Courtesy of our friends at the Buckeye Istitute here is a podcast from our friend Josh Mandel. I encourage you to listen to the entire podcast. Josh talks about his conservative principles including taking the brave step of voting against increasing the state debt. He also discusses the change he saw in Iraq from his first tour in 2004 to his second tour in 2007/8. It's too bad all Republicans don't attend the Josh Mandel school of politics. This would be a much better world. Click on the link below.
BuckeyeVoices: Rep. Josh Mandel is a strong conservative voice in Columbus
Monday, July 7th, 2008 By Buckeye Institute
State Rep. Josh Mandel (R-Lyndhurst) joins Buckeye Institute President David Hansen to discuss his support for special needs vouchers, his opposition to Gov. Strickland’s misguided so-called stimulus bill, and his support for Rep. John Adam’s State Income Tax elimination bill. A Marine Corps officer who has served two tours of duty in Iraq, Rep. Mandel also gives his perspective on the progress of the war.
A first term legislator, Rep. Mandel is quickly becoming a steadfast voice for conservative principles in the Ohio House of Representatives.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Monday, May 26, 2008
The Case for Kasich
Former Member of Congress and radio host JD Hayworth is raising a familiar name in the McCain Veepstakes.
May 25, 2008
As millions of Americans gather ’round the grill for the Memorial Day Weekend, the story line involving the McCain Campaign is that the presumptive Republican nominee is doing some “supplimental grilling” of possible Vice Presidential picks in addition to serving in his traditional role as “Chef-in-Chief” for the cookouts he hosts.
For the record, John McCain’s retreat in Northern Arizona is in the small burg of Cornville…and likewise for the record, this gathering of would-be “Number 2’s” is just so much “campaign corn.”
Sure, the Senator and Cindy have an impressive guest list–Former Congressman and newly elected Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal, Florida Governor Charlie Crist, and former Massachusetts Governor (not to mention de facto Republican “runner-up”) Mitt Romney are there–as well as the Senate stand-bys so often seen in the company of McCain–Lindsay Graham, Joe Lieberman, and Sam Brownback.
But take McCain at his word when he says this is a “social gathering.”
Could a running mate emerge from the names listed above?
Possibly.
Soon?
Not on your life.
The Republican Convention doesn’t convene until September–and both the press and the presidential candidate need something to talk about for the duration of a long, hot summer.
At the risk of spoiling their fun (and jinxing the chances of the candidate who is best suited for the second spot), allow me to place the name of John Kasich in nomination for John McCain’s careful consideration.
Simply stated, here is “The Case for Kasich”:
1) Electoral votes: To win the presidency, the GOP needs to carry Ohio and/or Pennsylvania. Kasich as the number-two man puts both in play, since he was born in Pennsylvania , then graduated from Ohio State and represented Ohio for eighteen years in the U.S. Congress. In other words, there are 41 good reasons to put Kasich on the ticket–the total of electoral votes from Ohio and Pennsylvania.
2) Record in Government: John Kasich served as the Budget Committee Chairman when I served with him in the House as part of the first Republican Majority there in 40 years. He wrote budgets that balanced, and was a key player in making the tough decisions required to restore fiscal sanity–so he can rightfully claim the title of “Proven Budget Hawk.” He also led the fight against “Corporate Welfare,” and was an unabashed foe of favored trade status for China.
3) Conservative Compatability: As McCain’s running mate, John Kasich would help bring back the GOP’s Conservative Base. His appeal is not limited to fiscal conservatives–he is also embraced by social conservatives. And, he is unafraid of professing his Christian faith, which makes him very popular among evangelicals–a key group that the GOP ticket needs for success.
4) Compliments the “Ticket Topper”: John Kasich and John McCain were both elected to the House in 1982. McCain became “Freshman Class President,” while Kasich was the only Republican challenger to defeat a Democrat incumbent in what was a tough year for the GOP. (Sound familiar?) Even though they share that common political background, Kasich enjoys a youthful
perception among voters…and that can help the “chronologically endowed” McCain.
5) Independent Appeal: Kasich’s youthful appearance, the passion he brings to politics, and his “mini-maverick” stands against “Corporate Welfare” and China trade will appeal to Independents and “9/11 Democrats.” Those credentials are burnished by the “post-partisan” quotes that can be found on his website, www.johnkasich.com and in his best-selling books.
6) Effective Communicator: Kasich has been invited into millions of American homes “electronically” as a Fox News Contributor and substitute host for Bill O’Reilly. He is “in demand” on the professional speaking circuit, and is an accomplished author.
Of course, there is no perfect candidate…and the political landscape is always changing. But the Republican nominee-designate could do his campaign and the GOP a world of good by having John Kasich, his wife Karen, and their twin daughters join the McCain Family on the podium at the Republican National Convention.
McCain-Kasich, 2008.
May 25, 2008
As millions of Americans gather ’round the grill for the Memorial Day Weekend, the story line involving the McCain Campaign is that the presumptive Republican nominee is doing some “supplimental grilling” of possible Vice Presidential picks in addition to serving in his traditional role as “Chef-in-Chief” for the cookouts he hosts.
For the record, John McCain’s retreat in Northern Arizona is in the small burg of Cornville…and likewise for the record, this gathering of would-be “Number 2’s” is just so much “campaign corn.”
Sure, the Senator and Cindy have an impressive guest list–Former Congressman and newly elected Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal, Florida Governor Charlie Crist, and former Massachusetts Governor (not to mention de facto Republican “runner-up”) Mitt Romney are there–as well as the Senate stand-bys so often seen in the company of McCain–Lindsay Graham, Joe Lieberman, and Sam Brownback.
But take McCain at his word when he says this is a “social gathering.”
Could a running mate emerge from the names listed above?
Possibly.
Soon?
Not on your life.
The Republican Convention doesn’t convene until September–and both the press and the presidential candidate need something to talk about for the duration of a long, hot summer.
At the risk of spoiling their fun (and jinxing the chances of the candidate who is best suited for the second spot), allow me to place the name of John Kasich in nomination for John McCain’s careful consideration.
Simply stated, here is “The Case for Kasich”:
1) Electoral votes: To win the presidency, the GOP needs to carry Ohio and/or Pennsylvania. Kasich as the number-two man puts both in play, since he was born in Pennsylvania , then graduated from Ohio State and represented Ohio for eighteen years in the U.S. Congress. In other words, there are 41 good reasons to put Kasich on the ticket–the total of electoral votes from Ohio and Pennsylvania.
2) Record in Government: John Kasich served as the Budget Committee Chairman when I served with him in the House as part of the first Republican Majority there in 40 years. He wrote budgets that balanced, and was a key player in making the tough decisions required to restore fiscal sanity–so he can rightfully claim the title of “Proven Budget Hawk.” He also led the fight against “Corporate Welfare,” and was an unabashed foe of favored trade status for China.
3) Conservative Compatability: As McCain’s running mate, John Kasich would help bring back the GOP’s Conservative Base. His appeal is not limited to fiscal conservatives–he is also embraced by social conservatives. And, he is unafraid of professing his Christian faith, which makes him very popular among evangelicals–a key group that the GOP ticket needs for success.
4) Compliments the “Ticket Topper”: John Kasich and John McCain were both elected to the House in 1982. McCain became “Freshman Class President,” while Kasich was the only Republican challenger to defeat a Democrat incumbent in what was a tough year for the GOP. (Sound familiar?) Even though they share that common political background, Kasich enjoys a youthful
perception among voters…and that can help the “chronologically endowed” McCain.
5) Independent Appeal: Kasich’s youthful appearance, the passion he brings to politics, and his “mini-maverick” stands against “Corporate Welfare” and China trade will appeal to Independents and “9/11 Democrats.” Those credentials are burnished by the “post-partisan” quotes that can be found on his website, www.johnkasich.com and in his best-selling books.
6) Effective Communicator: Kasich has been invited into millions of American homes “electronically” as a Fox News Contributor and substitute host for Bill O’Reilly. He is “in demand” on the professional speaking circuit, and is an accomplished author.
Of course, there is no perfect candidate…and the political landscape is always changing. But the Republican nominee-designate could do his campaign and the GOP a world of good by having John Kasich, his wife Karen, and their twin daughters join the McCain Family on the podium at the Republican National Convention.
McCain-Kasich, 2008.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Josh Mandel On Fox News
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Welcome Home Rep. Josh Mandel
Today, I had the good fortune of having lunch with my old friend Josh Mandel. For those of you who don't know, Josh is a 1st term Republican State Representative from Cleveland. Josh has just returned home from his second tour of duty in Iraq. Please check out his website for a little more background on this future face of the Ohio GOP.
Josh's story is quite remarkable. After serving two terms as Undergraduate Student Government President at OSU, Josh graduated from Case Western Reserve Law School. Most people with Josh's opportunities would have taken the easy road to riches. Not Josh Mandel. After receiving his law degree Josh didn't bother joining a prestigious law firm, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp.
If anyone ever wanted to know what a true American hero looks like, look no further. Here's the bio from his website.
Service to Country
Josh Mandel served as an Intelligence Specialist in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves, having graduated first in his class from Marine Corps Boot Camp and first in his class from Marine Corps Intelligence School.
His Marine Corps duty includes two tours in Iraq, were he operated throughout the Al Anbar Province. During both Iraq tours, Josh was awarded the Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal for “superior performance of his duties.”
Tradition of Integrity
Josh Mandel’s grandparents, like many, came to this country seeking a chance at the American Dream. His Grandpa Joe was from Poland, his Grandma Fernanda from Italy, and his Grandpa Harold served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Josh’s grandparents worked hard to provide for their families and instilled in them the importance of integrity and giving back to the community.
Inspired by his grandparents, Josh carries a strong sense of country, integrity and family. He was born and raised in Northeast Ohio by his parents Bruce and Rita and has chosen to remain here to work, get married and raise his family.
Bringing New Energy
Josh Mandel has a record of bringing fresh ideas and new energy to government. As a Lyndhurst City Councilman, Josh led the fight to provide property tax relief to residents. He also worked hard to balance the city budget while continuing vital funding for police and fire protection.
As State Representative, Josh was proud to continue his fight against property taxes by voting to reduce property taxes for senior citizens. He is also focused on creating a better environment in Ohio for businesses to grow and create jobs for hard-working families. Josh holds a Bachelor Degree from The Ohio State University and a Law Degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Law.
Josh's story is quite remarkable. After serving two terms as Undergraduate Student Government President at OSU, Josh graduated from Case Western Reserve Law School. Most people with Josh's opportunities would have taken the easy road to riches. Not Josh Mandel. After receiving his law degree Josh didn't bother joining a prestigious law firm, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp.
If anyone ever wanted to know what a true American hero looks like, look no further. Here's the bio from his website.
Service to Country
Josh Mandel served as an Intelligence Specialist in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves, having graduated first in his class from Marine Corps Boot Camp and first in his class from Marine Corps Intelligence School.
His Marine Corps duty includes two tours in Iraq, were he operated throughout the Al Anbar Province. During both Iraq tours, Josh was awarded the Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal for “superior performance of his duties.”
Tradition of Integrity
Josh Mandel’s grandparents, like many, came to this country seeking a chance at the American Dream. His Grandpa Joe was from Poland, his Grandma Fernanda from Italy, and his Grandpa Harold served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Josh’s grandparents worked hard to provide for their families and instilled in them the importance of integrity and giving back to the community.
Inspired by his grandparents, Josh carries a strong sense of country, integrity and family. He was born and raised in Northeast Ohio by his parents Bruce and Rita and has chosen to remain here to work, get married and raise his family.
Bringing New Energy
Josh Mandel has a record of bringing fresh ideas and new energy to government. As a Lyndhurst City Councilman, Josh led the fight to provide property tax relief to residents. He also worked hard to balance the city budget while continuing vital funding for police and fire protection.
As State Representative, Josh was proud to continue his fight against property taxes by voting to reduce property taxes for senior citizens. He is also focused on creating a better environment in Ohio for businesses to grow and create jobs for hard-working families. Josh holds a Bachelor Degree from The Ohio State University and a Law Degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Law.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Must read from Newt Gingrich
My Plea to Republicans: It's Time for Real Change to Avoid Real Disaster
by Newt Gingrich
Posted 05/06/2008 ET
The Republican loss in the special election for Louisiana's Sixth Congressional District last Saturday should be a sharp wake up call for Republicans: Either Congressional Republicans are going to chart a bold course of real change or they are going to suffer decisive losses this November.
The facts are clear and compelling.
Saturday's loss was in a district that President Bush carried by 19 percentage points in 2004 and that the Republicans have held since 1975.
This defeat follows on the loss of Speaker Hastert's seat in Illinois. That seat had been held by a Republican for 76 years with the single exception of the 1974 Watergate election when the Democrats held it for one term. That same seat had been carried by President Bush 55-44% in 2004.
Two GOP Losses That Validate a National Pattern
These two special elections validate a national polling pattern that is bad news for Republicans. According to a New York Times/CBS Poll, Americans disapprove of the President's job performance by 63 to 28 (and he has been below 40% job approval since December 2006, the longest such period for any president in the history of polling).
A separate New York Times/CBS Poll shows that a full 81 percent of Americans believe the economy is on the wrong track.
The current generic ballot for Congress according to the NY Times/CBS poll is 50 to 32 in favor of the Democrats. That is an 18-point margin, reminiscent of the depths of the Watergate disaster.
Congressional Republicans Can't Take Comfort in McCain's Poll Numbers
Senator McCain is currently running ahead of the Republican congressional ballot by about 16 percentage points. But there are two reasons that this extraordinary personal achievement should not comfort congressional Republicans.
First, McCain's lead is a sign of the gap between the McCain brand of independence and the GOP brand. No regular Republican would be tying or slightly beating the Democratic candidates in this atmosphere. It is a sign of how much McCain is a non-traditional Republican that he is sustaining his personal popularity despite his party's collapse.
Second, there is a grave danger for the McCain campaign that if the generic ballot stays at only 32 % for the GOP it will ultimately outweigh McCain's personal appeal and drag his candidacy into defeat.
The Anti-Obama, Anti-Wright, and Anti-Clinton GOP Model Has Been Tested -- And It Failed
The Republican brand has been so badly damaged that if Republicans try to run an anti-Obama, anti- Reverend Wright, or (if Senator Clinton wins), anti-Clinton campaign, they are simply going to fail.
This model has already been tested with disastrous results.
In 2006, there were six incumbent Republican Senators who had plenty of money, the advantage of incumbency, and traditionally successful consultants.
But the voters in all six states had adopted a simple position: "Not you." No matter what the GOP Senators attacked their opponents with, the voters shrugged off the attacks and returned to, "Not you."
The danger for House and Senate Republicans in 2008 is that the voters will say, "Not the Republicans."
Republicans Have Lost the Advantage on Every Single-Issue Poll
A February Washington Post poll shows that Republicans have lost the advantage to the Democrats on which party can handle an issue better -- on every single topic.
Americans now believe that Democrats can handle the deficit better (52 to 31), taxes better (48 to 40) and even terrorism better (44 to 37).
This is a catastrophic collapse of trust in Republicans built up over three generations on the deficit, two generations on taxes, and two generations on national security.
House Republicans Should Call an Emergency, Members-Only Conference
Faced with these election results, the House Republicans should hold an emergency members-only meeting. At the meeting, they should pose this stark choice: Real change or certain defeat.
If a majority of the House Republicans vote for real change, they should instruct Republican Leader John Boehner and his team to come back with a new plan by the Wednesday before the Memorial Day recess. This plan should involve real change in legislative, communications, and campaign strategy and involve immediate, real action, including a complete overhaul of the Congressional Campaign Committee. The House Republican Conference would then vote for the plan or insist on its revision.
If a majority of the House Republicans are opposed to acting then the minority who are activists should establish a parallel organization dedicated to real change. This group should focus its energies on creating the changes necessary to survive despite a conference with a minority mindset that accepts defeat rather than fights for real change (which is what we had when I entered Congress in 1978).
Nine Acts of Real Change That Could Restore the GOP Brand
Here are nine acts of real change that would begin to rebuild the American people's confidence that Republicans share their values, understand their worries, and are prepared to act instead of just talk. The Republicans in Congress could get a start on all nine this week if they had the will to do so.
Repeal the gas tax for the summer, and pay for the repeal by cutting domestic discretionary spending so that the transportation infrastructure trust fund would not be hurt. At a time when, according to The Hill newspaper, Senator Clinton is asking for $2.3billion in earmarks, it should be possible for Republicans to establish a "government spending versus your pocketbook" fight over cutting the gas tax that would resonate with most Americans. Lower taxes and less government spending should be a battle cry most taxpayers and all conservatives could rally behind.
Redirect the oil being put into the national petroleum reserve onto the open market. That oil would lower the price of gasoline an extra 5 to 6 cents per gallon, and its sale would lower the deficit.
Introduce a "more energy at lower cost with less environmental damage and greater national security bill" as a replacement for the Warner-Lieberman "tax and trade" bill which is coming to the floor of the Senate in the next few weeks (see my newsletter next week for an outline of a solid pro-economy, pro-national security, pro-environment energy bill). When the American people realize how much the current energy prices are actually a "politicians' energy crisis" they will demand real change in our policies.
Establish an earmark moratorium for one year and pledge to uphold the presidential veto of bills with earmarks through the end of 2009. The American people are fed up with politicians spending their money. They currently believe both parties are equally bad. This is a real opportunity to show the difference.
Overhaul the census and cut its budget radically. The recent announcement that the Census Bureau could not build an effective hand-held computer for $1.3 billion and is turning instead to 600,000 temporary workers to do a paper and pencil census in 2010 is an opportunity to slash its budget, shrink its bureaucracy, and turn to entrepreneurial internet-based companies to build an information-age census. This is an absurdity that cries out for bold, decisive reform (see my YouTube video "FedEx versus federal bureaucracy" for an example of what I mean).
Implement a space-based, GPS-style air traffic control system. The problems of the Federal Aviation Administration are symptoms of a union-dominated bureaucracy resisting change. If we implemented a space-based GPS-style air traffic system we would get 40% more air travel with one-half the bureaucrats. The union has stopped 200,000,000 passengers from enjoying more reliable air travel to protect 7,000 obsolete jobs. This real change would allow the millions of frustrated travelers to have champions in congress trying to help them get places better, safer, faster.
Declare English the official language of government. This real change is supported by 87% of the American people including a majority of Democrats, Republicans, Independents, and Latinos. It is an issue of national unity that brings Americans together in a red, white, and blue majority.
Protect the workers' right to a secret ballot. The vast majority (around 81%) of Americans believe that American workers have a right to have a secret ballot election before they are forced to join a union. Last year the House Democrats passed a bill that would strip American workers of the secret ballot. A new bill should be introduced reaffirming that right, and it should be brought up again and again until marginal Democrats are forced to vote with the American people against the union power structure.
Remind Americans that judges matter. Senate Republicans should mount an ongoing fight (including a filibuster of other activities if necessary) to get the American people to realize that liberals want to block all current judicial appointments in order to maximize the number of left wing radical judges they can appoint if they win the White House. This issue has three advantages. It reminds people that judges matter and that a leftwing radical Supreme Court would be bad for the values of most (70 to 90 percent, depending on the issue) Americans. It shows the Democrats are not engaged in fair play. It arouses the activism of those who have been disappointed by Republicans and have forgotten how bad a liberal Democratic Presidency would be.
What Is at Stake
No Republicans should kid themselves. It's time to face up to a stark choice.
Without change we could face a catastrophic election this fall.
Without change the Republican Party in the House could revert to the permanent minority status it had from 1930 to 1994.
Without change, the majorities of Americans who support the Republican principle of smaller, more efficient, smarter and fairer government will be in for a rude awakening.
It's time for real change to avoid a real disaster.
The "May Day Massacre": Can Liberals Govern in a Global Economy?
Despite the poor outlook for conservatives in our elections this November, there is encouraging news from across the Atlantic. The conservative wave sweeping Europe hit England last week when the liberal Labor Party suffered its worst local election results in 40 years.
Boris Johnson became the first Conservative Party member elected mayor of London when he defeated Labour candidate "Red" Ken Livingstone. In contests for more than 4,000 local seats across England, Conservatives captured 44 percent of the vote, compared to 25 percent for the Liberal Democrats and just 24 percent for Labour.
This Conservative victory in England comes on the heels of a history-making rout of the Communists and the Greens in parliamentary elections Italy two weeks ago. And the Italian results follow center-right victories in France (Sarkozy) and Germany (Merkel). The countries of so-called "old" Europe are turning away from the liberal high tax, big government policies that have crippled their economies and are turning toward pro-growth, pro-competitive center-right solutions.
All of which raises the question: Can the Left successfully govern in a modern, global economy? The voters of Europe seem to be saying no.
Your friend,
Newt Gingrich
by Newt Gingrich
Posted 05/06/2008 ET
The Republican loss in the special election for Louisiana's Sixth Congressional District last Saturday should be a sharp wake up call for Republicans: Either Congressional Republicans are going to chart a bold course of real change or they are going to suffer decisive losses this November.
The facts are clear and compelling.
Saturday's loss was in a district that President Bush carried by 19 percentage points in 2004 and that the Republicans have held since 1975.
This defeat follows on the loss of Speaker Hastert's seat in Illinois. That seat had been held by a Republican for 76 years with the single exception of the 1974 Watergate election when the Democrats held it for one term. That same seat had been carried by President Bush 55-44% in 2004.
Two GOP Losses That Validate a National Pattern
These two special elections validate a national polling pattern that is bad news for Republicans. According to a New York Times/CBS Poll, Americans disapprove of the President's job performance by 63 to 28 (and he has been below 40% job approval since December 2006, the longest such period for any president in the history of polling).
A separate New York Times/CBS Poll shows that a full 81 percent of Americans believe the economy is on the wrong track.
The current generic ballot for Congress according to the NY Times/CBS poll is 50 to 32 in favor of the Democrats. That is an 18-point margin, reminiscent of the depths of the Watergate disaster.
Congressional Republicans Can't Take Comfort in McCain's Poll Numbers
Senator McCain is currently running ahead of the Republican congressional ballot by about 16 percentage points. But there are two reasons that this extraordinary personal achievement should not comfort congressional Republicans.
First, McCain's lead is a sign of the gap between the McCain brand of independence and the GOP brand. No regular Republican would be tying or slightly beating the Democratic candidates in this atmosphere. It is a sign of how much McCain is a non-traditional Republican that he is sustaining his personal popularity despite his party's collapse.
Second, there is a grave danger for the McCain campaign that if the generic ballot stays at only 32 % for the GOP it will ultimately outweigh McCain's personal appeal and drag his candidacy into defeat.
The Anti-Obama, Anti-Wright, and Anti-Clinton GOP Model Has Been Tested -- And It Failed
The Republican brand has been so badly damaged that if Republicans try to run an anti-Obama, anti- Reverend Wright, or (if Senator Clinton wins), anti-Clinton campaign, they are simply going to fail.
This model has already been tested with disastrous results.
In 2006, there were six incumbent Republican Senators who had plenty of money, the advantage of incumbency, and traditionally successful consultants.
But the voters in all six states had adopted a simple position: "Not you." No matter what the GOP Senators attacked their opponents with, the voters shrugged off the attacks and returned to, "Not you."
The danger for House and Senate Republicans in 2008 is that the voters will say, "Not the Republicans."
Republicans Have Lost the Advantage on Every Single-Issue Poll
A February Washington Post poll shows that Republicans have lost the advantage to the Democrats on which party can handle an issue better -- on every single topic.
Americans now believe that Democrats can handle the deficit better (52 to 31), taxes better (48 to 40) and even terrorism better (44 to 37).
This is a catastrophic collapse of trust in Republicans built up over three generations on the deficit, two generations on taxes, and two generations on national security.
House Republicans Should Call an Emergency, Members-Only Conference
Faced with these election results, the House Republicans should hold an emergency members-only meeting. At the meeting, they should pose this stark choice: Real change or certain defeat.
If a majority of the House Republicans vote for real change, they should instruct Republican Leader John Boehner and his team to come back with a new plan by the Wednesday before the Memorial Day recess. This plan should involve real change in legislative, communications, and campaign strategy and involve immediate, real action, including a complete overhaul of the Congressional Campaign Committee. The House Republican Conference would then vote for the plan or insist on its revision.
If a majority of the House Republicans are opposed to acting then the minority who are activists should establish a parallel organization dedicated to real change. This group should focus its energies on creating the changes necessary to survive despite a conference with a minority mindset that accepts defeat rather than fights for real change (which is what we had when I entered Congress in 1978).
Nine Acts of Real Change That Could Restore the GOP Brand
Here are nine acts of real change that would begin to rebuild the American people's confidence that Republicans share their values, understand their worries, and are prepared to act instead of just talk. The Republicans in Congress could get a start on all nine this week if they had the will to do so.
Repeal the gas tax for the summer, and pay for the repeal by cutting domestic discretionary spending so that the transportation infrastructure trust fund would not be hurt. At a time when, according to The Hill newspaper, Senator Clinton is asking for $2.3billion in earmarks, it should be possible for Republicans to establish a "government spending versus your pocketbook" fight over cutting the gas tax that would resonate with most Americans. Lower taxes and less government spending should be a battle cry most taxpayers and all conservatives could rally behind.
Redirect the oil being put into the national petroleum reserve onto the open market. That oil would lower the price of gasoline an extra 5 to 6 cents per gallon, and its sale would lower the deficit.
Introduce a "more energy at lower cost with less environmental damage and greater national security bill" as a replacement for the Warner-Lieberman "tax and trade" bill which is coming to the floor of the Senate in the next few weeks (see my newsletter next week for an outline of a solid pro-economy, pro-national security, pro-environment energy bill). When the American people realize how much the current energy prices are actually a "politicians' energy crisis" they will demand real change in our policies.
Establish an earmark moratorium for one year and pledge to uphold the presidential veto of bills with earmarks through the end of 2009. The American people are fed up with politicians spending their money. They currently believe both parties are equally bad. This is a real opportunity to show the difference.
Overhaul the census and cut its budget radically. The recent announcement that the Census Bureau could not build an effective hand-held computer for $1.3 billion and is turning instead to 600,000 temporary workers to do a paper and pencil census in 2010 is an opportunity to slash its budget, shrink its bureaucracy, and turn to entrepreneurial internet-based companies to build an information-age census. This is an absurdity that cries out for bold, decisive reform (see my YouTube video "FedEx versus federal bureaucracy" for an example of what I mean).
Implement a space-based, GPS-style air traffic control system. The problems of the Federal Aviation Administration are symptoms of a union-dominated bureaucracy resisting change. If we implemented a space-based GPS-style air traffic system we would get 40% more air travel with one-half the bureaucrats. The union has stopped 200,000,000 passengers from enjoying more reliable air travel to protect 7,000 obsolete jobs. This real change would allow the millions of frustrated travelers to have champions in congress trying to help them get places better, safer, faster.
Declare English the official language of government. This real change is supported by 87% of the American people including a majority of Democrats, Republicans, Independents, and Latinos. It is an issue of national unity that brings Americans together in a red, white, and blue majority.
Protect the workers' right to a secret ballot. The vast majority (around 81%) of Americans believe that American workers have a right to have a secret ballot election before they are forced to join a union. Last year the House Democrats passed a bill that would strip American workers of the secret ballot. A new bill should be introduced reaffirming that right, and it should be brought up again and again until marginal Democrats are forced to vote with the American people against the union power structure.
Remind Americans that judges matter. Senate Republicans should mount an ongoing fight (including a filibuster of other activities if necessary) to get the American people to realize that liberals want to block all current judicial appointments in order to maximize the number of left wing radical judges they can appoint if they win the White House. This issue has three advantages. It reminds people that judges matter and that a leftwing radical Supreme Court would be bad for the values of most (70 to 90 percent, depending on the issue) Americans. It shows the Democrats are not engaged in fair play. It arouses the activism of those who have been disappointed by Republicans and have forgotten how bad a liberal Democratic Presidency would be.
What Is at Stake
No Republicans should kid themselves. It's time to face up to a stark choice.
Without change we could face a catastrophic election this fall.
Without change the Republican Party in the House could revert to the permanent minority status it had from 1930 to 1994.
Without change, the majorities of Americans who support the Republican principle of smaller, more efficient, smarter and fairer government will be in for a rude awakening.
It's time for real change to avoid a real disaster.
The "May Day Massacre": Can Liberals Govern in a Global Economy?
Despite the poor outlook for conservatives in our elections this November, there is encouraging news from across the Atlantic. The conservative wave sweeping Europe hit England last week when the liberal Labor Party suffered its worst local election results in 40 years.
Boris Johnson became the first Conservative Party member elected mayor of London when he defeated Labour candidate "Red" Ken Livingstone. In contests for more than 4,000 local seats across England, Conservatives captured 44 percent of the vote, compared to 25 percent for the Liberal Democrats and just 24 percent for Labour.
This Conservative victory in England comes on the heels of a history-making rout of the Communists and the Greens in parliamentary elections Italy two weeks ago. And the Italian results follow center-right victories in France (Sarkozy) and Germany (Merkel). The countries of so-called "old" Europe are turning away from the liberal high tax, big government policies that have crippled their economies and are turning toward pro-growth, pro-competitive center-right solutions.
All of which raises the question: Can the Left successfully govern in a modern, global economy? The voters of Europe seem to be saying no.
Your friend,
Newt Gingrich
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Kasich on Hannity and Colmes tonight 4/30/08
We've just learned that John Kasich will appear as a guest on "Hannity and Colmes" tonight, Wednesday, April 30. We hope you can tune in and watch.
"Hannity and Colmes" airs each night at 9 PM Eastern.
"Hannity and Colmes" airs each night at 9 PM Eastern.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Who's to blame for "Hanna Montana" photos?
By now most people have seen the recent Vanity Fair photos of 15 year old Miley Cyrus taken by famed photographer Annie Leibowitz. I won't repost them here, because I don't think it's appropriate.
My question in all of this is why is there no boycott of Vanity Fair or outcry against Leibowitz. If these photos had been taken of a non-celebrity, the photographer and the publisher would be in jail for child pornography. Does 15 year old Miley Cyrus not get the same protection under the law that evey other 15 year old girl in America would receive?
Cyrus is clearly embarrased by the photos and has apologized for her lack of judgement. But, is she the one who should be responsible. Was she pushed to take off her clothes, wear smudged make-up, and give a morning after look into the camera? “You can’t say no to Annie,” Miley said. “She’s so cute. She gets this puppy-dog look, and you’re like, OK.”
Imagine if a teacher at your local high school had taken these exact same photos of a 15 year old girl in your town and then posted them on the school website. What would happen then and why isn't Miley afforded the same?
I am in no way suggesting that Miley Cyrus' parents don't share some of the blame in this, but let's not let the photographer and publisher off the hook either.
My question in all of this is why is there no boycott of Vanity Fair or outcry against Leibowitz. If these photos had been taken of a non-celebrity, the photographer and the publisher would be in jail for child pornography. Does 15 year old Miley Cyrus not get the same protection under the law that evey other 15 year old girl in America would receive?
Cyrus is clearly embarrased by the photos and has apologized for her lack of judgement. But, is she the one who should be responsible. Was she pushed to take off her clothes, wear smudged make-up, and give a morning after look into the camera? “You can’t say no to Annie,” Miley said. “She’s so cute. She gets this puppy-dog look, and you’re like, OK.”
Imagine if a teacher at your local high school had taken these exact same photos of a 15 year old girl in your town and then posted them on the school website. What would happen then and why isn't Miley afforded the same?
I am in no way suggesting that Miley Cyrus' parents don't share some of the blame in this, but let's not let the photographer and publisher off the hook either.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Breaking News-Obama's insensitive remarks in San Francisco
At a fundraiser in San Francisco, Barack Obama recently said the following-
'And it's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations'...
Check out Politico for a link to the article
Hear the audio here
'And it's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations'...
Check out Politico for a link to the article
Hear the audio here
New Huckabee Interview
Hey Everyone, If you are itchin for a little Huckabee, here is a new audio interview which I'm sure you'll enjoy. This is the audio portion of the conference call last night which I understand had some problems. I'm really sorry if you encountered any difficulty. The campaign didn't operate it, the magazine and their communications people set it up. Please keep in touch.
All the best,
Jeff
Click here for the interview
All the best,
Jeff
Click here for the interview
Monday, April 7, 2008
Ohio justices to enter fray over gun laws
The Ohio Supreme Court will wade into a thorny issue that has the National Rifle Association, Ohio Attorney General Marc Dann, and Ohioans for Concealed Carry aligned against cities. The court must decide whether the state can tell local governments whether they can regulate guns on their own property, the latest battle in the wider war over local home-rule authority.
Toledo Blade
Toledo Blade
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Liberals just don't get it
Strickland questions Kasich tax proposal
Thursday, March 27, 2008 12:23 PM
John Kasich's contention that Ohio is in an economic "death spiral," and he questioned Kasich's proposal to phase out the state income tax.
"I guess I'm just more optimistic about Ohio's future than Mr. Kasich's comments would indicate that he is," Strickland told reporters after an event this morning.
The governor was asked for his reaction to Kasich's probable 2010 run for the Republican gubernatorial nomination, and the former Westerville congressman's assessment that dramatic action is needed to stem Ohio's economic decline.
Kasich, in an interview with The Dispatch, said he believes the state income tax "has to be phased out." The tax provides the state with more than $9 billion a year, or 34 percent of its operating money. Kasich said he would detail later how he would make up for those tax revenues.
Such a move, Strickland contended, could mean "you're going to dismantle higher education, and elementary and secondary education, and various departments of government," which, he claimed, would put Ohio in a death spiral.
"I would just be interested to know how such a loss in revenue would be possible without basically giving up on the state of Ohio," Strickland said.
Strickland, a former congressman, said it was not the time "to get into a back-and-forth with John Kasich. I like John Kasich. I served with him in the House and I find him just a delightful person, I really do."
Strickland said who becomes the GOP nominee in 2010 will have no bearing on his decision whether to seek a second term. Strickland said he will "more than likely want to stay in this position," the strongest indication to date that he will seek a second term.
"I enjoy being governor," he said. "I think I have a wonderful team of people helping me carry out my responsibilities, people I enjoy being with. I like to come to work every day. I look forward to what I do. I'm spending a lot of time getting out trying to stay close to the people of Ohio. I do that on a continuous basis. I find pleasure and satisfaction in doing that, so I don't know of any reason why I wouldn't seek a second term."
Thursday, March 27, 2008 12:23 PM
John Kasich's contention that Ohio is in an economic "death spiral," and he questioned Kasich's proposal to phase out the state income tax.
"I guess I'm just more optimistic about Ohio's future than Mr. Kasich's comments would indicate that he is," Strickland told reporters after an event this morning.
The governor was asked for his reaction to Kasich's probable 2010 run for the Republican gubernatorial nomination, and the former Westerville congressman's assessment that dramatic action is needed to stem Ohio's economic decline.
Kasich, in an interview with The Dispatch, said he believes the state income tax "has to be phased out." The tax provides the state with more than $9 billion a year, or 34 percent of its operating money. Kasich said he would detail later how he would make up for those tax revenues.
Such a move, Strickland contended, could mean "you're going to dismantle higher education, and elementary and secondary education, and various departments of government," which, he claimed, would put Ohio in a death spiral.
"I would just be interested to know how such a loss in revenue would be possible without basically giving up on the state of Ohio," Strickland said.
Strickland, a former congressman, said it was not the time "to get into a back-and-forth with John Kasich. I like John Kasich. I served with him in the House and I find him just a delightful person, I really do."
Strickland said who becomes the GOP nominee in 2010 will have no bearing on his decision whether to seek a second term. Strickland said he will "more than likely want to stay in this position," the strongest indication to date that he will seek a second term.
"I enjoy being governor," he said. "I think I have a wonderful team of people helping me carry out my responsibilities, people I enjoy being with. I like to come to work every day. I look forward to what I do. I'm spending a lot of time getting out trying to stay close to the people of Ohio. I do that on a continuous basis. I find pleasure and satisfaction in doing that, so I don't know of any reason why I wouldn't seek a second term."
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Kasich gets set to run for Governor in 2010
Former U.S. Rep. John R. Kasich says he's prepared to leave a lucrative private-sector career and run for the Republican nomination for governor in 2010.You can read the rest of the Columbus Dispatch article here
Miller should come clean with well-documented campaign-funding reports
An elected official who mingles his political and business operations is asking for trouble. When that official has missing or incomplete campaign-expense reports, questions about improprieties are inevitable.
That's the situation with Ohio Senate Minority Leader Ray Miller of Columbus, who, from 2006 to 2007, mingled about $20,000 in campaign money with his business operations. That includes rent for an office near the Statehouse.
Miller has a campaign office in the Huntington Bank Building. At one time, that office included private businesses operated by the senator or his wife. Because he conducted political activity from the business office, Miller reimbursed himself for his political time spent there.
Columbus Dispatch
That's the situation with Ohio Senate Minority Leader Ray Miller of Columbus, who, from 2006 to 2007, mingled about $20,000 in campaign money with his business operations. That includes rent for an office near the Statehouse.
Miller has a campaign office in the Huntington Bank Building. At one time, that office included private businesses operated by the senator or his wife. Because he conducted political activity from the business office, Miller reimbursed himself for his political time spent there.
Columbus Dispatch
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