Very well laid out! (0.00 / 0)

I look forward to seeing the responses.

Marc

---

by: msc22777 @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 20:15:42 PM UTC

Baker HQ at work (4.50 / 6)

How obvious is this that Baker HQ (a) wrote/directed this (b) has put together a team to comment?  Where were all of these pro-Baker people in the Cahill and Transgender posts earlier?  I suspect today at Baker HQ went something like this:

(Phone Ringing)

Baker HQ:  Hello.

Caller:  Ahhh, guys, you may want to check out RMG.

Baker HQ:  Oh, those annoying conservatives are at it again?  Which of our ultra liberal progressive positions are they upset about now?

Caller:  I think you may have a situation on your hands there.  The "Tim Cahill" post has 116 posts w/in 24 hours and there are only about 2 people supporting Baker over Cahill.  And the "Bathroom Bill" post turned into a referendum on Tisei in about a minute and a half and only one guy is defending him and even he is having trouble doing it with a straight face.

Baker HQ:  Hmmmm, just logged on, I see what you mean.  Maybe our annoying banner ad of Charlie's face is pissing them off? God I hate this site.  What is wrong with these people?  They seem to actually be standing up for the principles in the Republican platform.  We need to do a better job of pushing our message, "Charlie will return us to the good old days of Bill Weld"!!!

Caller:  Ahhhh, I think they sick of the "Weld model" that has decimated the Republican Party and stands for none of the values they believe in.

Baker HQ:  Ok.  In that case, let's start a new thread on RMG where we'll try to reshape the debate and stop the relentless beating we are taking on the other two threads.  Call up everyone we have on payroll or who wants a job in our administration, and tell them to defend Charlie from these evil conservatives..............

SERIOUSLY: Where were all of these Baker backers over the last couple of days on the other two threads!  Do you REALLY need us to explain to you again why we are not interested in this ultra far left, country club, arrogant Republican ticket?  A ticket that collectively HID in the Scott Brown election until very late in the game when it was to THEIR benefit to be seen with Scott?

I'm not going to waste my time telling you why I'm not with Charlie again, but I'm happy to restate what I said in the Cahill post yesterday:

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

I put off my decision on this race off until after the Brown election in which I worked non-stop for Brown after the primary.  I was looking for a reason to get on board with Baker.  I know he did a fundraiser late in the race and sent out a GOTV email the night before the election, but I talked with many of Brown's campaign folks and they all said he didn't even want to been seen w/ Scott until it was clear it was benefiting Charlie.

The final straw was watching Charlie shake hands at Brown's victory party at the Copley Plaza -- as if Baker had anything whatsoever to do with Brown's victory!  Even though I already had my mind made up, the audacity of that made my decision easier....

I am supporting Cahill in this race.  My first time ever not supporting the Republican ticket.

Cahill has a demonstrated record of fiscal conservatism that I'd put up against Baker's record of fiscal (mis)management (A&F Secretary in charge of overseeing the Big Dig during the critical time for controlling costs).

Baker comes across as an aloof and arrogant CEO (his blowing off the WBZ reporter (see the link someone attached in the this thread) asking the "What about Cahill question" after his Faneuil Hall Rally reminded me EXACTLY OF MARTHA COAKLEY AND HOW SHE BLEW OFF PEOPLE WHO ASKED QUESTIONS SHE DIDN'T WANT TO ANSWER!  Seriously, how arrogant was that?  And Baker slapping hands at the beginning of his event looked like an earthworm trying to juggle.  The guy is about as opposite a "man of the people" as you could ask for.

Moreover, Cahill's pick of a conservative (Metrowest)Republican like Loscocco shows Cahill is not afraid to reach out to social conservatives and Baker's pick of Tisei showed that he most certainly IS.  I've thought about just trying to recruit someone to run agains Tisei in the primary, but then the more I thought about it, if Tisei represents the direction Baker wants to take the Republican Party, why would I want to support him either?

Christy ran last time as an Independent, so it's not like supporting him makes me feel like I'm fulfilling any duty to support the "Republican" candidate.  Not to mention the fact that I just don't see Christy as Governor....

Fact is that Independents won Brown this election, and a lot of the new activists I met along the way were excited about Cahill and Loscocco leaving their parties to work on the state's problems.

The Independent ticket will be better for Republicans and conservatives, including Senator Brown, running for office at the end of the day than Baker/Tisei -- which other than "talking" about being fiscal conservatives, as a ticket represents 0% of the Republican platform.

Baker had a chance to fight alongside Brown and elect a U.S. SENATOR and he PASSED (and hid) until it was to HIS benefit -- if he wouldn't help a conservative running for U.S. SENATE what does this mean for conservatives running for state rep????????

So, there you have it:  Cahill for Governor

---

by: massgop5 @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 02:53:49 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Link to my Baker/Coakley reference -- see Charlie impersonate Martha at the 1:45 mark (5.00 / 1)

http://wbztv.com/video/?id=860...

Who does this remind you of?  How arrogant is this?

---

by: massgop5 @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 03:03:18 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

helping you further understand: liberalbaker.wordpress.com (0.00 / 0)

Also from yesterday's thread:

Here is another link with a great compilation of reasons to "help you understand" why NOT Baker/Tisei:

http://liberalbaker.wordpress.com/

I didn't even know half these reasons when I wrote my post or I would have included them.  Some of this stuff is literally unbelieveable but it all seems to be cited to credible references.

---

by: massgop5 @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 03:58:16 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Well, we can agree (0.00 / 1)

Yep, in an otherwise good event this was a bad way to handle to question. It wasn't as bad as Martha as Charlie's staff didn't assault the reporter afterward; however, he should have responded. And, I hope he does so in the future.

Does this 1 misstep mean he's running a Coakleyesque campaign? Of course not. He's been running hard from the day he announced and meeting with voters across the state. He hasn't been hold up somewhere taking voters for granted. This is his 1st campaign at anywhere near this level and I'm willing to give him a mulligan on this one.  

On twitter @bfrivers

---

by: brivers @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 12:19:38 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

If any of us had a clue (0.00 / 0)

we should have just boycotted this post.  You're damn right this is straight outta BakerHQ.

I am wicked awesome!

---

by: Awesome Republican @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 03:09:59 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Over/Under on RMG accounts linked to Baker HQ's IP Address (2.33 / 3)

Baker HQ can't be excited about RMG's newly announced policy re limiting 2 accounts per IP address:  http://www.redmassgroup.com/di...

In the spirit of the Superbowl, anyone want to do an over/under on how many RMG accounts are linked to the IP address at Baker HQ and the Mass GOP (satellite office of Baker HQ....just don't tell Christy)

Not sure what to start the over/under at...25? 50?....there's some likely candidates just today alone (see below)!

---

by: massgop5 @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 05:41:57 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

You're wrong on a few accounts (5.00 / 1)

First off, I don't work for Baker and while I do support him nobody from the campaign asked me to write this. I'm insulted that you think I can't author my own posts ;) Heck, you can check my IP address all you want. It's well outside of Boston.

Secondly, Charlie backed Scott from the start. The first time I saw Charlie speak was in early December (well before the campaign took off) and he talked up Scott. Obviously, he was also doing it later on to a much fuller extent.

Thirdly, Charlie has helped and plans to help GOPers of all stripes who are running in my area. While I can't personally attest to other parts of the state, I'm pretty sure this support isn't only for my area.  

Now I didn't write anything on the Cahill thread because it exploded over the weekend, and I was sick or with a sick kid all this weekend. By the time I checked RMG, I felt that my comments were best made as a new post. Sorry if I violated any blog etiquette on that one.  

On twitter @bfrivers

---

by: brivers @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 12:14:13 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Happy to Help Mr. Brivers! (5.00 / 2)

It has nothing to do with Charlie's stance on the social issues.  We Socons were pleased as punch to have a bright, articulate, successful candidate like Baker.  During an awful time to be red, we figured anything would be better than Deval Patrick, given how liberal he is.

When Baker picked Tisei, who is an advocate for social liberalism, he changed that.  Tisei is MORE LIBERAL than Deval Patrick and that's saying something.  That is the problem.

Scott Brown is socially moderate.  But, he favors informed consent legislation, doesn't support public funding of arbortions and conscience clause protection (i.e., religious exemption). He also voted to let the people vote on the definition of marriage.

Richard Tisei is actually the opposite.  He supports public funding of Planned Parenthood.  No Republican should support public funding of anything--it increases the state budget, but Dicky Tisei does.

It's great that you pose these questions and bring in the issue of unity.  My guess is you're not so much asking the question but working for the Baker campaign, well, probably volunteering in a big capacity.

Lastly, who cares about the income tax rate and 5%--it will never go back there unless House & Senate Democrats go along with it--so who cares if the Governor is for it.  The last 4 R Govs were in favor of the rollback and it went nowhere!  Since when did we become single issue voters--fixated on the tax rollback as the defining (failing) centerpiece of the GOP?

Those who do not know history are doomed to repeat it.

---

by: Dr. Jones @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 21:44:27 PM UTC

Let's not go too far here (0.00 / 0)

Richard's Tisei legislative record is his own to defend or tout as he sees fit. I know it pretty well, and will say that while it bends left it can't be considered even as liberal as Deval Patrick be it on social or fiscal issues.

However, I digress as my original post was about Charlie and not Richard. Charlie is the one running for Governor, and the Lt. Gov. or Vice-President always moves his positions to match the Governor or President. I've never seen it happen the other way around. That being said, Charlie supports parental consent and opposes partial birth abortions like Scott. I would be shocked if he received the Planned Parenthood nod in this race. While Charlie is definitely highlighting fiscal issues and job creation (as he should with this economy - imho) it is definitely not his only issue.

And yes, as I said in my post I do support Charlie. I wasn't trying to hide it. Just because I'm a Charlie supporter doesn't mean I can't wonder about the different treatment of similar candidates by MA conservatives.

On twitter @bfrivers

---

by: brivers @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:19:22 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

EMPTY CANVAS (5.00 / 1)

You're right it is about Charlie. Unfortunately Charlie has NO RECORD, and all that we can gather about his positions on them is that... well, he supports TISEI.

When Baker does speak on the issues, its generally in favor of conservative causes like... his support for gun control!

As for "wonder about the different treatment of similar candidates by MA Conservatives", it is downright ridiculous to suggest Baker is anything like Brown or others. Scott has been fighting for our causes for years and while moderate(NEVER LIBERAL) on some issues has never been a cheerleader. Baker is an empty canvas, who seems to endorse a very far left agenda. NO THANKS.

I have been posting here a while. I have supported MANY moderate candidates to the dismay of conservatives. I have worked in Republican politics for almost my entire life with Republicans of every stripe. I am no fringe ideologue, nor do I harbor unrealistic expectations for my candidates or my party. I WILL NOT SUPPORT THIS TICKET.

---

by: South Shore Republican @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:38:42 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

well (0.00 / 0)

that is ridiculous. you live in MASSACHUSETTS. wake up. you might have to compromise a little to get a Republican elected.

---

by: djs123 @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 01:40:32 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Compromise to get a what elected? (5.00 / 1)

If that is your attitude, and we continue to "compromise" (read give up our principles) then please tell me how we are advancing the conservative agenda.  Like SSR, I prefer a center-right candidate.  I myself don't care for the death penalty and couldn't care less about gay marraige (please don't tell my priest I said that).  In fact I can't even spell marraige correctly!

Brown's election has sparked a grassroots revolution in our party that has been due for some time.  MassGOP and House Leadership shouldn't be running our party.  RMG should be running the party.  All of us, through these discussions get the message to potential candidates and elected politicians alike - SERVE US not yourself.

I am wicked awesome!

---

by: Awesome Republican @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 02:37:14 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Nah... (0.00 / 0)

I'm pretty sure we just elected Scott Brown without having to compromise our entire souls and everything we believe about what government should be.

You're right, having the GOP we've worked hard for become an arm of the progressive movement is going to be good for us. Its all we deserve after all.

COMMENT FAIL

---

by: South Shore Republican @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 03:35:59 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

maybe this explains where this is coming from (0.00 / 0)

but I view Scott Brown's victory as once in a lifetime. He is assured to lose in 2012. A Governor's race, we have a better shot at. But I don't think we can lose sight of how excited we would be in a pre 1/18/10 world to have a viable Governor's ticket. The least Republicans can do is support one ticket. Even then, its a long shot to win.  

---

by: djs123 @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 15:24:58 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

I disagree (0.00 / 0)

While Scott will have a tougher opponent in the next election. I definitely don't think he is assured to lose. The Governor's office is no more or less important than a position in Congress. This shouldn't be the case, but it is because federal government is so large and intrusive on the states and municipalities.

On twitter @bfrivers

---

by: brivers @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 15:31:31 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

it's not (0.00 / 0)

that it's bigger, it's that voters view a Governor as less idealogical than a Senator, so a minority party has a better chance at winning. ps. Obama is going to be on the ticket in 2012. Voters who want to vote against him can do so directly. They will not need to vote for Brown to do so. Coakley will also not be his opponent. He is very unlikely to win.  

---

by: djs123 @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 22:41:06 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Scott Brown (0.00 / 0)

I think he can win. His is a proven campaigner. He is really good at retail politics and built lots of good will in our state and nationwide. He has money, the power of the incumbency and national recognition. Frankly I can probably only name 10 or so senators nationwide. I was in West before the election - everyone knew who Scott Brown was.

and then who would would run against him, the original democrats running for the seat would get trounced.

---

by: roarkarchitect @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 22:56:06 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Ticket (0.00 / 0)

I cannot support the liberal Baker/Tisei ticket as well. This is what us republicans should fear - a ticket that takes the very soul of our party and places it for sale. A vote for Cahill is not only the best thing for our party but, will additionally send a clear message to the Massgop and republicans in the state legislature.

---

by: biscotti @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 03:03:06 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Yes it can (0.00 / 0)

Richard Tisei's record on social issues can be considered as liberl as Deval's on social issues because it is every bit as liberal.  Arguing otherwise means you haven't actually looked at his record.

Tise is arguably even further to the left than Deval.  At least Deval doesn't sponsor the bills, and Deval's record is hypothetical.  Tisei has a proven voting record.

Bob Hedlund for Minority Leader.

---

by: Mike "DD4RP" Rossettie @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 02:54:58 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Hey quit being mean DD4RP! (0.00 / 0)

These guys want to focus on "pocket book issues" 100%... you're not suppose to pay attention to the fact that their records suggest otherwise and they use that claim to sneak a radical agenda in the side door!

JERK

---

by: South Shore Republican @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 03:38:59 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

True Conservative (0.00 / 1)

Tisei is what I like to call a True Conservative not a wishy washy one like yourself.... You and others like your self are the John Kerry's of the Republican Party.... I am a conservative for one reason and one reason alone and that is the fact that I believe the government needs to stay out of my life as much as possible, Not just certain issues. The government has no right to tell anyone if they can own a gun or not, the government has no right to tell anyone they cant defend their family and property, the government has no right to tell anyone they have to have health care, The government has no right to tell anyone where and when they can pray, and the government has no right to tell anyone who they can Mary, the government has no right to make a women's decision for her in terms of an abortion. I am a conservative because I believe my life is my life and my family is my family and the government needs to allow us to live our lives...

---

by: thepeople1 @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 04:00:55 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

You Make No Sense (0.00 / 0)

Then, do you believe in ballot initiatives?  'Cuz Tisei sure doesn't. You're a true payroll patriot wanna-be that's for sure.  Nice moniker.  Welcome to RMG.

Those who do not know history are doomed to repeat it.

---

by: Dr. Jones @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 04:03:58 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Freedoms (1.00 / 1)

I do believe in Ballot Initiatives, but not ones that restrict peoples rights...If there was an Initiative, to ban guns from the commonwealth, or ban the pledge of allegiance because it mentions god I hope that Tisei would make the same move he did the one your speaking of. In addition the people of his district voted for him knowing his beliefs and stance on the issues, and he did exactly what he told the voters he would do... I would have lost respect for him if he did what the democrats do and tell the voters one thing in the campaign and do the total opposite after they win the election. Thanks for the Welcome

---

by: thepeople1 @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 04:14:13 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Since When (0.00 / 0)

Does anyone have the right to marry?  Is health care a right?  What about a Prius is that a right?  The point is that Tisei does what he says he's going to do anyone can do that--look at Barack Obama.  The point is that Tisei says a ton of liberal things.

People should be allowed to vote on anything, regardless of whether some people disagree with it--that's how women got the right to vote (from men voting on it) and blacks got the right to vote (from whites voting on it).

If we let courts decide, black people would still be property (see Dred Scott case, Supreme Court).

Those who do not know history are doomed to repeat it.

---

by: Dr. Jones @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 04:24:29 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Baker HQ Back At Work (4.25 / 4)

Ahhhhhhhhhh yes!  The George Orwell theory of conservatism....I think I read about this in 1984.
Team Baker is now trying to re-define the word conservative!  Love it!

I guess all of the long time posters on RMG were confused this whole time about what being a conservative was all about!  Richard Tisei IS a conservative after all!  What were we all thinking?

Here's how this brilliant concept may have unfolded today at Baker HQ......

Baker Chief Strategist:  I've called this meeting today because I'm beginning to see some red flags with our strategy of assembling a ticket that can run to the left of Patrick/Murray.  I have a bad feeling about it.  Similar to the bad feeling I had when I was part of the Giuliani presidential campaign strategy of skipping Iowa, NH, and South Carolina and waiting for Florida.

Former Kerry Healy Strategist (now officially on permanent establishment GOP gubernatorial candidate payroll):  Yes, my gut is telling me the same thing.  I heard from several members of our large paid staff that things with those conservatives on RMG are not going well.

Baker Chief Strategist:  The good news is I have a solution.  We will just redefine the word "conservative" to represent all of the principles that Baker/Tisei stands for.  We'll sign up some new RMG accounts, and convince conservatives that Pro-Abortion, Pro-Gay Marriage, Pro-Gun Control, Against the Income Tax Rollback will, heretofore, be "conservative".  Simple yes, brilliant definitely, but that's why Charlie pays us the big bucks.

Former Kerry Healy Strategist:  That is brilliant.  Much like how I insisted on running the rapist ad against Deval Patrick for weeks even while our polling on the ad showed it destroying Healy's campaign.

Baker Chief Strategist:  Exactly.  Ok, now that that's behind us, should we be worried about our rediculously high burn rate on this campaign?  We've had a big dropoff in fundraising in January, we can't seem to bank much of the money Charlie is raising and I'm not looking forward to reporting our expenditures on Feb. 4.

Former Kerry Healy Strategist:  I'm not worried about it.  That would mean having to cut back our annoying Boston Globe pop up ads which we've instituted to reach out to liberal Democrats in Amherst and Cambridge.  We'll just blame our huge dropoff in fundraising in Scott Brown and maybe we could consider some cost cutting measures, but the cappuccino machine stays!

To be continued.........  

---

by: massgop5 @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 05:16:00 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

I agree. (0.00 / 0)

I think the majority of the disfavor for Charlie comes from the real venom some hold for Tisei and they resent his pick as running mate. Personally, I think there is too much being projected into the selection. Say what you will about Richard's positions, he does know intimately well how the legislature works and who the real players are. I think that was the driving force behind the selection. Charlie needed someone to help navigate his agenda through the legislature. It's that complicated and that simple.

I'm fully convinced that that agenda will be 99.9% about fixing the state's economic and jobs outlook by lowering taxes, reducing regulatory headaches and reforming and reducing state government. All things conservatives should be behind 100%.

I wonder, to your point, how many who are so against Charlie have actually listened to what he has to say. On more than one occasion. And more than what's blurrbed in the paper.

Why is President Obama's Justice Dept. running guns to Mexican drug cartels, and possibly MS-13 too?

Karl (TLC)Weld

---

by: TLCWeld @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 21:47:04 PM UTC

I agreed with the original poster. (0.00 / 0)

Why is President Obama's Justice Dept. running guns to Mexican drug cartels, and possibly MS-13 too?

Karl (TLC)Weld

---

by: TLCWeld @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 21:48:00 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

No surprise here (0.00 / 0)

Not a surprise that a Weld acolyte would flock to Baker (Weld II).

First, there are plenty of moderates and conservatives who know how the legislature works, too.

Second, I am sick and tired of liberal republicans claiming they are focused only on pocketbook issues, but ADVOCATE for very far left radical social policies and FAIL to support the principles of limited government (like TISEI). So your 99.9% claim is just a tired ruse that us moderates and conservatives are just sick to death of hearing. We know better now, and we're not falling for it this time.

BTW - Hope things are alright at the country club.

---

by: South Shore Republican @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:30:29 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Country Club? (0.00 / 0)

You must have me confused with some other Weld. My branch of the family tree moved to northern NH in the mid-1800s. I came out of college $20k in debt, paid it off by re-financing my home in 2000, and haven't been able to pay into a 401k for 2 years since I've been down-sized out of a job 3 times in the past 2 years. So stuff that "country club" comment up your a**. Not everyone who supported "Weld I" has deep pockets. And not everyone who supports Charlie Baker does either. And for some of us out here who ARE living paycheck to paycheck we only do care about pocketbook issues. All the rest is just noise from those who have the benefit of not worrying about how they're going to pay the mortgage, college for their kids and have something other than a bankrupt social security program to retire on.

Why is President Obama's Justice Dept. running guns to Mexican drug cartels, and possibly MS-13 too?

Karl (TLC)Weld

---

by: TLCWeld @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 15:26:15 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Open Secrets (5.00 / 1)

Charlie Baker already knows how to navigate an agenda through the Great and General Court.  Haven't you seen the thousands he has donated to the Democrats?

I am wicked awesome!

---

by: Awesome Republican @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 02:39:49 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Touché!! Thats an AWESOME comment n/t (0.00 / 0)

---

by: South Shore Republican @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 03:40:39 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Might I Suggest ... (4.67 / 3)

Might I suggest that the two events are unrelated.
Its one thing for a variety of people to come together for the cause of sending number 41 off to Washington. The number 41 didnt require a specific set of characteristics to fit everyones bill, breathing and electable would suffice.
Its quite another thing when selecting the states chief executive. People have expectations built into this decision other than breathing and electable. There is a time when deference to public policy decisions that are actualy compatable is required.

---

by: nomad943 @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:01:25 PM UTC

Excellent Point (0.00 / 0)

I was thinking while reading this, we really only elected Brown to vote against the health care beast...  

I am wicked awesome!

---

by: Awesome Republican @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 02:41:58 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

I have one problem with Charlie Baker (4.00 / 2)

I think he's the right guy for Governor, and in general, I trust his judgement, while I do not agree on every stance he takes. The one issue I have with him, and more specifically, his ticket, is Richard Tisei.

Now, I don't want this to be a Richard Tisei hate fest. I had NO problem with him as a State Senator from Wakefield-Melrose-Malden. That district fit him well, and he served the GOP well as a Senator from that tricky area.

However, Tisei really is too far to the left for me. Baker is to the left of me as well, but there is just too much of a leftwing tilt to Tisei. Honestly, it stems for me, entirely from his unsupport to roll back to 5%, and for his support for FUNDING of NARAL and Planned Parenthood programs.

So it comes down to this for me, we have FIVE options:
Deval Patrick (D)- FAR TO THE LEFT
Jill Stein (G)- FARTHER TO THE LEFT
Christy Mihos (R)- BATSHIT CRAZY
Tim Cahill (I)- Sketchy Record as Treasurer, Left on Social Issues, and Unreliable in terms of ability to create a two party system in Massachusetts, despite his Fiscal Conservatism.
Charlie Baker (R)- Solid Guy, Left on Social Issues, Right on Fiscal Issues. Dedicated to the second party option, the Republicans. WILL HELP OUR LEGISLATIVE CANDIDATES.

So of them Charlie has my vote.

Lt. Governor-
Whoever runs against Tisei Will have my vote in the primary.

General Election-
Baker and Company (R)

(R)- Outside 495

---

by: MerrimackMan @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:03:30 PM UTC

Not so fast... (3.67 / 3)

"(Charlie Baker and Richard Tisei) will help our legislative candidates"

That's a fair thing to say, if you think Bill Weld helped our legislative candidates when he was a candidate or Governor(obviously we both know he didn't). What you are ABSOLUTELY going to see though is this: Baker et al. are going to make the state party a slave to their campaign. The state party will once again selfishly serve the corner office, neglect the legislative candidates and we'll be at a net loss in NO TIME. These guys want a small state party because its easier for them to control that way. Add that to the fact that our legislative candidates will not compliment a far left LIBERAL Republican gubernatorial ticket, and it will be then tough for them to run as conservatives when the entire brands been soured.

We've seen this happen before, and you have seen this happen before. Think about it before you lift a finger for these guys.

---

by: South Shore Republican @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:21:27 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Craig Spadafora (5.00 / 2)

is running to replace Richard Tisei in the Senate. He would not be in the race if it weren't for Tisei's active roll in recruiting him. Craig is a four term Republican city councilman from Malden of all places. Arguably the best shot to hold the seat. Tisei's also backing a solid candidate to replace Clark as Rep. since she's running for the Senate in what would be a pick-up for us. I know Charlie has been attending numerous events up north with Republican candidates. He's also raised a ton of money which is allowing the state party to actively recruit candidates. If you don't like the quality of the folks running then recruit ones to your satisfaction. Or do "true" conservatives not have the courage of their convictions?

Why is President Obama's Justice Dept. running guns to Mexican drug cartels, and possibly MS-13 too?

Karl (TLC)Weld

---

by: TLCWeld @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:31:11 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

So glad Tisei's found some time to recruit after 25 years... (0.00 / 0)

So Tisei the party builder eh? Doesn't seem like there are many elected Republicans from the North Shore and his region. Its funny, you'd think maybe that after 25 years as a state legislator that he might have brought a few people up with him.

The point is, thats really lovely that these guys have so conveniently gotten faith when it comes to party building, but its too little and too late. They had decades to do this and have failed miserably. They have done so to help themselves and grow their own election network. They have raised money, not for the sake of the party but for their own campaigns.

As for your insinuation that I seem to be some armchair pundit incapable of recruiting candidates and doing work for them, you couldn't be any more mistaken. On the local level I've supported dozens and dozens of candidates throughout the years. And of course I haven't been working to recruit anyone for Lieutenant Governor, because frankly I don't like the top of the ticket so why bother.

I'm voting for my fellow mick Cahill, and a pro-life Paul Loscocco, who are more conservative than some Essex County yankee-wannabes who revere the good old days of the liberal GOP. When I registered Republican, I never signed up for that crap.

BTW I'm supporting a ticket that I believe can actually win.

---

by: South Shore Republican @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:53:21 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Not calling anyone anything. (0.00 / 0)

It just seems that there is a lot of commenting overall that points out how lacking our candidates are. With all this discussion you'd think a "true" conservative Republican would cruise to victory. Well, where are they and why aren't they running?

Why is President Obama's Justice Dept. running guns to Mexican drug cartels, and possibly MS-13 too?

Karl (TLC)Weld

---

by: TLCWeld @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 15:59:03 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

First of All (5.00 / 1)

Baker is Not Weld.

Your assumption is just not a fair one. I know he worked under him, but so did a lot of folks, and I know MOST of them aren't like Weld. So, frankly, just because Baker knew Weld, desn't mean Baker is going to be the next Weld. Baker has his head screwed on a LOT tighter than Weld. He is not going to want to retire to Mexico, or become a lawyer in New York.

Plus, from the earlier signs of the Baker campaign, Charlie has campaigned WITH the other candidates, attended their gatherings. Unlike Cahill, Baker endorsed and campaigned for Scott Brown.

Now, I ask you. How will Tim Cahill, a Former Democrat, NOT BE A BILL WELD, and help the Republican "farm team". You and I BOTH know, that if he wants to Govern in this state, he can't complete the sell-out and only work with the Republicans. Charlie Baker has a good excuse to, HE IS ONE. Tim Cahill is going to have to play ball with Rogers, DeLeo, Petrolati and Company. How is that going to help the Party?

More to the point, How does an Independent help GROW the Republican Party?

To Attack Baker on this point is quite questionable.  

(R)- Outside 495

---

by: MerrimackMan @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:53:02 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Couple points (0.00 / 0)

"Baker-not-Weld": There seems to be a lot to suggest Baker would be a lot like Weld including his own words which suggest he'd like to emulate him in a lot of ways. Weld himself characterizes himself as a "Baker Republican" which is interesting since I didn't actually know Baker must have supported Obama over McCain, like big red.

"Charlie attended their gatherings": To this I refer to the old Willie Sutton line. When asked why he robbed banks he said, "because that's where the money is!" Baker probably attended these events because, that's where the money is! If I were running his campaign and looking for people to host fundraisers in a party with no real capacity to do so, I'd send him to candidate gatherings! That and he has no name ID, so of course he's gotta attend stuff!

"Charlie endorsed and campaigned for Scott Brown":  True, this did happen... less than 2 weeks before the election, Charlie Baker did find the time to help out a surging Scott Brown. It appeared to many that Baker sat out most of the Brown until the very end. Purely speculation of course, but it seems to me rather opportunistic. Tim Cahill did publicly support Brown I believe, and as far as I know did vote for him too. Cahill had initially offered Brown the spot of LG after all.

"How can Cahill help the GOP?": Cahill can help the GOP and here is how, first he takes the GOP's myopic focus off the corner office and onto the legislature. In short, it would force the GOP back on track to what matters. Cahill and Loscocco could also potentially support Republican candidates for election to the legislature (naturally it does cut both ways, but Tim owes the Dems NADA). At the end of the day, whether its Deval, Baker, or Cahill they will have to deal with DeLeo et al. that remains a fact of life. With some knowledge of the building, I can say this much, DeLeo would probably have no problem shedding a few of his problematic members each cycle. Cahill, and Loscocco especially, could make the most of that... just saying. On the other hand DeLeo et al will never be cooperative with a yankee patrician storming in and trying to tell them how to run things, Baker will have as much success as Deval there!

Send me an email though if you'd like MM. I'd like to discuss this further and get your thoughts.

---

by: South Shore Republican @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 23:15:48 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Let's Be Honest Here (3.50 / 2)

I liked Weld and I like Baker.  But let's be honest, they are the exact same politically--the only difference is Charlie is a self-made CEO and Weld was a self-made lawyer.  Same stances on all the issues and same old liberal crowd. Yawn, I can't wait to vote non-Republican...

Someone wake me in 2012 when I can work on Scott Brown's re-election!

Those who do not know history are doomed to repeat it.

---

by: Dr. Jones @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 02:51:58 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Your the Crazy One (0.00 / 0)

Christy Mihos is by far the better Candidate to beat Deval Patrick. Calling him 'Crazy' is LUDICROUS.

Well that is a compliment because all the crazy candidates are the ones who will actually fight for working class men like myself and save the state.

I heard how Patrick Buchanan, Ross Perot, Ron Paul were all crazy too. Their proposals were too radical..BLAH BLAH BLAH. I will never vote for some Big Corporation Front Man pretending to be a Republican when in fact he is an Impostor.

Where do they stand side by side? Let's see for ourselves

Stronger on Cutting Taxes?

(Sales tax Rollback: Charlie wants 5%, Christy 3%)

Stronger on Immigration?

(Charlie's easy words about no instate tuition for illegals, Christy will Cut Aid to Sanctuary Cities and Penalties for Business that Hire)

Stronger on Not Promoting Homosexual Marriage?

(Charlie's Brother and Running mate are Homosexuals, Christy Prefers SSM be put on the Ballot for voters to decide)

Stronger on 2nd Amendment?

(Charlie likes gun control and keeping current laws in place, Christy would streamline process and promote castle doctrine)

The Choice is Clear!
Those are four issues any conservative, moderate, or tax paying American can fall in love with and vote for.

---

by: tonid @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:56:49 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Tonid--Really? (2.00 / 1)

Christy was quoted as saying he didn't care what happened in the bedroom--that's how he lost all his staff when he ran as an Independent.

Go Cahill!

Those who do not know history are doomed to repeat it.

---

by: Dr. Jones @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 02:53:52 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

OMFG (5.00 / 1)

Are you seriously on this site promoting Mihos?  WTF?  Buddy, we don't have time for kid games... This is grown up stuff.  I think you meant to go to crappypoliticianmassgroup.com

Seriously man... Did you fall down or something? Did you fall down and hit your head on something really hard?

I am wicked awesome!

---

by: Awesome Republican @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 02:55:02 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

ROTFLMBAO (0.00 / 0)

And trying to add more acronyms through the tears and pepsi I just spit out while reading this.

You really are wicked awesome!

Those who do not know history are doomed to repeat it.

---

by: Dr. Jones @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 03:02:00 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

I hit my head... but (0.00 / 0)

Only a lightweight could believe or would believe Tim Cahill isn't a democratic plant by the Deval Patrick Team to get re-elected.

Come on... Trix are for Kids Silly. Poor baby, Your getting fooled by the Trixsters in office.

Deval and his devilish democrats are distracting dimwitted dolts like you through the divide and conquer strategy. Its a trick! (Alliteration is something I learned last year in 6th grade and we also did a performance of the Wizard of Oz. In the play I had a solo, I had to sing that song, "If I only had a brain...")

...Deval and Cahill's 'Faux Feud' over nothing a few months back was enough to convince you that Tim Cahill was INDEPENDENT. And he Broke with the Party...

ARE YOU SERIOUS? ARE YOU SERIOUS? PLEASE MAN DON'T BE SERIOUS

Don't be a silly goose! and i don't mean your a silly goose. i meant naive. and remember your awesome! thats right YOU are awesome! I'm sorry in advance for my caustic reply I love you! i <3 u

Just Don't be Serious

---

by: tonid @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 03:38:51 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Tim Cahill (0.00 / 1)

I bet his plan is to split the independent vote and lose the election (Deval wins)- he will then be appointed something cool in the Obama administration.

---

by: roarkarchitect @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 03:53:55 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Mihos for Marriage Referendum? (0.00 / 0)

If Mihos favors a Marriage Referendum, that's important. Any evidence of that?
It would make him the strongest Republican candidate in the field fairly easily. But when has Mihos ever strongly advocated or worked for a Marriage Referendum?

Conservative = Pro-Family + Ecological and Fiscal Stewardship + Localism + Economic Patriotism.

---

by: ProCivitas @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 18:42:25 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

He Hasn't (0.00 / 0)

His 2006 comments, which I've quoted extensively on RMG in the past, indicate that he's in favor of non-traditional marriage but wouldn't object that if it went before the people.

Mihos wasn't a major advocate of the constitutional amendment but rather didn't object to allowing the people to vote.  A huge distinction.

---

by: BNCordeiro @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 18:46:12 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Mihos favored having a vote and letting people decide. (Me, too) (0.00 / 0)

Yr. Obedient Servant, Peter Porcupine, Republican

---

by: Peter Porcupine @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 18:47:44 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Beyond Help (0.00 / 0)

Our legislative candidates are waaaaay beyond help.  Some are awful, some are just plain boring.  I've seen these campaigns and many are a real snoozer.  Go to a parade, pass out some stickers.  Booooo.

I've seen Brad Hill campaign and he can do it right. Knock on doors, shake hands with everyone and he can share a connection cause he's a genuine guy.

No Gov can help down ticket... Has that ever even happened here before?  I don't think it can cause we've never had that popular of a Gov.

I am wicked awesome!

---

by: Awesome Republican @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 02:48:14 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Short time frame, no competition. (4.50 / 2)

In a nutshell, that was Scott Brown's coalition strength.

I happen to support the candidate I DO agree with.  I am a socially moderate, fiscally paleolitic Republican.  Gay marriage and abortion are law - how it happened via court decision, inaction, whatever (for the record, I DID support a vote).  I'm happy Christy supports strong parental notification and opposes pqartial birth, as that's my view as well.  

BUT - only ONE candidate wants to CUT - instead of massage, finesse, or play whack-a-mole with - the budget and government spending.  That is MY primary issue, and it's as important to me as social issues are to some, and IMHO, more related to the actual conduct of GOVERNMENT.  And Christy is no Charlie-come-lately on the issue.  He helped finance Question One, and he's currently helping Carla Howell finance the Sales Tax rollback (on which I am a proud original signatory).  I have a candidate I can agree with insted of tolerate and/or hold my nose.

Go ahead, Brock, call me an attacking troll.

Yr. Obedient Servant, Peter Porcupine, Republican

---

by: Peter Porcupine @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:06:30 PM UTC

I'm all for cutting (0.00 / 0)

But realistically, until we actually get control of the Legislature I don't see the cuts we're all hoping for taking place. Reducing the majority won't be enough to get that done. I'm glad & I thank Christy for helping to finance these ballot initiatives. I just don't think he can get elected governor in this state. To steal MerrimackMan's phrase too many folks in Mass. think he's "Batshit Crazy" and would have a hard time filling in that little circle with the black pen for him.

Why is President Obama's Justice Dept. running guns to Mexican drug cartels, and possibly MS-13 too?

Karl (TLC)Weld

---

by: TLCWeld @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:22:56 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Christy (0.00 / 0)

I hope is toast, in a state with budget problems he can't even take care of his own.  

---

by: roarkarchitect @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:29:25 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

My approach (5.00 / 2)

STOP thinking short term! OK that's great we get a Republican Governor and we all slap each other on the backs the Democrats will overspend again and blame the Governor for making cuts to social services AGAIN! I say we use Governor Patrick for 3 more election cycles to balance House & Senate.

---

by: RFlynn @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:14:56 PM UTC

What happened last election? (0.00 / 0)

I completely agree that we need more candidates for the House and Senate and to support them. I am personally doing so in my Rep and Senate district as well as some neighboring ones.

That being said, just having Deval as Governor won't insure GOP victories. If that was the case, what happened last cycle then? Since it's not a guarantee, why let him cause long-term damage to our state in the meantime?

On twitter @bfrivers

---

by: brivers @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:28:50 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Charlie Baker can get elected (0.00 / 0)

Do we really want another 4 years of Governor Patrick. The state is in desperate needs of a good manager. Governor Patrick is not. Regarding the social issues, I'm supportive of Charlie Baker positions, that being said even if you elected a social conservative - they would have no effect on policies in this state. Discussing the social positions of republican candidates is just trying to figure out how many angels can dance on the head of a pin, in the end it doesn't make any difference.    This is the state we live in, it needs to be run effectively I want my kids to be able to live here. I do not want our state to fall into the tax and spend death  spiral that is happening in California and New York. We can all wish for 0% sales and income tax - but it's not going to happen under any administration.  

---

by: roarkarchitect @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:27:32 PM UTC

Maybe You Missed It (0.00 / 0)

I was so hoping to hear your opinion of the attached cartoon that I will repost it here.
My concern is with people who are operating under the logic that using personal connections to obtain government bailouts is somehow indicative of sound management skills. I keep hearing lines like "if Charley is willing to run the state than we should let him". Huh?
Who is he going to run to in order to bail him out of this mess called Massachusetts? Washington?
How can anyone on one hand moan about Wall Street bankers reeping huge bonuses off of taxpayers and on the other spout Charley's keen managerial style? Isnt that somehow lacking in depth?

---

by: nomad943 @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 22:44:53 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Don't fall into the traps (0.00 / 0)

Sure the Democrats have their website up pretending that the Mass Turnpike wasn't an independent authority and the Baker should have fixed the Big Dig even though he had no authority to do so. And, there's this old cartoon that looks really bad considering the current amount and level of bailouts. What happened with Harvard Pilgrim was not even a bailout if compared with modern-day bailouts of AIG, GM, etc. However,

For the Record
The comments about a "state bailout" are all a bunch of hooey.

For the record, I was Executive Director of HEFA when Charlie became CEO of Harvard Pilgrim.  Charlie approached HEFA with respect to re-financing the large amount of debt he inherited. While the financing was complex, he was treated exactly in the same manner as any non-profit organization seeking HEFA's assistance.  Yes, the bonds are exempt from state and federal taxes, but that is a benefit to the purchaser of the bonds; and, again, that is no different than any other non-profit issuing debt through HEFA.  

On twitter @bfrivers

---

by: brivers @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 23:24:13 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

What .. (0.00 / 0)

I am linking to our friends at the Globe for my information:

http://www.boston.com/news/dai...

Where are you quoting from?

---

by: nomad943 @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 23:33:38 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Really? (0.00 / 0)

You're quoting from the Globe? That just means I win the arguement ;)

Seriously though, I was quoting a BMG post which I found interesting because it was a first-person source.

As it even said in the article you linked, "there is no taxpayer risk in the financial plan. The risk will be assumed by investors holding liens on Harvard Pilgrim assets."

Back to your original point - if Charlie wasn't a good manager, such a minor financing plan (or even a major bailout) wouldn't have led to Harvard Pilgrim being such a successful and financially stable company more than a decade later.  

On twitter @bfrivers

---

by: brivers @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 23:43:53 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Incorrect Quote (5.00 / 1)

The article didnt say that there was no risk to taxpayers. The article said that BAKER SAYS that there is no risk to taxpayers.
This in light of that fact that 80 million dollars of the loan is secured by used office equipment, which was safetly estimated by the Globe to be absolutly worthless in a a year or two. To me that spells risk, as in why in the heck are taxpayers ponying up risk to begin with?
Isnt this the same conversation we are having with AIG and all the other bailouts? Sure those are bigger and this one is older making Baker a pioneer in this inovative way of thinking but isnt it the exact same principle? Privatize gains and socialize risk?  

---

by: nomad943 @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 23:53:15 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Havard Health (0.00 / 0)

He did what I would expect him to do as Governor - use the resources available for the benefit of his organization,  or hopefully as governor for the people of Massachusetts. It's called pragmatism. You may not like the stimulus package - but you sure as hell need to use what is given. Having Harvard Pilgrim as an organization survive has kept some competition in the Massachusetts health insurance market - this is great. The democrats are all having a circular firing squad over Coakley - going on about how she was not liberal enough - the republicans should not go done this path. If Scott Brown was far to the right he would not have been elected.

---

by: roarkarchitect @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 03:59:58 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Crony Capitalism .. (0.00 / 0)

Forget Democrats. Lets look at the platter being served to us.
With no public record all we can do is look at Mr Bakers other "accomplishments". I dont like bailouts and I didnt like the stimulus. I got absolutly nothing from either but I do know that I will be sent the bill.
Thats not called "pragmatism". Its called theft.
When I see you refer to Baker using "the resources available" I am reminded that I was that resource and I do not enjoy being implimented.
Havine been implimented yourself, why would you expect he would change his tune as governor. Why wouldnt we still be viewed as "resources available"?
As far as your tact about "competition in the Massachusetts health care market". Are you believing yourself? The very regulatory agency that was preventing competition is the one that approved Charley's bailout.
And how did consumers benifit?

Baker said the company has taken other measures as part of its turnaround. It will increase premiums by 15 percent in Massachusetts and by 20 percent in New Hampshire and Maine.

Crony Capitalism in a nutshell. Take a bow Charley along with your fat cash bonus and move along ...

---

by: nomad943 @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 12:55:56 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Please try and understand (5.00 / 1)

I know you hate bailouts and so do I. But what happened with Harvard Pilgrim was not a bailout. HEFA let them issue debt, which was tax free for the investors. If they defaulted, the investors were on the hook not the taxpayers.

Take a look at this line from the HEFA website: "HEFA was created by the Massachusetts Legislature, and our Board is appointed by the Governor. However, HEFA is fully self-funded and receives no tax-payer dollars."

How did an organization without taxpayer funding put the taxpayers on the hook for anything? The only detriment from the state was to loss of tax revenue of those ppl. who chose to invest in debt. This is nothing like the bailouts that have been happening at the federal level.

And, yes he raised premiums along with every other HMO. If not, then they probably would have needed an actual bailout.  

On twitter @bfrivers

---

by: brivers @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 13:17:35 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

False (5.00 / 1)

Baker and Tisei CANNOT get elected without the center right coalition of Republicans and Reagan Democrats. Watch, you're about to see the much vaunted fundraising dry up BIG.

Tim Cahill on the other hand has won election to statewide office twice by very strong margins (perhaps the top vote getter in MA of the last 10 years). He also has well over 3 million in the bank which is more than double what anyone else has.

---

by: South Shore Republican @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 23:30:27 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

There's no change (2.00 / 1)

If Baker gets elected with Tisei on the ticket then nothing different will happen that would've happened had Deval gotten re-elected.  The legislature will say "Oh, it's a liberal Republican, let's go back to Weld-Cellucci, when we managed to double the budget in just under decade.

Good thing we had fiscal conservatives in there. You want your kids living here?  Wait 'til you see what they're teaching in schools. Forget gay marriage, it's straight up Al Gore propaganda--but let's just focus on fiscal issues.

Those who do not know history are doomed to repeat it.

---

by: Dr. Jones @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 02:58:50 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Blurred lines of party allegance (5.00 / 1)

People are mad yet they know not why.  The major items would be socialized medicine run by such compassionate entities like the IRS.  The other major one might be Obama's passion for evil parasitic Satan inspired global Marxism.  Why was the election of Obama the single greatest promotion for the gun and ammo industry?  Not everybody is stupid.

And here I learn that Tisei+something called the bathroom bill=death.  I would only expect something like that from the Clockwork Orange social engineering section of the left gatekeepers think tanks.  There has of course been a decade long sexual deviation promotion via mainstream media.  So much so I am inclined to join a gay bashers group.  Nobody but nobody gets to socially engineer and or attempt to tell me how I must think.

---

by: Lasthorseman @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 23:04:31 PM UTC

No, But What You Say (0.00 / 0)

Um, have you heard of the 'hate crimes' stuff.  No more freedom of speech.  And they can absolutely tell your kids what to think.  I'm a Kubrik fan, but it has nothing to do with "gay-bashing" (do you live in the 80's?) whatever that is.

it has to do with the fact that Richard Tisei is promoting a leftist agenda.  If you don't believe me, then ask all the left wing folks what they think of Richard Tisei. Bet'cha it'll be pretty complimentary.

Those who do not know history are doomed to repeat it.

---

by: Dr. Jones @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 03:06:44 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

What's the point? (0.00 / 0)

I'm all for voting third party or independent when the candidate brings something unique to the table.  But unlike Joe Kennedy, Tim Cahill has the same message as the Republican.

Cahill is trying to get conservative votes, but he won't even say who he voted for in the Senate race!

---

by: Couves @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 23:20:06 PM UTC

Believe it was Brown (0.00 / 0)

Try to get a media account for you.

---

by: South Shore Republican @ Tue Feb 02, 2010 at 23:31:04 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

On Nightside with Dan Rea: (5.00 / 2)

Cahill was asked who he voted for in the Senate race and he declined to answer.  Maybe he's said something else since then.

---

by: Couves @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 00:34:57 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Ally of the Cultural Left (1.50 / 2)

Charlie Baker's decision to run with Richard Tisei is the reason I cannot support him for Governor.

Baker decided early on to ally himself with the cultural Left. Upon announcing, almost the first sentence out of his mouth was that his brother is gay. This is irrelevant to a run for Governor, but signaled where Baker is coming from.

I cannot support a candidate who makes radical social change the center piece of a Republican campaign.

---

by: kingsmill @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 00:24:04 AM UTC

Baker, no thanks! (0.00 / 0)

As with many others who have posted here, I cannot and will not support Baker in any way based upon his selection of a progressive/ultra liberal as his Lt. Governor/running mate.  Tells me all I need to know about him.

---

by: Tom Paine @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 01:39:17 AM UTC

RMG has spoken - the support for Baker is 25% or less (3.00 / 1)

Cahill support 50% plus - the Brown supporters has moved into Cahill camp.

The owner of RMG will Schill for Baker until election day, shame on you.  

---

by: WesternmassGOP @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 02:43:21 AM UTC

Hold on.... (4.67 / 3)

I want to run primaries.  I am against Tisei.  That doesn't mean I'm pro-Cahill.

I people won't project things onto Cahill who aren't there.  Tim Cahill was a Democrat hack for decades.  Just because he's trying to do a Scott Brown imitation in some rooms does not mean he's actually a conservative.

Bob Hedlund for Minority Leader.

---

by: Mike "DD4RP" Rossettie @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 03:07:43 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Good Point (0.00 / 0)

Cahill's 50% maybe weighted with un-happy Baker but not Cahill supporters.

Call 40% for Cahill  

---

by: WesternmassGOP @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 03:28:43 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Still reasonable... (0.00 / 0)

Maybe.

There are some people on here from the inside who have worked for and voted for Republicans their whole life and are now supporting Cahill.

It's not all because Baker is a lousy candidate and a fake republican and Tisei is a... well not a republican at all.

I am wicked awesome!

---

by: Awesome Republican @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 03:32:53 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Help me on the Tisei point (5.00 / 1)

This debate is about to make my head explode like one of those people from the movie Scanners.

So Tisei is a social liberal, I get it.  But how much difference is that going to make?  Consider that Mitt Romney was probably the most socially conservative governor that we've had in decades in Massachusetts and we still ended up getting gay marriage without a vote.

So how does the selection of Richard Tisei as Lt. Governor versus someone else make a hill of beans of difference with respect to where the state is heading on social issues?  Face it, the Democratic party's formula social liberalism plus union handouts.  Regardless of who holds the governorship (and certainly the Lt. Governorship), they are going to implement their wacky social agenda as long as the left holds control of the legislature.  Defeat some Democratic senators and reps this fall and you'll stop the left wing social agenda even if Deval is reelected (let alone baker/Tisei).  

---

by: yankeepundit @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 03:59:31 AM UTC

By Actively Advocating For The Left (2.00 / 1)

Tisei will champion the causes of the left.  Tisei will be a co-governor just like Cellucci was and Swift, etc.  He'll push further and further to the left.

The Democrats currently don't have a 'wacky social agenda' as you put it.  They have stopped funding of planned parenthood and the Bathroom Bill is going nowhere. (Have you actually looked at the state budget?) Tisei will push for those things.

You should advise the Baker Camp to stop posting here--it just gets worse and worse.

We still ended up getting gay marriage because of Senate Republicans.  Well, thanks Tisei--hey payback is a bitch.  I'll take 4 more years of Deval to prove a point any day.

Those who do not know history are doomed to repeat it.

---

by: Dr. Jones @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 04:09:16 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Think it through (5.00 / 1)

Liberal activist judges appointed prior to Romney made gay marriage happen.  Those are appointed by the Governor and approved by the Governor's Council lead by the LG.  The judges appointed in the next 4 years will continue to make decisions beyond the next term.

A governor also has a veto and the threat of a veto.  There are still come reasonable Democrats who can combine with Republicans to get us to 1/3 on issues.  This is especially true when you consider the potential seats we may gain in 2010.

Bob Hedlund for Minority Leader.

---

by: Mike "DD4RP" Rossettie @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 13:16:59 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

DD4RP: Makes Sense to Me (0.00 / 0)

Your point does make a lot of sense.  I had not been thinking in those terms in my initial post.  I totally agree that it is a legitimate question as to what are Baker's views regarding judicial activism.  

This is not just a question of social issues but in other areas .  The UMass law school funding question may also end up in front of the SJC.  This is something that Mr. Baker should address.  I too thought that some of Weld's appointments were just awful.  

I think that you have distilled the hulabaloo over the Tisei choice into a more concrete formulation.

---

by: yankeepundit @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 13:43:20 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

I also agree to a point (5.00 / 1)

Mike stop making good points. Can't you be like the others who say silly things like Cahill's a true conservative :P

But really, I agree that the Weld picks for the judiciary have not been good for our state. I really hope Charlie sees it the same way. However, you're assuming just by his pick of Tisei that he will pick bad judges like Weld.

Weld was a lawyer who obviously had a lot of Dem friends in law that he wanted to help. I don't believe the Charlie as a businessman will have those same entanglements.

I also think it's important for conservatives to get involved in the campaign and not shun it. Make your voices heard in a positive and constructive way like with Brown. His campaign definitely tacked rightward as the campaign went on due to this. Weld, Cellucci and their people harbored some negative feelings for conservatives as they felt they won in spite of them working against them (for Pierce and Malone respectively). I don't agree with their response, but you can see their rationale. Why in turn help a group of people who's only trashing you?

This is especially true since there's no conservative running in this race. And if Cahill is a conservative, then I'm definitely confused as to the definition of the term.  

On twitter @bfrivers

---

by: brivers @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 15:08:20 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Simple (0.00 / 0)

You want the Tea Party 9|12 to back Baker/Tisei ticket

This is what Baker must say and promise

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...

NO MORE Compromise!

Of interest, I scanned most of this thread and Baker web site and I did not see one mention of the Constitution. I may have missed it so if you see it let me know, but as the Republican Party, every other word should be in reference to the Constitution. I find this simply disgraceful and I say no more compromise.

Most likely, we will hold our nose and vote for Baker but asking for some sort of enthusiastic support is really pushing it.  

---

by: 1stRichard @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 04:21:23 AM UTC

Hold your nose and vote Baker? (0.00 / 0)

At this point, these guys don't even deserve that!

---

by: South Shore Republican @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 04:30:33 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Lesser of two evils (0.00 / 0)

I did say "most likely" if it came to that choice of Deval or Baker, Cahill is not much better, which is if we vote. The Tea Party 9|12 discussions going on now seem to indicate a Mass revolt and throw in our own candidate over total repugnance of the situation.  

---

by: 1stRichard @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 05:29:35 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

Lt. Col West is great! (0.00 / 0)

I agree that he's a great candidate, and enjoy listing to his guest spots on the radio. However, my original question remains. Scott wasn't articulating things like this that I heard in speeches and debates. However, he got enthusiastic support.  

On twitter @bfrivers

---

by: brivers @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 12:33:33 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Although Subtle (0.00 / 0)

It was there, stop the other sides' agenda. Scott could have had much more support if he was louder.  

---

by: 1stRichard @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 15:25:06 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

You're making my point (0.00 / 0)

Both Scott and Charlie were/are out there playing the independent, moderate candidate role. The undercurrent was coming from conservatives and conservative groups (like this blog) who looked past any moderate leanings (pro-choice, supported Romney-care, etc.) to push Scott. It was a smart move by Scott's campaign, and I don't think if he was out there like the Lt. Col that he would have done better ... probably worse.

Now those people and groups who were pushing Brown have found Baker to be unworthy. It seems to me that it's mostly around the Tisei pick. However, when I vote for Governor, who the Lt. Governor is doesn't really by a role for me.  

On twitter @bfrivers

---

by: brivers @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 15:47:47 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Wait a minute (5.00 / 1)

Scott was playing moderate, Charlie is playing liberal, Tisei is playing radical leftist social crusader.

Those who do not know history are doomed to repeat it.

---

by: Dr. Jones @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 19:38:54 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

The message (5.00 / 1)

On one mail list I have, I see about three thousand messages arguing if Brown was conservative enough and I have about a dozen others of the same. It was so close it was barely a pass, most saying we will give you this one but no more. These people were not the far right but the moderate and unenrolled, some democrats and some liberals. From this, it is clear what direction the arrow is pointing, it is pointing right. This was a majority consensus of every political label, take the path on the right, make a right turn, go right, no center road, no left turn, no status quo, no more RINOs, no progressive, go this way. Why must we tolerate those that cannot tell their right from their left, the majority is saying go this way for a change. Why is that so hard to do?  Plain and simple, Brown was a direction and not a standard, the majority wants someone with the Constitution in one hand and a Holy Bible in the other. Is that asking too much? A progressive liberal and a radical leftist is the wrong turn.  

---

by: 1stRichard @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 20:30:42 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Well said. (0.00 / 0)

For example, MCFL had an email basically saying Scott Brown is not pro-life, but he is with us on many issues and listed them specifically.  They were contrasted with Coakley's 100% up and down NARAL positions and the choice was obvious to pro-life voters.  Scott isn't with us on everything, but is much, much better than the alternative.

That's what "compromise" is.  Acknowledging that someone or something is not the best, but better than the status quo and better then the alternative.

MCFL could not send out an email that said the same thing about Tisei because Tisei is worse than the status quo, and worse than the alternatives, and is unwilling to meet us half way on anything.  Tise sponsors and campaigns for the abortion advocacy bills.  Tisei was the only Republican candidate for Senate endorsed by planned parenthood in 2008.  Tisei donates to NARAL.  There is no compromise or "moderate" part of his pro-abortion agenda.

Bob Hedlund for Minority Leader.

---

by: Mike "DD4RP" Rossettie @ Fri Feb 05, 2010 at 14:37:31 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

With all of the leftists running for Governor/LG, there's room for a real conservative(s) to also run. (0.00 / 0)

Should actual, all around conservatives run for Massachusetts Governor/LG? With all of the leftists running for Massachusetts Governor/LG, there's really room for a real conservative(s) to also run in, both, the '10 GOP Primary and/or as Independents in the '10 general election. After RINO Senator-Elect Scott Brown's victory, even true conservatives have, at the very least, a possible chance for actual victory in Massachusetts on November '10. If truly conservative candidate(s) do eventually run for Massachusetts Governor/LG, then it probably would be better for any possible conservative candidates to run as Independents, instead of having conservatives running as members of the GOP in the GOP Primary, IMHO. Will any to many actual conservative(s) also run for Massachusetts Governor/LG, as well as for any to many other political offices in Massachusetts in '10 and beyond?

---

by: johnthebaptistmoore @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 05:28:42 AM UTC

? (0.00 / 0)

?

Did you figure out the post button? How about the English language? Politics 101 anybody? Anybody?

Those who do not know history are doomed to repeat it.

---

by: Dr. Jones @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 11:39:44 AM UTC

[ Parent ]

With all of the leftists running for Governor/LG, there's room for a real conservative(s) to also run. (0.00 / 0)

Should actual, all around conservatives run for Massachusetts Governor/LG? With all of the leftists running for Massachusetts Governor/LG, there's really room for a real conservative(s) to also run in, both, the '10 GOP Primary and/or as Independents in the '10 general election. After RINO Senator-Elect Scott Brown's victory, even true conservatives have, at the very least, a possible chance for actual victory in Massachusetts on November '10. If truly conservative candidate(s) do eventually run for Massachusetts Governor/LG, then it probably would be better for any possible conservative candidates to run as Independents, instead of having conservatives running as members of the GOP in the GOP Primary, IMHO. Will any to many actual conservative(s) also run for Massachusetts Governor/LG, as well as for any to many other political offices in Massachusetts in '10 and beyond?

---

by: johnthebaptistmoore @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 05:28:42 AM UTC

Governor and Lt. Governor are part of the Executive Branch (0.00 / 0)

They can propose laws and veto them but with a veto proof state house  they don't have much say. But in the executive branch the governor can make a big difference in how the state interacts with business or (think registry) the voters.

The American people are moderate by nature, Scott Brown was not voted in by the far right he was voted in by the center.  The left and the right falsely assume when they lose that they had strayed to far  to the center.  This is a wrong assumption and will result in lost elections.

---

by: roarkarchitect @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 12:23:50 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Thanks (0.00 / 1)

Thanks for all your comments with regards to my post. I got a few new things with regards to this, and I lot of stuff obviously regurgitated from prior posts.

It seems to me people are treating Scott and Charlie differently for a few reasons despite their similarity on the issues:

1. They don't care what the actual stances are on issues, Charlie's a liberal and Scott's a conservative. As I said, Charlie and Scott are a lot closer than people are apparently willing to admit at this point. Hopefully, the campaign can better articulate this as the is moves forward.

2. Richard Tisei was apparently chosen to be Governor and not Lt. Governor. I've never seen a Lt. Governor drive policy that wasn't also that of the Governor. However, most ppl. seem to think that Charlie's going to conform to Richard's admittedly liberal issues instead of the other way around.

3. The 41st vote was so important that it didn't matter. I see this point, but also believe that getting Deval out of office is nearly as important.

4. Activists still have old grudges with the Weld/Cellucci machines. This I can appreciate the most as the party suffered greatly during that timeframe. However, who else was he going to hire? Scott already hired to only other group of ppl. to run a successful statewide effort. Now that Scott's campaign is over, I hope to see some of his staff end up working for the Baker campaign.  

On twitter @bfrivers

---

by: brivers @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 12:54:38 PM UTC

You know the history of LG's (0.00 / 0)

Weld stepped down and Cellucci took over.
Cellucci stepped down and Swift took over.

Who the LG is matters a lot.

Charlie Baker might be every bit as conservative as Scott Brown.  I don't know.  Unlike Scott Brown he does not have a voting record I can look at.  All I have are his words and his actions.  If Charlie Baker says his position is "X" on an issue I will believe him.  Unless he specifically states his positions we don't really know what they are.

This is what we do know:  The largest action he took was picking Tisei.  Unless he specifically says otherwise, why shouldn't we believe that Baker thinks the same way Tisei does on the issues?

Bob Hedlund for Minority Leader.

---

by: Mike "DD4RP" Rossettie @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 13:22:44 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Charlie's not going anywhere (0.00 / 0)

If I believed there was even a chance that Charlie was not going to serve out his term, I would share your concern.

I've stated a few campaign positions on social issues where he disagrees with Tisei, but Brock has really detailed his positions better than I. There's no reason to believe that Charlie is as left as Richard on social issues at this point.  

On twitter @bfrivers

---

by: brivers @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 15:26:06 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Charlie Baker pledges to serve full term (0.00 / 0)

If you win, are you going to serve out your term?

Yes. I would be honored to serve as Governor of Massachusetts for as long as the people of Massachusetts would be willing to have me. Many public officials in both parties have used their existing offices to leverage a run for another, higher office. I have zero interest in any other office.

http://www.charliebaker2010.co...

---

by: BNCordeiro @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 15:33:21 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

I pledge alligiance to the flag as well but (0.00 / 0)

 What candidate would EVER say, "well this is just a stepping stone position until i get selected by the glorious leader to be the Health Insurance Czar."

---

by: tonid @ Thu Feb 04, 2010 at 13:53:13 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Does he also pledge to never leave the state? (0.00 / 0)

Because Tisei can sign bills if he goes to CT for a doughnut.  

Does Baker pledge not to ever get sick?

The other history of LG's is that the get set up to be the next governor.  Ask Cellucci.  Ask Healey.

"Malone for Congress!" - circa 1998.

Bob Hedlund for Minority Leader.

---

by: Mike "DD4RP" Rossettie @ Fri Feb 05, 2010 at 14:40:17 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

brivers - schilling for Baker (0.00 / 0)

This person has lost his/her way in a few short weeks. The shift in politics happened Jan 19th and this person wants to move backwards.

He/She cries and pleads to attempt to convert others as he/she schills for Baker and the Baker's campaign. Don't listen and stay strong.

All he wants to do is open the flood gates for more Social Liberal candidates like Baker. briver and the others are trying to fool you! don't listen, Baker will be buying more like them in the coming weeks. You can tell when they speak because you will hear the pleading and whinning in their voices. Oh - Charlie is our best chance! Oh - no more of this and that! That's right no more this and that - just strong Center Right Candidates that stand up to people like brivers and his liberal friends.

Carpe Diem - Massachusetts has spoken and the voters demand Center Right candidates now!

---

by: WesternmassGOP @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 13:55:43 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Not really (5.00 / 1)

I've said from the beginning I'm a Baker supporter. I didn't try to hide it so in those terms I'm definitely not a schill.
I understand that anyone who supports Charlie in your eyes will be considered a schill. But if I am a schill for Charlie, then I was also a schill for Brown and I'm also a schill for my local GOP State Senate candidate and my local GOP candidate for Selectman. And hopefully, I'll be lucky enough to schill for a local GOP State Rep. if I can find someone who will agree to run.  

On twitter @bfrivers

---

by: brivers @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 15:17:13 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Are the folks (0.00 / 0)

who backed Scott firing off angry emails asking how he could possibly support Charlie Baker for governor? Because he did endorse him. Remember? Why, they might even share some of the same views on the issues. Go figure.

Why is President Obama's Justice Dept. running guns to Mexican drug cartels, and possibly MS-13 too?

Karl (TLC)Weld

---

by: TLCWeld @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 15:51:59 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

brivers - real words Important Read (0.00 / 1)

Thanks for all your comments with regards to my post. I got a few new things with regards to this, and I lot of stuff obviously regurgitated from prior posts.

It seems to me people are treating Scott and Charlie differently for a few reasons despite their similarity on the issues:

1. They don't care what the actual stances are on issues, Charlie's a liberal and Scott's a conservative. As I said, Charlie and Scott are a lot closer or far apart than people are apparently willing to admit at this point. Hopefully, the campaign can better articulate this as the is moves forward. Schill for Baker

2. Richard Tisei was Charlie Baker first order as Governor and its not popular. I've never seen a Lt. Governor drive policy that wasn't also that of the Governor. However, Charlie's going to conform to Richard's admittedly liberal issues instead of the other way around.

3. The 41st vote was so important that it change Massachusetts politics to Center Right for future camapigns. I see this point, but also believe that getting Deval out of office is nearly as important.

4. Activists will determine the election out come unlike with the Weld/Cellucci machines. This I can appreciate the most as the party suffered greatly during that timeframe. However, who else was he going to hire? Scott already hired to only other group of ppl. to run a successful statewide effort. Now that Scott's campaign is over, I hope to see some of his staff end up working for the Baker campaign. More Schilling for Baker  

---

by: WesternmassGOP @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 13:05:17 PM UTC

Dude, can you format these things? (0.00 / 0)

I can't read or understand what you're saying. Seriously. My eyes hurt.

Eric Gittleman
Boston Ward 21 Republican Committee (Allston, Brighton, Fenway/Kenmore)

My views do not necessarily reflect those of the Ward 21 Republican Committee, the Boston Republican City Committee, or any officers or members thereof.

---

by: Gittle @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 15:38:17 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Stalinist Purge (2.50 / 2)

Is this some type of Stalinist Purge, moderates are the
"ex-kulaks" and other "anti-Soviet elements" - of course they got Scott Brown elected :)

---

by: roarkarchitect @ Wed Feb 03, 2010 at 16:45:02 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

RE: Please help me understand (5.00 / 1)

While I agree with much if not most of your contribution, I do want to point out -- for historic perspect -- an error in your dissertation, when you wrote:  "However, when have the stances of the Lt. Governor become the stances of the Governor?"

First, there was the pass-off from Weld to Lt. Gov. Cellucci when Bill went for Ambassador to Mexico, then; there was the pass-off from Cellucci to Lt. Gov. Jane Swift when Paul became Ambassador to Canada.

Two of the last three elected Republican lieutenant governors have become "acting governors" by default -- the third filled in when necessary as Mitt Romney geared up more and more for his presidential run.

        "Every tax is a pay cut -- A tax cut is a pay raise."

---

by: chipford @ Thu Feb 04, 2010 at 05:11:44 AM UTC

This is a what-if senario. (0.00 / 0)

Yes, it should be considered as part of the over-all discussion. That being said (for what it's worth) Charlie has said he has no interest in any other position other than governor. I choose to take him at his word. Naive? Maybe. But there it is.

Why is President Obama's Justice Dept. running guns to Mexican drug cartels, and possibly MS-13 too?

Karl (TLC)Weld

---

by: TLCWeld @ Thu Feb 04, 2010 at 14:45:56 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

Weld - Made a big difference (0.00 / 0)

Can you imagine the straits the state would be in if we hadn't had Weld as a governor, and then the string of
Republican governors. We would be California,  New York or New Jersey with a completely broken economy. Massachusetts is a high tax state but it's not up in the stratosphere with CA/NY/NJ.

---

by: roarkarchitect @ Thu Feb 04, 2010 at 15:29:17 PM UTC

[ Parent ]

media player hdmi (0.00 / 0)

media player hdmi

media player hdmi

media player hdmi  

---

by: pandawill @ Wed Oct 19, 2011 at 01:48:18 AM UTC