EXCLUSIVE:5 Minutes with Governor Bill Richardson: The Transcript

Following is a complete transcript of the interview portion of my visit with Governor Bill Richardson. The Governor was extremely gracious and sincerely concerned about the future of our country. I hope the following captures some of that. Tomorrow I will have an epilogue to touch on some of the post interview exchange we shared.

Flash
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The Governor's responses are in BOLD

I am going to start with a question I asked Senator Obama Last Spring. How do we make sure we have a healthy debate within the party without providing ammunition to the opposition in the process.

Two things, One I think it is important that this be the campaign, the Democratic Primary, where the heart and sole of the Democratic Party comes forth. For that to happen, two steps need to take place. One, I believe we should all agree, all the Democrats, to stay positive. To not attack each other. Yes, to differentiate ourselves on the issues, and I believe I have a big difference with other candidates on the war in Iraq. Secondly, to participate fully in all debates, To try and make as many of these forums as possible. Not just the officially sanctioned DNC forums, but also those that other groups; Native Americans, African Americans, Environmentalists the various constituencies the Democratic Party put forth. But most importantly, it is important we make the selection of the next President not on who's the biggest Rock Star, or who's the biggest celebrity, or who has the most money, but on who has the best vision for the country and who is the most qualified.

As we move through the campaign process, how are you preparing for the "Smear Boaters" post endorsement. You know they will be gunning for whomever the nominee is.

Well you have to understand the Republican Party. They're the party of the Status Quo, they're negative. Looking at their debate, I see where that party is at; defending an unpopular President and an even more unpopular war in Iraq They're defending torture and they want to expand torture. That was the message I got from the debate. They want to basically instill the politics of fear when it comes to immigration. They are going to use every wedge issue, they are going to be negative But we have to be ready we can't just sit back and let them take shots. We got to be able to respond!

So you are hoping we don't sit by during July and August like what happened during the last race that might have been key

That's right, I want us to stay positive as Democrats, but I believe it is important that we realize the Republican Party is desperate to hang on to Power in the executive branch,. And they are going to be throwing every piece of mud at us and we should be ready to respond and just give them doses of their own medicine. Not get negative personally, but just expose their record, a record of huge deficits, a failure to act on the domestic needs of this country, education, Health care, a disastrous foreign policy, a misadventure in Iraq and a lessening of the American spirit, a morale that is very down, a very nation that is very divided. I believe all we have to do is talk about their record

Let's talk about Iraq for just a minute (I pull out a picture of my son, Cpl. Tom) I'd like to introduce you to my son

Oh Wow! He's a handsome Kid

He is currently training in Miramar after doing 6 months on the Iwo Jima

I believe we should give the President this last chance, using the surge, to prepare to turn Iraqi security over to the Iraqi's in November. Isn't that soon enough? I've been pretty hawkish, I've been actually supporting the President even through this 'surge', with an understanding when he made his announcement that in November he turns over Iraqi Security to Iraq and begin redeploying troops

No, I disagree! I believe what's happened is our troops have become the targets. When 61% of the Iraqi people basically say that it is OK to shoot at an American soldier, and 72% of the Iraqi people want us out within a year. I believe that our support there has reached a point where it is best to withdraw. I believe the surge, the President's policy, is basically going to cause more sectarian violence, more of a civil war.

What I would do as President is use the leverage of a withdrawal to try to bring a peace a reconciliation among the three groups in Iraq. One where they divide oil revenues, they divide themselves into states, as three different states. They have a federal Government heading them, an all Muslim peace keeping force. Iran and Syria would participate. That would be a tough negotiation, but I don't believe those countries would want to have a huge influx of refugees. I believe very strongly that this war has caused enormous damage to the United States. What I would do with our troops is redeploy them to bases in Kuwait where they ARE wanted. In Afghanistan where I believe the we DO have a threat of Al-Qaeda.

So I admire the service of your son and I want him to be proud, but I want him to be safe, And as President, I want you to know that I would withdraw our forces as rapidly as our commanders say we can do it.

I graduated a son this year, tomorrow is his Open House celebration. What can I tell him, and my younger two boys what a Richardson Administration will do to assure them a shot at the American Dream?

You can tell them a Richardson Administration would say young people have a huge stake in this election. I would say to them a Richardson Administration would, # 1, attack a problem that hopefully their generation won't have to face. And that is a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. This is a planet that is today, dirty. That unless we take drastic steps to reduce green house gas emissions we are going to leave his generation a planet that has a less quality of life. Secondly, you can tell them that a Richardson Administration would attack, in a bipartisan way, the issue of the deficit. His generation is going to be loaded with a defect of 8.8 trillion dollars. In a bipartisan way I would commit to him that we would end the deficit and try to generate an economy that is inclusive of the middle class a globalization that today does not include the Middle Class. Third, I would say to your sons, that a Richardson Administration, also in a bipartisan way, is going to try to deal with the safety net for his generation, and that is Social Security and Medicare. We got to find a way that Social Security and Medicare are preserved, are economically sustainable in the out years and that we stop telling young people that Social Security and Medicare are going to be there forever for them. That requires also a bipartisan solution.

Most importantly I want you to tell your sons that a Richardson Administration will try to bring this country together. We are deeply divided over Immigration, over Iraq, over a whole variety of strains on the middle class. Instead of thinking of ourselves as red states or blue states, rural and urban we should think of ourselves as a united country. One way to bring this country together is to say to the body politic, Congress and the administration, that basically has today a dysfunctional relationship, that we got to resolve the problems in this country in a bipartisan way! We got to heal this country, we got to bring people together. We got to unify this country on the basis of common goals.

As JFK Said, it is important that we start thinking about how collectively we can help this country rather than a government that is basically saying everyone is on their own. That is not America

And to do that we need Governor Bill Richardson as our President

YES!

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EXCLUSIVE:5 Minutes with Governor Bill Richardson - A Teaser

I had an EXCELLLENT visit with Democratic Candidate for President, Governor Bill Richardson. As is his style, he was very candid and forthright, especially when I challenged him on his Iraq position.

Full transcript will be up on Monday, I have a Graduation open house to prepare. If you are in the neighborhood, tomorrow, stop by and celebrate with us.

Flash

Father's Day Prelude

More here.

Bill -v- Resumé

Ryan Lizza has an incredibly candid peak at Gov Richardson, on 'The New Republic'

Here is an excerpt that really caught my eye:

Although many Democrats are smitten with Clinton, Obama, and Edwards, Richardson is enjoying a moment of heightened voter interest, even passing the psychologically crucial barrier of double-digit support in one Iowa poll. He is both the hot-dog-and-ballgame everyman and the seasoned international statesman. The latter is particularly alluring to an electorate yearning for the anti-Bush: someone with the foreign policy chops and diplomatic skills to repair America's tattered reputation and alliances, someone who understands the granular nuance of nuclear proliferation and the Iraq conflict and who isn't afraid to talk to our enemies.

Lizza pulls no punches here. But in the end you recognize what a regular Joe Gov Bill is. We could really use that in a leader right now.

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Making a Move

The post debate poll is out in New Hampshire. Hillary takes a commanding lead, and Gov. Bill surges:

According to a new CNN/WMUR poll of New Hampshire Democratic primary voters released Monday, the New York senator has surged into the lead, with 36 percent support. Obama has held fairly steady at 22 percent, while Edwards has lost support. He's now at 12 percent. (PDF)

The debate got another player into the game -- Bill Richardson, whose support has reached 10 percent.

The Governor is staged to be a serious player in the endorsement process. It is still anyones to win, well, accept maybe Kucinich!

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Busy Week

It will be a hectic week. Last two days of students, which brings its own challenges every year. Wednesday will be all about securing staff equipment. Thursday will involve preparation for the final stages of building remodeling.

Friday is set to be the most exciting. With a Graduation open house looming on Saturday, there is still much to be done. But Gov Bill Richardson is coming into town and that requires making the time for another '5 minute' exclusive. I have already been in contact with the campaign, so it looks like Friday morning I should have an opportunity to visit with the Governor from New Mexico.

Then Saturday, the graduation celebration for my son Josh. Many family and friends will be stopping by the new and improved homestead. I found a GREAT contractor who was able to finally repair my dormers and paint them all pretty. I'll have some pics soon, but if you are looking for a qualified and competent 'no jobs too small' type of contractor, let me know. These guys are excellent!!

Bare with me this week, it's going to be an interesting ride!!

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Sinking Ship?!?

via Cagle:

Fork meet Scooter:Part Deaux

The case is now in its twilight, after having followed it for some time. Although the appeals will continue, a 30 day stay at the White Color country club awaits the felon. There is speculation that Libby will get a reprieve and be allowed to remain free during appeal, I am not so sure. The conviction is pretty solid and the ball is in the President's court.

Will Bush sit back and watch a trusted advisor go to prison for protecting the administration, or will the President have courage and pardon him. There really is no downside for Bush. The 36% still supporting this administration wouldn't waffle over a pardon to Scooter. This 36% are the lemming who would follow Bush anywhere, even over a cliff.

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Family Tragedy-A Time for Healing

Last week I received a difficult phone call. It was from my sister informing me of the untimely passing of my cousin.

Many of you may recall my gloating last fall of the election of Tim Willson, Mayor of Brooklyn Center. It is his daughter who passed. Mom shares her insight:

As I write this I feel like someone has kicked me in the stomach. I have always been a little uncomfortable when things seem to be going well. It's like I'm waiting for the thunder bolt.

Yesterday I let my guard down

I am now seeing up close how someone you love deals with a child's death. Sitting in their Living room listening to the Chaplain who arrived after the police were there was an experience I don't want to deal with anytime soon. Don't get me wrong he was so kind and so caring, but talking about this beautiful girl being with God. I wanted to scream...I wanted to get out of there. Thank Goodness for my daughter who was also there.

I will be attending the funeral, today. The circumstances surrounding her death are still under investigation, and the family asks that their privacy during this difficult time be respected. Soon the Mayor and his wife will release a statement and you can be sure it will be filled with words that will make it clear how much they loved and cherished their daughter.

Hug your children today. Be strong for those around you when they face tumult in their lives. You can't even begin to imagine how much it is appreciated.

Cousin Kurt

UPDATE: Strib article on the arrest and charging of the dealer.

The Thompson Factor

With the entrance of Former Tennessee Senator Fred Thompson in the GOP Presidential fray, we may get a glimpse of what it takes to be competitive after the early front runners are already entrenched. Rasmussen gives us some numbers:

Twenty-two percent (22%) of Americans say they will definitely vote for him if he’s on the ballot in 2008. Thirty percent (30%) will definitely vote against him. That net deficit of eight percentage points (22% for minus 30% against) is better than all other candidates in the race except for Barack Obama.

Still, the actor enters the race trailing the top three Democratic candidates by 3 to 10 points.

Against New York Senator Hillary Clinton, Thompson attracts 44% of the vote. That’s three less than Clinton’s 47% total.

Illinois Senator Barack Obama leads Thompson by seven points, 49% to 42%.

Former North Carolina Senator John Edwards has the biggest edge over Thompson, 47% to 37%.

These numbers show not how strong Thompson is already, but how vulnerable a Clinton nomination would be to the Democrats White House hopes. What is the most surprising to me, is the strong showing by Edwards in these head to heads.

No word on how Gov. Bill Richardson would match up. He is still flying below the radar. I have some xciting news regarding Gov Richardson and his upcoming visit to MN. You can be sure I will keep you posted.

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Two Party System at Work!

This caught my eye more for it's more broad acknowledgment of the tribulations of a two party system.

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Sooner Rather Then Later

While Cindy can't see the forest for the trees, there is talk on the Right of placing withdrawal on the table by year's end:

Republican Senator Jeff Sessions (R-AL) said this morning on CBS' Face the Nation that "unless something extraordinary happens," most members of Congress believe that troop withdrawal should be on the table in September.

"We have to be realistic," he said. "We have to know that we can't achieve everything we'd like to achieve. We have a limited number of men and women we can send to Iraq, and we can't overburden them."

The idea of the surge, was to not just make one final seep through Iraqi trouble spots, but to take advantage of the trained indigenous security force to hold the areas post sweep. There are signs that this is working, even before the full troops strength numbers are reached.

What tactics are working? "We got down at the people level and are staying," he said flatly. "Once the people know we are going to be around, then all kinds of things start to happen."

More intelligence, for example. Where once tactical units were "scraping" for intelligence information, they now have "information overload," the general said. "After our guys are in the neighborhood for four or five days, the people realize they're not going to just leave them like we did in the past. Then they begin to come in with so much information on the enemy that we can't process it fast enough."

In intelligence work - the key to fighting irregular wars - commanders love excess.

And the tribal leaders in Sunni al Anbar Province, the general reports, "have had enough." Not only are the al Qaeda fighters causing civil disruption by fomenting sectarian violence and killing civilians, but on a more prosaic but practical side, al Qaeda is bad for business. "All of the sheiks up there are businessmen," Petraeus said. "They are entrepreneurial and involved in scores of different businesses. The presence of the foreign fighters is hitting them hard in the pocketbook and they are tired of it."

There is an election next year, and although public sentiment is not behind this administration's war policy, there is reluctance by the mindful middle to blindly turn over the reigns of national security to the Democratic Party. If the Right can finally show some common sense, their dismal prospects of success at the 2008 ballot boxes may be recovering.

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Memorial Day Message

Sen. Amy Klobuchar's Memorial Day message:

“Minnesota is a state where we wrap our arms around the people who serve and sacrifice for us – and we wrap our arms around their families, too.

“Every day, we have an obligation to honor our soldiers and their families by giving them the respect and appreciation they have earned – both those who came home and those who did not.

“Today is a special day of remembrance for all of us as Americans.

“We remember our brave soldiers. From the ridges of Gettysburg, to the beaches of Normandy, to the jungles of Vietnam, to the mountains of Afghanistan and the sands of Iraq, our men and women in uniform have served our nation with honor and courage.

“At his Second Inaugural, President Lincoln reminded the American people that, in war, we must strive ‘to bind up the nation’s wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan.’

“Today, on this Memorial Day, Americans are again called to bind up our nation’s wounds and to care for those who have borne the battle, as well as their families who have shouldered their own sacrifice.

“We must embrace this solemn obligation by honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and by honoring our returning soldiers and their families by giving them the care and help that they deserve.”

My personal remembrances were posted in May 2004, recognizing my ancestors contributions, and honoring those who never made it home.

Thank a Vet today, and honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice to make our lives just a little bit better!

Flash

Technical Difficulties

Nasty Trojan loose in the building. Didn't get home from work till 9:00pm last night and back at it at 6:30am. Of course, the Macs in the building are unaffected. Best form of viral control is buy a Mac.

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It's Official; Gov. Bill Is In!

Although a mere formality, New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson made it official yesterday:

LOS ANGELES, May 21 -- New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson established another landmark in the 2008 campaign Monday, becoming the first Hispanic Democrat to seek the presidency of the United States.

Richardson, 59, the son of a Mexican mother and half-Mexican father, made his candidacy official at a crowded news conference in the same downtown Los Angeles hotel in which John F. Kennedy accepted the Democratic nomination in 1960. Richardson emphasized his Hispanic heritage, his extensive diplomatic and political experience, and his depth of knowledge on issues, particularly foreign policy.

And he is sounding more presidential each day:

"This nation needs a leader with a proven track record and an ability to bring people together to tackle our problems here at home and abroad," Richardson said, speaking from a podium in a Millennium Biltmore Hotel ballroom packed with supporters. "I am that person -- not because I say so, but because of what I have done."

"What I have done", is something some of the other candidates can't say with the same conviction. Where the Governor may not have the unlimited financial chest, or popularity in the polls, he does have a presidential resumé that is the most solid of all candidates on both sides of the aisle. Once the electorate begins to realize that, we just may have another Gov. Bill coming out of nowhere to reside in the White House.

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Two Peas

Mitch whines in a post entitled Faint Damnation:

Getting called “the worst president in history” by The Worst President In History?

Priceless:

When one resorts to a series of put downs, it does seem to crumble whatever arguments they had. Let's See how many we can count, Goofytooth, Phumphered and droned, actively connived, morally repugnant scumbag, incompetence and sheer horror.

I am not going to argue about presidential rankings, but there is one thing that is clear to me. With the failures of this presidency snowballing, PaPa Bush is looking pretty good right now, and President Carter will have someone to look down on.

I don't know who the worst President ever is, but I know who isn't on the list anymore, Carter and Bush I. How long President GW remains on the list is up to how history treats him. Then I can take Mitch's cue and call him a bunch of names. But I won't resort to that. Not my style.

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Happy Birthday, Clone Boy

My youngest is 14 today. You saw a glimpse of him horsing around with his brother a couple days ago in this picture:

He's a little taller now, smarter, lippier, but always manages to put a smile on our face.

I'd be lying if I said I wish they would stop growing. I am all but counting the days to empty nest land. But seeing my 'baby' passing me on the growth chart is something I could have waited another year or two for.

Happy Birthday, Son!! Make me proud!

Dad

Jumping the Gun

Reports on a gaming forum leaked an addition to the latest version of Halo, and a Cheneymania medal for Shotgun proficiency:
Calmers heads have since prevailed and the award was renamed ShotGun Mania and than Open Season. With any luck it will go full circle back to Cheney. *grin*

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Farewell, Falwell

via CNN:

The Rev. Jerry Falwell has died, a Liberty University executive said Tuesday. He was 73. Earlier today, Ron Godwin, the executive vice president of Falwell's Liberty University, had said Falwell was found unresponsive around 10:45 a.m. and taken to Lynchburg General Hospital. Godwin said he was not sure what caused the collapse, but said Falwell had "a history of heart challenges."

The Reverend always seemed to find himself immersed in some controversy, but I have to believe there is good in all people, and that he was only promoting that which he felt was best for his congregation and followers.

Flash

Happy Birthday, Marine!

My Son, Tom, is 21 today. Latest word is he started celebrating as soon as the clock struck midnight. I hope to talk to him later today, if he ever wakes up *laughing*

Tom is currently in Miramar training for his next mission. If I find out more details, I will share.



Proud Daddy Flash

No Tube

Following the lead of a variety of other organizations, both public and private sector, the Defense Departments blocks YouTube and MySpace:

DENVER -- Soldiers serving overseas will lose some of their online links to friends and loved ones back home under a Department of Defense policy that a high-ranking Army official said would take effect Monday.

The Defense Department will begin blocking access "worldwide" to YouTube, MySpace and 11 other popular Web sites on its computers and networks, according to a memo sent Friday by Gen. B.B. Bell, the U.S. Forces Korea commander.

The policy is being implemented to protect information and reduce drag on the department's networks, according to Bell.

"This recreational traffic impacts our official DoD network and bandwidth ability, while posing a significant operational security challenge," the memo said.

This is a double edge sword. Where I understands the bandwidth issue, which is why St. Paul Schools has blocked YouTube specifically, I can appreciate the need or desire for soldiers overseas to use these sites to communicate with their friends and loved ones. As tours get automatically extended, you would think that these brave young men and women would be provided with appropriate options to stay in touch.

If the restrictions are intended to prevent soldiers from giving or receiving bad news, they could also prevent them from providing positive reports from the field, said Noah Shachtman, who runs a national security blog for Wired Magazine.

"This is as much an information war as it is bombs and bullets," he said. "And they are muzzling their best voices."

So what might look good on paper, may turn out to be stifling some of our better informational outlets.

Lets see what happens on this one.

Flash

Mothers' Day

I fine Mothers day tribute at Green Tea MN. It is a portion of a Eulogy given at a Mother's funeral.

Today is the age of Angels.
All over the world there is becoming a magical
awakening to the fact, there really are angels

Those of you that knew Gladys were witness to that fact. I think of her as the littlest angel, the wittiest one, the busiest, the one who giggles the most, the one who is the most fun to be around. She was young at Heart.

(skipping personal things)

This Angel left us many gifts. She left her children and grandchildren the gift of a great sense of humor, a warm acceptance of all people no matter what color or creed.
She left all of us the gift of friendship. This earth angel, the littlest angel has only passed on and she is waiting for us. I believe she is saying:

"Live life to the fullest and you will find that the greatest gift is our relationship with others."

Have a great Mothers' Day. I'll be sneaking out to my Mom's later this afternoon. You all should too!

Flash

Fish Wrap Factory

The Cucking Stool was 'Spot' on in their analysis of the Grim Ridder. The pup commented on the recent employee purge at Fish Wrap Factory, West side of the river (© Dan Cole):

It is starting to look like the Grim Ridder not only wants to kill the body of the Star Tribune newspaper, he wants to steal its soul, too. Two experienced newspapermen identified as progressives—by the spittle-flecked boys at Powerline, anyway—will be leaving the paper. Both have long been on the head-hunting list of local conservative bloggers.

Spot is fun to read, so go check it out.

I am more concerned about losing 'Websearch', one of Randy Salas' must read offerings. At this rate, there won't be much left except the comics and box scores, and I can get them online.

Flash

Happy Birthday!

Today, Minnesota turns 149 and begins the year long Sesquicentennial celebration.

Transportation Tango

Sack is the best, you know:

The Longest Tour

The First Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division just may hold the longevity badge for deployment in Iraq:

A National Guard that includes more than 2,000 Minnesotans could become the longest-serving National Guard unit in the Iraq war.

The Commander of the First Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division says his troops could remain in Iraq until August 1. That would result in a 22-month tour for the unit.

The unit was due to come home in March.

I've been hawkish through this war against terror, but I am becoming more and more frustrated with how the war is being navigated, and how the troops are being worn thin. This has to call into question our readiness at home and abroad.

The President has said he will turn over security of Iraq to the Iraqi people in November. I plan on holding him to that and then I expect to see a redeployment plan. More and more war proponents are expecting to see a change soon. I am becoming one of those who may expect something sooner, rather than later.

Flash

How Low Can He Go!

via Newsweek:

It’s hard to say which is worse news for Republicans: that George W. Bush now has the worst approval rating of an American president in a generation, or that he seems to be dragging every ’08 Republican presidential candidate down with him. But According to the new NEWSWEEK Poll, the public’s approval of Bush has sunk to 28 percent, an all-time low for this president in our poll, and a point lower than Gallup recorded for his father at Bush Sr.’s nadir.33

And how does the President's low approvals effect the Republican nominee:

Obama beats the leading Republicans by larger margins than any other Democrat: besting Giuliani 50 to 43 percent, among registered voters; beating McCain 52 to 39 percent, and defeating Romney 58 percent to 29 percent.

Like Obama, Edwards defeats the Republicans by larger margins than Clinton does: the former Democratic vice-presidential nominee outdistances Giuliani by six points, McCain by 10 and Romney by 37, the largest lead in any of the head-to-head matchups. Meanwhile, Sen. Clinton wins 49 percent to 46 percent against Giuliani, well within the poll’s margin of error; 50 to 44 against McCain; and 57 to 35 against Romney.

It is just a moment in time, multiple months out from the General. But you have to be sweating it if your are anywhere to the Right of the spectrum.

Flash

Prom Night

My Senior on his Prom night. He gets a double Prom, tonight is his, tomorrow is hers.

Here is a snapshot of the fetching couple.

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Expanding the SoroSphere

Another dot to connect. The Iowa Independent has launched. Yet another addition to the ever expanding SoroSphere, if you buy into that fiction. Personally, I think it is another great moment in independent journalism.

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Perpetual Surge?!?

The President said in January, during his surge speech, that he would turn over the security of Iraq to the Iraqi people in November of this year. Why is it so difficult to acknowledge what should happen next?

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Godspeed, Wally!

Wally Schirra has passed:

He was the only astronaut who flew in three of the nation's pioneering space programs: Mercury, Gemini and Apollo.

NASA selected Schirra as one of the first group of astronauts, along with Gordon Cooper, Scott Carpenter, John Glenn, Alan Shepard, Gus Grissom and Deke Slayton.

He flew on the fifth Project Mercury flight, orbiting the Earth six times on October 3, 1962, and was commander of the Gemini 6 flight, which launched December 15, 1965.

Schirra was commander of Apollo 7, the first manned flight of the Apollo spacecraft and the Saturn 1B rocket. He and crew mates Walter Cunningham and Donn Eisele successfully checked all the Apollo systems during the 11-day mission that launched October 11, 1968.

Scott Carpenter and John Glenn are the two surviving members of the original 7

From left to right, back row they are Alan Shepard, Virgil "Gus" Grissom and L. Gordon Cooper; front row, Walter Schirra, Donald "Deke" Slayton, John Glenn and Scott Carpenter.

Senate Class of 2008

The Fix douses The Hills thought that the RNC Senatorial committee is in trouble:

the history of the past two election cycles shows that the field of Senate candidates is usually not settled until late in the off-year, if not well into the actual election year.

At this time in the 2006 cycle, just three of Democrats' top-tier candidates -- Bob Casey Jr. (Pa.), Amy Klobuchar (Minn.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (R.I.) -- were declared candidates. Two others -- Bernie Sanders (Vt.) and Jon Tester (Mont.) -- had declared by the end of May 2005. But other candidates who went on to win in '06, including Jim Webb (Va.), Sherrod Brown (Ohio) and Claire McCaskill (Mo.), waited until late 2005 or even early 2006 before making clear that they would run.

Jump back an additional cycle to 2004, when Republicans had arguably their best recruiting class in decades. Three top-teir candidates had declared by May 2003 -- Johnny Isakson (Ga.), Richard Burr (N.C.) and Jim DeMint (S.C.). But Mel Martinez (Fla.) and John Thune (S.D.) didn't declare until January 2004, and Tom Coburn wasn't in the race until March 2004.

The point here is simply that it is WAY too early to even attempt to make any predictions. I believe both sides recognize that the Dems are in better shape. The GOP needs to take close inventory of their probable tactics going into the '08 election season, especially as it relates to their thin stable of Presidential hopefuls.
While the Left has two competent and qualified candidates at the top, two more knocking on their door, and a variety of third tier options, they are hedged pretty well. The Right can't say the same.

The fix does, however, go into some analysis of a few of the key races, state by state. Here is their take on Minnesota:

MINNESOTA: Comedian Al Franken and wealthy attorney Mike Ciresi are in the race to challenge incumbent Sen. Norm Coleman (R). Franken has the name identification and fund raising prowess to make a serious run against Coleman, but there are concerns about how some of his past statements will play in Minnesota. Ciresi funded his own race in 2000 but lost the primary to another self-funder -- former Sen. Mark Dayton (D-Minn.). Not a perfect situation but a good one for Democrats.

Unlike Kennedy, who really never had a chance, Coleman has been playing the moderate dance well enough to remain competitive. As much as those on the Left despise him, the Senator has done just enough to remain in relatively good favor with the MN Moderate electorate. This race is Coleman's to loose. However, that might be one of the very few brights spots for the National Republicans. As you look at the seats that are up, it still looks like the Dems are set for some more gains.

Flash

Cheaters

via the STRIB:

Why listen to music on an iPod when you can download notes or dictation into it, pretend you're listening to music and cheat on a final exam?

Actually, it is an interesting article pointing at the reality that is time. These students tend to spend more time and effort getting out of something then they would spend if they jsut did it the correct and honorable way.

Flash

Al-Masri's Dead?!?

via WaPo:

Tuesday, May 1, 2007; 7:10 AM

BAGHDAD -- Iraqi officials have received reports that the leader of al-Qaida in Iraq was killed by Sunni tribesmen, but the chief government spokesman said Tuesday the information has not been confirmed.

The statement by spokesman Ali al-Dabbagh followed a welter of reports from other Iraqi officials that Abu Ayyub al-Masri had been killed. Iraqi officials have released similar reports in the past, only to acknowledge later they were inaccurate.

U.S. officials said they could not confirm the reported death.

On one hand, they are probably a dozen of his type waiting in line to assume his role. But as we pick on each and everyone of these criminals, their talent pool is dwindling!

Flash

Presidential Primping

via Cagle:

Dem Debate in South Carolina

Tonight we will begin to see whom in the Democratic field is a Presidential contender . . . or pretender:

"People are going to be able to see these candidates face to face for the first time and start to evaluate them," said Joe Erwin, chairman of the South Carolina Democratic Party. "Each candidate has supporters, but a lot of people are still shopping."

While the media focuses on Obama and Clinton with a hat tip to Edwards, the other five prospects have a chance to show their stuff:

Five other contenders who are trying to elbow their way into the top tier also will participate -- Gov. Bill Richardson of New Mexico, Sens. Christopher Dodd of Connecticut and Joseph Biden of Delaware, Ohio Rep. Dennis Kucinich and former Sen. Mike Gravel of Alaska.

I suspect that after tonight, a gorge will be created between the top and the bottom. It will be interesting to see if one of the 'five' can jump that crevice before it gets to daunting.

WHAT: South Carolina 2008 Democratice Presidential Debate
WHO: All Eight Candidates
WHERE: Orangeburg, South Carolina on the SC State Campus
WHEN: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM Central Time
TV: MSNBC will have live coverage including pre and post debate analysis.

Flash

UPDATE: I have the TIVO set up, as I have a prior commitment since it is the annual SPIF (St. Paul Issues Forum) Membership Meeting tonight. However, The Fix will be there live-blogging. They have isolated each candidates' status and challenges going into the debate. Here is a sample:

Bill Richardson: As anyone who has spent any time with Richardson knows, the New Mexico governor is immensely personable and charming. And as anyone who has spent any time with Richardson also knows, he tends to go off message rather regularly -- much to the chagrin of his campaign advisers. All of those traits are likely to be on display tonight. Richardson needs to use this debate (and the myriad others scheduled in the coming months) to show viewers that he belongs in the first tier with Edwards, Obama and Clinton. How can he do that? By highlighting his experience as a chief executive (the only one left in the field) and contrasting what the three senators have said versus what he has done.

Testing Tangle

We finished the new online testing yesterday. This was a high maintenance journey to comply with a new testing instrument specifically for ELL (English Language Learners). The first day last week was filled with issues, but the succeeding days everything smoothed out. Yesterday, my lab ran virtually flawlessly. The other, larger lab, hit some bumps at the beginning of the process, but later smoothed out to complete the task.

It appears that other districts had far greater problems than we had:

Computer problems forced the shutdown of the new online statewide test in Minnesota this week, when one-fourth of the school districts using the test couldn't run the program.

The problem involved the alternative state math test for 26,000 English as a Second Language students.

The test malfunctioned in 26 of the 99 school districts using it, according to Minnesota Department of Education spokesman Randy Wanke.

The instrument itself is a great concept, but poorly designed. The very rudimental process of scrambling the questions so students weren't sitting next to each other on the same question was not in the code. Maybe when the government imposes these mandates they will include some Educational techno geeks to be part of the process. Education Commissioner Alice Seagren, have your people contact my people, I have some changes and adjustments in mind.

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Best Of . . .

The annual Spring ritual is upon us. City Pages has released their Best of the Twin Cities for 2007.

CONGRATULATIONS to Spot and MNObserver for capturing the "BEST LOCALLY GENERATED BLOG (LEFT-WING)" says CP:

Written by an anthropomorphized Dalmatian from Edina named Spot, and MNObserver, a lawyer and mother from St. Paul, the Cucking Stool delivers its partisan bons mots with humor, bordering on partisan snark but tempered by the self-deprecating notion that the author poops in the backyard and drinks out of a toilet. Spot, that is—not MNObserver.

No word yet on when they will ever add a Best Blog for us Moderates.

Others of Note:
BEST ARCHITECTUAL TIME CAPSULE:St. Paul Union Depot: Worth a walk through anytime you are nearby. The Light Rail had hoped to revitalize this historic landmark. However, recent cost cutting options may for the LRT line to stop short of the intended end of the line at the Union Depot.

BEST BOONDOGGLE
Corn ethanol: I wonder what Tom, at Sky Blue Waters, will say about this one.

BEST PLACE TO PEOPLE-WATCH
Minnehaha Park on a warm spring day: No out of town visitor to my house is allwowed to return home without a visit to the Falls and a walk down to the river. And for a double bonus, guess where the BEST FISHING HOLE (URBAN) is!

BEST SCANDAL
Norm Coleman Sr.'s special delivery: The behavior of poppy should have no bearing on Juniors re-eletion efforts. However, if his party was fifferent, it would, cause that is just how the Right works.

I didn't have time to go through them all this AM. So expect me to highlight items from some of the other catgegories as time permits.


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Buy Bill Sell John

via The Billings Gazette:

This is partly an expectations game. McCain was long considered the Republican frontrunner, so when he trailed both Rudy Giuliani and Mitt Romney in the fundraising sweepstakes, the whiff of disappointment was unmistakable. McCain only aggravated the anxiety surrounding his campaign by firing staffers and re-organizing his finance team.

Richardson, on the other hand, has long been relegated to second-tier status, so his money numbers marked a surprising success. And then, in an unscientific but widely noticed straw poll, conducted by the grassroots organization MoveOn.org, Richardson finished second to John Edwards.

and then they lay it out for everyone to see:

Gubernatorial advantage

Bill Richardson will turn 60 next fall and seems full of energy. In recent months he has traveled to Darfur and North Korea on diplomatic missions, which underscores the fact that he has actually held more government posts than any candidate in either party.

Congressman, cabinet secretary, U.N. ambassador and now, two-term governor. And remember, we elect governors, not senators. In the past 30 years four governors have won the presidency; in our entire history, only two senators have accomplished that feat.

I am really liking this guy more and more everyday.

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News IQ Correlation

A recent Pew Research Study sampled the "Public Knowledge of Current Affairs". They then went a step further and correlated that with the preferred news source of the individuals. The results may surprise you, or not!:

Yeap, the most savvy on current events watched . . wait for it . . . The Daily Show and the Colbert Report. And what comes as no shock to me, is what those on the lower end of the Current Events IQ scale are watching; FoxNews.

Flash

A Day of Mourning

The West Virginia Blogger created a list of the victims with their MySpace pages. I have posted that list below. Please visit WV Blogger for complete details and updates.

Today we mourn, for tomorrow we must begin to heal our hearts and work together as a community to cure that which ills our society.

Maxine Turner, Vienna, Va.
Senior, Chemical Engineering

Henry Lee; Roanoke, Va.
Freshman, Computer Engineering

Matt La Porte, Dumont, N.J.
Freshman, University Studies

Christopher J. Bishop, 35 yr. old Georgia Native
Instructor, Foreign Languages and Literatures (German)

G.V. Loganathan, 51 yrs. old from Chennai India
Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering

Juan Ortiz, 26 yrs. old from Puerto Rico
Graduate Student, Civil Engineering

Jarrett Lane, 22 yrs. old from Narrows, Va.
Senior, Civil Engineering

Ryan “stack” Clark, 22 yrs. old from Martinez, Ga.
Senior, Biology, English, Psychology

Leslie Sherman
Sophomore, History and International Studies

Caitlin Hammaren, 19 yrs. old from Westtown, NY
Sophomore, International Studies and French

Liviu Librescu| alternate page, 76 yr old Israel native and holocaust survivor
Professor, Engineering Science & Mechanics

Kevin Granata
Professor, Engineering Science; Mechanics

Reema Samaha, Centreville, Va.
Freshman

Emily Hilscher, 19 yrs old from Woodville, Va.
Freshman, Animal and Poultry Sciences, Equine Science

Ross Abdallah Alameddine, 19 yrs. old from Saugus, Mass.
English Major

Mary Karen Read , 19 yrs. old from Annandale, Va.

Daniel O’Neil, from Lincoln, R.I.

Julia Pryde, 23 yrs. old from Middletown, N.J.
Department of Biological Sciences grad student

Daniel Perez Cueva, 21 yrs. old from Peru
Studying International relations

Jocelyne Couture-Nowak, from Montreal
French language teacher

Jeremy Herbstritt, 27 yrs. old from Johnstown, Penn.
Grad student studying civil engineering.

Austin Cloyd, Majoring in international studies.

Brian Bluhm, 25 yrs. old from Winchester, Va.
Master’s student in water resources.

Lauren McCain, 20 yrs. old
International studies major

Michael Pohle, 23 yrs. old from Flemington, N.J.
Degree in biological sciences.

Rachel Elizabeth Hill, 18 yrs. old

Erin Peterson, from Centreville, Va.

Minal Panchal, 26 yrs. old from Mumbai, India
Grad student in building Sciences

Waleed Shaalan, In his late 20's from Egypt
Engineering

Nicole Regina White, 20 yrs. old from Carrollton, Va.
International studies; German

Matthew G. Gwaltney, 24 yrs. old from Chester, Va.
Grad student in civil and environmental engineering

Partahi Lombantoruan, 34 yrs. old from Indonesia
Civil engineering doctoral student

Darkness before Sunlight

I was pointed to the Sunlight Foundation yesterday to learn that a Senator has placed one of those double secret holds on a piece of legislation. The legislation is simple, and cures an outdated ill of the Senate's current FEC reporting process. WaPo explains:

Instead of filing forms electronically, as candidates for president do, senators print their reports and deliver them to the clerk's office. The staff scans them into a computer so they can be electronically transmitted to the Federal Election Commission. The FEC then prints the forms again and hires workers to type the data into a database so it can finally be made public online.

You would think the party of small efficient government would embrace this upgrade in procedure. However, that is not what is happening:

(B)efore Feingold's bill could move forward, Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) rose and announced, "Mr. President, on behalf of a Republican senator, I object."

Steven Weissman, a Campaign finance reform advocate, paints a pretty clear picture:

"Secrecy is being used to reinforce secrecy."

Ahhhh . . . the New GOP, what's good for the goose, shouldn't apply to the gander!

Flash

More Media Missteps

I watched ESPN this morning. Usually I have CNN on, or the CBS morning show. Unfortunately it is all Cho all the time. I grieve for the victims and families of Virginia Tech, and wish the Media would spend as much time telling us about their lives. But that is not to be. With the 'package' received by NBC, this crazed lunatic, Cho, is receiving the glory he so desperately searched.

I was embarrassed for us when I saw his double fisted weaponry displayed on the front page of the Strib, and cringe as much now as I did the first time they played his Video Manifesto.

My comments about the Imus fluff pointed out my dismay that the media was more to blame for thrusting those despicable comments into the public domain. And now I am even more perturbed that NBC and the rest of the mainstream press are giving this crazy man the amount of face time they are. It is only queuing up the next dick head who now knows how to fill your TV screens.

If you still aren't sure where I am coming from, this graphic should clinch it for you. It was drawn during the I-mess, but is just as valid today, and most likely in the future as well!


Flash

V Tech Tragedy

We've all heard of the horror at Virginia Tech by now. Filling the morning shows are updates of the nightmare, and the desire by various public institutions to re-evaluate their security plans.

Yesterday, Mitch at SitD, posted 'My Advice To My Kids'. Several of his comments made sense. The basic premise was to run and run fast as it is harder to hit a moving target. But he carries it a bit too far when he suggests that students should ignore lock down policies. My comment:

There is a variety of reason that a lock down is preferred. You never know if there is someone sitting outside ready to pick you off as you hop out that window, and there is no telling what is going on in the halls. We are to lock down, go to the safest area away from the door so we are not seen and we have the lights off. We are to not open the door or answer it for anyone INCLUDING the principal. For you to even hint at creating a panic where kids should run rampant in an attempt to ‘escape’ is unfortunate.

Hindsight is always 20/20, and after each event like this, lock down rules are reviewed and procedures adjusted to provide the safest environment possible for the kids.

My heart and prayers go out to the victims of this tragedy along with courage to the administrators throughout the country who are now tasked with making us all safer in this fluid world we live in.

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WaPo World

My Internet is down at home. The beginning of a transition to a new ISP. I still don't have the software, yet, so I am hoping it comes in todays mail or I will be dead in the water another day. We can't have that now, can we!

I am leaving the confines of my local ISP (TCQ.net) to sign on with the MSN/Qwest package. I'll jump from 256k DSL to 1.5 Mbp and it will be a dollar less than what the combination of Qwest/TCQ was. Seems like a no brainer, providing they can get me online with minimal down time.

So here are some WaPo link to bide your time and hopfully later today I'll have more time after getting my new connection up and running.

Poll shows Attorney firings were political:

Two thirds of Americans, including a narrow majority of Republicans, see political motivations behind last year's firings of eight chief federal prosecutors. But the nation is deeply divided along partisan lines about whether Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales should lose his job over the scandal.

Obama raised more, but Hillary has more:

Sen. Barack Obama raised more money than Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton for their Democratic primary clash during the first three months of the year, but Clinton heads into spring with more in her campaign account than all Republican presidential candidates combined.

and finally, a lead in to Tax day. Unpaid taxes Tough to Recover:

Judging from his tax returns, Dinh Kim Huynh wasn't getting rich in the manicure business. In 2000, Huynh and his wife claimed taxable income of just $7,578 from their two nail salons in Southern Maryland -- so little that they qualified for a tax credit for the working poor. Their tax bill was $195.

But like millions of American business owners who trade primarily in cash, Huynh was not altogether honest with the Internal Revenue Service. When IRS agents poked around, they discovered four cars in Huynh's name, including a $77,000 Mercedes; receipts for diamonds and Rolexes in a closet at his Waldorf home; and a videotape of Huynh flashing a five-carat ring during the purchase of yet another vehicle at a local Honda dealership, court records show.

Hatch raised a similar issue with the loopholes in corporate taxes and off shore escapes. Before the state, or federal Government for that matter, roll the dice on a knee jerk tax increase, they should build legislation tightening the loopholes that allow for the Corporate escape and Huynh's of the world.

That should keep you busy for a while.

Flash

Ward 4 Convention Coverage

I thought of poking my nose into Hancock for the 4th Ward's endorsing convention. I really should get more involved in local politics, but the far left elements of the city stray far from my more grounded left leaning moderacy. Maybe once the kids are out of the house that will free up my schedule a bit.

There is GREAT blogosphere coverage of the event at MNBlue. For a more cynical perspective, give Wege a visit (Part 1, Part 2). He doesn't hold anything back. Would you expect anything different from him *laughing*.

Flash

Imus in Toon

This one is the most consistent with what I have been feeling about this whole kerfluffle:

Which should not deter from the fact that what Imus said was simply despicable. But I believe it was a commentor at SitD who said some thing like

"A shock Jock says something shocking and everyone is shocked?!?"

However, this final snapshot is the best rendering of the current state of this issue:

The rest are here.

Flash

What Liberal Media?!

Strib Headline: County DFL fined over Hatch lawn signs

The Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board ordered the Lac qui Parle County DFL and its treasurer to pay $3,000 apiece for violating six campaign reporting regulations.

7 total paragraphs all BUT one talking about the fine and allegations against Mike Hatch and others. What is in that sole paragraph at the end of the story:

Separately, the board fined the state Republican Party $3,000 for using the wrong disclaimer on a brochure produced on behalf of Phil Krinkie, who was running for reelection to the state House.

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Snakes and Arrows

Rush is releasing a new album this Spring, before hitting the tour trail. Presales for the September 9th date at the Excel became available just a few moments ago. Boy did I get lucky

MAIN FLOOR, RIGHT SIDE, ROW 18

Man am I pumped!!

Flash

Gov. Richardson in North Korea

Presidential hopeful, Gov. Bill Richardson, is on an administration authorized mission to North Korea to recover remains from the Korean Conflict. But the North Korean's weren't going to pass up a boasting opportunity:

PYONGYANG, North Korea (AP) -- New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson on Monday toured a U.S. warship captured by North Korea in the 1960s that is now used to inspire anti-American sentiment in the reclusive communist regime.

The North Korea colonel who served as Richardson's guide smiled as he told the governor the ship was an example of continued U.S. aggression toward his country. Richardson and his traveling companion, former Veteran Affairs Secretary Anthony Principi, were then shown bullet holes circled in red paint and a video describing the maneuvering of "brazen-faced U.S. imperialists."

The Governor commented:

"Despite the success with the remains, this is a relationship with a lot of tension, and this shows that," Richardson told reporters after the tour.

He called the Pueblo visit "a lot of propaganda, but we're guests here."

The Governor continues to display the most impressive resumé of active presidential candidates from either side of the aisle. Soon the US electorate will start to catch on and the race for the White House will become even more interesting than it already is.

Flash

The Blogger Code of Conduct

The NYTimes brings us a movement to establish a Blogger 'Code of Conduct' like this:

Chief among the recommendations is that bloggers consider banning anonymous comments left by visitors to their pages and be able to delete threatening or libelous comments without facing cries of censorship.

The current draft of the Code is posted on the Blogging Wiki:

The Bloggers Code of Conduct

We celebrate the blogosphere because it embraces frank and open conversation. But frankness does not have to mean lack of civility. We present this Blogger Code of Conduct in hopes that it helps create a culture that encourages both personal expression and constructive conversation. One can disagree without being disagreeable.

1. We take responsibility for our own words and for the comments we allow on our blog.

We are committed to the "Civility Enforced" standard: we will not post unacceptable content, and we'll delete comments that contain it.

We define unacceptable content as anything included or linked to that:

* is being used to abuse, harass, stalk, or threaten others
* is libelous, knowingly false, ad-hominem, or misrepresents another person,
* infringes upon a copyright or trademark
* violates an obligation of confidentiality
* violates the privacy of others

We define and determine what is "unacceptable content" on a case-by-case basis, and our definitions are not limited to this list. If we delete a comment or link, we will say so and explain why. [We reserve the right to change these standards at any time with no notice.]

2. We won't say anything online that we wouldn't say in person.

3. If tensions escalate, we will connect privately before we respond publicly.

When we encounter conflicts and misrepresentation in the blogosphere, we make every effort to talk privately and directly to the person(s) involved--or find an intermediary who can do so--before we publish any posts or comments about the issue.

4. When we believe someone is unfairly attacking another, we take action.

When someone who is publishing comments or blog postings that are offensive, we'll tell them so (privately, if possible) and ask them to publicly make amends. If those published comments could be construed as a threat, and the perpetrator doesn't withdraw them and apologize, we will cooperate with law enforcement to protect the target of the threat.

5. We do not allow anonymous comments.

We require commenters to supply a valid email address before they can post, though we allow commenters to identify themselves with an alias, rather than their real name.

6. We ignore the trolls.

We prefer not to respond to nasty comments about us or our blog, as long as they don't veer into abuse or libel. We believe that feeding the trolls only encourages them--"Never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty, but the pig likes it." Ignoring public attacks is often the best way to contain them.

7. We encourage blog hosts to enforce more vigorously their terms of service

When bloggers engage in such flagrantly abusive behavior as creating impersonating sites to harass other bloggers they should take responsibility for their clients' behavior.

There is also a proposal to have a range of rules:

For example, anonymous writing might be acceptable in one set; in another, it would be discouraged. Under a third set of guidelines, bloggers would pledge to get a second source for any gossip or breaking news they write about.

Bloggers could then pick a set of principles and post the corresponding badge on their page, to indicate to readers what kind of behavior and dialogue they will engage in and tolerate. The whole system would be voluntary, relying on the community to police itself.

Personally, people should do the right thing because it is the right thing to do. Problems is, there is a wide range of opinion as to what the 'right thing' is.

Flash

RIP Johnny Hart

I saw this in the funnies this AM:Turns out it was one of his last. "He died at his storyboard", yesterday:

ALBANY, New York (AP) -- Cartoonist Johnny Hart, whose award-winning "B.C." comic strip appeared in more than 1,300 newspapers worldwide, died Saturday while working at his home in Endicott, New York. He was 76.

"He had a stroke," Hart's wife, Bobby, said Sunday. "He died at his storyboard."

"B.C.," populated by prehistoric cavemen and dinosaurs, was launched in 1958 and eventually appeared in more than 1,300 newspapers with an audience of 100 million, according to Creators Syndicate Inc., which distributes it.

"He was generally regarded as one of the best cartoonists we've ever had," Hart's friend Mell Lazarus, creator of the "Momma" and "Miss Peach" comic strips, said from his California home. "He was totally original. 'B.C.' broke ground and led the way for a number of imitators, none of which ever came close."

Happy Easter v2007

via Cagle

John 11:25-26
Jesus said to her,
"I am the resurrection and the life.
He who believes in me will live,
even though he dies;
and whoever lives and believes in me
will never die.

The Other Season

What lies ahead the next 6 months:And thats just the metro map. Details are here.

Flash

Twins win, 3-0 Start

Thanks to "The Dr.", for serving up some very nice seats for the Twins game last night. Although the tix say row 7, row 1-3 is the Twins Dugout, so we were actually 4 rows back. See for your self:

Support Cursor.org

Long before many of us even knew what blogging was, Cursor was cultivating links and writing tight copy to entice you to click along. I've only recently discovered this faunt of information. Here is your chance to find out what you have been missing, and chip in a few bucks to keep them around even longer. There is a T-Shirt in it for you.

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Richardson Makes His Move

Gov. Bill Richards is beginning to distance himself from the other 2nd tier candidates. His fund raising success, and shocking victory in Presidential Madness clearly show his candidacy is credible.

Although less than the money makers at the top, Richardson's 6 million dollar effort (with 5 million in the coffers) is a boost to his candidacy:

The $6 million dollars raised by Gov. Bill Richardson of New Mexico would, in 2004, be seen as a triumph. We're impressed by the campaign's $5 million cash on hand, which indicates a low burn rate. Still, Richardson has a fully functioning policy staff -- his gubernatorial executive office -- and he spends half his time or more tending to the business of his state. So he hasn't had to spend as much money as the rest of the lot.

Says Pahl Shipley, Richardson's communications director: "We're very pleased with where we are. We're on goal, on budget, and we're in it for the duration."

The supportive comments mention many of the reason I like Bill, especially his broad based experience:

Hopefully, the rest of the country will start to discover what we New Mexicans know - Bill is the most qualified candidate in the race. Fill in this experience chart for the other candidates:
FOREIGN POLICY - UN Ambassador
DIPLOMACY - The diplomat of choice when there is a problem,i.e., North Korea, Sudan, Iraq and others.
ENERGY - Secy. of Energy and Governor of an energy-producing state who believes in conservation.
IMMIGRATION - Governor of a border state dealing with the issue daily.
ADMINISTRATOR - Running a State Government, not just a Senate office.

And another testament:

Bill Richardson may not have movie star good looks, but America isn't a movie. It's not only real, but it has real problems, problems that Bill Richardson is far and away, the best qualified to solve, not only by virtue of his leadership, qualifications and diversity of experience, but because of his honesty, candor and truthfulness he will bring to the White House. Bill will unite our Country to solve problems at home, and re-establish our moral leadership and strength around the world.

But that wasn't the only good news for the Governor this week. ProgressNowAction held there own little Final Four called Presidential Madness. The Governor was seeded 4th, top of the 2nd tier. Hilary was given the #1 slot, followed by Obama with Edwards at 3. In this non scientific poll, Richardson easily handled VP Gore in the #5 slot, and then shocked even myself by defeating the #1 seed Sen Clinton. Just when I thought that would be his peak, Bill complete the upset run by tackling Sen Obama, and it wasn't even close:

Richardson came out ahead of Illinois Senator Barack Obama by almost 20% in the final round.

This little fun and games may not be a scientific representation of the current state of the race, but it very well could be a precursor to what the future holds.

Flash

Kline Kontrols Konstituents

MN Monitor has the best coverage of John Klines 'Town Hall' event. The only controversy it seemed was the tale of two sets of rules. GOP Bloggers didn't seem to get the Meme that MN Monitor received directly from Kline's staff. No Live Blogging:

Had Jeff chosen to blog from the event via phone after being asked by the staff not to, he would have broken the rules of the event that were set out by Kline's staff to him. Obviously, you were given different rules.

Classic manipulation by the Right. Two sets of rules, for the two 'Universes' they have created. And to think that President Bush ran as a uniter not a divider. I think he has created one of the deepest chasm in political history.

Jeff Fecke of MN Monitor did file a story after the event. And it is clear he did not let his experiences with the Kline Staff effect his professional reporting of the story:

A town hall meeting held in Lakeville by Rep. John Kline, R-Minn., drew an enthusiastic and passionate crowd on Tuesday night. But strong arguments and questions from both sides of the aisle did not translate into any significant rancor.

In a two hour session, Kline heard from constituents on a variety of issues, but the Iraq war was the dominant theme from supporters and opponents alike. Constituents also highlighted concerns about union organizing, postal reorganization, education, and immigration.

While rhetoric at times grew heated, all sides remained reasonably civil, and generally behaved according to guidelines put out by both Kline's staff and by anti-war protesters.

Read the rest, it is like you were actually there.

Inside MN Politics has some early video up, with a promise of some more. Also some comments from Christopher Truscott.

Flash

UPDATE: YouTube:

Small Bump Along the Road of Life

Not long after I got home yesterday, I received a phone call from Mom. Dad's in the hospital. It doesn't sound too serious (Gall Bladder issue), but with a 77 year old man, you never know what may be serious. Other than that, he is healthy as can be and still working as a controller/accountant for a manufacturing firm. I doubt this will slow him down much, if at all.

I talked to him this AM and he was his fiesty ole self, making it clear that 'this is no fun place to be'. I'll be off in a bit to pay him a visit. Your thoughts are appreciated.

Flash

LIVEBLOG: Connecting with Government

Sen. Klobuchar has been introduced, she will be speaking on Environment and global climate change. Also in attendance is Vice President Mondale, and I did have a moment to visit briefly with famed STRIB Columnist Jim Klobuchar.

The Senator is taking a moment to review the successes of the congressional session to date, highlighting the minimum wage increase and the passing of the 9/11 commission recommendations. She shared several humorous anecdotes as her and her family make the adjustment to Beltway lifestyle.

We begin:

A Universe of Opportunities: Technology and innovations will be the key to solving our climate crisis.

Science of climate change report concluded that changes in climate are effecting biological processes. Early reports will indicate that coastlines are experiencing rising sea levels.

Weather related economic damages have increased almost $300 Billion worldwide.

This issue has left the scientists and science labs and into the conversations of every day individuals. There is an outpouring of support for change. Even business leaders are stepping forward and demanding actions seeking tangible results.

New leadership against the fight of global warming, specifically the 2025 legislation. Governor's from 5 Western states are working together.

Taking Action:
- Establish a 'Cap and Trade' system
- Create a Carbon Counter
- Strengthen energy efficiency and conservation efforts
- Promote greater vehicle efficiency
- Promote renewable energy
- Harness the potential of the agriculture sector to develop renewable energy
- Lead the International community

(Franken is here)

Ethanol has proven to be one of the great successes in Minnesota's economy.

(Tom from Sky Blue Waters is here. Also Michael Brodkorb from MDE, along with Jeff Fecke from BotML/MN Monitor)

The address has concluded. Very informative and filled with specifics. I am still one of those who think we should promote energy efficiency and conservation because it is the right thing to do, not necessarily spend time arguing whether Global Climate change is real, or just a cyclical weather pattern we are experiencing as our planet evolves. The Center, along with Larry Jacobs, are now seated at center stage, away from the podium to have a 'conversation' and take questions from the audience.

Via Jeff:

12:47--Says that according to Xcel, energy efficiency can be achieved with no rate increase. Also notes that DuPont saved billions by reducing greenhouse emissions. And that unchecked global warming would have devastating effects to the economy.

Amy states she is a big fan of allowing the states to act, but that we need Federal standards as well. Recognizes growth in regional mass transit and pumps commuter rail, specifically the North Star.

Question on the competition that bio fuels will have on the food supply: As we get more and more refined in our technology, we will get better at increasing output. We need to go down this road smartly and gradually. We need to be aware of the environmental effects. We need to build on those as we move on to the next stage. So many of our farmers have diversified.

When asked what people can do now, the Senator mentions the rally on April 14 (Noon - 4:00) at the Captol.

I'll have some closing remarks later this afternoon.

Flash

Connecting with Government

I have been invited to sit in Blogger's row for the inaugural lecture of the 'Center for the Study of Politics and Governance'; Connecting with Government series. Senator Klobuchar will be doing the kick off. Others slated for the series include:

Congresswoman Betty McCollum
Monday, April 9, 2007
Noon - 1:00 p.m.

Congressman Tim Walz
Thursday, April 12, 2007
10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Congressman Jim Ramstad
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Noon - 1:30 p.m.

Although I will have live access at the site, watch for my comments later int he afternoon, or tomorrow morning.

Flash

To the Press Box in the Sky

Herb Carneal, the voice of the Twins since 1962, is gone. A legend in Minnesota sport's broadcasting has passed.

I remember Ray Scott more for his network experiences, but I grew up with Halsey Hall and Herb Carneal. As I reached my teen years, Hall retired, and Herb become the stalwart.
I almost always have the radio tuned in to the Twins, but especially for those home games to catch Herb and his calls. In 1998, he had downsized himself to limited duty, but that didn't effect his delivery.

The final voice of my youth has been silenced. With the move to KSTP, this season was already going to have a different feel to it on the airwaves. But now that Herb is gone, it won't ever be the same.

Flash

Tapping Mayor RyeBock

My regular downtown haunt, Rock Bottom Brewery, will be tapping a special recipe this evening (Thursday; 3/29/07). In honor of the Mayor of Minneapolis, they are introducing RT RyeBock.

No word on whether the mayor himself will be there, but I would be surprised if he wasn't. Nevertheless, The Doctor and I will be in attendance.

Tapping is at 6:00. If you make it down, ask any of the bartenders where 'Flash' is, they will know where I am hiding.

Flash

07-08 SPPS School Calendar

The most recent draft of next year's school calendar finally incorporates a change that I have advocated for some time. St. Paul, due to the proximity of the School Bus Garage to the State Fair Grounds, is virtually forced to start school the Tuesday after Labor Day. Fair traffic is a challenge already. To even consider having buses maneuver in that area, especially in the afternoon, is simply not feasible. Because of that, School has been running until mid June, this year getting out on June 13th.

I have always thought 2 weeks off for the holiday break was excessive. Another myth involving the Holiday break is that although staff is forced to take those two weeks off, they only get paid for one of them. Not a great time of year to get half a pay check. The most significant change in the proposed adjustment to the 07/08 calendar is to trim the holiday break to 7 days, instead of 10. This helps, shift the end of the school year to a more reasonable June 5th date.

I'll be watching to see if this common sense calendar adjustment makes it to the final version.

Flash

Senate Race Rumor Mongering

I am hearing rumblings that Speaker of the House Kelliher just might dip her toes in the US Senate race waters. Curious as to what my readers may think of:

A) the likelihood of this happening, and

B) her chances.

Flash