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July 24, 2008
RE: ATTENTION SPOKANE REPUBLICANS: LOOK OUT!
by SpokaneRepublican, 12:16 PM, 1 Comments
Lindauer, Why won't you respond to my post? I have asked you legitimate questions regarding your character and your campaign. As a voter I believe in order for you to win my vote, you must answer my questions in an honest and forthright way. Also, what are you trying to prove with your poll? Do you really think the average voter is stupid enough to not see through your sham and biased polls and realize that they really mean nothing... [read more]
July 17, 2008
Gregoire's Campaign Based On Hypocrisy
by TrueSoldier, 01:28 AM, 1 Comments
I just thought I would share this letter to the editor that I wrote (and suprisingly enough the Olympian printed) Gregoire's campaign based on hypocrisy Recently in a news conference, Gov. Chris Gregoire had the following to say: "We have hit rock bottom in this campaign, and it is only June." She went on to say, "I call on my Republican opponent Dino Rossi to denounce the BIAW and these ads and instead run a campaign focused on good policy... [read more]
July 02, 2008
Updated: Spectacular Failure! Martin Tobias and BioFuel.
by JeffB., 01:14 PM, 3 Comments
It's sometimes very instructive to go back in to the past and look at bad policy decisions and their outcomes. Blogs are a great source of history. Join me in going back to this Matt Rosenberg post on BioDiesel and Ethanol from 2005. Not to just toot my own horn, but my comments then were largely spot on. Look where we are today with the high price of gasoline fuel, even higher price of ethanol and high food prices. A... [read more]
June 10, 2008
Can Rossi Win?
by warrenpeterson, 12:18 PM, 5 Comments
http://clearfogblog.wordpress.com/2008/06/09/can-rossi-win/ I went to the Washington State Republican Convention a Dino Rossi supporter but a doubter on electibility. Yes, he has the sympathy vote from the "stolen election" of 2004. And he has solid support among Republicans, but in a Blue state. Worse, he faces a rematch with an incumbent, female governor who so far has managed to avoid any major scandal and she has, with the help of the Democrat controlled Legislature, paid off her base support with record... [read more]
June 03, 2008
Stefan, Please come back!!!
by JeffB., 11:54 AM, 6 Comments
This post is a plea for Stefan Sharkansky to return to blogging. Stefan, I realize you probably have a lot of great personal reasons to be taking a break from blogging. Frankly, it's mentally draining and not always a good use of one's time. And I do enjoy Eric's almost too frequent posts and Jim's and Don's occasional posts. And pudge has been an excellent addition to the team. But as a long time reader and commenter of this blog.... [read more]
June 01, 2008
WA GOP takes a controversial stance on Anchor Babies
by guitarplayr, 11:36 PM, 5 Comments
One of the news items on Orbusmax was this: State GOP: No automatic citizenship for kids born in U.S. to illegal immigrants The state Republican Party adopted a platform Saturday that includes a provision aimed at opposing automatic citizenship for babies born in the U.S. to illegal immigrants. This is not a new idea... The state party approved a similar platform plank at its 2006 convention that proved controversial. The 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution recognizes citizenship for all... [read more]
Observations of a Convention Newbie
by kennethwilliamklein, 01:21 AM, 13 Comments
2008 Washington State Republican Party Convention Spokane, WA Point of Clarification (I learned these words at the convention): I supported John McCain at this convention, but not all of the vote suggestions by the delegation leaders. Day One I arrived at the County Convention early Friday morning and quickly made my way through the credentialing to take my seat as a delegate of the Washington State Republican Party. When I came into the main convention hall, I noticed some friends... [read more]
May 28, 2008
Petition to reschedule Hemp in the State CSA
by publicbulldog, 10:09 PM, 3 Comments
5/5/2008 I believe a new rule should be developed. The subject of this rule is: Rescheduling Industrial cannabis hemp The rule will affect the following people: Washington State citizens The need for the rule is: The current schedule for marijuana includes Industrial Cannabis Hemp, which is totally benign, and harmless as a drug, underscoring the intent of scheduling marijuana, which is to prevent Competition, not save the public from harm. The current schedule for Industrial Cannabis Hemp is hindering the... [read more]
May 27, 2008
Goodloe-Johnson: Goals without stragegies
by Lobolita, 05:05 AM, 1 Comments
The Seattle school district is enjoying a froth of media attention over Dr. Goodloe-Johnson's new plans (pdf) for improvement. Unfortunately, the plans offer plenty of goals, but are thin on concrete strategies to reach those goals. This is a constant problem in Washington State public schools, where those in leadership envision fantastic outcomes, but seem consistently unable to meet them. I've started a new blog, WashingtonEdblog.com, to cover education issues in Washington State. As a high school teacher with decidedly... [read more]
May 23, 2008
Which one will Rossi cut?
by tpahl, 08:21 PM, 15 Comments
Here is a list of state agencies. Which ones has Rossi proposed we cut? None. And yet we are told by his campaign that he is for small government. I think his theory is that if he points out Gregoire raised spending by 33% he is free to not only keep it at that elevated level but continue to raise it another 32% because it is better than her. I will only support candidates that give proposals that would cut... [read more]
May 22, 2008
Become an Espionage Agent for LeCerveau!
by LeCerveau, 01:44 PM, 0 Comments
Find yourself being mistreated by your bosses at the Washington State Democratic Party, Futurewise, the Brainerd or Bullitt Foundations, one of the Democratic candidate campaigns, or a crackpot government agency or environmental group? Here is an opportunity to help the public by anonymously providing secret inside information that can appear on line on my public blog on 'Sound Politics'. Sit down and find yourself an online e-mail service with Yahoo or Google and fill in the profile with phony info... [read more]
May 19, 2008
I'd Like To Sell SR-520, please.
by John425, 01:53 PM, 4 Comments
http://dealbook.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/05/19/penn-turnpike-is-sold-for-128-billion/index.html?hp Penn. Turnpike Is Sold for $12.8 Billion May 19, 2008, 1:51 pm A consortium led by Citigroup and Spain's Abertis Infraestructuras won the bidding war to run the Pennsylvania Turnpike with a $12.8 billion offer, Gov. Edward Rendell said on Monday. The group, which includes Australia's Babcock & Brown, beat out a rival group that includes Goldman Sachs and Transurban Group. The deal is the largest ever privatization of a toll road in the United States, as infrastructure investments... [read more]
MAINSTREAM Democrats to support McCain!
by LeCerveau, 06:02 AM, 6 Comments
Former Democratic Candidate for VP Geraldine Ferraro otherwise known as 'Ms Blue dog' has announced today, according to the NY Times, that she and others will likely vote for John McCain. Reeling from charges that she is a RACIST aimed at her by the Obama team, she is now calling Barack a sexist and an ENEMY of MODERATE DEMOCRATIC WOMEN! To make matters worse Democratic Party officials, nationwide, were shocked at Obama's call for taking away SUV's from Americans and... [read more]
May 13, 2008
No. Carolina-doing what Gregoire fails to do!
by John425, 10:06 AM, 0 Comments
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,355382,00.html North Carolina Community Colleges Will No Longer Admit Illegal ImmigrantsTuesday, May 13, 2008 RALEIGH, N.C. -- North Carolina's community colleges will no longer admit illegal immigrants, returning to more restrictive policy on the advice of the state Attorney General's Office. Last year, the system said it would enroll illegal immigrants who are 18 years old and high school graduates at all of its 58 campuses. The policy provoked heavy criticism, especially from the leading candidates for governor. The system... [read more]
May 11, 2008
FINAL WAKE UP CALL?
by LeCerveau, 09:14 AM, 0 Comments
John is trying to be subtle here, but this is starting to get scary! It's time to get off the budget rollercoaster John Barnes Communications Director Copyright Washington Policy Center Some people like the thrill of rollercoasters. Our lawmakers must love it because the biggest rollercoaster in Washington is owned and operated by the state. It's called the budget. Lawmakers and the governor have grown state spending by 33% in the last two budgets. Now the Senate Ways & Means... [read more]
May 02, 2008
Initiative 1030 Information!
by LeCerveau, 06:08 AM, 0 Comments
By going to the website: http://taxfight.org/ one can download the petition and start gathering signatures. Remember this is a two (2) sided document and has to be printed with the two sides according to: RCW 29A.72.100: "The person proposing the measure shall print blank petitions upon single sheets of paper of good writing quality (including but not limited to newsprint) not less than eleven inches in width and not less than fourteen inches in length." IT is set up for... [read more]
April 29, 2008
Big Money, Big Al, Global Warming!
by LeCerveau, 09:41 PM, 0 Comments
The Western Climate Initiative Fraud! Have you ever heard of the Western Climate Initiative? It's called the WWI and consists of a number of government officials from Washington, Oregon, Montana, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, California, British Columbia and Manitoba. They are meeting to destroy jobs, wipe out the economy of the west, put an end to inexpensive power generation and all in the name of Carbon Sequestering! Their first big meeting will be held in Salt Lake City on 5/21.... [read more]
April 27, 2008
A preview of the WA state GOP convention?
by tpahl, 04:11 PM, 5 Comments
The Nevada State GOP this weekend held its nominating convetion for president. The state leadership expected the convention delegates to rubber stamp the pre-chosen slate of delegates for the national convention. By a vote of over 700-400 the delegates said heck no! The state leadership seeing that they were not going to be able to ram through their pre chosen McCain delegates then chose to screw over all the delegates by calling for recess denying the delegates a chance to... [read more]
April 23, 2008
Two PI articles, Same reporter, two differnet views
by TrueSoldier, 12:13 AM, 1 Comments
I was reading the article by Chris McGann entitled Rossi's rematch is an uphill fight and noticed the following statement by Governor Gregoire's Communication director Debra Carnes, "She came in and was handed a $2.2 billion deficit and she's turned that into a substantial surplus. She's got 84,000 kids back on health care. She's increased teacher salaries, reduced class sizes and upheld the will of the voters, reinstating the initiatives that the people passed," Carnes said. The article from December... [read more]
April 22, 2008
Assisting others to die
by tpahl, 10:02 PM, 15 Comments
This November the voters of the great state of Washington will vote on whether the government will lift its restriction on assisting others to kill themselves. Initiative 1000 is titled "Death with Dignity", its opponents have opposed such language instead opting for 'physician assisted suicide'. I see two important aspects of this intiative. 1. Will it pass? This is where the semantics of the title will be much more important than it really should be. In general people are for... [read more]
Atty. Gen. Rob McKenna Likes Playing Doctor
by alapoet, 05:08 PM, 6 Comments
Attorney General Rob McKenna isn't a physician. When it comes to medicine, he is no more qualified than any other layman. Yet he feels qualified to second-guess doctors when they recommend legal medical marijuana to patients with terminal or debilitating conditions. And he feels free to deny the best medical care available to an entire [under]class of people (probationers) in the state of Washington. Rob is, in effect, practicing medicine without a license. McKenna is the top law enforcement officer... [read more]
April 20, 2008
Libertarian Party of WA Convention 4/19/08
by FreeSk8, 12:37 PM, 21 Comments
Yesterday, I attended the LP WA convention at Titlow Lodge in Tacoma. There were about 40 attendees, and five presidential candidates. The event was covered by Tacoma public access TV. Here are some of the highlights. The business meeting was pretty uncontroversial, with the convention delegating candidate vetting and National Convention delegate selection to the Executive Committee. The LPWA gets 33 delegates to the national convention, and many signed up to go to Denver at the end of May. We... [read more]
Has the Seattle Times gone nuts?
by LeCerveau, 12:23 PM, 1 Comments
Does the name Carey Quan Gelernter ring a bell? Well, he is the nutcase, crackpot editor that was responsible for the most ridiculous piece of ignorant, yellow sheet sensationalism to come out of the brain dead Seattle Times. It came out this Sunday and is called: FOOTPRINT. Issued as part of the Pacific Northwest (extra) magazine Sunday insert, it was full of the regular nauseating green crackpot babble; carbon footprint, save the planet, save Puget Sound, sustainability, global warming, climate... [read more]
April 14, 2008
Progressives aren't
by JeffB., 11:07 AM, 2 Comments
If ever there was an truly ridiculous euphemism, it is the term Progressive. The facts abound. Watch how the wheels are now coming off the Obama campaign. What motivates such a defective ideology? As Senator Obama, his wife and reverend have helpfully peeled back the layers of their hateful onion, we peer in awe at the narcissistic Progressive psyche. But what is even more dumfounding is the built in self-destruct mechanism of the Progressive ideology. It is simply fascinating, that... [read more]
The Truth from Ruth Gibbs Part 2
by ruthgibbs, 06:06 AM, 2 Comments
OK everyone, Doug Parris is blogging again on his Reagan Wing with more inaccuracies except for one, so I will respond here. Before I do, Doug, I would like to say that my sympathies are with your family at this time of grief for you when you just lost your mother. My father died at 75. He would be 85 this May 1st if he had lived. My mother died at 55. So, I feel your pain at losing parents... [read more]
April 13, 2008
THIS DOG DON'T HUNT!
by LeCerveau, 09:21 AM, 4 Comments
I jumped up on the Weather Channel last night to see what was in store for Sunday and 'WAA LAA' there was a University of Washington "Crying poor mouth" ad. A big one right on the website asking for tons of money to help its students pay their tuition and other reasons! Well, GEE WHIZ let me see if I understand this situation. The U Dub receives about 350 million dollars from the State Legislature per year, it owns about... [read more]
April 09, 2008
THE TRUTH FROM RUTH GIBBS
by ruthgibbs, 03:53 PM, 71 Comments
THE TRUTH FROM RUTH GIBBS About the 11th District Caucus, the Ron Paul and Doug Parris Slate, the people on the slate and the people and groups who endorsed the slate. Many people have contacted me with concern about the the blatant lies posted by Doug Parris on both HIS Reagan Wing Website and on the Public Blog at Sound Politics.org regarding what happened at the 11the District Republican Caucus smearing both 11th District and King County Republicans, Rev.... [read more]
April 07, 2008
Gregoire, Democrats and Unfunded Liabilities in WA
by John425, 03:31 PM, 1 Comments
Been thinking that inasmuch as Gregoire and her Gang like to spend taxpayer dollars on anything pretty and shiny, perhaps she'd like to explain why the total unfunded pension liabilites in Washington state have mushroomed from $778 million to $6.4 billion! A very bright and shiny number where I come from. It is an eightfold increase in five years!! The Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS) Plan 1 unfunded liability increased from $584 million to $3,9 billion between 2000 and 2005.... [read more]
Dino Rossi - Campaign to Piss Me Off
by Susannity, 10:55 AM, 18 Comments
Holy telemarketing politician Batman! We are called daily by the Campaign for Dino Rossi. Once, it was twice in the same day. My husband would answer the phone and I would hear him say "sorry, not interested" and hang up. One of the times he tells them to please stop calling. So this time I answer the phone and it's them again. The man starts his spiel "I'm calling on behalf of Dino Rossi..." Me in a firm and slightly... [read more]
April 02, 2008
Northshore school administrators enjoy massive Perks
by gschroe, 08:40 PM, 11 Comments
Wondering how to vote on your next school bond issue? why don't we look beneath the covers a bit! The Seattle Times has an article today, called "Northshore administrators enjoy perks" Shown in full on their website at: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/education/2004321668_perks02e.html It Seems, according to the Times article; "Administrators in the Northshore School District have bought big-screen TVs, camcorders, home-theater equipment and iPods for personal use, all with taxpayer money. What's more, if the employees leave the district, they get to keep... [read more]
April 01, 2008
Happy Birthday Junk Science dot Com!
by LeCerveau, 01:43 PM, 0 Comments
Here is some of the latest news from the web site: Junkscience.com. Happy birthday on your web site Mr. Steve Milloy, founder: I wouldn't get too excited about items like this - People might be displaying considerable rationality and rating global warming as relatively insignificant but Don Al Goreleone has been working with his Consiglieri and Capo-Regimes for many years assembling a massive war chest and a literal army of soldiers -- and they are getting ready to go to... [read more]
March 20, 2008
Toby Nixon to Seek Return to State House of Representatives
by Toby_Nixon, 12:14 AM, 11 Comments
Former State Representative Toby Nixon announced today that he will seek election this year to return to the legislature as state representative for the 45th District. Nixon, who served in the state house for five years from 2002 through 2007, will challenge Roger Goodman, who was elected to the seat Nixon vacated when he ran for state senate in 2006. Reversing an earlier statement that he would not run for office in 2008, Nixon said, "After watching the legislature's failure... [read more]
March 18, 2008
Supreme Court Upholds Washington State's Open Primary Election System
by thcase, 10:56 AM, 11 Comments
Per Fox News, the US Supreme Court today decides with the voters and not with the every diminishing parties. By a 7-2 vote, the court says the state may use a primary system that allows the top two vote-getters to advance to the general election, even if they are from the same party. Just like the initiative campaigners have found, Washington voters do want a say in the process. They are tired of politics as usual from both sides. Writing... [read more]
March 17, 2008
Paul takes Whatcom County
by tpahl, 09:16 PM, 14 Comments
In this article from The Bellingham Herald we learn that despite McCains narrow win in the first round of Caucuses, Paul is coming out ahead in delegates at some of the county conventions. Why? My answer to that question is he inspires people to actually support him whereas McCain inspires no one. McCains support comes from the media telling people he is the nominee. It looks like it will become self fulfilling. While McCain attempts to take the party further... [read more]
March 16, 2008
Glacier Melting, People will Starve to Death, Oh!
by LeCerveau, 01:09 PM, 2 Comments
ON THE BOGUS GLOBAL WARMING FRONT IN EUROPE COMES THIS: The Observer Newspaper apparently has a double page spread on the fact that scientists report that 30 glaciers are showing signs of accelerated melting. The consequences are the usual chorus: sea levels will rise, water supplies dry up and millions will starve. Reported on the BBC the implication was made to suggest this would happen very soon. What were the facts? The 30 glaciers showed an increase of melting from... [read more]
NOT BANNED IN BOSTON, BANNED RIGHT HERE
by Banned, 05:13 AM, 10 Comments
NOT BANNED IN BOSTON, BANNED RIGHT HERE. 1. This comment prompted a reply from me which was deleted: " 2 . I note for the record that Wilda, a.k.a WVH, in agreeing with Kerry's comments, also therefore agrees with Ferraro, who WVH claims is racist, and that WVH is therefore racist. Q.E.D. Posted by pudge at March 15, 2008 11:09 PM 3. Wilda, I removed your lies. Posted by pudge at March 16, 2008 12:00 AM 4. Wilda, you said... [read more]
March 14, 2008
"Nobody else is DOING the whole economy like we are!"
by LeCerveau, 08:53 AM, 1 Comments
As lawmakers and elected officials looked on, Gov. Chris Gregoire laughed out loud Thursday as she signed into law a measure aimed at cutting greenhouse gas emissions. A measure that directs Washington state to come up with plans for cutting greenhouse gas emissions was signed into law Thursday by Gov. Chris Gregoire, who said the state has taken another step to create a new economy based on clean energy and sustainable practices. Attending were "FAST" Hans Dunshee from Snohomish and... [read more]
March 13, 2008
End of Global Warming?
by LeCerveau, 10:16 PM, 1 Comments
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate Data center says that 2007 was the coldest year since 2001 and temps are headed down! That should be good news for Governor Gargoyle who is determined to outlaw the bubbles in your can of beer: http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2008/20080313_coolest.html In addition the Arctic Ice sheet came down further south this winter than it has in 45 years.... [read more]
March 03, 2008
The facts on Global Warming!
by LeCerveau, 02:58 PM, 8 Comments
This is essentially a primer on Global Warming or Climate Change that I have put together for the scientifically impaired. I have included a number of internet links that are labeled at the end of this report for those who wish to read extensively on the subject. I have been following the issue for more than a decade and after seeing what the radical environmentalists are doing with this concept, I have decided to do something about all of the... [read more]
March 02, 2008
State Legislature v. State Auditor
by Jojobber, 09:08 PM, 5 Comments
Washington State Legislature Threatens to Hamstring State Auditor Check out this article on the Washington Policy Center Blog. Apparently, the Washington State Legislature wants the State Auditor to reimburse School Districts and Educational Service Districts for the costs they incur in providing information to performance auditors. Never mind that the information the auditors request should be readily available. If the entities that they audit need to take an enormous amount of time, or expend great effort, to provide information, that,... [read more]
February 25, 2008
Stop the unionization of PARENTS -- stop HB 3145
by Toby_Nixon, 05:49 PM, 2 Comments
Friends, I share Gary M's concerns about HB 3145. The state of Washington should not be unionizing parents, be they foster parents or otherwise. We do not need union rules determining how parents can relate to their children - but it goes farther than that. The idea that anyone who receives benefits or payments from the state requires representation by a labor union has got to stop! Once a union "contract" is injected into the mix, the will of the... [read more]
February 19, 2008
Even Zoning Drives Up Housing Costs
by John425, 12:51 PM, 2 Comments
From: http://volokh.com/ http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=302388 Zoning and the Subprime Mortgage Crisis: Randal O'Toole has an interesting post rounding up evidence showing that zoning and other government land-use restrictions have played a major role in causing the subprime mortgage crisis. Zoning helped cause the crisis in two ways: by artificially inflating the price of real estate, and by increasing the likelihood of a "boom-bust" cycle in real estate prices. As Harvard economist Edward Glaeser and UPenn economist Edward Gyourko showed in this 2002... [read more]
February 15, 2008
More Incompetence arrives in Seattle
by John425, 03:29 PM, 0 Comments
http://theeprovocateur.blogspot.com/2008/02/dr-andy-and-media-corruption-meets.html New COO of Providence Hospitals in Seattle Thursday, February 14, 2008 Dr. Andy and the Media: Corruption Meets Incompetence Meets Corruption Introduction Dr. Andrew Agwunobi, or Dr. Andy as colleagues called him, has traveled a long and winding road. He has frankly commited an obscene amount of corruption and worse yet, he has done it in all parts of the country. Agwunobi came to Atlanta's South Fulton Hospital as CEO immediately before a JCAHO report that gave the hospital... [read more]
February 14, 2008
Gregoire Authorizes 100 Million $$$'s for State Ferry Monopoly
by tpahl, 05:53 PM, 13 Comments
Gregoire signed a bill today giving the state ferry monopoly 3 more vehicle ferries. That the Democratic governor would sign away so much of our money to a state monopoly is not surprising, just disappointing. What is surprising is that when one looks at the roll call for the bill in the senate and house, the bill was approved by a majority of Republicans!!! Why are Republicans afraid to say no? We are not talking about a small amount of... [read more]
February 12, 2008
Quasi-Super Saturday Wrap-up
by Cydney, 12:30 AM, 4 Comments
Yeah, yeah, so I'm a bit behind on posting about the several contests that were held on Saturday for both the GOP and the Democrat presidential candidates. I was visiting family, and I was busy doing other things, like driving long distances. So here it is, two days later. Be happy. Huckabee trounced, hammered, clobbered, whooped, crushed, or otherwise soundly defeated John McCain in the Kansas caucuses on Saturday. The results? Huckabee 60% McCain 24% Paul 11% As for Louisiana, Huckabee barely squeaked... [read more]
February 11, 2008
Esser RISKS non-"winner" delegate bloc / backlash
by ccwt, 07:01 PM, 3 Comments
Chairman Luke Esser needs to learn the law of unintended consequences. And language has consequences .... Today, the Chairman spoke on Kirby Wilbur's radio program, saying at one time that the Party remains officially neutral regarding the delegates the candidates gained, then immediately reinforced his use of the "winner" language, certainly not neutral rhetoric. The unintended consequence the Chairman risks is the formation of a delegate bloc alliance against his declared "winner", as backlash to his imprudent and unnecessary use... [read more]
Emperor Gregoire and Darth Mariner
by pudge, 08:57 AM, 2 Comments
This totally doesn't deserve to be on the front page, but I thought people would get a kick out of it, so I am putting it on the "Public Blog." I always thought the picture of Gregoire being picked up by Mariner Moose looked like Emperor Palpatine's death scene from Return of the Jedi. Hence this terrible -- but terribly funny, to me -- Photoshop job:... [read more]
February 10, 2008
PCO demands Esser withdraw "winner" statement
by ccwt, 08:17 PM, 2 Comments
Open letter to Chairman Luke Esser, Washington State GOP Dear Chairman Esser, I am the GOP PCO for SEA 34-1247 precinct, and delegate for Dr. Ron Paul. I write to strenuously object to your intentionally deceptive and biased press release titled, "Sen. McCain Wins Republican Precinct Caucuses in Washington State" of February 9, 2008. With 87.2% of the precincts reporting and 13.8% "uncommitted" or "other" (meaning we do not know their preference, or did not support Mr. McCain) and 16.5%... [read more]
February 08, 2008
An Apology and a Request Regarding John McCain
by goddardtp, 03:06 PM, 19 Comments
One year and three months ago, I finished up what really was a wonderful time serving as Mike McGavick's New Media Director in spectacularly disappointing fashion. In the days and weeks that followed, I was inordinately frustrated with the terrible analyis of the nationwide 2006 debacle, but too drained by the whole experience to craft any response. I took a break from blogging and politics in general. Then I got a great opportunity to go overseas, which extended this break... [read more]
February 06, 2008
$61,290,000,000! (Yes Virginia, 61 Billion!)
by SouthernRoots, 05:21 PM, 5 Comments
It's a good thing that the legislature doesn't pass every bill they write. However, it only takes a couple of bills to pass to cause severe financial hardships on the taxpayers. Sign up to the OFM emails - unless you have a weak heart. So far, out of thousands of bills, OFM has notified us of only a handful. I selected 24 from the emails OFM sent out. I put the numbers into excel and was astounded by the unbridled... [read more]
February 05, 2008
Ron Paul's message to WA Conservatives
by tpahl, 05:18 PM, 22 Comments
The following is a message from Ron Paul to Washington State conservatives. For people concerned about the end of the conservative movement (not the same as the Republican Party) this message makes a very strong case. What is your prediction of Paul in Washingtons Caucus? Dear Fellow Washingtonians, The presidential primary election is fast approaching. By now, you've heard the moderate pitches from three of the Republican candidates. But there is also a strong conservative in this race. Congressman Ron... [read more]
February 04, 2008
Kiss your wallet goodbye - it's Property Tax time
by Seabecker, 09:43 PM, 11 Comments
41%. Forty one percent! Increase. 1.41 x last year's tax = this year's tax. Dollars, not assessed value. That, folks, was the news I got today as I saw my 2008 Kitsap County Property Tax bill for the first time. Much of this was due to local levies, but the State General Fund portion alone was 37% higher. So much for I-747 and other tax-limiting devices. 71%. Seventy one percent! Increase. 1.71 x 2006 tax = this year's tax. Dollars,... [read more]
February 03, 2008
Costco vs Liquor Control Board
by tpahl, 10:27 PM, 8 Comments
The 9th circuit court of appeals recently decided against Costco in its case against the Washington State Liquor Control Board. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said the Washington State Liquor Control Board could prohibit discounts, ban central warehousing of beer and wine by retailers, require wholesale distributors to charge uniform prices to all retailers and require a 10 percent markup. That the 9th circuit would find in favor of the state against the free market is hardly suprising.... [read more]
PI predict strong showing for Paul and Obama
by tpahl, 06:48 PM, 0 Comments
The Seattle PI just predicted a strong showing for Paul and Obama. On the Republican side, Paul reported more than 1,000 donors, giving him the edge over former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney with 700 and Arizona Sen. John McCain with 500, filings show. All donors of $200 or more must be disclosed in the filings. The edge in donors is important because those are the same dedicated partisans likely to spend their Saturday at Washington's precinct caucuses. In addition to... [read more]
January 30, 2008
Crossover Appeal
by lrousso, 11:47 AM, 8 Comments
Did you know that Lee Rousso is running for Governor? It's true! Rousso (that's me) is running as a Democrat, but is making an appeal to REPUBLICAN voters. Let's face facts, Dino Rossi needs your vote in November. HE DOESN'T NEED IT IN AUGUST. Indeed, crossing over and voting against Gregoire in the Democratic primary is the most rational thing a Republican voter can do. Please visit my website, leeroussoforgovernor.org Thanks, Lee Rousso... [read more]
January 17, 2008
Don't I get stock certifcates?
by SouthernRoots, 10:06 PM, 2 Comments
I read HB 2421 and it has one major flaw - it doesn't issue stock certificates. Over the next ten years the plan is to extract, through increased taxes, over $8.5 billion dollars. With this money, the state wants to "invest" it in companies - even startups - to produce electricity with solar power. I can't remember the last investment I made with a gun pointed to my head, but I digress. Since my money will be taken from me... [read more]
January 16, 2008
HB 2490 -- The "secret police act of 2008"?
by Toby_Nixon, 12:57 PM, 8 Comments
Citizens who care about government accountability, transparency, and access to public records should be very concerned about a newly-introduced bill, HB 2490, entitled "Relating to protection of personal information about commissioned peace officers and their families", which might more appropriately be named "The Secret Police Act of 2008". You can see information on the bill at http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=2490. The bill would add the following exemption to the state Public Records Act (PRA), RCW 42.56, in section 42.56.230: (3) Personal information about... [read more]
December 28, 2007
And the U-N-D-I-S-P-U-T-E-D Heavyweight Champ Is...
by Mike98070, 07:42 PM, 2 Comments
Like a determined prize fighter, yesterday the state Supreme Court connected again--this time landing a punch right in our face. It assaulted all of us who care about fairness, decency, and open government that is. In a split decision the Court decided that the government is not compelled to release information that falls under the umbrella of attorney-client privilege. I think most people were like me in that they pictured attorney-client privilege protecting individuals--not government agencies. Boy were we ever... [read more]
December 27, 2007
Toby Nixon announces he will not run for State Representative in 2008
by Toby_Nixon, 01:18 PM, 3 Comments
Former 45th District State Representative Toby Nixon issued the following statement to his friends and supporters today: "I appreciate the many inquiries and expressions of support I have received over the past few weeks from many friends in the community and around the state. After much careful consideration and consultation with my family and advisors, I have decided to not seek election to the state House of Representatives or any another office in 2008. I have made a number of... [read more]
Bring Five Grassroots Effort
by WVH, 01:08 AM, 2 Comments
"Bring Five Grassroots Movement" It occurred to me that faith-based voters have more similarities than differences. There are differences in right-to-life issues such as abortion and assisted suicide. There is more agreement than not in issues like a good basic education for all children, support for families, a viable economy that creates jobs, and a tax system that does not penalize marriage. Even on the abortion issue, many people from all sides can support adoption and support for the mother... [read more]
December 17, 2007
Free Public Forum to Discuss Access to Government Information
by Toby_Nixon, 06:14 PM, 0 Comments
The Herald and the Washington Coalition for Open Government will present a special program focusing on Washington's Public Records and Open Meetings laws from 6:30 to 8:30 PM on Wednesday, January 9 at the Monroe/Sky Valley Family YMCA, 14033 Fryelands Blvd. in Monroe. A panel of expert presenters will fuel the discussion on securing and preserving the public's legal right to access the records and proceedings of the government agencies created to serve the people of the state. The panelists... [read more]
December 16, 2007
Pedro Celis of Redmond Named Co-chair of Romney Campaign in Washington
by Toby_Nixon, 09:53 PM, 1 Comments
http://www.mittromney.com/News/Press-Releases/WA_Steering_Committee_Co-Chair GOVERNOR MITT ROMNEY ANNOUNCES WASHINGTON STATEWIDE STEERING COMMITTEE CO-CHAIR Boston, MA (December 14) -- Today, Governor Mitt Romney announced the endorsement of Dr. Pedro Celis, Ph.D. as a Co-Chair of Romney for President's Washington Statewide Steering Committee. Celis will play a critical role in building grassroots support for Governor Romney in the state. As the former National Chairman of the Republican National Hispanic Assembly, Celis will also help expand the Governor's support in the Hispanic community as a member... [read more]
December 03, 2007
Cantwell Aide in Kiddie Sex Bust
by Toby_Nixon, 04:57 PM, 5 Comments
According to The Smoking Gun, James McHaney, aide to U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, was arrested on Friday for Attempted Child Exploitation involving a 13-year-old boy. http://www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/years/2007/1203072senate2.html Senate Aide In Kiddie Sex Bust FBI: Staffer for Sen. Maria Cantwell sought tryst with boy DECEMBER 3--A U.S. Senate aide was arrested Friday after allegedly arranging a lunchtime sexual encounter with a teenage boy, according to federal court records. James McHaney, 28, was nabbed by FBI agents after he arranged the afternoon liaison... [read more]
November 29, 2007
Math Education
by raeven, 12:22 PM, 7 Comments
If you have a child in a Washington state public school, you will want to see this video posted on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tr1qee-bTZI In the video, Washington meteorologist MJ McDermott explores how math is being taught in the schools throughout our country that are using the Everyday Math and TERC curricula. Fan or critic of the methods, this video is worthwhile for enlightening parents on how to help their children master these new techniques (or discard them altogether). For Michelle Malkin's... [read more]
November 22, 2007
Sound Politics Thanksgiving Wish
by gschroe, 12:29 PM, 0 Comments
Just wanted to take time out today to wish all at Sound Politics (Especially all those who keep this site up and running) a happy Thanksgiving.... [read more]
November 15, 2007
Evergreen Leadership Conference Sessions on TVW, Presentations Available for Download
by Toby_Nixon, 12:57 PM, 0 Comments
Materials from Evergreen Leadership Conference II: Issues, Insights, and Influence are available online now for your use. The PowerPoint presentations used by presenters have been consolidated into a single file for download, which is available in both PowerPoint format and Adobe PDF format. The PowerPoint file is available at http://www.evergreenconference.org/ELC2%20Presentation%20Slides.ppt (13.3 megabytes), and the PDF file is available at http://www.evergreenconference.org/ELC2%20Presentation%20Slides.pdf (7 megabytes). The files are large due to the number of graphic images used by the presenters. We thank the... [read more]
My Constitutional Amendment Idea
by pudge, 12:47 PM, 4 Comments
I want an amendment to the Constitution that would require a supermajority to change the Constitution. Just a thought.... [read more]
November 08, 2007
747 crashes
by SouthernRoots, 09:39 AM, 10 Comments
Initiative 747 has been declared unconstitutional. What were the constitutional grounds? The voters were too stupid to know for what they were voting. I voted for 747 because I wanted property tax increases limited to 1% without a vote. Period. The justices believe that voters didn't vote for the end result, but instead were voting on a reduction in the rate increase from 2% to 1%. 2% was set by I-722, but since I-722 has been declared unconsitutional, the actual... [read more]
Election reflections with some surprises and a small rant
by guitarplayr, 12:31 AM, 2 Comments
I offer up front that because of the mail in vote delays, many of these races are not actually certified, so there is a possibility that some results may shift. I am not betting on it, but it is possible. I posted my thoughts on Elections in general yesterday, and I still remain somewhat disgruntled. I was reminded that moving to an adjacent county would offer me my ballot again, and I admit it is tempting, but I do like... [read more]
November 06, 2007
Mike Kreidler, Abuse of Authority?
by pudge, 09:40 AM, 2 Comments
Is anyone else offended that our elected insurance commissioner has been appearing in commercials promoting R-67? I didn't vote for him, but if I had, I wouldn't have elected him to campaign for or against initiatives. Just a passing thought. I guess I am glad I didn't vote for him, and I surely won't vote for him again, especially considering he has been telling baldfaced lies about R-67, by saying R-67 won't cost law-abiding insurance companies money.... [read more]
November 03, 2007
Washington State Pro-Lifers Determined to End Abortion
by michellemcntyr, 06:15 PM, 10 Comments
Last night, David Bereit, the national director of 40 Days for Life, addressed the large crowd gathered from all over Washington, including leaders of all 4 Washington locations where 40 Days for Life campaigns are being held and where David visited earlier in the day (Everett, Olympia, Seattle and Tacoma). In today's daily campaign update and devotional, which is received by thousands of 40 Days for Life participants across the nation, David recounts the enthusiasm and determination of Washington State... [read more]
Evergreen Leadership Conference II: One Week from Today! Register Now!
by Toby_Nixon, 04:07 PM, 0 Comments
Just One Week from Today! Evergreen Leadership Conference II: Issues, Insights, and Influence Saturday, November 10, 2007 Marriott Courtyard Downtown Tacoma Register Online at www.EvergreenConference.org Come and hear these great speakers! Jason Mercier, Director, Center for Government Reform, Washington Policy Center Senator Joe Zarelli, Ranking Member, Senate Committee on Ways & Means "The Inconvenient Truth About the State Budget" Brian Sonntag, Washington State Auditor "Performance Audits Improve Government Accountability" Bob Williams, President, Evergreen Freedom Foundation "Assuring Budget Transparency" Carl Gipson,... [read more]
October 21, 2007
Approve 67 and Mike Kreidler Claim R-67 Changes Nothing
by pudge, 03:00 PM, 14 Comments
The latest ad from Approve 67 notes that the state's Insurance Commissioner, Mike Kreidler, said that "insurance premiums will not go up." But that can only be true if R-67 changes nothing. If there's more lawsuits, or more out-of-court settlements, then insurance premiums necessarily go up. If there's higher awards in lawsuits or settlements, then insurance premiums necessarily go up. If there's more or higher payouts by insurance companies, in order to avoid lawsuits and settlements, then insurance premiums necessarily... [read more]
October 18, 2007
Evergreen Leadership Conference II: Don't Delay, Register Today!
by Toby_Nixon, 08:32 PM, 6 Comments
Don't Delay! Register Today! Discounted Early Registration Ends on October 31 Evergreen Leadership Conference II: Issues, Insights, and Influence Saturday, November 10, 2007 Marriott Courtyard Downtown Tacoma Register Online at www.EvergreenConference.org Don't miss great presentations by Bob Williams, Evergreen Freedom Foundation; State Auditor Brian Sonntag; State Senator Joe Zarelli; State Senator Dan Swecker; State Senator Val Stevens; Dan Kennedy, Human Life of Washington; Rick Forcier, Christian Coalition; Toby Nixon, Former State Representative; Lynn Harsh, Evergreen Freedom Foundation; Gary Smith, Independent... [read more]
October 16, 2007
Ron Paul attracting WA Racists?
by John425, 11:42 AM, 4 Comments
From: http://www.outsidethebeltway.com/ Ron Paul Supported by Racist Western Men James Joyner | Tuesday, October 16, 2007 Who supports Ron Paul's bid for the presidency? White supremacists and men from the West Coast, apparently. Thomas Edsall reports, Through no fault of his own, Rep. Ron Paul's anti-globalist, anti-government campaign for the Republican presidential nomination has become a magnet in neo-Nazi networks, pulling in activists and supporters from the fringe white nationalist community where anti-Semitism, anti-black and anti-immigrant views are commonplace. In... [read more]
October 10, 2007
More "Approve R-67" Lies
by pudge, 12:26 AM, 7 Comments
In their latest ad the folks over at Approve 67 claim that "Washington is one of only five states where it's not illegal for insurance companies to deny your legitimate claim." That is false. It is illegal. If you contract for a service that is not provided as per the contract, that violates the law. If nothing else, it violates contract law. But it goes deeper: R-67 modifies RCW 48.30.010 to add, specifically, that an insurer "may not unreasonably deny... [read more]
October 05, 2007
Lawsuits Only Happen To Bad People
by pudge, 11:30 AM, 0 Comments
"If the [insurance] company lives up to their own advertising to deal with you as their policyholder in good faith, and they all advertise that way, then they're not gonna pay one dime more." -- Mike Kreidler, Washington State Insurance Commissioner, on KING-5 News According to Kreidler, there's no such thing as fraudulent or frivolous lawsuits, or lawsuits based on honest disagreements. You only ever get sued if you do something wrong. Now you know. Me, I'm voting against R-67.... [read more]
September 23, 2007
Registration NOW OPEN for Evergreen Leadership Conference II: Issues, Insights, and Influence -- Tacoma, November 10
by Toby_Nixon, 10:51 PM, 0 Comments
You're invited to join conservative leaders from across Washington at Evergreen Leadership Conference II: Issues, Insights, and Influence, on Saturday, November 10, 2007 in Tacoma. You can find complete information about the conference and register online at www.EvergreenConference.org. We all know that conservative solutions to the problems facing our state are the right solutions that will increase our happiness, prosperity, and security in a manner consistent with our fundamental principles of individual liberty, personal responsibility, limited government, and free markets.... [read more]
September 12, 2007
"Schrammie" Acceptance Speech
by pudge, 10:02 PM, 10 Comments
Last post on this subject, I promise. I won the Schrammie. You can read or watch Ken Schram's opinion of me, and see or hear the object of his outrage, the song I wrote called "Osama Bin Laden, You Ruined My Birthday." Tonight I posted my acceptance speech. The speech is primarily in the form of a song I wrote a year or so ago. However, I wrote the second verse today. So Ken, bend over and take your bow,... [read more]
I Won The Schrammie
by pudge, 02:08 PM, 0 Comments
That's right. Yours Truly has won The Schrammie for the week for the episode I mentioned yesterday. If you're a Nielsen family, don't bother to watch, but everyone else can turn on Channel 4 for the 6 p.m. hour. Update: I apparently get an actual physical Schrammie. Woo!... [read more]
September 07, 2007
WCOG Award Event -- You're Invited!
by Toby_Nixon, 05:11 PM, 1 Comments
I invite you to join me at the Washington Coalition for Open Government annual James Madison-James Andersen Award Event on Friday, September 21, 7:30AM at the Washington Athletic Club in Seattle. Paul Wright, editor of Prison Legal News and a former Washington prison inmate, will receive WCOG's James Madison Award. The award, named for the nation's fourth president, known as the Father of the Constitution, is awarded annually to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to the cause of... [read more]
BDS: Seahawks fans go mental over Bush getting a Seahawks jersey
by guitarplayr, 12:00 AM, 1 Comments
Here is the scene. Bush comes to town to attend a fund raiser. The Seahawk's decided to present him with a Jersey with his name and the number 43, as he is the 43rd president. And the president was thrilled, and Matt Hasselbeck and Mack Strong were thrilled. The crowd was thrilled. Everyone was thrilled. Except the liberal Seattle fans. Seahawks duo blitzed by Bush backlash Are you still fans of Matt Hasselbeck and Mack Strong after they visited President Bush last... [read more]
September 02, 2007
SAVE THE DATE: Evergreen Leadership Conference II: Issues, Insights, and Influence -- November 10 in Tacoma
by Toby_Nixon, 02:08 PM, 0 Comments
Evergreen Leadership Conference II: Issues, Insights, and Influence will be held on Saturday, November 10, 2007 at the Marriott Courtyard Tacoma Downtown. Doors will open at 8:00AM; the program will begin at 8:30AM and conclude by 6:00PM, followed by a reception for you to meet and greet conference speakers and your conservative friends from around the state. This one-day conference will inform you about the issues of greatest importance in Washington today, provide important insights into conservative solutions to those... [read more]
August 22, 2007
..[ day seven ]..DOC in their zeal to protect the community are putting the community at risk by abusing the generosity of homeless shelters...
by hmlssNseattle, 03:05 PM, 0 Comments
Wednesday, August 22, 2007 ..[ day seven ]..DOC in their zeal to protect the community are putting the community at risk by abusing the generosity of homeless shelters... Link to Blog Last night became my seventh night staying at the UGM homeless shelter, but only after extreme panic and much anxiety where I thought I had exhausted all my shelter options. After attending 5:30 mass at St. James, I rushed to the library to make some phone calls to the... [read more]
DANGER: Vote NO on all fire/medical levies (and others)! Tax Levies used to be temporary; now, they're PERMANENT!
by cryptometaphor, 06:56 AM, 0 Comments
And levies are on the PRIMARY ABSENTEE BALLOT! Parks! Woodland Park Zoo! No wonder Ron Sims wanted "vote-by-mail" ! Seattle Times: Warning: Tax hikes becoming permanent Senate Bill 5498 reversed the old "if-it's-not-marked-permanent-it's-temporary" rule. I wondered why the Woodinville and the Northshore Fire Districts were posting "Vote Yes To Continue Current Funding" signs all over the place. Now, we know! If we're tricked into voting "Yes," their needing to grovel to voters for trips to the public trough never has... [read more]
August 19, 2007
State Auditor does his job...Politician throws hissy-fit..
by Jojobber, 11:18 AM, 2 Comments
It appears a Thurston County Commissioner has a problem with State Auditor Brian Sonntag doing his job and using the new performance audit authority to hold governments accountable. Read this editorial in The Olympian... [read more]
August 15, 2007
Gender Politics Do Not Help Children
by BananaLand, 12:01 AM, 1 Comments
Another glaring example of DSHS's horribly misguided approach to protecting children has woken me from my summer slumber. The Seattle Times describes how CPS repeatedly returned a young boy to the home of his step-grandmother and grandfather. He was relegated to living in a trailer behind the house. And CPS signed off on it. Twice! Worse, the boy was continually and severally beaten, choked, and burned by his step-grandmother. Detectives now believe the suspected abuse -- mostly by Loni Venegas... [read more]
July 23, 2007
R.I.P. Washington State Death Penalty
by Palouse123, 03:08 PM, 8 Comments
Prosecutors in the Linnik murder decided not to seek the death penalty against Terapon Adhahn. This was in exchange for revealing where her body was located. So any reasonable murderer can conclude one thing. If you do a decent job hiding the body, if caught, you can spare your life in Washington state.... [read more]
June 14, 2007
Recall petition for Governor Gregoire
by publicbulldog, 08:16 PM, 4 Comments
Recall petition for Governor Gregoire As Attorney General, Governor Gregoire did not properly enforce the Washington State medical marijuana law 69.51A. As Attorney General, Governor Gregoire allowed 16 or more Washington State Counties, to enforce County laws over State law 69.51A. County laws are subordinate to State General laws. The Washington State attorney General failed to challenge a declaration of separate sovereignty by 16 Washington State Counties. During Governor Gregoire's tenure as Washington State Attorney General, 16 Counties of Washington... [read more]
June 10, 2007
Review of Norm Dicks UW Commencement Speech
by kennethwilliamklein, 12:18 AM, 11 Comments
http://www.heraldnet.com/stories/07/05/08/100wir_b5briefs001.cfm I had the honor of attending my youngest brother's graduation ceremony from the University of Washington on Saturday, June 9, 2007. For the record it was 56 degrees and a constant shower of rain (beautiful Washington weather). I've been told that the commencement speaker was supposed to be Bill Gates, but Bill pulled out a month ago to give the commencement address at Harvard and the school filled the spot with Congressman Norm Dicks. The speech was billed as... [read more]
May 29, 2007
A Republican Creed
by pudge, 02:47 PM, 9 Comments
I had some recent discussions recently about what made someone a Christian, and the topic of creeds came up. The creed is a statement of essential principles that -- according to the people who believe the creed -- every Christian must believe in. If you believe the creed, you're probably a Christian. If you don't, you're not. And in this discussion that many of us have been having for years about mainstream Republicans vs. social conservative Republicans and so on... [read more]
May 27, 2007
EFFin' Unsound Loves Me
by pudge, 11:45 AM, 1 Comments
Apparently I've made quite an impression over at EFFin' Unsound. Both of their editors in the last week have posted articles about me, attacking things I've posted here, and in my Slashdot journal. Apparently they didn't appreciate me pointing out the fact that Glen Greenwald lied about what Mike McConnell wrote in an op-ed, or that Michael Moore lied by saying his $12,000 gift to one of his critics was done with the "best intentions," when in fact it was... [read more]
April 26, 2007
KVI, Thurston's Corrupt Courts and You
by Andy_Maris, 09:18 PM, 1 Comments
Let me extrapolate on what I said in the comment thread about Wickham and KVI. I've followed Wickham since 2003- suffice to say that his decisions aligning with actual law are purely a coincidence. His ruling against KVI reflects the norm, not the exception. Locally, the Zero (The Olympian) endorsed Wickham heavily in his election; printed endorsements 3:1 over those for other candidates. Many know he's as crooked as they come and has no business sitting on the bench and... [read more]
April 23, 2007
WSU Police Chief demoted for these videos?
by Cougster1, 12:21 PM, 1 Comments
WSU Police Chief Steve Hansen was demoted ("resigned") early this month to lieutenant because of looking at inappropriate things at work (and maybe other reasons?). The university put out a report on this found here. WSU Today on Hansen's actions: The announcement comes at the conclusion of a WSU internal auditor's investigation into a complaint of improper computer use in the police department. According to the auditor's report, Hansen viewed e-mails that were sent to him containing inappropriate material, forwarded... [read more]
YouTube Video on Gregoire's Felon Release Program
by patrickb1, 10:04 AM, 0 Comments
Send it far and wide!... [read more]
April 03, 2007
SB5103 - Seatbelts on School Buses
by SCarnahan, 04:32 PM, 1 Comments
SB5103 is destined to increase the cost of transporting children to the point that fewer students are transported on the safest form of transportation available. The bill is counter-productive and short sighted. Putting more children at risk of accident should not be the purpose of our elected representatives. SB5103 is poorly researched, poorly drafted and will not make our children on yellow school buses safer. [read more]
March 30, 2007
Move al-Quaida Terrorists to W. Washington?
by BobLeibowitz, 06:24 PM, 6 Comments
Are You Nuts? You Want to Put Who in My Backyard? Democrats, liberals and completely spineless types on the national scene have been bad-mouthing Guantanamo Bay as a permanent location for holding the worst of the worst al-Quaida leaders collected during the first four of our 100-year war. These progressive leaders put a great deal of weight on favorable opinions of similar sorts from other countries, obsessing about "respect" from the likes of the French, the Germans and other superior... [read more]
March 19, 2007
Getting Started on the GOP Platform...
by John425, 11:10 AM, 0 Comments
A few suggested topics...(please feel free to refine or add planks) (1) Make it mandatory that WA employers use the online Social Security Number Verification System for ALL new hires AND that they keep a downloaded confirmation for 2-3 years. Penalties TBA (to be announced-ideas?) (2) Redefine and simplify the College Tuition Tax Credits AND turn them into Deductions for the middle class. (3) Make Charitable deductions equal to 120% of the actual donation if the donation is directed to... [read more]
March 15, 2007
"There Oughta' Be a Law!" paper & survey results
by OctoberLeaf, 06:15 PM, 1 Comments
For anyone who's curious, Here's a link to "There Oughta' Be a Law!"--the paper that resulted, in part, from the survey circulated here a few weeks ago on law-making in Washington State: http://portfolio.washington.edu/christal/christals-legal-briefcase/317157.html I hope it proves interesting. Pax. -cw... [read more]
March 08, 2007
The Three Democrats that voted for HB2377 before they voted against it
by TrueSoldier, 08:07 AM, 1 Comments
It turns out that the three Democrats that voted for bill HB 2377 have had a John Kerry moment. Deborah Eddy (48th district), Deb Wallace (17th district) and Kathy Haigh (35th district) all entered vote correction form yesterday stating that they actually meant to vote "nay" on this bill. This means that ALL the Democrats voted against a bill that would have stopped felons from being released early and would have returned felons to prison who violated their early release.... [read more]
March 06, 2007
Gregoire Under Fire
by patrickb1, 05:53 PM, 3 Comments
Cross-posted at RespectfullyRepublican.com Olympia -- Governor Christine Gregoire is coming under fire on at least three issues that are endangering her ability to govern effectively. At the top of the news cycle for a number of months was the Viaduct in-decision. You can now add to that the early release of felons, and allegations that she exchanged political favors to tribes in return for political contributions to a PAC that supported her anointed slate of judicial candidates. On the first... [read more]
March 04, 2007
March 12 "Sunshine Week" free events in Olympia and at U.W.
by ArmenYousoufian, 01:12 PM, 0 Comments
Sunday, March 4, 2007 Re: Upcoming open government "Sunshine Week" events featuring Stefan Sharkansky, Sound Politics founder, and Armen Yousoufian, occasional contributor. Item: Monday, March 12, 2007 "Sunshine Week" events in both Olympia and Seattle (at University of Washington); both free and open to the public; 10 AM to 1 PM time frame (you could come and go anytime). To: Anyone I thought would be interested in two free, open to the public, local events having to do with open... [read more]
March 01, 2007
Republican's trying to stop further release of felons
by TrueSoldier, 02:05 PM, 0 Comments
Kirk Pearson's freeze on early release bill may have gotten renewed life after the recent release of 83 felons, including a level three sex offender, from King County last week. This bill was never given a committee hearing even though the Democrats could find plenty of time for committee hearings on such bills as dogs being allowed in bars and outlawing huckleberry picking (you know things that are really important to the voters). This bill was considered dead, but not... [read more]
February 16, 2007
Your Help Needed- SuperQuick Survey
by OctoberLeaf, 03:00 PM, 5 Comments
Hi, Sound-Politics Bloggers: I'm a law student, and I'm conducting a super-quick yes/no survey of WA State residents about their understanding and feelings about how laws are made, for an academic paper I'm working on. You may follow this link to it: http://www.exordia.net/survey1/ Your answer will help me to parse out public perceptions across demographics and interests. Your answer is valued whether you are highly political or not--in fact, especially if you're not. The survey is anonymous. Please answer--pretty please.... [read more]
January 26, 2007
How Local Governments Suffer From "Unfunded Mandates"
by radioguy8, 03:47 PM, 4 Comments
For a few years now, as part of my radio news job, I've interviewed members of the Washington State Association of Counties (WSAC), specifically, members of the WSAC Legislative Steering Committee (LSC). The LSC is made up of County Commissioners and Councilmembers from throughout Washington State. Their job is to establish a "message" to send to the legislature and the governor that is representative of the needs, wants, and concerns of the state's county governments. Over the past few years,... [read more]
January 25, 2007
Tax Proposed on Cargo Containers at WA Ports
by pjw1958, 08:56 PM, 1 Comments
OLYMPIA, Wash. -- State Senator Mary Margaret Haugen (Socialist: Camano Island) has proposed a tax on cargo containers shipped through Washington ports. http://www.kirotv.com/money/10833914/detail.html?rss=sea&psp=news -- What ever happend to: No State shall, without the Consent of the Congress, lay any Imposts or Duties on Imports or Exports, except what may be absolutely necessary for executing it's inspection Laws: and the net Produce of all Duties and Imposts, laid by any State on Imports or Exports, shall be for the Use of... [read more]
January 21, 2007
Where's the Math Video
by Mathwarrior, 12:15 PM, 7 Comments
Parents who are bewildered by the kind of math their children are exposed to in school should watch this video. A parent who is also an atmospheric scientist demonstrates how multiplication and division problems are done with this new-fangled math. Incredibly confusing stuff for a kid, done to avoid standard algorithms. This link of the video called Math Education: An Inconvenient Truth takes you to the YouTube site. The video has sparked a lively discussion at YouTube that includes a... [read more]
January 15, 2007
SB 5234 - An appropriate statement to make on the MLK holiday
by Andy_Maris, 11:28 AM, 6 Comments
Also posted at Thurston Pundits SB 5234 The subject is shared parenting- It's actually about civil rights; The issue is this: In the absence of criminal wrong doing, proven abuse or neglect a parent who WANTS to be a part of their child's life- should be able to do so without going bankrupt in a legal battle for the right to do so. Everyone knows two parents are better than one, however family courts prefer to wipe one parent out... [read more]
January 10, 2007
WA DOT just doesn't "get it"
by tmonroe, 10:02 AM, 0 Comments
I was reading through winter driving tips on the DOT website this morning, and I came across this little gem: Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows - stay at least 15 car lengths (200 feet) back and don't pass on the right. Does this look familiar to anyone? Remember the experiment with the dots they painted on the road, trying to get drivers to maintain a safe following distance? You know, the one in Lacey that caused gridlock and... [read more]
January 06, 2007
All about Andrew Villeneuve, "prominent American political activist and entrepreneur"
by olyscoop360, 07:38 AM, 1 Comments
In that last post about the Northwest Progressive Institute someone asked in the comment thread: "Isn't this NWPI the blog that's run by a guy who lives with his parents?" Why, yes, yes it is. 19 year old Andrew Villeneuve is the wunderkind of NW politics. He's run the NPI for three years now, creating the behemoth of politics that it is. I'm just kidding. Its mostly a blog, but he likes to think of himself as an executive director... [read more]
January 04, 2007
NPI minimum wage white paper: Ripping off themselves
by olyscoop360, 08:07 PM, 2 Comments
The NW Progressive Institute released its first "white paper" today, -- see the bottom of this Daily Kos post -- but unfortunately for them its a piece of recycled... well, you know, its recycled. We've been waiting four years or so for this imaginary group to finally put something out, and when they do, its pretty much just a rewritten diatribe. The section titled "The Future," is lifted directly from this section of the "white paper" authors website titled "Overview:... [read more]
December 18, 2006
Life and Death in Darkness
by ERNurse, 10:10 PM, 0 Comments
Last Thursday night/Friday morning, more than a million people in my region were plunged into darkness by one of the worst windstorms in modern Washington State history. Whole cities were still, dark and lifeless. Other than the drivers around me, not a single person was seen outside. The atmosphere was made all the more strange by the moaning of the wind through the power lines that bowed, dead and useless, from their poles. Huge old-growth trees were ripped from the... [read more]
December 12, 2006
Cato Institute Gives Gregoire an "F"
by radioguy8, 06:01 PM, 4 Comments
The November/December issue of the BIAW newsletter included an interesting piece I needed to share... The Cato Institute, a non-profit public policy research foundation headquartered in Washington, D.C., recently issued its biennial fiscal policy report card on the nation's governors. The report card's grading is based on 23 objective measures of fiscal performance. Governors who have cut taxes and spending the most receive the highest grades. Those who have increased spending and taxes the most receive the lowest grades. Washington... [read more]
November 20, 2006
Brain Death at DSHS.
by jcmount, 11:57 AM, 2 Comments
DSHS once is again is reverting to its brain dead, bureaucracy bound, and baffling mode of operations. They are canceling the Permanent Placement Family Program (PPFP). PPFP identifies kids in high-risk situations where the parents either through case history, or severity of the situation are not likely to be able to regain custody of the children. These kids are place with a foster family that is already identified as the most probable adoptive home. This program minimizes the children's moves... [read more]
Veterans and Military Families Get Political
by JulieTackett, 01:15 AM, 6 Comments
"My Path from Civilian to Veterans & Military Family Political Activist" My husband Mike joined the Army at 18 and put in 13 years. When he got out in 2000, he met and married me, moving to Seattle to work in law enforcement. I didn't know anything about military life or being a military spouse. In fact, I was pretty comfortable in my life as a civilian. After a year or so, he asked if he could join the local... [read more]
November 16, 2006
Bill Gates wants accountability
by Palouse123, 10:12 AM, 7 Comments
A fantastic Bill Gates editorial on education appears in the Times today, which advocates just about everything the WEA opposes. Starting with math and science standards for public schools, comparing our pitiful requirements in Washington with those of Texas. Yes Texas, that bastion of liberalism where they actually require four years of math and science to graduate - the horror! While he does not come out and say that the unions are responsible for the failure and lack of accountability... [read more]
November 13, 2006
Darcy Burner: Huge Loss for Nutroots!
by JeffB., 09:52 PM, 38 Comments
Darcy Burner's 8th CD campaign is finally coming to a failed end. This is a significant loss for the Nutroots movement which heavily backed Burner and other candidates like Peter Goldmark in the WA 5th CD and Ned Lamont for Democratic Senator for Connecticut. It's doubtful that Nutroots activists like David Goldstein of HorsesAss.org will have the courage to admit this embarrassing defeat, but that is exactly what it most certainly was. Darcy Burner should not have been picked as... [read more]
November 10, 2006
It begins with PCO's - where's the nominations?
by ccwt, 01:25 AM, 5 Comments
As an elected GOP PCO I've been reading the various rants across select blogs about the abject condition of the Party, with various generic recommendations of the necessary changes. Some of these can be found ... Reagan Wing Phil Spackman (now a PCO?) ... and of course at Sound Politics (main and public). I've heard, unofficially, that the KC GOP org meeting, where PCO's vote for Officers and Reps to the State, will occur Sat, Dec 2. As a PCO... [read more]
November 06, 2006
Dominatrix demands votes
by ccwt, 12:44 PM, 0 Comments
This is the funniest thing since "Borat" ... What's a voter to do when their Dominatrix speaks? And the Seattle City Council worries about lap dancers ...... [read more]
November 04, 2006
Call for Anti-933
by SCarnahan, 11:52 PM, 4 Comments
I got a call from an "Out of Area" caller tonight. (Caller ID was masked). The woman on the line started telling me how unfair I-933 is and that research has shown that it is going to cost money. During her spiel she mixed up the numbers, easy enough to do. After she finished I asked where she was calling from. She told me Florida. I told her that if the anti I-933 campaign was willing to pay out of... [read more]
"Republicans" on the ballot?
by ccwt, 02:40 PM, 4 Comments
Remember those good old days when "Republicans" ran for elected office? I remember those days, back in September 2006, the primary ballot was full of them. Including myself, as a GOP PCO candidate. But ever since then it's become really hard to identify the "Republican" candidates for the General election, at least for the Federal offices. Mike McGavick now describes himself as Independent. Dave Reichert is uber-Independent. Since brand marketing is a "use it or lose it" process, I guess... [read more]
November 03, 2006
The Female Vote?
by MarleneAdams, 03:23 PM, 1 Comments
I'm on the downhill side of 50 and I was born and nominally raised a Catholic, so I can just remember when people talked quite seriously about the Catholic Vote. Heck, if you are old enough to remember the last Presidential Election you can remember some murmurings about whether Kerry would get this "block." In 2004 we discovered there was no longer a Catholic Vote, but here in the State of Washington, with 2 US Senators and a Governor who... [read more]
WSU College Republicans Face Verbal, Physical Abuse for Immigration Stance
by Palousitics, 01:01 PM, 3 Comments
From today's Moscow-Pullman Daily News:Tempers flare at demonstration; WSU College Republicans erect chain-link fence to support Bush border plans By Erin Madison, Daily News staff writer Washington State University College Republicans put up a chain-link fence on campus Thursday to show their support for plans by President George Bush and Congress to construct a fence or wall along part of the Mexican border. For Marisol Badilla, it was painful to see the fence on the Glenn Terrell Mall. "It really... [read more]
November 01, 2006
McGavick's "spoiler" leverage
by ccwt, 01:46 PM, 3 Comments
One of the most clever ads this season comes from the McGavick campaign for a smooth "spoiler" leverage using the Dixon and Guthrie campaigns. The "Iraq/Decisive" ad ... OPENS with recognition of the Dixon and Guthrie campaigns' positions on the Iraq war, in a positive manner. For a short time I wondered why any campaign would have anything positive to say about another campaign's position on the war, then it was clear this is a very clever "spoiler" appeal to... [read more]
October 31, 2006
Maria Cantwell: Treat or Trick
by JeffB., 10:31 PM, 3 Comments
Today is Halloween. Since Halloween falls on a weekday this year, it's mostly the province of dressing up in costumes at work, and trick or treating for children as night falls. So there I was with my family at Proctor Treats in Tacoma. If you are not familiar with Proctor Treats, it's in the Proctor Business District in Tacoma's North End. Each year, the police shut down the streets, and businesses hand out candy to a continual parade of little... [read more]
October 28, 2006
Nursing Students Ignored in Washington State Disaster Response Plans
by ERNurse, 08:22 PM, 0 Comments
Recent natural disasters have underscored the need for skilled volunteer workers. In every state, there are hundreds- if not thousands- of Nursing students who can be useful to healthcare organizations during public health crises. Yet some states, such as Washington, ignore the large group of people who can effectively augment and enhance a disaster response. In particular, senior-level nursing students can provide a broad spectrum of services due to their advanced level of training. Furthermore, senior Bachelor's Degree nursing students... [read more]
Senator Cantwell/Bellevue Community College Violate My First Amendment Rights
by Nick_Jacob, 04:05 PM, 19 Comments
Hey everyone, my name is Nick Jacob and I'm a sophomore at Bellevue Community College. I just wanted to let you know about a situation that occured Thursday on campus in which I, and four others, were denied access to the Maria Cantwell/Barack Obama rally because we were wearing Mike Mcgavick for Senate t-shirts. Four days ago, on October 24th, BCC public safety director Joe Fithian sent out an email to all BCC students, letting us know about the Cantwell/Obama... [read more]
The Reliability of Polling
by brettmalin, 03:52 PM, 3 Comments
This is a modification of a peice that Hugh Hewitt posted on his blog 10/18, and that the WSRP has included in their newsletter: As someone who has worked his entire adult life, 25 years, processing market research and public opinion surveys, I know there are ways to make subtle changes to affect the outcome of polls. I know enough about surveys to be able to construct one that shows people prefer Pepsi over Coke, 60%-40%, or vice versa, and... [read more]
October 27, 2006
Cantwell tires to appeal to Eastern Washington Voters
by TrueSoldier, 08:12 PM, 1 Comments
It looks like Cantwell is at it again with her talk of gas price descrepencies. Check this out from the Olympian website. SPOKANE - Just why were gasoline prices in Eastern Washington, particularly Spokane, so much higher this summer than prices in Western Washington? U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell on Friday again pressed the federal government for an answer. While an initial survey by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission blamed the differences on technical issues related to Rocky Mountain refineries that... [read more]
October 24, 2006
McGavick Rally with John Thune--Important Lessons Learned
by MicheleDeRouis, 10:44 PM, 7 Comments
I attended the rally for Mike McGavick at Bellevue High School last night (10-23). It was well-attended. There were the usual small crowd of rabid lefties outside with opposition signs, but they did not enter the building. I arrived some 15 minutes late, so I missed some of the speeches, but Dino Rossi stood on the platform with my Congressman, Dave Reichert. After McGavick spoke, Senator John Thune--the guy who beat out Tom Daschle--from South Dakota got up and spoke.... [read more]
Bobsy Twins Campaign Materials
by SCarnahan, 06:28 PM, 0 Comments
Many registered voters this time of the year are being inundated with political flyers. If I don't get them thrown in the recycle bin as fast as I can, sometimes I actually read the trash. I have noticed that the latest flyers from the state democratic party have decided to pair Maria Cantwell and Darcy Burner together. Now my true hope would be that the millstone of Burner will drag Cantwell right down into the mediocre mud that she belongs... [read more]
October 16, 2006
Darcy's Selective Use of her Brother
by orrinjohnson, 12:18 PM, 4 Comments
Darcy Burner claims ad nauseum that her military family - and specifically her brother who was in the initial OIF invasion force - is somehow a national security qualification that trumps Dave Reichert's actual qualifications and veteran status. So why does she completely ignore her brother's experiences and counsel regarding that conflict? I don't think that military service necessarily correlates with good governance or strategic wisdom - John Murtha and John Kerry are proof of that. But service (or that... [read more]
October 13, 2006
Camano Island Property Taxes Soar
by gschroe, 06:22 PM, 5 Comments
If ever there was a greedy witch, Gary Bur, Island county chief appraiser absolutely deserves this uncoveted title. He states" This kind of increase is to be expected". Really Mr Bur! You obviously have no problem with massive increases in property tax, but I imagine the folks on the Island (myself included) will have something to say about you, and all property tax hikes of this nature, come election time. It appears Camano Island has felt the massive pinch of... [read more]
October 12, 2006
Political Yard Signs and HOAs
by pudge, 10:38 AM, 29 Comments
Last week I got a letter in the mail. Basically, someone probably complained to my homeowner's association, and they complained to me, because our HOA agreement prohibits "signs or advertising devices of any character," with a few exceptions (none of which includes political signs). I have four normal yard signs up in my yard, for Doug Roulstone, and Mike McGavick, and my state reps, Dan Kristiansen, and Kirk Pearson. Out of curiosity, I looked up the relevant Washington State law.... [read more]
October 09, 2006
Cantwell's Recent Endorsement
by SCarnahan, 11:16 PM, 2 Comments
Maria Cantwell was prominently covered in today's news reports about her endorsement by the Washington Association of Fire Chiefs. She also claimed that she has the Washington Council of Police and Sheriffs support. My question did she sleep with them to get this endorsement? Did her friend Ron get any money lobbying these groups to endorse her? We need someone who is more ethical in the Senate than Maria Cantwell. It is typical for a democrat to get support of... [read more]
October 05, 2006
A potential election house-of-horrors?
by FastVoteFred, 10:39 PM, 0 Comments
Article in Log Trucker Magazine October 2006 issue, page 2, "From the Stump" column written by publisher Michael P. Crouse Mid-term elections are notorious for low voter turnouts because they generally fail to capture the public's imagination, but this year the media is yet again salivating at the thought there may be a return of their... whoops, forgot how unbiased the media is so strike that... the return of the Democrats to power in the House of Representatives. While we... [read more]
Take the Lead
by JanetSuppes, 10:23 PM, 0 Comments
Tonight I attended one of the public meetings being held by the WEA, PTA and League of Education Voters (http://www.taketheleadwashington.org/) to talk about Gregoire's education review. As one would expect, the focus of the meeting was class size, increased funding, and a redefinition of basic education that the state is constitutionally required to provide. The slide show and "questionaire" that was presented at the beginning was completely biased in that direction. The group sessions were geared toward the same conclusions.... [read more]
October 04, 2006
It is time for a Right to Work Initiative in Washington State
by thedukeof, 02:23 PM, 3 Comments
After this fall's election, we need to organize a Right to Work initiative in Washington State. Our legislature will not touch it (they wouldn't even touch it when Republicans controlled) because they fear that attacking Unions is as bad as attacking Social Security - the third rail of politics - touch it and you die. So once again, it is left up to the citizenry to rise to the challenge. I believe that Sound Politics is just the vehicle to... [read more]
September 26, 2006
The Politics of Gasoline
by Palouse123, 11:20 AM, 8 Comments
I received another flyer in the mail the other day from the Burner campaign (or one of her 527's), proclaiming Reichert was the "rubber stamp" vote for Bush's policies surrounding energy policy. The flyer was largely the Bush and his energy buddies rhetoric, and I was suprised the word "Halliburton" did not appear anywhere. By voting for an energy policy (the first one ever in this country), Reichert apparently was supporting millions in "giveaways to the oil companies". I suppose... [read more]
September 24, 2006
Here's What Club for Growth Says About McGavick (and Cantwell)
by MicheleDeRouis, 09:13 PM, 15 Comments
As a sort of Part II from my previous post "Club for Growth Endorses MIke McGavick", I now share with readers what the Club says about our WA republican U.S. Senate candidate (the boldface has been added by moi) plus a few of my own personal thoughts about his liberal opponent: "Few candidates can match Mike McGavick's qualifications for the Senate. As the recent CEO of Safeco, he turned around the troubled insurer into a solidly profitable company. He also... [read more]
September 12, 2006
The State of State School Standards
by rachelburke, 10:23 PM, 0 Comments
The Thomas B. Fordham Institute , a non-profit organization based in Washington, DC, has published its study of standards among American schools, "The State of State Standards 2006." I have no affiliation with this organization whose stated mission is to close achievement gaps by raising standards, strengthening accountability, and expanding educational options for parents and families. Grades & criticism are listed for school standards in all 50 states, plus the District of Columbia. The url, and if all goes well,... [read more]
September 07, 2006
Election Picks
by rachelburke, 06:22 PM, 5 Comments
For interesting reading, see Bob William's new web page: http://www.bobwilliamshome.net/default.aspx At this site, Mr. Williams shares his election picks among the nominees for justices of the Supreme Court and judges for the Court of Appeals. Mr. Williams also provides articles and links that may help you make your own selections, as well as a speech he made at the Libertarian convention. As most of you know, Mr. Williams is the president of the Evergreen Freedom Foundation and a former Washington... [read more]
Mike Webb--Trial Starts for the Questionable Liberal KIRO Radio Host
by lightningSVT, 09:08 AM, 5 Comments
The fraud trial of Ultra-Liberal (former) KIRO Radio Host Mike Webb started today. (Full Story Below). Interesting to note is that, even though he was fired from KIRO, if you visit his website he's still on air with the Mike Webb show for 25 stations. Take a look at the topics he is spreading his liberal blather on. The reason I bring these things up is that if you look at his blog, it appears the KORUM family of auto... [read more]
September 05, 2006
Alexander Owens and Chambers are Crooked Jurists
by Abyss45, 08:17 AM, 6 Comments
Alexander, Owens and Chambers are biased in favor of governments. They abuse their position of authority to further that bias. The improper technique they employ is misstating legal arguments raised against governments. This is a majority opinion released last November. What the majority did in that case is engineer a win for two taxing authorities by misrepresenting the legal claims the property owners raised. The actual legal arguments in the case were ignored completely. Instead of determining whether the citizens'... [read more]
August 30, 2006
WA Democrats Reject One Of Their Own
by radioguy8, 06:03 PM, 4 Comments
The Washington State Democratic party Tuesday announced that it will not throw its support behind incumbent state Senator Tim Sheldon (D - 35th District), but will support his primary election opponent, Kyle Taylor Lucas. Just as the Democratic in Connecticut did with Joe Lieberman, the Washington State Democratic Party has chosen to distance itself from a well-respected, long-term, lawmaker in favor of a much more liberal Senatorial candidate. Just what is going on here? If the goal of the Democrats... [read more]
I shop at walmart........
by hebron13, 12:17 PM, 8 Comments
The new "cool" thing to have in Olympia these days is a bumper sticker that proudly proclaims "I don't shop at wal-mart." For some odd reason, everytime I get behind a car proudly displaying this sticker, I can't help but want a sticker that says, "I shop at wal-mart". What bothers me is not that people don't shop at Wal-Mart, shop wherever the heck you want, I don't care, but it's the fact that people see this sticker as a... [read more]
August 19, 2006
IRV Senate poll
by ccwt, 06:42 PM, 0 Comments
Here's an interesting, unscientific WA Senate poll that counts results according to Instant Runoff Voting rules ... http://demochoice.org/dcballot.php?poll=WashSenate Let everyone know ...... [read more]
August 16, 2006
NPI brags as Cantwell blinks
by guitarplayr, 01:17 AM, 5 Comments
NPI (Northwest Progressive Institute) has a piece up applauding Cantwell for her newly formed position on Iraq. Maria, like Hillary Clinton and Joe Lieberman have long been criticized for their support of the war and the troops. Many northwest Liberals have been increasingly calling for hr head, politically speaking. After seeing the treatment by Lieberman by the DNC, it seems Maria has suddenly realized that she is playing a big game of chicken with the party over her position, a... [read more]
August 15, 2006
Darcy Burner Campaign Video- post mortum
by guitarplayr, 03:07 PM, 2 Comments
In what has generated the most comments, emails and page hits my blog has seen, I posted my assessment of the Darcy Burner (Candidate for US House, WA Dist 8 ) campaign video, and how I felt it was deceptive in that it allowed a false impression. When I emailed her campaign, her campaign manager, Zach Silk denied this was intentional, and even denied it was a realistic impression. The blog readers, for the most part, disagreed. I will post... [read more]
Cantwell Wants to "Change Course," But How?
by AndrewSaint, 01:40 PM, 3 Comments
Chad Shue, who writes "The Left Shue" and with whom I disagree on, well, pretty much everything, reports on Maria Cantwell's appearance at the Snohomish County Democrats annual picnic. The money quote is: "(Cantwell) seemed very comfortable (to point of passionate) about the call to "change course" and pulling the troops out of Iraq. I can't say that I was expecting any particulars on how we "stand up the Iraqis" but that is not necessarily for her to say." I... [read more]
User Guidelines For SP Public Blog: Come Blog With Us!
by mrosenberg, 10:01 AM, 1 Comments
We're very excited about the new Sound Politics Public Blog, which gives our readers and commenters a chance to share their own blog posts with the public. As you can see in the right-hand column on our SP main page, we have a running list of links to the most recent posts at our Public Blog site. To encourage more people to contribute more often to the SP Public Blog, here are some user guidelines in the form of Frequently... [read more]
August 14, 2006
A Soldier's Poem
by Peellite, 04:28 PM, 4 Comments
I just attnded the funeral service of my nephew (22 yrs old) who served our country. He was a proud soldier. His service ended in December 2005. He was killed in an auto-crash on Tuesday of last week. In the "program" that is given to each in attendance, there on the inner fold was a poem he wrote, and it reads: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ My Poem-by Aaron George Nichols ~ 2002 As time fades away I can see myself getting older, my... [read more]
July 30, 2006
Mark Shattuck: Dark Horse in the 35th
by Andy_Maris, 10:24 PM, 0 Comments
Also posted at Thurston Pundits While most have their eyes on the Democrat primary of Sheldon v fruit loop tribal favor Lucas in the 35th district, the GOP has overlooked a potentially terrible strategic play of events: No candidate to run against the special favor candidate if Sheldon gets eaten alive. Suppose fruit loop tribal favor Lucas beats Sheldon in the primary? In the past that would have been highly unlikely. However, with the new rules for primary elections, voters... [read more]
July 28, 2006
Our House Delegation Loves Pork
by heartlesslibertarian, 02:39 PM, 0 Comments
Back on May 23, Representative Jeff Flake of Arizona proposed 19 amendments to strip earmark pork items and managed to engineer a by name vote on all 19. Since earmark pork is usually buried in mammoth omnibus appropriations bills voted on as all-or-nothing votes, this gives us a rare chance to see how individual members vote on individual items of pork. Sadly, our Washington House delegation voted extremely poorly, with most of them voting to approve all 19 items of... [read more]
July 27, 2006
Mrs. Gregoire slaps I-200
by Stefan Sharkansky, 12:31 PM, 0 Comments
[Mrs.] Gregoire Calls for Increased Diversity in Contracting OLYMPIA - [Mrs.] Gregoire today announced that she has called on Washington agency directors to work with the Office of Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprises (OMWBE) to improve fair access to contracting and procurement opportunities. "I believe in fair and competitive access to all contracting and procurement opportunities," said Mrs. Gregoire. "We are not doing enough to support these principles. We can and should do better." Mrs. Gregoire in a letter... [read more]
Democrats hope to capitalize on Supreme Court decision on marriage
by Stefan Sharkansky, 12:26 PM, 1 Comments
P-I: "Decision opens a door for Democrats in Legislature" OLYMPIA -- The state Supreme Court ruling upholding Washington's ban on same-sex marriages comes as a crushing blow to the gay community, but it's a best-case scenario for Democrats hoping to broaden their majority in the Legislature this fall. In response to Wednesday's decision, Democrats can neatly tailor legislative proposals to suit individual constituencies, including those that want to allow gay marriage, maintain the status quo or build on the politically... [read more]