This story may well have slipped under your radar, but if you plan to vote in the U.S.Senate race in Massachusetts later this year and you care about Massachusetts' history and the unique attributes of its economy, you should take heed: Senator Scott Brown is currently engaged in the most effective direct constituent advocacy we are likely to see this year, on behalf of a struggling Massachusetts industry that desperately needs an effective champion in Washington.
The top-line story is pretty straightforward. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is responsible for (among many other things) regulating the fishing industry. One of the myriad ways in which NOAA discharges that duty is by levying fines on fishermen who violate regulations. And employees of the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), a division of NOAA, were just caught rigging the federal procurement process to use some of the proceeds of those fines to purchase a pleasure yacht, which was then used to host booze cruises. Here's the Seattle Times:
Federal fish cops in Seattle bought a $300,000 luxury boat to spy on whale-watching tours - but didn't go through an appropriate bidding process, held barbecues onboard, ferried friends and family across Puget Sound to restaurants and resorts, and used the boat for what one visitor called "a pleasure cruise."
When confronted, one federal employee in Seattle misled inspectors about how the vessel was used, and one interfered with federal investigators, according to an internal investigation by the Commerce Department. Those documents were released Friday by U.S. Sen. Scott Brown, R-Mass.
At issue is a 35-foot, 14-passenger boat purchased by federal agents with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) using money seized from fishermen who violated the law.
Leave aside the ludicrous intended use of the vessel (spying on whale-watching tours??). In fact, the boat was used primarily to ferry NMFS officials and their spouses to seaside dinner locations along the coast of Washington.
So why is this getting any attention? Because Scott Brown is making a pretty loud fuss about it... READ THE REST at CriticalMASS
In an election year, those of us involved in MA politics are expected to reach out to many different groups. We listen to various points of view, study local issues, and develop policy positions that, hopefully, benefit the largest number of citizens.
However, true to form, our State Senator is foregoing opportunities to improve the overall small business climate or zero in on ways to improve public education. Instead, he throwing yet another 'bone' to the local and State House environmental groups:
Last evening I took part in a video podcast using the Vokle platform with Jack Gately of JackGately.com. You may remember Jack as the creator of the Charlie Baker E-Trade spoofs.
In the half hour interview we talked about a lot of topics, including the recent row over the conscience clause. Enjoy the show.
Wall Street favorite, Elizabeth Warren, has doubled down on the time honored tradition of demagogues; trying to win an election by stoking the popular hostilities of a particular religious minority. While I am sure the message plays well in her native Cambridge, I surely hope that kind of demagoguery doesn't take foot in America.
Warren, has now attacked Senator Brown for trying to implement Ted Kennedy-supported conscience protection clauses for the Catholic Church and indeed for all people of faith. Warren has taken the predictably hyperbolic (if not entirely explicable) line that Scott Brown will immediately cause every day Americans to completely lose all of their healthcare coverage:
"It opens the door to outright discrimination. It would let insurance companies and corporations cut off pregnant women, overweight guys, older Americans, or anyone - because some executive claims it's part of his moral code. Maybe that wouldn't happen, but I don't want to take the chance."
While I'm not sure how that is entirely even remotely possible, you can tell from her tone that the idea of someone having a "moral code" (can't you just see her eyes rolling with a statement like this?) causes her to just completely seethe. Still more aggravating, is the idea that others wouldn't agree that Americans are Constitutionally entitled to and endowed by their Creator with the positive rights of condoms and abortifacients.
The MassDems under Saint Bridget's alumni and Roman Catholic, John Walsh, went so far during the disastrous Coakley campaign to accuse Senator Brown of trying to turning rape victims away from hospitals. The voters saw right through it, and their appreciation of religious liberty won the day. If Elizabeth Warren wasn't busy raising most of her campaign donations out of state, perhaps she'd realize that Catholicism is the cradle faith of many in Massachusetts, and even if it doesn't hold the prestige it had in the past, politicians shouldn't attack that faith or any other.
I gratefully submitted the following opinion piece concerning United States Senator Scott Brown in reaction to a very gracious letter, dated late-December 2011, to thank three SouthCoast organizations that have done yeomen's work preserving and promoting both local and minority (African American & Wampanoag tribal) history, not just recently and certainly not only during February as "Black History Month".
The Senator's letter was carbon copied to the Dartmouth Historical Committee, which received it in late-January. I am a member of DHC and I recently discussed Senator Brown's letter about a little over a week ago on the Ken Pittman Show on WBSM 1420 AM. This letter to the editor was my public response.
The letter has appeared in at least the following locations:
It has been over two years now United States Senator Scott Brown was elected by the people in a special election to replace the late Ted Kennedy. Since his first day in office, Scott Brown has been a tireless advocate on behalf of the New Bedford fishing industry. Brown, fiercely independent, methodically and deliberately labors on behalf of all residents of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts but he has proven time and again from his legislation to innumerable visits that there is a special place in the Senator's heart for New Bedford and the SouthCoast. Additionally, as a member of the Senate's Veterans Affairs Committee, and through his role as a 32 year member of the Massachusetts National Guard, Brown has been a passionate advocate for all our veterans.
Senator Brown recently sent letters to the leadership of the New Bedford Historical Society, New Bedford Whaling Museum, and the Old Dartmouth Historical Society thanking those organizations for devoting "each day of the year to the history and contributions of people of color in our Commonwealth. In doing, you help to preserve unique and valuable elements of our culture and shatter stereotypes." Senator Brown specifically noted the collaboration of these organizations holding the Paul Cuffe Symposium in October 2009. The Senator is also keenly aware of the recent dedication of the Paul Cuffe Park at the corner of Union Street and Johnny Cake Hill that occurred during as the recent collaboration upon the New Bedford Genealogy Symposium in September 2011. Senator Brown singled out both the Paul Cuffe Symposium and the later park dedication in his letter. I'm honored that Senator Brown has submitted my Master's thesis, Paul Cuffe: A Study of His Life and the Status of His Legacy in Old Dartmouth, to the Library of Congress.
Scott Brown cares about New Bedford, its people, and our rich history. I know this because I have stood with the Senator, a friend of over a decade, at an establishment on Union Street, pointed up towards what today is the park, and discussed Paul Cuffe and other significant local historical figures. I frequently forward newspaper articles, emails, and other history related items to Senator Brown. The Senator's letter was written in late December and mailed sometime in January. Scott Brown cherishes local and African-American history throughout the year and not only in February when we celebrate Black History Month.
The Senator's recognition and his deep admiration for people of all colors with their rich history, is evidence of his overwhelming commitment to all people who have contributed, and sacrificed, for all of us, today. As Senator Scott Brown wrote, "...we would be remiss if we did not recognize and appreciate the vital contributions of African-Americans who have contributed so much to the rich tapestry of Massachusetts history."
Showing that he hasn't forgotten the history of religious freedom in Massachusetts, Senator Brown stepped up to the plate for Catholics today calling for the protection of religious liberty and the right to exercise conscience. His statement:
"One of our most cherished liberties is freedom of religion. Like Ted Kennedy before me, I support a conscience exemption for religious organizations in health care. No one should be forced by government to violate the teachings of their faith. I encourage President Obama to re-examine his health care law and make sure no one is being forced to do something that is contrary to their religious beliefs."
Senator Brown and I may practice our faiths in different churches, but I know I won't forget that he stood up for mine. Brown was under pressure not to stand with us, and however unpopular as my Church may be, he didn't turn his back on it. It may seem strange to celebrate a politician supporting something so elementary to our country, but Brown showed some serious courage and leadership today.
The Senate is currently debating measures that would protect the rights of the Roman Catholic Church and others that would force them to comply with the Department of Health and Human Services mandate to provide birth control and abortifacients as part of coverage. Legislation that would prevent the Obama-Sibelius imposition has been supported by a bipartisan group of Senators including Robert Casey (D-PA), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Ben Nelson (D-NE), Bill Nelson (D-FL), Joe Lieberman (I-CT) , and Rand Paul (R-KY).
It is customary practice for political candidates to be tracked. The tracker, however, usually stays in the background and gives his or her material to people that can use it. It seems however the most recent tracker got himself in a little hot water. You see he's dissed the entire city of Springfield. So says the Boston Herald.
U.S. Sen. Scott Brown is tracked everywhere he goes by a video camera-toting Democratic operative, including to Springfield last week. The operative apparently doesn't have the highest opinion of the western Massachusetts city - or tricked-out cars.
"Just saw a Ford Probe with gull-wing doors installed. Welcome to Springfield, MA," the operative tweeted.
Funny observation, perhaps, but dissing an entire city is probably not the best way to pump up your candidate's populist appeal.
I guess the elites over at the Mass Democratic Party can't be bothered with the "simpletons" in Springfield.
President Obama took to the rostrum at State of the Union last night and called upon Congress to pass legislation to prevent Congressional Insider Trading. The notion is a rare instance of something that should rightly attract bipartisan support. Our Senator, Scott Brown, was the first member of Congress to author a comprehensive bill on the subject, and last night President Obama expressed his support for Brown's measure. After finishing his State of the Union Address, Obama expressed to Brown in the well of the House while on national television that he'd tell Harry Reid to "get it done".
Will the President and Majority Leader Reid make good on their promises of bipartisanship and support the Brown bill as promised? Will the press hold them to this commitment?
UPDATE Official Transcript:
U.S. SENATOR SCOTT BROWN: My insider trading bill is on Harry's [Majority Leader Harry Reid] desk right now. Tell him to get it out.
PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA: I'm going to tell him. I'm going to tell him to get it done. How's your daughter?
Here are 5 Public Policy Principles worth following:
1. Bailout Economics has failed and must end - TARP has been the worse piece of U.S. legislation since Reconstruction. The law has extended the Great Recession and U.S. Housing Crisis. Less than 1% of the 800 Billion which was appropriated by Congress has actually been expended for homeowner loan modifications! We must be unrelenting in demanding more accountability and transparency with big banks and Wall Street Firms that took billions in federal bailout money.
2. Crony capitalism is the new source of inequality - I do not support corporate welfare, ethanol subsidies or solar panel giveaways and believe all three represent the true source of inequality in this country. I agree with a leading congressman when he recently observed the real, class divisions that threaten America are: "A society of bureaucrats and connected, crony capitalists trying to rise above the rest of us, call the shots, rig the rules, and preserve their place [in Washington DC and on Beacon Hill]."
3. Tax increases in any recession should be avoided - Instead of job killing tax hikes, or failed stimulus strategies that have done nothing more than cost shift expenses to our municipalities and school districts, let's fundamentally reform the tax code rather than force one group of Americans against another. Free Enterprise should be encouraged rather than officials engaging in class warfare rhetoric or income redistribution.
Let's lower rates for everyone; close loopholes and crony giveaways while developing a simpler system that rewards saving, investment and capital formation. Example: In 2011, GE paid no federal taxes on 15 Billion in profits with a 56k page return! This is wrong and must end.
4. All public officials should oppose the Generational Theft which is our National Debt and unfunded liabilities - We do not have a revenue problem; we have a spending problem which is being unfairly placed on the backs of our kids and grandchildren. Let's introduce a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution, and push for reforms that save teacher and other municipal positions instead of sticking our heads in the sand pretending the fiscal crisis is going away.
We can make our public pension systems solvent and avoid massive, future layoffs by acting responsibly today.
5. Save Medicare for Seniors (65+) - Last June, in Lowell, the MA Democratic Party adopted Medicare for All (S Bill 509) into their party platform effectively caving to the Far Left within their ranks. This socialized medicine scheme, sponsored by my opponent, incumbent State Sen. Jaime Eldridge, would radically alter MA health care quality, diminish choice, reduce the number of MA primary care doctors practicing, and force private sector layoffs - all in the worst U.S. economy since 1929.
My position is let's make the original Medicare program solvent instead. Then fix the MA Health Connector for small businesses and individuals.
Turning the Commonwealth's Health Care System into a Vermont or Canadian model would require this Legislature and Governor to adopt 5 NEW STATE TAXES (on employees, employers, self-employed and a 12.5% tax on unearned income).
Let's get serious.
So called 'Medicare for All' is too costly, unworkable and counter productive for the financially strapped, 1965 health care program we have now. For Eldridge to introduce a massive, new, open-ended entitlement when Medicare for Seniors stands on the brink of insolvency - that makes ObamaCare look radically conservative and incremental. It is simply not viable.
Dean Cavaretta
Candidate for MA State Senate
Middlesex & Worcester District
www.DeanCavaretta.com
FREEZIN' FOR A REASON: Big crowd today for Scott Brown office opening in Southie. Despite a pretty significant snow storm and cold weather, people still made it out to support OUR Senator. While I understand this was a campaign event, I cannot remember any Member of Congress from Massachusetts ever attending more events, being more accessible, and working as hard to reach out to people. Part of it is necessity, but I still appreciate it and I can tell that Scott likes to do it. A big hearty "Go Patriots" from him at the end, too. Unlike John Kerry and most Massachusetts politicians, you get the sense that he meant it. Scott is the type of guy I can imagine seeing at a tailgate, and that's pretty awesome.
BETTY REBUFFS: In a statement that made her look incredibly small and un-statesman-like, Elizabeth Warren resorted to name calling and paranoid taunts about Karl Rove when it came to an agreement about avoiding outside ads in the upcoming race. "The proposal Brown has put forward still includes loopholes that Karl Rove could drive a tank through." claimed the Warren camp, giving us an insight on the level of dialogue we may expect from the Ivy League law school prof'. I guess I expected a bit more of her and the kind of conversation her campaign would create.
DELAHUNT DOUBLE DEAL: A must read article from Glen Johnson over at the Globe. I've sort of come to expect some biased reporting from Johnson (or the Globe in general) but he didn't hold back on the former 10th District Congressman. You should really read it yourself, but basically Delahunt is DIRECTLY (no middle man, no offshoot, no anything, DIRECTLY) profiting from earmarks he got appropriated from his time in office.
"It may not be illegal, it may not be unethical, but it's certainly another reason why taxpayers hold Congress and its members in such low esteem right now,'' said Tom Schatz of Citizens Against Government Waste
I'm sure it isn't un-ethical according to House Ethics rules, but I'll go a step further and humbly posit that it actually is unethical.
"Two years ago today, the people of Massachusetts shocked the political world by electing my husband as their senator. It was a proud and historic moment, and no one was prouder of Scott.
"When Scott first thought about running for the Senate back in 2009, I wasn't so sure it was a good idea. But after a lot of conversations, I could see just how much he cared. And just how much he believed that America deserved better than what we were getting from Washington -- how differently he would do things if he had the chance.
"And I knew he was right. Even so, I worried that Scott didn't have much chance of winning the election.
"Well, after 25 years of marriage to Scott Brown, I should have known better.
"Scott is THE most hard-working, earnest and honest man I have ever known. You all have come to see these qualities in Scott the senator, but I wanted to take a moment to share with you the side of him I see: Scott the husband and father.
"Anyone who has read his book knows that Scott didn't have it easy growing up.
"With a lot of hard work, and great people around him, he overcame a childhood of abuse and poverty. But those experiences did not break him. In fact they made him stronger -- even more devoted to me as his wife-- and to our two daughters.
"I've come to understand that it is these challenges that make him who he is, shaping his values and character.
"Scott understands the devastation of joblessness on a family because he's lived through it. He knows what it's like to go hungry. When uncertainty and fear were his constant companions, he learned to be strong and self-reliant.
"Scott's past has made him determined to be a better husband and father than he ever knew. He made the personal vow that his kids would have the stable childhood he never experienced. And he has kept his word.
"But Scott knows that these immense opportunities are only possible because of this great country we live in.
"It's America that made it possible for a poor kid --with all the odds stacked against him -- to work hard, get an education, start a business, own a home, and hand off to his two daughters a world of opportunity.
"But, today, for too many other families, that America is slipping away. We can NOT let that happen.
"I KNOW Scott Brown will not let that happen, and that's why we NEED him in Washington.
"He's working hard every day to make the American Dream a reality.
"He is a wise, trustworthy, and compassionate public servant. He is a credit to our state and to our country.
"He's got my vote, and I hope he'll have yours. Please welcome my husband and YOUR U.S. Senator, Scott Brown!"
"Thank you very much. It's always great to be here in Worcester, especially with so many friends from here and across the state. You all know my wife Gail, and our daughters Ayla and Arianna. It's another big day for our family, and we thank you all for coming out to share it with us.
"Many of you were here at Mechanics Hall two years ago, in the closing hours of a tough and memorable election. Worcester was the perfect place to wrap up that winning campaign in January 2010. So, the way I figure it, what better place to start the winning campaign of 2012?
"Two years ago today, the whole country was watching, waiting to see what would happen in Massachusetts. After we lost Ted Kennedy, there was suddenly a vacancy in the United States Senate. And for the political establishment, it came down to a simple question: Which Democrat would move into the seat?
"For years, everyone knew what the deal was in this state: You get chosen by the machine, you go along to get along, please the right people, and the rest is easy. But we had a different idea. Elections aren't supposed to be easy, and public offices do not belong to any party by right. Two years ago you sent the establishment a very powerful message, a message that still resonates today. We won two years ago because we respected voters enough to give them a choice. As I said many times in that special election, it is your choice, and it still is the people's seat.
"A lot has changed in these two years, but not that. It is not the establishment's seat...it is not the Democrats' seat...It is still the people's seat - it's your seat. For anyone running, it still has to be earned. And that is what brings us here today: I am honored to be your United States senator, I am running for re-election to the U.S. Senate, and I ask for your vote.
"I'll tell you something else that hasn't changed in this state since 2010, and that's the attitude of the political machine. They didn't like being challenged then, and they really don't like it any better now. They want to get things back to normal as quickly as possible. And we all know what 'normal' means for them: It means we go back to one party, one way of thinking, one way of voting - just going in lockstep and doing what you're told. That old go-along-get-along mentality. You know it and I know it, it's got to stop here. It's got to stop now.
"I wouldn't be here at all if I worried about long odds. Once again, I'm going to run hard and keep my focus. I'm going to campaign on the issues ... not take a single vote for granted ... and speak directly to the people of our great state.
"Once again I won't have the political establishment behind me - not the one on Beacon Hill, and certainly not the one on Capitol Hill. All I will have going for me is my independent record as your United States Senator, and the independent spirit of the Massachusetts voter. I'll take those advantages any day over the political machine, and with your help in this campaign we will beat the odds again together.
"A lot of people these days feel like they're up against tough odds, because we still have a jobs crisis in this country. The governing establishment promised to get the economy moving again, but their policies have failed. And with new liabilities like Obamacare, they have added a debt crisis as well. How do you know when the political class is borrowing and spending the country toward disaster? I'd say a pretty sure sign is when the credit rating of the United States is downgraded, and that's where the tax and spend attitude in Washington has taken us.
"Elections are about accountability, and establishment candidates will have a lot of explaining to do. They'll try again and again to talk about something else during this election. They'll wage class warfare, pitting one group of Americans against another. They will attack success, and our free enterprise system. They will use terms like 'us' and 'them.' Our campaign will always be about 'We the People.'
Red Mass Group has obtained the following excerpts of Scott Brown's Announcement Speech tonight
"Once again I won't have the political establishment behind me - not the one on Beacon Hill, and certainly not the one on Capitol Hill. All I will have going for me is my independent record as your United States Senator, and the independent spirit of the Massachusetts voter. I'll take those advantages any day over the political machine, and with your help in this campaign we will beat the odds again together.
"A lot of people these days feel like they're up against tough odds, because we still have a jobs crisis in this country. The governing establishment promised to get the economy moving again, but their policies have failed. And with new liabilities like Obamacare, they have added a debt crisis as well. How do you know when the political class is borrowing and spending the country toward disaster? I'd say a pretty sure sign is when the credit rating of the United States is downgraded, and that's where the tax and spend attitude in Washington has taken us.
"Elections are about accountability, and establishment candidates will have a lot of explaining to do. They'll try again and again to talk about something else during this election. They'll wage class warfare, pitting one group of Americans against another. They will attack success, and our free enterprise system. They will use terms like 'us' and 'them.' Our campaign will always be about 'We the People.'
"Things would be a lot better in this country if more people in Washington were willing to think for themselves, and to work with each other for the good of America. Two years ago, I pledged to work with colleagues in the delegation and I have done so. I told the voters that I wouldn't just be another loud, angry partisan, because Washington has too many of those already. I promised to be an independent voice for you, because Washington has too few of those serving right now. I don't worry about the party line. I don't get caught up in petty fights. I always remember why I am there and who sent me. I am still nobody's senator but yours.
...
"Even though Washington already wastes far too much of your hard-earned money, it's a guarantee that my opponent will fall right into line with the Washington mindset of more spending, more debt, and eventually more taxes to bail out the big spenders. And that's a debate I welcome. In 2012, I will run proudly as the only candidate in this race who supports a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution. We do it here in Massachusetts, and we should do it in Washington, D.C.
...
"In government, you can argue forever and try to be the one who wins by shouting the loudest. Or you can get serious, assume the good faith of others, and do the much harder work of solving the problems that can't wait. Let's look at a few of these issues - our seniors depend on Social Security and Medicare, and it's our responsibility to keep those programs solid and secure without raising taxes. Our economy is undermined by a tax code that is unfair and too complicated, and it's our job to reform it in a way that doesn't fuel more spending but lowers rates for everyone. The reason the government has lost all credibility in stopping illegal immigration is because of the magnets we create like in-state tuition breaks that bring more people here in violation of the law. Whatever reforms come later on, it is our duty, right now, to enforce the law and secure the border of the United States.
"As long as I am your senator, I will work with any person of good will in Congress who is ready to confront these challenges and be part of the solution. I've found that good things have a way of happening in government, when you're looking for friends and not just for fights. And this points to one of the defining differences in the choice Massachusetts voters will have in 2012."
Here's hoping that there's an overflow crowd of activists from across the Commonwealth! If you can't make this event for whatever reason, I'm sure there will be more and more local opportunities coming very soon!
SAVE THE DATE: January 19th, 2012 at Mechanics Hall, Worcester
Scott Brown's Official Campaign Kick Off
January 17th, 2010: Thousands of people filled Mechanics Hall to show their support for Scott Brown.
January 19th, 2010: Scott Brown is elected US Senator by the people of Massachusetts.
Two years after his historic victory, our Senator will be returning to Worcester to officially kick off his campaign for re-election.
Please join us on January 19th, 2012 at 6pm (doors open at 5pm) at the historic Mechanics Hall in Worcester.
In case you missed the incredible energy that came to Worcester just days before Scott's special election in 2010... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v...
Don't miss out on this event!
Please help us pack Mechanics Hall once again to show our continued support for our Senator as he begins another tough battle for the People's Seat. We will be making phone calls to friends and supporters January 3rd thru January 18th and we NEED your help! Those who volunteer their time and are able to recruit the most friends and supporters to attend on January 19th will be offered a spot on stage with Scott or in the front row as he announces his candidacy for re-election live on the evening news.
Here is the information for the phone banks taking place next week. Please let me know if you would like to help get the word out, but cannot attend one of these phone banks. I'm happy to accomodate anyone who would like to help out!
WHAT:Phone Banks to Invite Friends & Supporters to January 19th Campaign Kick Off for Senator Scott Brown
WHEN: Tuesday, January 3rd from 5pm to 8pm / Wednesday, January 4th from 3pm to 7pm / Thursday, January 5th from 3pm to 6pm
*Please note that there are different times for each day.
Contact Kayla Berube, Regional Field Representative at 508-414-5482 or kberube@massvictory.com if you are planning to attend or would like more info.
****There will also be a cell-phone bank at Leominster GOP HQ on Wednesday, January 4th from 3pm to 7pm. Contact: Frank Ardinger, leominstergop@msn.com
Hope to see you all on January 19th... or earlier! We will be having more phone banks the following week, as well as a sign-making party. Please let me know if you will be attending the Campaign Kick-Off on January 19th and how you can help us bring back that same energy that pushed Scott to victory in 2010!
--
Kayla Berube
Regional Field Director
Massachusetts Victory
508.414.5482
A very sharp set of observations from UMass Professor Maurice Cunnningham over at CommonWealth. The table is set for November 2012 and not all is hopeless for a party that barely represents 13% of the electorate.
The Democrats dependably serve up a generous helping of scandals, and there is some turmoil in the House, as shown by Speaker Robert DeLeo's recent removal of Rep. Charles Murphy from his leadership post. Labor was reeling in the most recent legislative session, with even Democrats accepting the need for stronger managerial controls in public employment. There are intellectual engines for conservatives from the Pioneer Institute and the Beacon Hill Institute. Redmassgroup.com provides a punchy daily blog on conservative, libertarian, and party politics.
Barney Frank is leaving. Bill Keating is moving. Richard Tisei is in against John Tierney. These are all opportunities for Republicans to compete and win congressional seats. And as state legislators and other elected officials attempt to move to Congress, they leave behind open seats. Whereas incumbents win at least 95 percent of the time, an open seat is much easier to capture for the out party. If Mitt Romney gets the Republican nomination for president, that puts our former governor and Scott Brown atop the GOP ticket. They could even build a coordinated campaign that would help down ballot candidates here.
But getting back to reality, Professor Cunningham notes that all could come apart easily with the nomination of Newt Gingrich, the antithesis of Massachusetts Republicanism and a sure-bet train wreck. Gingrich will destroy not only the top of the ticket where Brown needs every lucky break but also the down ballot where the GOP is trying to hold on to the seats it captured in 2010.
Read the whole article. There's very little to disagree with.
(This is going to be a close election. Scott can still win this. We all need to help in any way we can. - promoted by Rob "EaBo Clipper" Eno)
For those who take last year's dismal results seriously, the UMass Lowell poll released today is no surprise. Scott Brown can be toast in November 2012. How he turns it around will say a lot about the GOP base in Massachusetts and whether they will gravitate around well-meaning but very unpopular Tea Party themes or whether they will offer a forward looking agenda extolling competition and good government. On the heels of this poll, the Tea Party contingent crowd will complain about media bias but the Tea Party is LESS popular that Occupy Wall Street according to the Herald, a group that, as the poll shows, is drawing liberal criticism.
There is little, it appears, that Scott Brown can do to turn the momentum for Liz Warren around. Next November President Obama will be at the top of the ticket. November 2012 was a prelude to what can happen if the GOP doesn't shift its message from one of simple anger and frustration to something positive that appeals not only to social conservatives but also libertarians and independents. There is a slither of hope, however, most voters say they are open to changing their minds; Scott Brown has run a decent campaign and he is running hard. Catcalls of RINO from the backbenches aren't going to help the junior Senator. He needs every GOP vote.
Brown still leads Warren among independent voters by a wide margin, 53-37 percent, according to the poll. But because there are so few Republicans in Massachusetts, Brown is far short of the support from independents he needs to be competitive in the 2012 election, according to most analysts.
The poll also shows that the race remains extremely volatile, with more than half of Massachusetts voters saying they still could change their mind. Among voters who say they have definitely made up their minds, Warren leads Brown by 24-21 percent.
Should the Brown campaign, the GOP state committee and new candidates not fine-tune their message toward the center in Massachusetts, the Republican gains in the House will be at risk. One state representative recently said with Barry Obama at the top of the ticket the emphasis will not be on expansion but on protecting the frosh GOP members. A move that has been all the much harder due to redistricting.
Well the Occupy-set and their circus of people clothed in trash bags, Panther berets(LOL), and tie-dyed hair crashed Senator Scott Brown's office today DEMANDING that Scott Brown submit to their ridiculous Mau-Mau-ing. They even went as far as to label him "a coward" for allegedly dodging their side show when he wasn't able to speak to them.
Naturally the echo chambers of the left breathlessly howled with headlines like:
COWARD SCOTT BROWN WON'T MEET TAKE BACK THE CAPITAL CONSTITUENTS - DailyKos
What they failed to realize is that according to his office, Brown was out fulfilling his National Guard duty. Standing ready to defend the rights of free speech, and for the freedom to loiter and squat in Senate office buildings whilst wearing dozens of facial piercings and giving people dirty looks. What a country!
But seriously, thanks for your service Senator Brown... even if our friends in the Occupy Movement don't quite understand it.
Showing that he hasn't forgotten the history of religious freedom in Massachusetts, Senator Brown stepped up to the plate for Catholics today calling for the protection of religious liberty and the right to exercise conscience. His statement:
FREEZIN' FOR A REASON: Big crowd today for Scott Brown office opening in Southie. Despite a pretty significant snow storm and cold weather, people still made it out to support OUR Senator. While I understand this was a campaign event, I cannot remember any Member of Congress from Massachusetts ever attending more events, being more accessible, and working as hard to reach out to people. Part of it is necessity, but I still appreciate it and I can tell that Scott likes to do it. A big hearty "Go Patriots" from him at the end, too. Unlike John Kerry and most Massachusetts politicians, you get the sense that he meant it. Scott is the type of guy I can imagine seeing at a tailgate, and that's pretty awesome.
Well the Occupy-set and their 