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Rep. Mark Kirk Should Bow Out of Illinois U.S. Senate Race

by Daniel T. Zanoza, Executive Director

On July 30, 2009, I wrote a commentary titled "Mark Kirk's U.S. Senate Bid Doomed: When Will GOP Ever Learn?" http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2009/07/-mark-kirks-us-senate-bid-doomed-when-will-gop-ever-learn-.html

I wrote the commentary long before the recent revelations regarding Kirk's exaggeration of his military service.  On Sunday, June 13, 2010 the Chicago Tribune ran a major article which will put a damper on a political candidate which was forced upon Republican voters by the Illinois GOP leadership. 

From the beginning, Kirk was out of step with GOP social and fiscal conservatives.  Kirk's voting record in support of abortion rights, his anti-Second Amendment votes in Congress and Kirk's support for values that run contrary to the Republican Party platforms on the state and national levels alienated the U.S. Representative from Illinois 10th U.S. Congressional District with social conservatives.  However, when Kirk was one of only eight Republicans in the U.S. House of Reps. to vote for the "American Clean Energy and Security Act" (HR2454), commonly called Cap and Trade, he infuriated fiscal conservatives as well--not only in Illinois, but across the entire nation. 

Afterwards, Kirk threw salt on a festering wound by saying if he could have a do-over he would vote against the climate control bill that, if passed by the U.S. Senate and signed into law by President Obama, would devastate America's economy.  The bill is so toxic, the U.S. Senate has yet to act on the legislation, even though it is a primary component of Obama's left-wing political agenda.

But red flags went up with many Republicans, like myself, when it appeared Kirk was the "chosen one" according to statements made by Republican Party Chairman Pat Brady before the February 2010 GOP primary.  Kirk contributed $50,000 to the Illinois Republican Party and shortly thereafter became the obvious favorite of the Republican establishment.

Questions about Kirk's exaggerated military service were raised before the February primary.  In recent weeks, Kirk has come under withering fire for embellishing his U.S. Naval military record.  In fact, campaign ads Kirk ran during the primary race were comical to many of us who follow politics closely.  In one ad, Kirk gave the definite impression he was in harm's way while "flying over Kosovo, Iraq and on the ground in Afghanistan."  This was clearly a ridiculous and misleading claim.  Obviously, common sense dictates a sitting Congressman would not be placed in harm's way and, unless a waiver is issued, there are rules which, to quote a Chicago Tribune story says "Politicians -- particularly members of Congress -- are not allowed to serve in imminent danger areas unless the Dept. of Defense specifically allows it."  http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/elections/ct-met-senate-kirk-giannoulias-20100612,0,2203077.story  [posted June 13, 2010]

Before it came to light that Kirk exaggerated his role in the Naval Reserves and took personal credit for an award given to his unit, it was evident the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate was using his military service as a reservist for his own personal agenda.  Indeed on June 1st, the Washington Post reported Kirk "had claimed, inaccurately, to have received the Navy's 'Intelligence Officer of the Year' award.  But he did not receive that award:  In reality, the unit Kirk led in Aviano, Italy, was given an award for outstanding service by a group called the National Military Intelligence Association.  Kirk, who is seen on video claiming to have won the award, was not singled out for individual recognition." 

Before eventually offering an apology, Kirk compounded his faux pas by telling reporters at CBS TV Channel 2 in Chicago his claim wasn't "legally precise."  CBS reported the Washington Post said Kirk cast the comments as an oversight, not an attempt to exaggerate his record.  http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20006430-503544.html  [posted June 1, 2010]

Now, some will say Kirk was simply playing politics with his braggadocio regarding his service in the military, but those who have family members currently serving in the United States Armed Forces and the families of millions of Americans who served our nation honorably in the past, some of whom paid the ultimate sacrifice, interpret Kirk's claims as a reflection of character or lack thereof.

And here is a fact that cannot be denied.  Any politician who would vote for or support the practice of partial-birth abortion--which is so radical a procedure many liberal Democrats oppose it--will not get the vote of Republicans, Democrats or Independents who cannot support an individual because their conscience would prohibit them from doing so.

The operative question for all Illinois Republicans, as the titular head of the GOP ticket is:  How much of a drag will Kirk be for the entire Republican slate?  Therefore, since Kirk is out of step with a growing number of Republicans, including social and fiscal conservatives, perhaps he should do the honorable thing and drop out of the Illinois U.S. Senate race.  There are more acceptable candidates with high name recognition who could replace Kirk on the November ballot and strengthen the entire Republican ticket...Adam Andrzejewski, state Sen. Kirk Dillard and Andy McKenna to name just a few.

I do not ascribe to the "Republican right or wrong" mantra.  Kirk must do the right thing by bowing out of the Illinois Senate race.  Most definitely, Illinois needs a candidate for the U.S. Senate who not only abides by the GOP's state and national platforms, but reflects the character necessary to help formulate and advance policies at a time when our nation is at a critical turning point in history.

Although Republican Party Chairman Pat Brady will most assuredly continue to support Kirk's candidacy, pressure is building among activists and Republican leaders who recognize Kirk's liabilities which would most likely lead to the election of his Democratic opponent, Alexi Giannoulias.  We are at a crucial crossroads in our nation's history when every vote in Congress matters. 

If Kirk would step aside, the 19 members of the State Central Committee, by weighted vote, would choose another candidate to replace Kirk.  Such a political move would not set precedent. 

Some will say I am ignoring the proverbial elephant sitting in the corner concerning questions surrounding Kirk's sexual orientation.  However, I will leave that issue to others to discuss.  Mr. Kirk does not represent the values of many Republicans and does not deserve to be on the ballot in the upcoming midterm election.

Some Republicans will disagree with my opinion, but as Kirk's record comes under closer scrutiny, the question is:  Will voters hold their nose and vote for a man whose voting record as a member of Congress more closely resembled that of a radically liberal Democrat?

Military fraud and the exaggeration of military service are much more serious issues with the public than the dominant media and Mark Kirk would like us to believe.  This is especially true in time of war when men and women are losing their lives in the service of their country.

For the good of the Party, I urge Mark Kirk to drop out of the U.S. Senate race in Illinois and soon.

RELATED ARTICLES: 

Chicago Tribune:  Mark Kirk and Alexi Giannoulias resume bashing:  Kirk again challenged over military record:  Congressman's use of 'deployment' comes under scrutiny http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/elections/ct-met-senate-kirk-giannoulias-20100612,0,2203077.story  [posted June 13, 2010]

CBS News: Will Mark Kirk's Military Claim Hurt Senate Bid? http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20006430-503544.html  [posted June 1, 2010]

Washington Post:  Mark Kirk campaign ad makes false claim about his military service: http://voices.washingtonpost.com/thefix/senate/mark-kirk-campaign-ad-makes-fa.html [posted June 1, 2010]

Former GOP U.S. Senate Candidate Andy Martin:  Andy Martin drops new “Bunker Buster” ad on Mark Kirk: Kirk inflates his military service:  http://andyforussenator.blogspot.com/2010/01/andy-martin-drops-new-bunker-buster-ad.html  [posted Jan. 18, 2010]

RFFM.org:  Mark Kirk's U.S. Senate Bid Doomed: When Will GOP Ever Learn? http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2009/07/-mark-kirks-us-senate-bid-doomed-when-will-gop-ever-learn-.html [posted July 30, 2009]

RFFM.org:  Cap and Trade Passes U.S. House: Kirk, 7 other Republicans, Vote for Greatest Tax Increase in U.S. History
http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2009/06/cap-and-trade-passes-us-house-kirk-7-other-republicans-vote-for-greatest-tax-increase-in-us-history-.html  [posted June 27, 2009]

RFFM.org Satire: ABC 7 Chicago's GOP U.S. Senatorial Debate: Where Mark Kirk Really Was  http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2010/01/abc-7-chicagos-gop-us-senatorial-debate-where-kirk-really-was.html  [posted January 16, 2010]

 

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Illegal Immigration: Will Tea Party Movement Force Illinois Politicians To Take A Stand?

by Daniel T. Zanoza, Executive Director

 

There are some politicians who would rather have this issue go away, but the problem of illegal immigration in Illinois and other states will be a huge factor in the November election.  When George W. Bush tried to pass comprehensive immigration reform during his last term as President, the American people stood up en masse.  In fact, it was the first time in my memory since the civil rights movement of the 1960's that a vast majority of Americans came together in an appeal for justice.   

 

The recent law passed in Arizona (Senate Bill 1070 http://www.azleg.gov/legtext/49leg/2r/bills/sb1070s.pdf) has created a virtual world wind of support regarding the enforcement of existing federal laws concerning those who have entered the United States illegally.  Polling indicates 70% of Arizona residents support the enforcement of federal law and, according to reports, as many as 18 states are considering similar bills.

 

But, unfortunately, I live in Illinois and though the state is deeply in debt to the tune of $13 billion--in part because of the costs of services provided to those who are in the country illegally--Illinois lawmakers have decided to criticize Arizona legislators over their passage of SB1070.

 

In fact, contrary to polling, which indicates 60% of Americans favor the common sense approach to the issue in Arizona, some Illinois lawmakers are going against the wishes of the public.  State Rep. Edward Acevedo (D-Chicago) sponsored a resolution (HJR 119) which was passed by the House on a voice vote which condemns the Arizona law.  Soon, the Illinois State Senate will vote on the same resolution which will bring the issue to the forefront in Illinois politics.

 

Now let me say this.  My Father immigrated legally to the U.S. from Poland.  My wife's parents were both born in Ireland and came here legally as well.  However, if anywhere from 12 to 20 million people entered the U.S. illegally from Poland or Ireland, I would be outraged.  I wonder how the mainstream media would approach my position on the issue.  They couldn't call me a racist.  They couldn't say I was ethno-centric.  Their politically correct argument against me would not hold water.

 

But there is a fear in Illinois by some politicians, including conservatives, that taking a strong stand concerning the enforcement of federal law regarding illegal immigration would be their death knell politically. 

 

However, I have learned some members in the Illinois Tea Party may force their hand before the midterm elections and they would be ethically and morally right to do so.  But, again, I live in Illinois.  The Democratic political machine is in favor of immigration reform which would essentially provide amnesty to those who are in the state illegally.  Of course, this runs against the flow of a tidal wave of public opinion regarding the failure by the federal government to enforce immigration laws and the same sentiment is present in Illinois as well.

 

When George W. Bush tried to pass comprehensive immigration reform, which, in essence, would have meant amnesty for illegal immigrants, our economy was sound.  Today, the unemployment rate is at 10%.  This number does not include those whose unemployment benefits have run out or those who have taken part-time jobs or stopped looking for work entirely.  The true number of those unemployed is closer to 17% and some economists predict it will go higher.  Indeed many experts believe the millions of jobs lost over the last 18 months are gone forever.

 

Americans are tired of government waste, high taxes and, most important, they're sick of being ignored by those they elected to office to represent them.  Well, it used to be called representative government.  But many of us are beginning to wonder if American Lincoln's vision of a nation "of the people, by the people and for the people" is a long forgotten notion of the past. 

 

The question is:  Will responsible candidates from either political party be willing to take on this issue in the Land of Lincoln?  Doing so will take courage because the left will demonize them.  The dominant media will call them racists and worse.

 

I'm hoping those in the Illinois Tea Party will make this an issue which will determine not only the fiscal health of Illinois, but the security of our country as well.

 

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Sestak, Blagojevich & Obama: Chicago-Style Politics

Illegalities Or Politics As Usual?

 

by Daniel T. Zanoza

 

Within days, former Democratic Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich will go on trial for allegedly trying to sell Barack Obama's U.S. Senate seat after Obama won the presidency.  In 2008 Patrick I. Fitzgerald, the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, released tape recorded conversations with then-Governor Blagojevich, alleging that Obama's vacated seat was available to the highest bidder.  Blagojevich was indicted.  He now faces charges of corruption for trying to sell or trade Obama's seat and pressure potential Blagojevich campaign contributors.  Blagojevich has fervently denied these allegations and he is pressing that all of the recorded tapes be released, especially those he had with members of Obama's administration.

 

Recently, U.S. Rep Joe Sestak (D-PA) admitted an unnamed White House official offered him a federal job if he would drop out of the Pennsylvania Democratic Primary against incumbent U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter who was endorsed by Obama.  Specter--who changed his political stripes during midterm--was in trouble regarding his bid to retain his seat which he has held for five terms.

 

Now I believe there is a nexus between the charges Blagojevich is facing and the possible tampering with a federal election by the Obama administration.  Sestak, a retired U.S. Navy Admiral, won't say what job he was offered if he dropped out of the primary race, but many believe a position as Secretary of the Navy was the carrot at the end of the political stick. 

 

Even Arlen Specter has been quoted as saying if such an offer was made, it violated federal law. 

 

I believe we are seeing a perfect illustration of Chicago-style politics being practiced at the federal level in the Sestak case.  After all, Obama and White House Chief of Staff, Rahm Emanuel, earned their political chops in the heart of the Daley Democratic Machine.  And as most Americans witnessed in the passage of the health care reform bill, the ends justify the means.  It's the Chicago way.

 

But let's get back to Rod Blagojevich for a moment.  Many Americans were not aware that the former Illinois Governor had run afoul of the powers that be in the Illinois Democratic Party.  I believe what he did was politics as usual, at least for Illinois.  But Blagojevich was thrown to the wolves because he wasn't a team player.  Subsequently, Blagojevich was expendable.  He wouldn't play ball with Richie Daley, the Mayor of Chicago, where the slogan is vote early and vote often...where even the dead can vote.  Blagojevich was simply following Democratic Party protocol and he got stung by those who wanted him out of the picture. 

 

I believe the offer made to Sestak is an example of Chicago style politics at its best or worst, depending on your point of view.  

 

If Sestak can be believed, and there's no reason he shouldn't, the Obama administration may be in big trouble.  Someone within the President's sphere  believes Washington, D.C.--with all its faults--is an extension of Illinois.  If this is true, it is an infestation of the greatest magnitude.

 

I personally believe Sestak.  Why would he lie?  But some in the mainstream media are dismissing Sestak's serious allegations.  On May 24th, Mara Liasson, a national political correspondent for National Public Radio and a FOX News contributor, said that, even if true, there's no quid pro quo regarding Sestak's statements.  She has to be kidding, right?  But it got even worse on the FOX News Channel's Special Report where Liasson's comments were followed by Charles Krauthammer, a syndicated columnist and FOX News contributor, who essentially said Sestak's claims were an example of politics as usual in Washington, D.C.  It's obvious Liasson and Krauthammer have been in Washington, D.C. too long if they don't understand the gravity of the situation.

 

U.S. Rep Anthony Weiner (D-NY) has been quoted as saying, if Sestak's statements are true regarding White House tampering with a federal election, the issue needs to be looked into.  The question is will the establishment press who got Obama elected press for his possible impeachment, if he was connected with the offer to Sestak in any way? 

 

I believe the charges facing Blagojevich in Illinois and the allegations facing the Obama administration are strangely analogous.  Indeed, Sestak's claims are more serious because it would prove the rot which exists in Chicago-style politics has found its way into the White House and our federal government.  Perhaps the Blagojevich trial will reveal even more about the former U.S. Senator from Illinois who now sits in the Oval Office.  After all, the buck stops there.

 

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Bill Brady for Illinois Governor: Advice To Take Pro-Family Vote For Granted Flawed

Election Will Depend on Strong Support From Social Conservatives

 

by Daniel T. Zanoza, Executive Director

 

What I'm about to write may ruffle some feathers within the Republican Party, but I believe somethings need to be said regarding State Senator Bill Brady's Illinois gubernatorial campaign.

 

Most of us who follow Illinois politics closely understand full well there is a rift between some of those in party leadership and members of the GOP who represent its conservative base.  This divide has existed for years and, unfortunately, it has led to the defeat of many Republican candidates--some good, some bad. 

 

Even though I've followed Illinois politics for nearly twenty years, I don't claim to be an expert on how to run a political campaign, but, at times, history is the best indicator regarding what works and what doesn't.  Many would have to agree there were those in the Illinois Republican Party who were surprised by Bill Brady's primary victory last February.  Indeed, some think those with considerable influence in the Republican Party establishment outsmarted themselves by fielding candidates who split the party vote in the Chicago area which allowed Brady to win the primary because of his strong showing in other regions of the state.

 

Though it is unfortunate the divide between the Republican old guard and the socially conservative wing of the party exists, to deny this fact would be ridiculous.  The crux of the matter is, there are those within the Illinois GOP who believe strong pro-family Republican candidates cannot win general elections in Illinois.  Subsequently, some party leaders believe it will not be necessary for Republican statewide candidates to court the party's conservative political base.

 

This mindset continues--and was possibly reinforced--when Republicans were recently swept into office in other states, demonstrating there is a groundswell of voters who are not content with the direction America is headed.  But it seems the impact of grassroots groups, including the Tea Party movement, are being misunderstood or ignored by some in the Republican Party leadership. 

 

The Tea Party movement is not driven by a single issue.  Some Tea Partiers now call themselves "Independent", due to the fact they see no difference between the two major parties.  Many of these individuals whom I have communicated with believe a vast majority of politicians no longer represent their values or what's in the best interest of their country.  They feel Congress isn't listening to them regarding a myriad of issues.  Some are opposed to big government and high taxation which has led to the current state of our economy where one out of every ten Americans are unemployed.  Others within the Tea Party movement see illegal immigration as an important issue which involves American security and our government's failure to enforce existing laws regarding those who have entered our nation illegally. 

 

Many Illinois voters believe in the Republican Party because of its state and national platforms.  Social issues are important to them.  They may not all be members of the Tea Party movement, but they have been disillusioned because of the GOP's departure from the values and principles they were elected to office to uphold.  It must be noted a significant number of Tea Partiers are Democrats or hold no party affiliation.  But a vast majority of those who will decide the outcome of the general election in November are not members of a Tea Party or any other grassroots organization; many care about issues which include the fight for the rights of the innocent unborn, the support for traditional marriage, the preservation of the right to bear arms and other matters of import to them. 

 

Of course, many are only concerned about fiscal issues.  For example, just a generation ago, one wage earner could support an entire family.  Certainly this is no longer the case, in most circumstances, due to the explosion of big government and higher taxation which has led to the devolution of American society. 

 

Getting back to history, Peter Fitzgerald was the last Republican candidate to achieve a statewide victory for a major office when he defeated incumbent Carol Moseley-Braun for the U.S. Senate in 1998.  Bill Brady and Peter Fitzgerald's legislative records were similar.  Fitzgerald ran unabashedly as a pro-family conservative.  He did not soften or downplay his position concerning a socially conservative agenda and, subsequently, Fitzgerald was the recipient of unified support from the GOP's political base.  Fitzgerald won the primary and general election, despite the fact he received little support from the Illinois Republican Party.  Fitzgerald spent a great deal of his own personal wealth in his campaign, but he did win.

 

Recently, many members of the mainstream media have suggested Sen. Brady needs to run a campaign of "moderation".  But this advice is coming from those in the establishment press who would rather see Pat Quinn remain in the Governor's mansion after the election.  There are also members of the Republican Party who, undoubtedly, are advising Brady to stay away from contentious social issues. 

 

Though there is a strong possibility Republicans will be swept into office because of the negative reactions on the national level to the Democratic-dominated Congress which, despite public outcry, supported unfettered spending, bail-outs and passed an unpopular health care bill, the upcoming election in Illinois is not a fait accompli.  I believe it will take a concerted effort from voters--which include the GOP's conservative base--for Brady to win in November.  I also feel it will take an energized Republican electorate who believe Brady's legislative record is not enough for him to beat Quinn.  Sadly, many Illinois voters are not familiar with Brady's voting record in the Illinois Senate.  I believe Brady should embrace his legislative record.  Certainly, the media will pick and choose what they like about Brady and what they don't like.  My point is:  Why let others define who you are and what you stand for?

 

I'm writing this piece because I have heard rumblings from pro-family leaders and activists that Brady plans to run away from his record.  Of course, it's far too early in the campaign to make such a judgment.  But I know there are those who would like the State Senator from Bloomington to do so. 

 

I might be the victim of "kill the messenger" with these words.  Personally, I will do everything I can to help Brady become the next Governor of Illinois.  I know of his personal and political conviction regarding the issues I, as a social conservative, care deeply about.  In the same breath, Illinois voters who do not follow politics closely must not be presented with an image of a politician who is defined by the media.   

 

Pat Quinn will be a formidable challenger, especially in a state dominated by the Daley Democratic Machine.  Brady's election will not be a walk-through, as I feel some in Republican leadership believe.  In fact, one influential pro-family leader told me there are those within the GOP who think Brady can win without the party's pro-family base, due to the results of recent elections in Virginia, Massachusetts and New Jersey.  If this is proven to be the case, and Brady buys into this strategy, it might be a formula for disaster for Brady.  However, Brady has a reputation for being his own man.  He ran a fiscally responsible primary campaign and I fully expect him to be a candidate of integrity and conviction.  The Bloomington Senator has done nothing to show me otherwise.

 

In a way, the November gubernatorial race will be a type of referendum on Illinois politics for the future.  Some experts claim the current political situation in America is an anomaly.  Subsequently, there are those who stand by the notion Republicans will be swept into office, simply because they are Republicans.  Of course, I could be wrong. 

 

Illinois voters are looking to vote for candidates who stand FOR something.  Barack Obama stood for "hope and change", but it was a type of change many Americans now find distasteful.  

 

My support for Bill Brady is because of what he stood for (and why) while in the Illinois Senate.  I will vote for Brady because he's the best man for the job to lead Illinois.  But the challenge ahead for Republicans--moderate and conservative alike--will depend on a unified effort with everyone rowing in the same direction.  Hopefully, Brady will energize those who represent the pro-family base of the GOP and not take their vote for granted.  I don't think he will, but only time will tell.

 

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Jack Roeser Finds Home In Illinois GOP: If You Can't Beat 'Em, Join 'Em or ...

by Daniel T. Zanoza, Executive Director

When I first learned Jack Roeser, a conservative businessman, had joined forces with the Republican Party establishment in Illinois, to say the least, I was surprised.  Perhaps a better word for my reaction would be dumbfounded.

Roeser, a staunch social conservative and pro-family philanthropist has been one of the most outspoken critics of many in the Illinois GOP's leadership for years.  In fact, according to Roeser, those in the Republican Party's state hierarchy were akin to the demon seed.  Though many conservatives like myself were aware of Roeser's rapprochement with Republican Party Chairman Pat Brady weeks ago, the Chicago Tribune's Rick Pearson just addressed the issue in a recent column written on April 17, 2010, titled, "GOP outsider Roeser now wants in:  Conservative critic of moderate state Republicans seeks leadership role, throws support behind party ticket" http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2010-04-17/news/ct-met-roeser-republican-party-20100417_1_illinois-gop-tea-party-movement-sen-bill-brady and, to my knowledge, this was the first time the mainstream media reported on what can only be described as a significant turn-about on Roeser's part.

According to Pearson, Roeser contributed $50,000 to the Illinois GOP and is seeking the position of Illinois Republican Party National Committeeman.  But much of the information contained in Pearson's piece was not a secret for those who follow Illinois politics closely.

For certain, there have been more than a few conservatives who have differed with Roeser's political strategies over the years.  However, some say the founder of Family Taxpayers Network / Champion News, at times, was heavy-handed in his approach to politics, although few questioned his sincerity and devotion to pro-family principles.  But what Pearson did not address in the Chicago Tribune story was the how, when and why behind Roeser's sudden apparent change of heart regarding a political entity which he often vilified.

Quite honestly, what I know about the inside workings of party politics in Illinois could fill a thimble, compared to Roeser's acumen in the many decades he has championed conservative causes and supported conservative candidates.  Yet the operative question many are asking is "Why?" 

Regarding Roeser's change of heart, Pearson wrote: 
... he (Roeser) cites new party leadership and a desire to stop the circular firing squad the Illinois GOP had become.  "Very simply, the Republican Party is very different than it was a short while ago...We have a very good candidate for governor in (conservative Bloomington state Sen.) Bill Brady and we have a very good state chairman in Pat Brady," said Roeser. 

Pearson also wrote:  Roeser credited (Pat) Brady for replacing the "old goats" who wanted to perpetuate their power in the party.

Roeser is correct when he refers to the state Republican Party as representing a circular firing squad in recent years.  The old adage that says something to the effect that "Republicans eat their own" is most appropriate when describing the Illinois Republican Party over the last decade.  But the second question I have of Roeser is "who?"  Who are the "old goats" in Republican leadership who have been replaced under Pat Brady's leadership?  The next question I have is "when"?  When did this change occur?  Was it after Roeser supported State Sen. Kirk Dillard in the gubernatorial primary, who was defeated by State Sen. Bill Brady?  Or possibly Roeser came to this decision after Mark Kirk won the U.S. Senate primary, defeating Pat Hughes--who Roeser also supported?  Perhaps these questions bring us back to the "why?"  Could it be Roeser has come to the realization that if you can't beat 'em, join 'em?

But I suppose there is another possibility.  Could it be Roeser believes he can have a greater impact on the Illinois GOP as an insider rather than being the perpetual outsider?

Or there is a third possibility that comes to mind.  Did the Illinois GOP offer concessions to Roeser that could be construed as an "offer he couldn't refuse" to quote Marlon Brandon from the Godfather?

There is one absolute in this equation.  Roeser has had a change of heart regarding his participation in Republican establishment politics, but many of us have to wonder what led to this epiphany.  Just a short time ago, Champion News posted one story after another vilifying some of the Republican candidates who will be on the November ballot.  In fact, as Pearson correctly points out, Roeser's Champion News website had an entire category devoted to the defeat of U.S. Rep. Mark Kirk, which has since been scrubbed from the site.  But the stories are still out there in the Internet ether and they leave many wondering how Roeser--who was vehemently against Mark Kirk's bid to win the GOP's U.S. Senate primary--can now actively work for his election.

Roeser is now a member of the Illinois GOP's Finance Committee which is responsible for raising funds to help elect candidates on the statewide GOP ticket.  As a member of this Committee, Roeser will not only be raising money for pro-family candidates, like Sen. Bill Brady, but individuals who Roeser and his staff have maligned in the past, including Judy Baar Topinka and State Sen. Dan Rutherford who will be on the November ballot.

There is a long list of Republicans who have faced Roeser's wrath over the years, including GOP heavyweights like Bob Kjellander, Andy McKenna and perennial candidate Jim Oberweis--who, like Roeser, is a member of the Illinois Central Committee and is also seeking the post of Illinois Republican Party National Committeeman.

I haven't done much to answer the who's, when's and why's I speculated about here.  I haven't talked to Jack Roeser about his new role and change of heart involving the Republican Party establishment--which he once believed represented the heart of darkness.  But I know one thing.  Many Republicans, no matter what their political leanings, are asking the same questions.  Like everyone else, I'll have to wait and see what happens regarding these queries.  Or perhaps we'll never know.

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Illinois Circuit Breaker: Property Tax Relief For Middle + Lower Income Seniors, Disabled Cut By 50%

Assault on Seniors and Disabled Continues

 

by Daniel T. Zanoza

 

In 2009, the Dept. of Labor announced there would be no Cost Of Living Adjustment (COLA) for individuals receiving Social Security benefits.  According to the Consumer Price Index, there was no inflation for the past fiscal year, therefore a yearly increase in Social Security benefits was not warranted--for the first time in over a quarter of a century.  Though the Dept. of Labor predicted inflation would not increase for two years, it has been reported Social Security recipients will not receive a COLA for at least 2010, 2011 and 2012.

 

Middle and lower income seniors and disabled received more bad news when applications for the state of Illinois' Circuit Breaker program were recently sent out to those who qualify. 

 

From the Dept. on Aging's web site http://www.cbrx.il.gov/ which administers the program, Circuit Breaker is defined as:

 

The Illinois Department on Aging's Circuit Breaker program provides grants to senior citizens and persons with disabilities to help them reduce the impact of taxes and prescription medications on their lives.  When the costs of property taxes and prescription medicines begin to "overload" our seniors and persons with disabilities, this program steps in to help, just as a circuit breaker prevents overloads in an electrical system.

 

For the first time in nearly thirty years, the state's Circuit Breaker tax relief grants were cut by half.  Those who applied online received the following information regarding an estimated $20 million reduction in monies allocated to and for those seniors and disabled who qualify for property tax relief.  This info is also from the Dept. of Aging's web site http://www.cbrx.il.gov/ 

NOTICE: In past years, the Department on Aging has been able to issue Circuit Breaker grants at the maximum allowable amounts. However, the state budget for fiscal year 2010 (July 1, 2009 - June 30, 2010) did not fund the Circuit Breaker program at those levels. In order to continue to provide the Circuit Breaker grant benefit to older adults and persons with disabilities on and after July 1, the Department made the difficult decision to cut each grant awarded in half. This decision based on budgetary cutbacks cannot be appealed.

Thank you for your understanding.

The media has written little about the decrease in Circuit Breaker benefits. 

However, an article in the Springfield State Journal-Register on July 9, 2009, titled "Quinn rejects budget, layoff notices go out" by Ryan Keith http://www.sj-r.com/breaking/x737359780/Layoffs-furlough-days-in-latest-budget-cut-plan reported :

Department on Aging cuts total more than $29 million and include:
• 12 furlough days
• 10 percent cut in some programs and grants
• $20 million reduction in Circuit Breaker grants

The Circuit Breaker program also provides discounts for license plate renewals for those who qualify.

One state senator said he was unaware of these cuts, saying the Circuit Breaker program is very important to seniors and disabled.  Many see the reduction of the Circuit Breaker grants as a further assault on those who need it most. 

Though $787 billion was provided to states under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (stimulus package) and President Barack Obama claimed two million jobs were either saved or created through the stimulus program, clearly much of these funds were targeted to preserve government jobs, providing little relief to small businesses in the private sector.

Shortly after the Dept. of Labor announced there would be no Cost Of Living Adjustment for those receiving Social Security, Obama threw seniors a bone by announcing Congress would consider a one-time payment of $250 in fiscal year 2010 to offset the COLA freeze.  At the time, the one-time payment was earmarked to come out of the stimulus package, but the $250 benefit to seniors was then included in a 2010 $85 billion jobs program which was reduced to $15 billion by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid.  The bill is currently pending in Congress and will, most likely, be signed into law by Obama.  However, this legislation (jobs bill) did not include the one-time $250 payment to Social Security beneficiaries.

During Mr. Obama's presidential campaign, he spoke of "spreading the wealth around."  Many advocates for seniors and disabled clearly understand this redistribution of wealth was not "top down" but "inside out", meaning the middle class and poor are not the beneficiaries of Obama's political agenda.  In reality, trillions of dollars are flowing out of the nation's coffers because of ever-mounting debt.  The clear beneficiaries of the redistribution of wealth concept are bankers and lobbyists, including politicians who voted themselves a cost of living increase for the current fiscal year. 

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Liberal Illinois Blog Critical of Bill Brady: Why Are Pro-Family Conservatives Sharing This Information?

by Daniel T. Zanoza, Executive Director

 

In the last week, I received e-mails from a number of individuals regarding past votes by presumptive Illinois Republican gubernatorial nominee state Sen. Bill Brady.  The e-mails included information which was taken from a liberal blog called The Chicago Lampoon (CL) which features a photo of comedic actor Bill Murray.  The information within the e-mails I received concerned Brady recently introducing a bill to deny illegal immigrants state mortgage assistance.  Now that sounds like a good thing, doesn't it?  But the e-mails I received were not meant to paint Brady in a positive light.  The information within these communications were pulled from a blog which would like Brady to lose the general election in November, if he is indeed ever designated as the GOP's nominee for Governor.

 

For the purposes of full disclosure, the CL blog also included facts regarding Brady's past votes on illegal immigrants which would not be seen as favorable by some conservatives.  Obviously, the info posted was meant to harm Brady's ability to garner the conservative vote.

 

From the CL website:  "The bill was referred to the nether regions of the Committee on Assignments, where, given the Democrat majority in the State Senate it is almost certain to never see the light of day."  The operative question here is:  Can Brady be blamed that a Democratic-dominated General Assembly is tying to bury his bill?  The Chicago Lampoon would like you to think that.  However, there's something more troubling going on here.  Why is this information being circulated by so-called pro-family Republicans?

 

After participating in and watching political campaigns in Illinois for 20 years, I know the answer regarding this question and it will no doubt happen in other states as well.  When more than one conservative runs for the same office in a Republican primary, a type of cult of personality begins to develop.  I saw this happen before.  I was a part of it and it's not healthy.  Individuals become so enamored with their candidate, if that individual loses, they have a difficult time transitioning their support to someone who previously was their opponent.  Even though state Sen. Bill Brady is 100% pro-life, pro-Second Amendment, a supporter of traditional marriage and a fiscal conservative to boot, these individuals still are reluctant to support him.  They will look for minutiae and, in essence, throw away the issues they care about, in order to soothe the pain they suffered from their candidate's defeat in the primary.  This is why many say, "Republicans eat their own."

 

Of course this fits in well with the divide and conquer strategy which was skillfully developed to help defeat pro-family conservatives.  Unfortunately, those who indulge in the cult of personality type politics play right into the hands of the Democrats.  Sadly, the information which was clearly meant to damage Brady found its way on to GOPUSA Illinois, eight days after it was first posted on CL.  It appeared on Dave Diersen's site (Feb. 22nd) because it was being circulated by disgruntled supporters of one of the Republicans who Brady defeated.  I won't name these individuals or their candidate because it wouldn't serve the greater good of the pro-family movement, but this kind of sour grapes politics has to stop.  There are those who believe socially conservative candidates cannot win general elections in Illinois.  When this type of behavior takes place, we prove them right.

 

The important fact is Brady proposed a bill (SB3457) that was right on target regarding illegal immigrants.  He should be applauded, not lampooned for his legislative action.  There is an alternative.  Those who supported Brady's opponents in the Republican primary can continue to undercut his chances at victory in November.  In that case, incumbent Pat Quinn (Democrat) will win the general election.  As Governor, he will sign bills that will increase taxation, support abortion rights, call for greater gun control and promote special rights for homosexuals.  It's your "choice".

 

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Open Letter to Rich Miller of Capitol Fax: Apology to Miller's Interns Included

by Daniel T. Zanoza, Executive Director

The following open letter is in response to Rich Miller's Capitol Fax blog.  Some of the comments from Miller and his minions are in reply to my RFFM.org Commentary titled "Capitol Fax: Rich Miller's Advice To Sen. Bill Brady, Interesting: And Here's My Advice To Both" http://rffm.typepad.com/republicans_for_fair_medi/2010/02/capitol-fax-rich-millers-advice-to-sen-bill-brady-interesting-and-heres-my-advice-to-both.html.  You can read Miller's blog for free on this issue by going to http://thecapitolfaxblog.com/2010/02/16/unsolicited-advice-13 to view his comments about me and some of the thoughts of his bloggers.

Dear Rich,

I can call you Rich, can't I?  At $350 a pop for your super-duper "by subscription only" Capitol Fax special edition, I should be able to call you rich.  But since I don't pay the $350 for the inside scoop you provide regarding Illinois politics, because I wouldn't read it any way, maybe I shouldn't call you Rich.  But I digress.

Sorry if I hurt your "interns" feelings.  Okay, I apologize to the two college students who "scoured" state Sen. Bill Brady's legislative record for things you don't like about the Senator from Bloomington--who is the presumptive winner of the Illinois GOP gubernatorial primary.  Please tell them I'll leave something in their stocking next Christmas, if they're good.

You're right.  The Chicago Tribune's Eric Zorn is almost as bad as me, as you wrote on your blog.  LOL.   And, by the way, one of your minions (aka fans) is correct, I didn't read your column.  I'm totally blind.  My wife Julie read your Southtown Star commentary and the Capitol Fax blog responses to me.  By the way, does my blindness qualify me for an intern or two?  Isn't there something in Obama's stimulus package for this?  Hey, is that how you got your interns?

So, you and Zorn are big buddies?  If Zorn was any further to the left, he'd be on the right, according to quantum mechanics.  But why are you picking on Eric?  At least he admits he's a far left socialist-loving writer for a newspaper nobody reads.  In fact, are they still printing the Chicago Tribune?  Colonel McCormick, where are you?  Look what they've done to your newspaper.

Criticizing my writing?  That wasn't nice either, but I'm more concerned about you not soon forgetting me--supposedly--picking on your interns.  As you wrote on your blog:  "Also, picking on my interns is something I won’t soon forget."   Seriously, what does that mean?  Fairness Doctrine, anyone or just thin skin?  But back to your interns, you really need to tell them to toughen up or get out of the business.  As you wrote, "Just sayin…"

Compared to you, I'm just a little nobody.  What's all the fuss?  Right?

Oh, one more thing.  You could post this as a response on your blog, but some of those left-wingers who write in might get even more upset with me.  They might not soon forget either.  Like your interns, I'm very sensitive.  In fact, I went through a box of Kleenex while Julie was typing this.  Making a blind guy cry?  Am I making you feel bad yet?  How's that liberal guilt thing working for you?

Keep in touch...For English, Press 1.

Yours truly,

Dan Zanoza
RFFM.org

P.S.  Though you said I have "trouble reading.  And writing.  And thinking.  lol" I did think you and your blogger's comments were funny.  But I like the Three Stooges, too.  'Nuff said. 

*************************************

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Capitol Fax: Rich Miller's Advice To Sen. Bill Brady, Interesting: And Here's My Advice To Both

by Daniel T. Zanoza, Executive Director

Isn't it great?  The left-leaning Rich Miller of Capitol Fax cares so much about Illinois Republican state Sen. Bill Brady's gubernatorial campaign, Miller gave Brady advice on how to win in the general election, using something called a "second language."  See Southtown Star article by Miller:  Brady needs to learn a second language:  http://www.southtownstar.com/news/miller/2048025,021510miller.article  Even more special is the fact Miller had two of his interns "scour" Sen. Brady's voting record to find the things Miller likes and what he doesn't.

I don't have any interns, but I'd like to ask Mr. Miller how he works that out, as well as receiving hundreds of dollars per year from numerous Illinois legislators who receive his super-duper, "by subscription only" reports on Illinois politics.  It must be nice.  It's evident Miller's a good businessman.  I'll give him that, even though the further you read down Miller's Southtown Star column, the more convoluted his piece gets.

But let's get back to the point of Miller's column.  In essence, Miller was saying Brady's voting record was far too conservative for Illinois voters.  I suppose Mr. Miller forgot about then-state Sen. Peter Fitzgerald--who was just as conservative as Brady--who defeated incumbent Carol Moseley Braun in 1998 for the United States Senate.  But all because Miller authors Capitol Fax that doesn't mean facts like this should get in the way of his argument.  You see, something's are all in a name.

So, let's look at some of the votes Miller doesn't like which were found by Miller's "interns".  Gosh, I sure like that intern thing, but I digress.

"Sen. Brady is 100 percent pro-life."  Oh, my goodness!  Brady actually believes life begins at conception and the innocent unborn should be protected in their mother's womb?  How dare he?

Miller also wrote, "Brady sponsored legislation that allowed pharmacists to refuse to dispense emergency contraception based on their religious beliefs."  Wow, that's out there, too, ain't it?  I suppose Miller would want Catholic pharmacists to go against their faith by dispensing contraceptives, according to this advice he is passing along to Sen. Brady.  Again, interesting.

Miller's "interns" found that Brady, "sponsored legislation to ban the use of state funds for stem cell research."  Oh my!  I think Mr. Miller's "interns" left out the word "embryonic" in that sentence.  But maybe they don't know the difference because they're only "interns".  Plus, by now, the Capitol Fax guru must know the use of embryonic stem cells in medical research is not necessary because it has been proven adult stem cells work just as well.  Finally, why should the state pay for any of this research when private companies, including big Pharma (which Mr. Barack Obama has cut numerous deals with) can afford it.

Brady "voted against the statewide smoking ban," again, according to the diligent research conducted by Miller's minions.  Excuse me, but isn't smoking still legal?  The full blown nanny state isn't here yet, Mr. Miller.

There's more, but here's the topper.  Bill Brady is against homosexual marriage and civil unions.  Hmmm.  This should disqualify Brady for political office automatically, according to Mr. Miller's political playbook.

In conclusion, while perusing the things Miller doesn't like about Brady's legislative voting record, I felt all the better about the state Senator from Bloomington.  Brady, the presumptive winner in the Illinois GOP gubernatorial primary, should stick to his guns and put Mr. Miller's advice in the garbage along with today's newspaper.  Hey, that's where Miller's column is ... in today's paper.  What a coincidence.

Here's some advice from me to Sen. Brady.  Don't take any advice from Rich Miller, if you want to become the next governor of Illinois.

And here's my advice to Rich Miller.  Give your thoughts for political success to Democratic Governor Pat Quinn.  You and Quinn speak the same language...For English, press 1.

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IL GOP Gov's Race: McKenna's Ad Did In Kirk Dillard, Not Jim Ryan

by Daniel T. Zanoza, Executive Director

In a recent article in Pioneer Local http://www.pioneerlocal.com/westernsprings/news/2039124,western-springs-dillard-021110-s1.article state Sen. Kirk Dillard blames former Illinois Attorney General Jim Ryan for his possible loss in the Feb. 2nd Republican primary.  The last all of us heard regarding the election results was state Sen. Bill Brady led Dillard by close to 500 votes in the gubernatorial race.  But this being Illinois, us common folk haven't learned anything since, so what else is new?

So, Dillard picks on Jim Ryan because such criticism would do the least harm to his political future.  Though I didn't agree with the way Ryan conducted himself as Attorney General and during his political career in DuPage County, the man recently overcame cancer, so it's time to give him a break.

What may have defeated Dillard?  Andy McKenna and his brilliant television ad.  Let's see, how did that go?  A chorus of children singing in the background, "the more we get together, together, together, the more we get together, the happier we'll be."  Meanwhile, the visuals show an ad made by Dillard supporting Barack Obama's presidential primary run in Iowa where Obama eventually won and some say Dillard's ad put Obama over the top.

McKenna's commercial, though negative, was not only the truth, but it was the best political ad that was produced during the run up to the Feb. 2nd Illinois GOP primary.  I don't think the McKenna people knew how good it was.  The ad was reminiscent of what's going on in some public schools where young children are singing Mr. Obama's praises, reminding us all of the cult of personality surrounding Chairman Mao.  Powerful stuff.

As far as Jim Ryan is concerned, in a way, Dillard's assertions are true, but the same goes for McKenna.  The former Illinois Republican Party Chairman pulled from the same pool of votes that could have gone to Dillard.

But let's take this a step further.  If Bill Brady would not have been in the race, perhaps Dillard would have already won, unless most of Brady's votes would have went to someone like Adam Andrzejewski who also had strong pockets of support downstate.

The fact is, McKenna did Dillard in with his ad, no matter whether he wins or not.  Let me restate that.  Dillard did himself in with his actions and McKenna pointed them out.  McKenna exposed the fact Dillard probably helped Barack Obama, a Democrat, become President of the United States.  That's a fact.  And, as Sarah Palin recently said, "how's that hope and change thing working out for you?"  No matter how Dillard tries to spin this thing, what happened happened.  Now I understand Dillard regrets making the pro-Obama ad.  He should.  It never made sense.  But, again, this is Illinois and stranger things have occurred.

So let's quit the blame game, Sen. Dillard.  I never thought I'd find myself saying this, but please leave Jim Ryan alone to retire in peace and take your lumps like a man.  If you lost it's because you didn't run a good enough campaign.  That shouldn't be too hard to understand.

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