

Editorial: Why we support an event center in Kalamazoo

— Second, the numbers make sense for a variety of reasons. While we dislike the notion of increased taxation of any kind right now, the idea to add a small tax on restaurant food and beverages is a good one. A $10 meal would be taxed 10 cents. Plus, it spreads minuscule cost across a larger group than just residents here; many visitors, tourists and other out-of-towners would be paying the tax, too.

What a joke. The Gazette hardly ever met a tax increase it didn't like. It supported the jail proposal, the juvenile home, the KRESA tax, the Croyden school, the Croyden school again, the transportation tax, the bus tax, the Caravan tax, and now the arena tax. When is the last time that the Gazette has opposed a countywide tax? This blog can't think of one.

Not After Ehlers

While some expected a large field of candidates to run for the 3rd congressional district seat following the retirement of Rep. Vern Ehlers, it hasn't worked out that way. So far, Terri Land, Dick Posthumus, Ken Sikkema, Mark Jansen, Brian Calley, and Jerry Zandstra have all said no.

Only Rep. Justin Amash, who announced the day before Ehlers officially retired, is currently running. The most conspicuous possibility who has not announced his intentions yet is Senator Bill Hardiman. A couple state reps are also still possibilities.

POLITICAL UPDATE--Education

This update focuses on education.

John Stossel: Education: Too Important for a Government Monopoly
Michael Smith: HOME-SCHOOLING: Socialization not a problem
Education Reporter: University of Minnesota Plans to Re-Educate Teachers
Samuel Blumenfeld: Multiculturalism: Cultural Insanity Run Amok
Samuel Blumenfeld: How Conservatives Can Use “Education Reform” as a Campaign Issue
Phyllis Schlafly: Why Kids Don't Do Well in School
William Hoar: Ballooning Education Bill
Jack Kenny: Effort Continues to Oust "Safe Schools Czar"

Learn more about education issues in Education Reporter.

Who Supports the Arena?

The Gazette today contains some useful information. It reports how the votes are lining up on the proposed arena tax.

Kalamazoo County Commissioners choosing sides on arena vote
Kalamazoo-area colleges look for ways event center could help them
Arena proposal heads to county next week: County board must act by May 25 to put taxes before voters in August

Interestingly, there is no clear partisan divide.

For the arena are democrats Alford, Barnard, Buskirk and Republicans Zull, Ansari, and Buckholz. Leaning for is democrat Urban.

Against the arena are democrats Taylor, Quinn, and John Nieuwenhuis, and Republican Ann Nieuwenhuis. Leaning against are democrat Johnson and Republican Maturen.

Undecided are democrat Thompson and Republicans Heppler and Balkema.

Zull and Ansari are generally seen as two of the most conservative members of the board. It looks like they need to have a come-to-Jesus meeting with local taxpayers.

Fired for Training with Pellet Guns

We likely haven't heard the last of Christine Boone's case.

Training center chief says pellet gun class for the blind was permitted

Local News

News around Kalamazoo.

Training center chief says pellet gun class for the blind was permitted
Kalamazoo County Commissioners choosing sides on arena vote
Kalamazoo-area colleges look for ways event center could help them
New stem cell procedure helps Hastings woman regain use of leg, beat peripheral arterial disease (adult stem cells, of course)
Search team formed to find WMU medical school dean
Larry Tolbert, of Kalamazoo, chosen to chair WMU board
Everything must go: WMU considers relocating Archives
WSA presidential election begins
County wants bus system
WMU Board of Trustees is expected to approve personnel changes
Arena proposal heads to county next week: County board must act by May 25 to put taxes before voters in August
Figures sought for running expanded jail: County officials want specifics before moving ahead

Taylor and the Arena

County Commissioner John Taylor has another ad. This one touts an endorsement from fellow commissioner and Portage democrat Michael Quinn, who also opposes the arena plan.

The county commission currently has nine democrats and seven Republicans following the death of moderate Republican Grady Biby of Texas Township. With two democrats publicly opposing the arena plan, it would need at least one Republican vote to pass. The commission is expected to vote on the plan fairly soon. If passed, the proposition would appear on the August ballot.

Dave Pawloski is a Bad Person

Democrats use spat with conservative company for fundraising

Kalamazoo County Democrat Party Chair: A Real Classy Guy!

I passed your invitation onto our leadership and they collectively agreed to tell you to take your invitation fold it five ways and stick it where the moon don’t shine! PS: Your website violates campaign finance laws. Tell that to the derilict jack hoogydick and his cronies who are funding your rinky dink operation.
David C. Pawloski, Chair
Kalamazoo County Democratic Party
dpawloski@kzoodems.com
269-744-6774

For Immediate Release 2/5/10

Clarification of comments
David Pawloski calls on Gazette to correct the record. Neither I nor anyone in our organization believes the Balkema family or Best Way disposal are fascists. I hope there is no misunderstanding on that. If there is, please let me clarify myself. What I said is that there are elements of the Tea Party, who are supported by the Best Way ads, which agree with Glen Beck that the President hates white people, believe in Gov’t run Death Panels and President Obama is not a US citizen. Those people are the ones I was talking about. I challenge anyone to attend the rally this weekend and see the hatred being spread and the businesses profiting from it.

Dave Pawloski
dpawloski@kzoodems.com

----------------

Glenn Beck has never said that Obama is not a citizen. He has repeatedly said the opposite. But maybe 'Glen Beck' is a completely different person from Glenn Beck.

There was no 'hate' at the Reagan birthday party. There was love. Love for God, freedom, and the ideals that Reagan stood for.

P. S. Pawloski obviously went to public schools.

Local News

Local news around Kalamazoo.

State of Downtown Kalamazoo address to focus on arena proposal; Follow live tweets
Plans for downtown arena move forward
Drive Safe Kalamazoo Senator announces candidacy
Property tax bills to drop across Southwest Michigan this year
Kalamazoo city officials focus on streamlining services, lowering costs
City must adjust to lower revenue, Kalamazoo City Commissioners say
Private fund could protect taxpayers if proposed arena loses money, supporters say
Van Buren County commissioner Tom Erdmann to seek 80th District state House seat
Forum explains how to appeal property tax assessments including expert presentations
Pete Hoekstra, Vern Ehlers moving on leaves West Michigan's road to Congress wide open

POLITICAL UPDATE--Sovereignty

This update focuses on sovereignty.

William Jasper: "Tobin Tax" and UN Global Taxman Making A Comeback
William Jasper: Global ObamaCare and World Population Control
Alex Newman: UN-Backed Troops Wreak Havoc in Africa
William Jasper: Socialist International in Copenhagen: "Birth of Global Governance"
Alex Newman: Lisbon Treaty Builds EU Super-state
Jerome Corsi: Insider reveals secrets of North America plot
Alex Newman: Global Police Seek More Power

United Nations: Eagle Forum: United Nations
North American Union: Eagle Forum Stop SPP
Trans-Texas Corridor: Corridor Watch

Forced to Join a Union

Whose Business Is It Anyway?

Democrats for Property Rights

Credit where credit is due.

State lawmakers work on bills to limit property seizures by police

Stockman on Money

David Stockman represented southwest Michigan in Congress (1976-81) and was current Congressman Fred Upton's boss as director of the Office of Management and Budget. In this article, he examines monetary policy.

How Politics Caused Fiscal Disaster

After Ehlers

UPDATE: Land and Zandstra have announced that they will not run.

There are many potential candidates for the 3rd Congressional district following Vern Ehlers' retirement.

Long list of candidates likely to try to replace Vern Ehlers in Congress

A few thoughts.

The only declared candidate right now is Rep. Justin Amash. He seems to be trying to position himself as the most conservative candidate in the race. With endorsements from the three most conservative members of the state house (Agema, Genetski, McMillin), he's off to a good start.

Many have speculated that term-limited Senator Bill Hardiman will run. If he does, expect that he will receive lots of support from national Republicans who know little about him.

Some have speculated that Terri Land might run. It would really stab Mike Bouchard in the back if she did.

The Yob faction of the state party will likely run a candidate. They are supporting candidates in all the other major state races (Snyder, Scheute, Scott, Riemersma). That candidate may be Jerry Zandstra, unless they think someone else is more credible.

There are plenty of other possibilities, but what will set them apart from the crowd?

Local News

Local news around Kalamazoo.

May 2010 Candidate Filings
Newcomers file for school boards as many incumbents step aside: Tuesday was the filing deadline for the May 4 election
Two Republicans vie to replace Tonya Schuitmaker: No Democrats have filed yet for 80th District seat
More sidewalks coming to West Main Street in Oshtemo Township
City of Portage to allow appeals of property assessments via letter
Portage Public Schools may ask voters to renew millage in May
Western Michigan University forges new agreement for aviation program with Kellogg Community College
Oshtemo considers park improvements: Changes suggested to master plan up for vote Tuesday
Immigration reform sought by bilingual crowd at Kalamazoo rally
Kalamazoo County board chair favors appointment to fill vacancy
Arena district could boost west side of downtown, supporters say: KVCC president draws comparison to successful Arcadia Creek redevelopment
Democrats use spat with conservative company for fundraising
WMU to build on-campus apartments: Work to start in April on more than 800 beds planned in two phases
Kalamazoo County commissioner Grady Biby, 69, dies from cancer
From parking lot to public housing
Stop the press: Gazette printing press closure impacts local publications

Ehlers to Retire?

Via CQ Politics:

Ehlers Expected to Announce Retirement Wednesday

Rep. Vernon J. Ehlers (R-Mich.) will make an announcement about his "future plans" Wednesday morning, and he is expected to say that he will not seek re-election. Michigan TV station WWMT Newschannel 3 as well as Hotline's On Call blog, citing anonymous sources, are reporting that Ehlers will announce that he is retiring.

The 76-year-old Congressman released a statement Tuesday saying he will hold a press conference at 11 a.m. ET in Grand Rapids to address "speculation about his plans to continue serving West Michigan."

Ehlers statement was followed an announcement from first-term state Rep. Justin Amash (R) that he will run for the seat.

The district, which lies in West-Central Michigan and takes in Grand Rapids, the state's second most populous city, is likely to stay in GOP hands whether or not Ehlers runs for a ninth term. The district's residents were evenly split in the 2008 presidential election -- giving 49 percent each to President Barack Obama (D) and Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) -- but the district went by a double digit margin for President George W. Bush (R) in 2000 and 2004.

Ehlers has been comfortably re-elected since winning a 1993 special election.

CQ Politics rates the general election contest Safe Republican.

---------------------

See Republican Michigander's 3rd district profile here: Congressional District 3 (Updated)

The 3rd district is full of Republican elected officials, so there could be a highly contested primary. RM lists some possible candidates: "Justin Amash and Bill Hardiman are mentioned, but I'd watch for former Lt Governor Dick Posthumus, Jerry Zandstra, one of the Glenn Steils, Ken Sikkema, Mark Jansen, Brian Calley, Gary Newell, Kevin Green, and Tom Pearce to make a run, along with a possible countywide officer from Kent County."

An Ehlers retirement this year is good news, as this is expected to be a good Republican year and with the state senate district containing Grand Rapids open, some of the more credible democrat candidates may run for that instead.

Also good news is that Ehlers' replacement is almost certain to be an improvement for conservatives. Ehlers is a moderate who has a sorry 69% lifetime ACU rating, worst of Michigan Republicans.

Upton on Invasion

A local 'church' held a rally for immigration criminals on Sunday.

Immigration reform sought by bilingual crowd at Kalamazoo rally

While this sort of thing is nothing new, the following comments by an aide to Congressman Fred Upton.

Ed Sackley, a district representative for U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, attended the event and said afterward reform means different things to different people. But, he said, Upton has long been behind major proposals that are consistent with the type of reform sought by the Michigan Organizing Project and Reform Immigration for America.

Uh-oh.

Sackley said an idea such as a “guest-worker” program, where immigrants would be allowed to work for different farmers during different growing seasons is an example of the reform that Upton favors.

Because it's not like any American citizens are looking for work right now.

“Fred is in favor of securing our borders, but he does not support deportation,” Sackley said.

So Fred's policy is to lock the doors to prevent a break-in, but if someone does break in, he should never have to leave? Is that Fred's policy for his own house?

Always remember: Illegal Immigrants are Criminals

That Snyder Ad

Moderate Republican Rick Snyder ran an ad touting himself as 'one tough nerd'. He touts his 10 point plan.

This blog analyzed that 'plan' here: Rick Snyder's Ten Platitudes

Previous:
The Truth Comes Out
Mackinac Conference 2009

POLITICAL UPDATE--News from Abroad

This update focuses on news from abroad.

Roger Devlin: Why Global Democratic Revolution (And Mass Immigration) Won’t Work
Donald Collins: Democrat Prefers Another Leader's Common Sense To Obama’s SOTU Address
Nathan Blevins: The Call of Ellan Vannin
Sean Gabb: It’s Happening There: Britain’s Emerging Police State
Steve Sailer: Why Haiti Is So Hopeless; And A Very Modest Proposal
Pat Buchanan: Why Are They at War With Us?
Paul Green: Three Cheers for the Swiss
Don Devine: Getting Afghanistan Right

POLITICAL UPDATES are archived here.

Why are liberals so condescending?

An article in the Washington Post asks

Why are liberals so condescending?

The article describes several types of condescension, but never gets around to answering the question. At least part of the reason is that liberalism is a mental condition rather than political philosophy. In particular, liberals are obsessed with a vision of themselves as morally superior to everyone else due to the inherent virtue of their policy positions. This allows them to feel good condescending to others. If they were forced to seriously consider objections to their notions, it would introduce doubt about their superiority, shattering their self-worth.

Hayek v. Keynes

Democrats Attack Local Business, Try to Put People Out of Work

Incredible. Dave Pawloski, the 'Chair' of the local democrat party is attacking a local business and trying to put local citizens out of work just to pursue a petty political vendetta. Here is their announcement on their website.

President Obama under Attack!

President Obama under Attack!
Submitted by supadavephan on February 4, 2010 - 11:09am.
in
featured

Recently the Kalamazoo Gazette published a full page advertisement paid for by Best Way Disposal, denouncing a woman’s right to choose and supporting the Tea Baggers. You can help us fight back today with your donation of $50, $25 or $10. Best Way Disposal, owned by the ultra-conservative Balkema family, has published a number of these ads recently including opposing the Kalamazoo anti-discrimination ordinance last year. As the long-time progressive voice in our community the KCDP decided to act! We’ve been holding the line on issues that are important to our members and now we need your help. Best Way Disposal and the Balkema family have countless dollars to spend denouncing our principals and attacking our President. You can help us fight back today with your donation of $50, $25 or $10. Don’t let the Tea Baggers go unchallenged! Please consider donating to the KCDP today!

...

David C. Pawloski, Chair
Kalamazoo County Democratic Party

dpawloski@kzoodems.com
Paid for by the Kalamazoo County Democratic Party
PO Box 2466, Kalamazoo, MI 49003.
Not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee.

Let's break this down.

President Obama under Attack!

[Attack? A newspaper ad means he's under attack? Does the ad even mention Obama?]

Recently the Kalamazoo Gazette published a full page advertisement paid for by Best Way Disposal, denouncing a woman’s right to choose and supporting the Tea Baggers.

[Does Pawloski believe that using sexual slurs to describe political opponents is appropriate?]

You can help us fight back today with your donation of $50, $25 or $10. Best Way Disposal, owned by the ultra-conservative Balkema family, has published a number of these ads recently including opposing the Kalamazoo anti-discrimination ordinance last year. As the long-time progressive voice in our community the KCDP decided to act!

[We've almost exhausted our stockpile of exclamation points!]

We’ve been holding the line on issues that are important to our members and now we need your help. Best Way Disposal and the Balkema family have countless dollars to spend

[More than Jon Stryker has spent? How about you pledge to stop taking his money?]

denouncing our principals and attacking our President.

[Best Way has denounced school principals? Or did he mean principles? Dumbass.

Pawloski previously displayed his ignorance of geography.]

You can help us fight back today with your donation of $50, $25 or $10. Don’t let the Tea Baggers go unchallenged! Please consider donating to the KCDP today!

[If only there some elected democrats in Washington instead of the crushing majority of Tea Party members!]

The Gazette reports on the story.
Democrats considering boycott of waste hauler

Democrats considering boycott of waste hauler
By Kathy Jessup Kalamazoo Gazette
February 04, 2010, 8:12AM

KALAMAZOO — Earlier this week, the chairman of the Kalamazoo County Democratic Party called for a boycott of a Kalamazoo business for sponsoring a pro-life advertising campaign and supporting local Tea Party activities.

On Wednesday, he backed away slightly from the position, saying such a decision would be up to the board of the local Democratic Party.

“The board is considering a boycott and they’ll take a position later this month,” David Pawloski told the Kalamazoo Gazette on Wednesday. “I guess maybe I was premature in calling for a boycott now.”

A press release that Pawloski issued Tuesday said, in part, that the “Kalamazoo County Democratic Party is calling for a boycott” of Best Way Disposal. John Balkema and Michael Balkema are the officers listed for the privately held company in a corporate filing with the state of Michigan.

Jay Woodhams, Best Way marketing director, said the waste-hauling company has experienced “an outpouring of support” since word of the boycott surfaced earlier this week.

“People are calling, e-mailing, sending letters and some are even signing up for service,” Woodhams said. “Some people are saying thank you for sticking up for conservative values. We’ve even heard from some who say they don’t agree with our positions, but they say we have a free-speech right.”

The latest in Best Way Disposal’s public pronouncements came Jan. 22 in a full-page ad in the Gazette on the 37th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in the Roe v. Wade abortion case. The company called for another look at the issue, based on new scientific findings on when life begins. The ad also included a promotion for an event Saturday to mark the birthday of former President Ronald Reagan.

Pawloski said Best Way Disposal should “keep its nose out of politics.” He claimed that company employees are being “pressured” to adopt the company’s “totally fascist” positions, including its support of the Southwest Michigan Tea Party Patriots. Pawloski said he could offer no proof of the allegation, however.

Woodhams called Pawloski’s assertions “ridiculous.”

“The ownership has been very adamant about not involving employees,” Woodhams said. “Absolutely, there are employees of the company that don’t agree with these positions and I’m certain there’s been no retribution internally.”

Best Way has been in business here since 1991 and does residential, commercial and industrial disposal, recycling and provides landscaping materials and portable restrooms in Kalamazoo County and areas along the lakeshore, Woodhams said.

Let's take a closer look.

Pawloski said Best Way Disposal should “keep its nose out of politics.”

Would Pawloski demand that all the corporations that fund liberals keep their noses out of politics? Liberal groups from ACORN to feminists to racial pressure groups to environmentalists to open borders activists are funded by big corporations.

He claimed that company employees are being “pressured” to adopt the company’s “totally fascist” positions, including its support of the Southwest Michigan Tea Party Patriots.

This is slander. Fascism has always been an ideology of the left. Mussolini was a Marxist. The Nazis were socialists. The New Deal was modeled after fascist economic policies. While Pawlowski calls himself a progressive, the early 20th century progressives were pro-fascist. See the book Liberal Fascism for more information.

Pawlowski said he could offer no proof of the allegation, however.

Of course not.

While the disastrous policies of Jennifer Granholm and Barack Obama have destroyed millions of jobs, at least they could claim that they didn't mean to. But Dave Pawloski is actually advocating hurting a local business and putting local citizens out of work. Does Pawloski want all businesses owned by conservatives to fail? Does he want all Republicans to lose their jobs? Remember this the next time democrats pretend to care about jobs and middle-class voters.

Despicable.

Democrats Lie About Margaret

The local democrat party has a statement lying about Margaret O'Brien. Let's take a closer look.
Reaction to Margaret O’Brien Announcement

Reaction to Margaret O’Brien Announcement
Submitted by webmaster on January 29, 2010 - 1:27pm.
in
61ST DISTRICT
This morning’s announcement by Portage Councilmember Margaret O’Brien that she will seek election to the 61st district of the Michigan State House comes as no surprise. The Republican Party, their Wall Street backers and Mrs. O’Brien have consistently engaged in wedge politics, capsizing real debate on important issues, and unfortunately we expect this trend to continue in 2010. The KCDP and local Democratic candidates understand that the nonsense politics of the Republican Party and Mrs. O’Brien aim only the degenerate the debate to divisive issues such as abortion and guns. The fact of the matter is the citizens of the 61st deserve honest candidates who will focus on important issues like job creation and government reform. The KCDP is committed to both economic and government reform, and we believe that our message of middle-class values will resonate with the voters in 2010.

Let's break this down line by line.

The Republican Party, their Wall Street backers

[The Kalamazoo County Republican Party has NO Wall Street backers. The Kalamazoo County democrat party is more-or-less owned by Jon Stryker, a billionaire who inherited his wealth. If we're talking about national parties, who did Wall Street give more to, Obama or McCain? Here are a couple columns shredding this nonsense.

CAN'T WE AT LEAST GET A TOASTER?
GORDON GEKKO IS A DEMOCRAT]

and Mrs. O’Brien have consistently engaged in wedge politics,

[Examples? This is a lie. O'Brien has worked well with the other Portage Council members. Her best-known issue was eliminating special road assessments in Portage, a position that was eventually endorsed by a majority of Portage voters.]

capsizing real debate on important issues,

[Capsizing? Debate is a boat?]

and unfortunately we expect this trend to continue in 2010. The KCDP and local Democratic candidates understand that the nonsense politics of the Republican Party and Mrs. O’Brien aim only the [sic] degenerate the debate to divisive issues such as abortion and guns.

[Evidence? Why exactly are opposing baby-killing and opposing stopping people from protecting their lives against murderers divisive? Because democrats support these things! Calling an issue divisive is just a way of avoiding defending an indefensible position.

I particularly like the "divisive" argument. Apparently, English is divisive. And not even the normal amount of divisive, but slightly divisive! In this argument, it doesn't matter how popular an issue is, as long as one person opposes it. Then it's "divisive, " which means that it must be opposed, regardless of merit. Somehow, I doubt that the Gazette has ever opposed anything that they otherwise supported because it might be "divisive." Was the civil rights movement divisive?

See here: English attacked again]

The fact of the matter is the citizens of the 61st deserve honest candidates who will focus on important issues like job creation and government reform.

[Margaret's announcement talked about nothing but the economy and jobs.]

The KCDP is committed to both economic and government reform, and we believe that our message of middle-class values will resonate with the voters in 2010.

[Does the KCDP consider boycotting local businesses and trying to put people out of work to be the sort of economic reform that will resonate with middle-class voters?]

Reprehensible.

Local News

Local news around Kalamazoo.

KPS board approves $62M bond issues for May ballot
Rally scheduled to push for immigration reform
Ex-city leader raises most in House bid: Sean McCann reports more than $18,000 in contributions
Democrats considering boycott of waste hauler
Western Michigan University expresses interest in downtown Kalamazoo arena
Campaign finances reported: Schuitmaker, Totten lead in fundraising in 20th District race
Kalamazoo City Commission approves budget for Downtown Development Authority
Transit officials predict $30,000 shortfall from bus half-price fares for selected groups
Western Michigan University graduate is first Kalamazoo Promise recipient to get four-year degree
Kalamazoo's eastside riverfront revival is a slow process

Attacking Michigan's Constitution

Several different politicians have come out in favor of a constitutional convention in Michigan.

Michigan constitutional convention up for vote
Granholm backs overhaul of Michigan constitution
GEORGE URGES VOTERS TO APPROVE CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION
Happy Statehood Day!
Area lawmakers differ over need for constitutional convention for state

Governor Jennifer Granholm has endorsed a constitutional convention. Hasn't she done a enough to wreck this state without sabotaging our constitution, too?

More curious are the supporters of a con-con on the right. Moderate-conservative senator Tom George endorsed it, but didn't give a single specific change that he wants to see to the constitution.

Also supporting a con-con is renegade conservative Dennis Lennox, who is Cheboygan County Drain Commissioner and a candidate for state house. Lennox lists a number of possible constitutional changes, some addressing non-constitutional issues, others of dubious merit, all of which could be accomplished without a convention if there were support for them.

In weighing the possibility of a constitutional convention, we must consider not what is possible, but what is likely. It is likely that all the usual special interests will show up at a constitutional convention and try to rig the system in their favor. It is likely that all the 'good government' reform proposals pushed by naive do-gooders will be quickly tossed in the trash.

This blog already published a detailed refutation of the arguments for a con-con previously. Anyone in doubt should read the post below.

Constitutional Convention? No!

Michigan should vote no on a constitutional convention.

The Money Race in District 20

Campaign finance reports have been filed recently in Michigan. They provide some interesting information on the state of the 20th district state senate race.

Campaign finances reported: Schuitmaker, Totten lead in fundraising in 20th District race

On the Republican side, Rep. Tonya Schuitmaker led with $148,000, of which $100,000 is her own money. Lorence Wenke trailed with $57,000, including $50,000 of his own money. Rep. Larry DeShazor, who only recently entered the race, did not report any money raised yet.

While Schuitmaker's totals are good for her, she will still have trouble overcoming her geographic disadvantage. Wenke is wealthy enough to finance a large part of his campaign himself. It remains to be seen whether DeShazor will be able to raise enough money to run a strong campaign.

On the democrat side, Rep. Robert Jones raised only $14,400. Meanwhile, county commissioner John Taylor raised $112,000 including a $100,000 loan. And lawyer Mark Totten, who recently moved to the area, raised $134,000, mostly from out of state.

Is Robert Jones in trouble? Maybe. Jones has always been surprisingly popular (he was the top vote-getter the first time he ran for city commission). He seems to have phoned it in his last few times running for office, still winning overwhelmingly. Was he planning to coast to the democrat nomination? How will he handle a tough race in a larger jurisdiction?

This blog still expects Jones to win the nomination by a large margin, but it will be interesting to see a real primary on the democrat side.

Taylor Attack Ad

In what is apparently the first local campaign ad of the season, County Commissioner John Patrick Taylor is attacking the proposed arena in downtown Kalamazoo. His ad points out that his opponent, State Rep. Robert Jones, snuck a bill through Lansing to change the law on local tax referendums to make this plan possible.

Taylor's ad runs counter to this blog's expectations that he would not run a real campaign unless Jones had to withdraw for health reasons.

It will be interesting to see how much traction this anti-corporate welfare line of attack gets in the democrat primary. There is some evidence that many lefty commenters on Mlive are not sympathetic to this proposal, but this is just anecdotal. It is still highly unlikely that Taylor will win, but this attack could damage Jones. In any case, this race just got more interesting.

UPDATE:
Taylor has two other ads, all of which are running on WKZO radio (590).

The second ad is criticizing Jones' support for the bill to allow development of the Colony Farm Orchard. The bill recently passed the legislature overwhelmingly. Interestingly, neither ad actually mentions Jones, though both are clearly aimed at his legislative record.

The third ad is a positive ad featuring an endorsement by fellow county commissioner Brian Johnson. (Does Johnson have something against Jones?)

Previous:
John Taylor Runs for Senate
Arena of Conflict

POLITICAL UPDATE--Government

This update focuses on government. Government continues to bungle airport security, bankrupt America, and more.

Ed Hiserodt: How "Obamanomics" Is Bankrupting You
William Hoar: Govt Spends Money Like Monopoly Money
Becky Akers: Green Government
Bob Adelman: U.S. Debt Level Unsustainable, Report Says
Thomas Eddlem: The Coming Small Business Revolution on Politics after Citizens United v. FEC
Joe Wolverton: RAND Corporation Calls for a Domestic Stability Police Force
Steve Sailer: “No Smoking Gun”? What About Detroit Bomber’s Profile?
Mark Steyn: The Joke’s on Us
Ann Coulter: Ivana Trump Escorted Off Plane: Napolitano Declares 'The System Worked'

POLITICAL UPDATES are archived here.

What Happened on Flight 253?

Passenger Kurt Haskell is continuing to investigate what really happened on the flight that was almost bombed by the Nigerian terrorist with explosives in his underwear.

THE TRUTH ABOUT FLIGHT 253 HAS BEEN REVEALED- By Kurt Haskell

His theory makes the most sense of any put forth so far.

Cox Still Leads

Mike Cox leads the Republican race for Governor, and polls the best against likely democrat candidates.

Poll: Cox leading race for governor

Via RM: Latest Polls. Mike Cox leads all

When EPIC/MRA has you up by a good margin, it's good news. They usually have a democrat leaning to them.The Free Press has the news story on it

Here's the numbers.

Dem Primary:
38% - Undecided
23% - Denise Ilitch (undeclared)
9% - Gary Peters (not running)
8% - Andy Dillon
6% - Bart Stupak (out), Dan Kildee, Virg Bernero
2% - Bob Bowman, Tony Early (Who?)

GOP Primary
32% - Mike Cox
25% - Pete Hoekstra
22% - Undecided
16% - Mike Bouchard
3% - Rick Snyder
2% - Tom George

Not a lot of changes on the GOP side. It seems to be a Cox vs Hoekstra race with Bouchard a solid 3rd.

Hoekstra v Ilitch
42% - Hoekstra
35% - Ilitch

Cox v Ilitch
48% - Cox
30% - Ilitch

Dillon v Cox
47% - Cox
30% - Dillon

Dillon v Hoekstra
40% - Hoekstra
32% - Dillon

Bernero v Cox
50% - Cox
28% - Bernero

Bernero v Hoekstra
45% - Hoekstra
27% - Bernero

Local News

Local news around Kalamazoo.

Governor hopefuls debate wide-ranging issues
WMU launches Eco-thon to reduce use of electricity
Appeals court revives federal lawsuit against Comstock
Vetting committee backs arena proposal; After studying data, chairman calls project 'doable'
Dana Corp. says it will consolidate heavy-vehicle operations from Kalamazoo; affecting 150 jobs
K-Wings show interest in playing hockey at proposed arena in downtown Kalamazoo
Upton staffer seeks state House seat
K-College a perennial power in recycling: WMU also part of Recyclemania campus competition
John J. Wheeler named dean of WMU's education college
Transit study calls for more KVCC service, changes to Portage routes
Texas Township struggles with road funding
WSA discusses emergency announcement system
Secretary of State candidate Benson to speak to WMU College Democrats
WSA allocates January funding for RSO activities
US immigration to be topic of campus forum
First Kalamazoo Promise student graduates

Margaret Will Run

Portage's O'Brien to make official her bid for state House

PORTAGE — Portage City Councilwoman Margaret O’Brien is making it official — she will run in August’s Republican primary for the 61st District State House seat.

O’Brien told the Kalamazoo Gazette in November that there was a good chance she’d run as a Republican for the seat now held by Larry DeShazor. She planned to make the formal announcement at an event in Portage this afternoon.

O’Brien, 36, a Realtor with RE/MAX Advantage, lost a close primary election in 2008 to DeShazor, who now plans to run for the 20th District state Senate.

“I have been approached by numerous community leaders and encouraged to run again for the 61st District House seat,” O’Brien said.

She said her campaign emphasis will be tax reform, common-sense spending and creating a new climate for Michigan business growth and job creation.

“Chaos, poor policy and budget woes are coming out of Lansing every day,” she said. “It is time to put the residents and businesses in our state first.”

O’Brien was first elected to the Portage City Council in 2003 and was re-elected in 2007. She is graduate of Mattawan High School, has a bachelor of arts degree in international relations from Michigan State University and is a graduate of the Michigan Political Leadership Program Fellow and Michigan in Excellence Public Service Series.

Forum for Immigration Criminals

US immigration to be topic of campus forum

A forum discussing immigration issues as well as the struggles and barriers in changing certain immigration policies will be held Thursday, Jan. 28 at 7:30 p.m. in room 159 of the Bernhard Center. The Immigration Forum is organized by the Michigan Organizing Project (MOP) and the baccalaureate student social work organization of Western Michigan University, Eta Eta Sigma.

Illegal Immigrants are Criminals.

POLITICAL UPDATE--Health Care

This update focuses on health care. The election of Scott Brown to the Senate from Massachusetts has thrown a wrench into the machine of the attempt to take over America's health care. But Obama and his supporters haven't given up yet.

Phyllis Schlafly: The Marriage Penalty in Health Care
Ron Paul: Healthcare Reform is a Lump of Coal
Joe Wolverton: Historic Christmas Eve Vote Marks Passage of Senate Healthcare Bill
Mark Steyn: Cross the River, Burn the Bridge
Andrew Napolitano: What Is a Right?
William Hoar: Infected Bill of Health

See also: Sick in America with John Stossel

Local News

Local news around Kalamazoo.

Rally targets health plan: State Republicans seek support against Democratic health-care legislation
Fetzer Center hosts Town Hall meeting
Tea Party coming to campus

WMU to look at Kmart building: University wants new location for archives now in historic East Hall
E-mail from Dunn to faculty, staff on expenditure reductions
Local attorneys inform students of their rights

Muslim group is 'positive presence' in East Side neighborhood
Local group pushes again to liberalize marijuana laws in Kalamazoo
Bank robbery in heart of downtown is Kalamazoo's ninth in a year
Secretary of State candidate Paul Scott campaigns against changes on ID for transgender individuals
Kalamazoo Community Foundation, Southwest Michigan First donate $25,000 for further study of downtown arena
Which of your representatives are trying to be more 'social'?
Changes at Kalamazoo County Jail pave way for expansion
Charter delays cable shutoff at two apartment complexes in Kalamazoo

Hayworth versus McCain

Former congressman J. D. Hayworth, a conservative advocate of stricter immigration enforcement, is set to challenge Senator John McCain for renomination in the Republican primary in Arizona.

McCain has been on pretty good behavior for the past year. It isn't clear whether this is due to anger at the rejection of the moderates he had courted over his career, preparation for this primary, or just a fluke.

Voters looking to refresh their memories on his record can see here:
John McCain
Articles on John McCain

See also Michelle Malkin on who McCain's PAC is supporting:
Conservatives: Beware of McCain Regression Syndrome

Recent polls have shown McCain leading, but Hayworth with over 30%, which is pretty good at this point.

Whitmer Out

State Senator Gretchen Whitmer of Lansing, the presumptive democrat nominee for Attorney General, unexpectedly dropped out of the race the day after Scott Brown's win in Massachusetts. She explained that she wants to spend more time with her family, which is why she's running for reelection.

One Year Later

Scott Brown's win in Massachusetts is the perfect end to Obama's first year in office. This is a massive rejection of Obama and the democrats in Washington. The fact that it's Ted Kennedy's seat makes it all the better.

Over the past year, Obama has taken over several banks and car manufacturers, as well as increasing control over mortgage lenders. He has spent the past few months trying to take control of the nation's health care system.

When voters have gotten a chance to weigh in on this unprecedented assault on the Constitution and the free market, they said no. Democrats suffered a huge defeat in November, and they didn't listen. But they're not going to be able to ignore this.

One year ago, this blog called for impeaching Obama. Today, we repeat that call. Impeach Obama!

Impeach the rest of his comrades too.

Just for Fun

Walberg Leads

Excerpts from an email from Tim Walberg's campaign.

-----------------------

Tim Walberg Leads Mark Schauer 46% to 37%
Against Other Republican Candidate, Schauer Leads 39% to 31%

Tipton, MI- Recent polling demonstrates that Freshman Democrat Congressman Mark Schauer is very vulnerable to defeat, as Republican Challenger Tim Walberg leads him 46% to 37% in the head to head ballot, and when “leaners” are included, Tim Walberg leads 50% to 40%. Mark Schauer does, however, lead Republican candidate Brian Rooney 39% to 31%. Below and attached is the Polling Memo from Adam Geller of National Research Inc. National Research Inc. is a national political and corporate polling firm, whose client list includes Governor Chris Christie, members of Congress and State Legislatures, the NRCC, NRSC and RGA.

“Mark Schauer has been on a spending spree and destroying jobs. Voters want a proven, principled conservative who will watch over their tax dollars and work to grow our economy,” said Tim Walberg.

...

Republican challenger Tim Walberg is over-performing the generic and is handily defeating Mark Schauer in the ballot test. Tim Walberg is currently beating Schauer in the ballot 46%-37%. When “leaners” are included, Tim’s lead expands to 50%-40%. Some of this is a function of Tim’s personal appeal; against Republican Brian Rooney, Schauer leads, 39%-31%.

------------------------------

I hope Schauer didn't buy a house in Washington.

POLITICAL UPDATE--The Culture War

This update focuses on the culture war.

Steve Sailer: Hidden Key To Last Decade’s Disasters: Dubya’s Commitment To “Diversity”
Steven Baskerville: Feminist Gulag: No Prosecution Necessary
Don Devine: New Year Right Agenda
Jennifer Morse: Is the Family Court System Totalitarian?
Don Devine: Does Christmas Matter?
Tom Piatak: War Against Christmas 2009: Christians Against Christmas?
Tom Piatak: War Against Christmas 2009: Reflections on Hanukkah, Christmas, and “Nitel Night”
Rebecca Terrell: Newt Gingrich: The Establishment’s Conservative

POLITICAL UPDATES are archived here.

Republican Michigander District Updates

Republican Michigander has been updating the numbers for his congressional district profiles, with data on state legislative districts thrown in. There's lots of got information there. Check it out.

Congressional District 1 (Updated)
Congressional District 2 (Updated)
Congressional District 3 (Updated)
Congressional District 4 (Updated)
Congressional District 5 (Updated)
Congressional District 6 (Updated)
Congressional District 7 (Updated)

More Concealed Carry

The Free Press reports an increase in concealed carry permits.

----------------------

Fear fuels demand for gun permits

Advocates, others fired up over the economy, politics

The number of Michiganders licensed to carry concealed weapons has reached 220,422 -- nearly 10 years after the state liberalized its permit law and following a record number of CCW applicants in the 12 months from July 1, 2008, to June 30, 2009.

More than 92,000 of those with permits live in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.

In the 12-month period, 73,000 applied for permits and 66,446 were approved, according to newly released Michigan State Police records. That's nearly double the number from the previous 12 months, an increase largely due to permit renewals by people who got their CCW permits soon after the law took effect.

Still, nearly 1 in 35 Michigan adults is licensed to carry a concealed weapon.

Local News

Local news around Kalamazoo.

Northside intersections slated for $644,000 worth of improvements
KPS considers $62M bond request for May ballot
Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport terminal taking shape
Larry DeShazor formally announces Senate candidacy

WMU a leader in carbon capture research
Two in running for Western Michigan University's Haworth College of Business
Western Michigan University waiting on state funding to renovate or rebuild Sangren Hall
Construction set for Sangren Hall this year
Med School begins to take form

Health Care Town Hall

The local Tea Party group will host a forum on health care.

Conservatives to push views on health care at town-hall forum

KALAMAZOO — A health-care townhall meeting on Tuesday will push for citizen action on stalled state legislation that is designed to allow Michigan to sidestep expected federal health-care mandates.

U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra, R-Holland, who is running for governor, is expected to call for voters to pressure state lawmakers to put a constitutional amendment before state voters in November.
Hoekstra, who voted against the House version of the health-care bill, will be among panelists appearing at Western Michigan University’s Fetzer Center for the 6:30 p.m. public forum.

The event is sponsored by Southwest Michigan Tea Party Patriots and Citizens for Common Sense in Government and will be moderated by former state Rep. Jack Hoogendyk, R-Texas Township.

Details:

Tuesday, January 19, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Fetzer Center Auditorium
Western Michigan Universitymap

Speakers:
Congressman Peter Hoekstra
Attorney General Mike Cox
State Senator Wayne Kuipers
Ken Braun, Mackinac Center for Public Policy
Wendy Day, Common Sense in Government

Learn about three important Resolutions that have been introduced in Lansing to declare your right to Independent Medical Care.
Hosted by:Southwest Michigan Tea Party Patriots
Citizens for Common Sense in Government
Moderated by Jack Hoogendyk, Americans for Prosperity

Margaret on Home Schooling

Margaret O'Brien takes down a Gazette editorial attacking home schooling.

Viewpoint: Don't blame home schooling for what happened to Calista Springer

Larry Runs for Senate

Larry DeShazor has officially announced that he will run for the state senate. There isn't too much noteworthy in his announcement.

Larry DeShazor formally announces Senate candidacy

Margaret O'Brien is likely to run for the 61st state house district.