* As I’ve pointed out before, if Mark Kirk really does have votes planned in the US House tonight, then that’s a pretty good excuse to skip out on the Sarah Palin event…
Palin is in suburban Chicago Wednesday for a conservative radio talk show event at the Rosemont Theatre and a $500-a-plate fundraiser at the Westin O’Hare for the Illinois Republican Party. The fundraiser isn’t open press, but that still didn’t entice the state’s top GOP contenders to attend.
Kirk, who’s running for Senate, “says he will have to be in Washington, D.C., tonight to make some planned House votes,” according to the Arlington Heights Daily Herald. And House candidates Randy Hultgren and Robert Dold “have other plans tonight.”
That left just gubernatorial candidate Bill Brady to attend, and he “originally” didn’t plan on it.
The House did have some votes on minor legislation last night and Kirk was a no-show, one of anywhere from 35 to 42 who didn’t make it for four votes. Now that kinda undermines his excuse. Again, though, those were pretty minor bills.
Even so, Alexi Giannoulias’ campaign is trying to make some hay out of Palin’s visit with a new Internet ad…
We admit to being a little unsure about how to characterize your appearance. The GOP fundraiser portion is self-explanatory, but when it comes to the Rosemont Theatre event, is that a personal lecture? A political rally? Promotional materials for the show have called it just “An Evening with Sarah Palin,” so we’ll take it at that and see what develops over time.
Nevertheless, inasmuch as you are often hailed as a potential presidential candidate, we think it worthwhile to reflect on some topics we hope you’ll address that can help us in the suburbs better get to know you.
For one, we’re naturally interested in your thoughts about media’s relationship to political and public figures. Your Rosemont Theatre address is promised to be free of “media or liberal filters.” Yet, you are sponsored by a radio station that bills itself as “Chicago’s conservative talk radio station.” Is that not a media filter? And, if reports of your speech are run through politically moderate or conservative filters, is that OK?
* Bill Brady will be there tonight after originally saying he wouldn’t and he talked out of both sides of his mouth to Chicago Public Radio…
BRADY: Sarah Palin certainly appeals to some people, and doesn’t appeal to some others… I just appreciate the fact she’s willing to come in and help raise money for Republican candidates.
* Kind of a small peg to hang this hit on, but whatever. From a press release…
Democratic nominee for Illinois Treasurer Robin Kelly is calling on opponent Dan Rutherford to explain his comments regarding conservative Sarah Palin who will host a fundraiser for the state Republican Party today in Rosemont.
“Sarah Palin does not represent the beliefs of mainstream Illinois families,” said Kay Page, Kelly’s campaign manager. “The people of Illinois have a right to know if Dan Rutherford stands with Palin, or if he stands with the people of Illinois.”
On April 17th, Rutherford attended the Palin event outside of Peoria and met with her after the program. In addition, he is soliciting campaign contributions on his website in exchange for Palin buttons.
When asked about Palin, Rutherford cautiously says that she “does invigorate a certain constituency.”
“Rutherford needs to answer whether he considers himself part of the constituency that Palin energizes, and if he will seek or accept her endorsement,” said Page, noting that Palin is a frequent critic of President Obama’s policies.
80 Comments
- Small Town Liberal - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:11 am:
- I just appreciate the fact she’s willing to come in and help raise money for Republican candidates. -
Sounds about right coming from the guy who really doesn’t care if animals suffer when being euthanized, he just appreciates getting donations.
800 jobs were lost in lake forest this morning when takeda pharmacuticals bolted. The state democrats who have run illinois for 8 years need to focus on their horrendous economic record rather than playing media pundit.
Robin Kelly has done much more harm to the state of illinois than sarah palin and she needs to join alexi and explain how they merit higher office when their record continues to merit defeat in november.
this election is not about animals getting euthanized its about the peoples careers who have been euthanized because the democrats in this state continue to spend all of their time making sure they and their insiders get theirs.
Can’t help a gratuitous swipe at Kirk, eh? Kirk was in DC when Steele came to a GOP fundraiser too, so this is not unprecedented.
As you noted, Tuesday votes in Congress are usually naming post offices and congratulating the national champion tiddly winks team. Many members who are running for statewide offices miss them to spend more time on the campaign trail. Wednesday is when the real business usually begins.
Alexi ad is well produced but like all his attacks is only geared towards the Palin-hatin’ base. Independents may not like her, but they are also generally (as many polls show) very down on Obamacare. And since almost no independents (the key to this race) will see this ad it doesn’t matter anyway.
Gee, if Blago were speaking at a Dem fundraiser, I doubt that “some people agree; some people disagree; I’m just glad he’s raising money for the party” would be an adequate statement!
- Yellow Dog Democrat - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:32 am:
Sounds like GOP insiders don’t see Sarah Palin polling too well among independents for the General Election.
Robin Kelly endorsed Rod Blagojevich. Twice. At least, probably more including Congressional races. And she is questioning Rutherford’s “ties” to Sarah Palin and attacking him for talking about Palin?
We already know where Robin Kelly stands. Robin Kelly stands side by side with the corrupt crooks like Rod Blagojevich and not with the people of Illinois.
Is the Democrat media going to ask Kelly about her ties to Blagojevich or just let her get away with this blatant hypocrisy?
And I don’t support Rutherford either, especially if he isn’t smart enough to defend himself from such a silly attack from Kelly, the Blagojevich cheerleader.
It is 20% of the 820 Lake Forest Global positions and 20% of the 5000 national positions (1,300 in Deerfield) It is unclear whether the cuts in Deerfield will be proportional to the national or not.
These are all high paying jobs. Illinois can ill afford to lose the income from these salaries as well as a reduction in the economic activities.
Don’t kid yourself. If a company is downsizing their forces, they will cut more in unfriendly states than friendly ones. We will see how the rif plays out in Deerfield.
800 jobs were lost in lake forest this morning when takeda pharmacuticals bolted
———-
Shore…those jobs are cut because Takeda’s one big drug is about to go generic and because they have failed in their R&D to produce another big drug. Don’t just be reflexive…educate yourself before you make broad brush statements.
shore is incorrect. This election SHOULD be about many issues, and simply because Brady blusters about other issues does not mean we should overlook his extremist-level right positions on dog euthanasia (kill all of them), sexual and religious discrimination (sponsored a bill about the latter), or women’s rights (no abortions even in cases of rape or incest, no equal pay).
Also, if you’re really concerned about the economy, it makes no sense to back Brady, who can’t even remember his own stance on the issue.
- Lakefront Liberal - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:40 am:
Shore, how is Robin Kelly involved in the Takeda cuts?
I have immense respect for McCain’s service to his country, and I favored him over Obama due to his experience.
Until Palin. She represents the worst in American politics; ignorant and hateful.
The only good thing to say about her is that she’s just in it now for the money. She’s not running for president, no way, no how. It’s a joke to even think of such a lightweight as a viable candidate.
To borrow from yesterday’s QOTD, Sarah Palin is to Ronald Reagan as Sean Hannity is to Eric Sevareid.
Kirk used to be sweet on her, and actually asked her to say nice things about him. Not his best moment.
So, what families does Palin represent, per Ms. Kelly, I wonder. I had the impression she had quite a bit of support in rural America. These would be the fringe families? The wacky families?
The dumb families?
When local pols make statements like Ms. Kelly through her spokesperson, we really need to ask them what they mean.
==It’s a joke to even think of such a lightweight as a viable candidate.==
That’s how I feel about both candidates for governor.
Oh wait, make that all of the candidates for governor.
- Small Town Liberal - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:49 am:
shore - Making sure insiders get theirs appears to be what Brady is all about, given the fact that he doesn’t seem to care what favors he does for them as long as they keep sending checks. But I realize its difficult for you to actually grasp that animal euthanization was an example of that, not the point of my post. I’ll try to make things more clear for you in the future.
- grand old partisan - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:59 am:
Rich, I don’t think it’s fair to say that Brady “talked out of both sides of his mouth” in that clip. The first part of what he said is just an obvious statement of the fact; after all, Palin does appeal to some and not to others, right? The second part is cagey, but it hardly counts as double-talking. Brady may very well be genuinely appreciative of the fact that she is willing to come and help his campaign. Could he have offered a more expansive, definitive statement about his thoughts on Palin and her brand of politics? Sure – but why do so if not pressed for it?
Let’s get real here. This election is about the economy–not puppies and platitudes. Sarah Palin is to Mark Kirk about the same as Bill Ayers to Obama. It’s nonsense. Alexi is as intellectually bankrupt as his bank is financially. That advert is juvenile and there is a lot there to fire up the anti-Obama folks. Not a masterpiece of political advertising to say the least. Even his adverts are going from bad to worse.
I follow the crowd which percieves Palin hints at a canidacy to keep the cahsola flowing, but she is following path of income eaning, not campaigning.
Brady and Palin can work to help protect the US from Canada…. which is just across from Chicago via lake MI….
- Yellow Dog Democrat - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 11:13 am:
@Reality -
Mark Kirk asked Sarah Palin for her endorsement, and his victory depends on her followers supporting him. Sarah Palin is radioactive, but other than that I think your analogy is off.
Yellow Dog Dem….”Sarah Palin is radioactive”. Really? To whom? Chicago Dems? “Progressives”? Check back with me on November 3rd and we’ll see just how radioactive she is to the overall Republican cause. Voters are smart people, they will see Palin for what she is, a hard right of center political “star” who has some media glitter and can pull down a buck or two. She has about as much policy sway over Kirk as you or I do.
- Chi Town Brown - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 11:38 am:
Mark Kirk is not a moderate. He was able to win the 10th District year after year by bring over single issue Israel voters. Giannoulias is smart to educate the people of Illinois on the true political leanings of his opponent and point out how out of touch he is with the people of Illinois. If he keeps on doing this his poll numbers will continue to rise and he will eventually win in November.
Chi Town Brown, your lack of understanding of the North Shore clouds your analysis. The 10th probably one of the most educated districts in the United States–certianly in Illinois. Are you really suggesting that Mark Kirk was able to hoodwink the people of the 10th? I think not. It has the highest income and education levels of anywhere in the state and the voters in the 10th are critical thinking business and civic leaders of high stature. They evaluated the records of all candidates and made a choice to back Kirk because of, not in spite of, his positions and record.
- JonShibleyFan - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 11:46 am:
People, people, people. Please. No need to fight.
Whatever your position is, Mark Kirk agrees with you.
- The REAL Anonymous fka Anonymous - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 11:52 am:
===
Mark Kirk wanted Palin’s blessing during the primary, but now that he doesn’t need the hick vote anymore, he’s got no use for Palin.
===
lol This will be an interesting one because we’ll actually have an opportunity to see–in the end–how big of an impact Sarah actually has on Kirk’s campaign, and then some of you can revise your comments accordingly.
I don’t know why, but people keep underestimating Sarah based on some of the jabs people take at her. She strikes me as someone who knows what she’s doing. I’d imagine Kirk does, too.
Robin Kelly’s press release is laughable… it invites and identical hit back with Broadway Bank, Blago, Roland Burris, and any other guilt by association one could think of.
[…] That’s all well and good — except that Kirk isn’t voting on anything. Rich Miller from the Capitol Fax blog points out that of the four pieces of minor legislation moving through the House Tuesday night, Kirk voted on zero of them. […]
I think that WIND should start worrying about someone filing a complaint aganist the station with the FCC, stating that their actions demonstrate a failure to serve in the public interest (as stated in their liciense to be on the air).
- Windy City Mama - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 12:57 pm:
Once again the libs need someone to ridicule and hate. Bush is gone. So I guess Sarah will do.
This from people who voted for a man that can’t speak to a third grade class without a teleprompter. Grow up guys.
The only people upset with Sarah Palin are the ones who are jealous of her successes. They can’t explain her, so they insult her and anyone who isn’t foaming at the mouth over her.
Alexi has to be really desperate if he thinks that he can rely upon Obama’s fast fading popularity to pull this race out of the dumpster.
The polls, the Congressional Budget Office and recent election results point to the fact that Obamacare is hugely unpopular, but Alexi is tone deaf.
I do not think that Kirk is the best possible politician or a particularly good candidate, but it sure helps to have a wounded opponent.
i can explain Palin. She appeals to the worst instincts of chronic whiners who think there are simple, no-cost answers to everything.
You’re kind of gal, VMan.
- Small Town Liberal - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:18 pm:
Windy City and Vman - Upset at Palin’s success? She lost, she’s not in charge of anything, you think everyone is upset that she’s out making money off the fame handed to her by McCain? I’m not, I wish her all the best, but the fact is that she’s encouraging policies that are offensive to people who care about things like equality, the environment, and social justice. And talk about teleprompters all you want, its a typical talking point for people who don’t know much else. The woman said she has foreign policy experience because she can see Russia, I mean, you’re going to defend that?
If Biden, or Pelosi, or Obama for that matter came to town, there would be lots of Repubs squawking. But the Dems wouldn’t care and they would just ignore it.
It’s pathetic how so many Republican officials in this state run at the first sign of trouble. They can’t even stand up for a woman like Palin who, agree or disagree with her, has stood up to a LOT of really nasty abuse. Not just directed at her, but her young kids too.
Still trying to figure out why “conservative” values play so poorly in this state. The north of I-80 voter is understandably more moderate (read liberal), but downstate voters are overwhelmingly more conservative in their views. Palin’s visit to raise money for the ILGOP should be successful, and Brady is going to lose the RINO’s up north anyway. He is smart to play to his base support and hopefully generate a little excitement in the base. Palin’s endorsement might actually increase voter turnout with the conservatives. BTW, this is a group that Kirk has lost already with his vote for cap-and-trade last year.
FarmBoy, that I-80 stuff is nonsense. There are many more conservative voters in the northern part of the state simply because that’s where 2/3 of the state’s population resides. Deal with it.
In the post before this we are discussing what crimes former Dem Gov. Blago should be tried for. We are also looking at the lunatic the Dems nominated this year to run for Lt. Gov. Rich points out correctly that the state budget is a mess because the only ones who have any say are the DEM Speaker, the Dem. Sen. Pres and the DEM Gov. The policies of liberalism are failing before our eyes and certainly failing before the eyes of our friends in Europe.
Meanwhile, those who dont want to embrace the truth of any of those facts want to regail us with how hurtful Sara Palin will be to the GOP. You guys are making this too easy. In Nov., Brady by 5, and Palin higher approval ratings than Obama.
- Windy City Mama - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:37 pm:
Wordslinger, you missed my point. There may be more conservative votes in the northern part of the state, but they are vastly outnumbered by moderates (I call them RINOs). And the ILGOP, trying to win over moderates, is alienating their core base of conservative voters. Just don’t think it is smart politics. And from the looks of things in this state, it is a strategy that has failed the ILGOP miserably.
Farmboy, Reagan did awfully well in Illinois. Maybe it takes a good candidate.
- JonShibleyFan - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:52 pm:
“The only people upset with Sarah Palin are the ones who are jealous of her successes.”
Good grief. Do you realize how ridiculous that sounds? Like an indulgent mother telling her chubby kid that the other kids are just jealous of his big strong muscles.
- The REAL Anonymous fka Anonymous - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:55 pm:
===
Upset at Palin’s success? She lost, she’s not in charge of anything, you think everyone is upset that she’s out making money off the fame handed to her by McCain?
===
Oh…so her success and base are ALL thanks to McCain? Like someone GAVE all that to her v. her seizing it herself and continuing to build it up? Thanks for explaining that.
- The REAL Anonymous fka Anonymous - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:59 pm:
Hey, FarmBoy, you sure Moderates and Indies don’t like Palin? In a Party where we have very few women in power at the national level, you think we’d like a lefty similar to Pelosi better?
- Small Town Liberal - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 2:00 pm:
- The policies of liberalism are failing before our eyes -
Please, you’re telling me it was the policies of liberalism during 8 years of GW that caused the economy to fail? What a joke. The problems in Illinois are hardly about liberalism.
Windy City - I don’t know what your quotes mean, but are you really trying to point fingers when you just ridiculed Obama for using a teleprompter?
Just looking for someone to come in and be honest about this state’s financial situation. We cannot continue to increase the size and scope of government, either statewide or nationally. There are too many “piglets” feeding off the “sow”. I am dying to hear a candidate that will speak the truth, that we need to cut the number of people taking from the system….vastly decrease the size of government (especially mid and upper level positions), and live within our means. It would mean painful cuts to all programs, but it is either that or going broke. Courageous and thoughtful speech, backed up by action. It might be a recipe for defeat, but it would sure be refreshing.
- grand old partisan - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 2:05 pm:
Small Town Lib – you are only proving their point by basing your criticism of Palin on SNL sketches, and not what she has really said or done. She never said that she could see Russia from her house. Never happened. It was actually Charlie Gibson who matter-of-factly suggested that she might have a unique perspective on relations with Russia because of her state’s proximity to it, and she commented that, yes, Russia was so close that you could actually see it “from an island in Alaska,” not her house.
Sen. Brady is free to put pen to paper anytime with his budget proposal. Can’t imagine why he doesn’t.
- Small Town Liberal - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 2:14 pm:
GOP - Here’s what she said, and this is better than her later answer to Katie Couric about it:
GIBSON: What insight into Russian actions, particularly in the last couple of weeks, does the proximity of the state give you?
PALIN: They’re our next door neighbors and you can actually see Russia from land here in Alaska, from an island in Alaska.
GIBSON: What insight does that give you into what they’re doing in Georgia?
PALIN: Well, I’m giving you that perspective of how small our world is and how important it is that we work with our allies to keep good relation with all of these countries, especially Russia.
The only whining I’m reading here are from liberals obsessed over Palin and behaving as though anyone she see, agrees with, or endorses has some kind of disease. It is ridiculous.
- Way Way Down Here - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 2:37 pm:
FarmBoy
It is a recipe for defeat, which is the really tragic thing about it.
- Louis G. Atsaves - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 2:40 pm:
The “smart” pundits here and elsewhere thought Palin’s 15 minutes of fame was supposed to end after the November 2008 election.
I can. She is the 21st Century political version of PT Barnum, a shamelessly opportunistic huckster appealing to the base instincts of the crowd and selling snake oil to the gullible.
As for her successes, let’s count them up here: One half-term as Governor, check. Two months as the VP nominee for John “Not a Maverick” McCain, check. And…what else?
But yeah, Wordslinger nailed it. She’s your kind of people VanillaMan. Have fun in Rosemont.
The biggest problem with Illinois government is not liberal or conservative, Republican or Democrat. It’s that the system is completely dysfunctional because protecting the seat of the incumbent (which could be worded differently if this weren’t a high class blog) is the number one priority of the legislature and the executive branch. No one wants to take responsibility for ugly or unpopular decisions - even if they are in the best interests of the state.
That liberalism is a failed concept is evidenced by the events unfolding in the European Union. Germany, France and now England have conservative leaders who are trying to address the failed policies of several generations of liberalism that have nearly bankrupted the continent. The social safety net has been proven to be unsustainable due to chronic low employment, low industrial productivity, low birth rates, high taxes and capital flight to name but a few. Guaranteed income, health care, month long vacations for all and silly environmental actions (the Swiss gov’t enshrined into law plants rights) make Europe a failing entity. Many there have come to the realization, likely too late, that liberalism and socialism simply does not work. They have elected leaders who are trying to move in the right direction. In the US, however, we appear to be looking to Europe as a role model when they don’t see themselves in that light.
And instead of dealing with that, the left screams about Palin. Ridiculous.
Barnum actually put on a good show. Like Hannity and Rush, Sarah knows her audience, gives them what they want and makes a buck off of it. It’s a free country, so salud.
But forgive the rest of us who don’t take her seriously as a potential leader of the free world. I have a lot more respect for the GOP than some of you do.
I can understand why some in the state GOP would run from Sarah Palin. She quit her job and has turned into a right wing crazy like Limbaugh, Hannity, Bachmann and Beck. She’s come to symbolize empty rhetoric, ideological intolerance and religious zealotry. I’m all for the Republicans having a seat at the table, but Palin has nothing to offer to help our state address its financial mess.
Palin is my favorite Republican. She tells it like she thinks it is and doesn’t try to hide her true feelings as opposed to someone like Mark Kirk who is more liberal than half the democrats in Illinois but fakes it to pander to moderates in his district and wing nuts like Roeser.. At least Palin is authentic and entertaining. Listening to Kirk speak is like watching grass grow. Brady is not much better.
I wish Palin was running for Governor. She’d kill Quinn.
- CircularFiringSquad - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 3:46 pm:
Folks who have seen the act will tell the media they are missing much by leaving cameras and recorders behind…writes on her hand, makes joke about straw, fancy jets,and Washington elite.
She’ll go lite on TeaBaggers in the GOP event since they are paying some part of the tab.
But watch out when she hit. We think she took questions in AL the other day. Yawner
CaribouBarbie..thanks again for taking all this cash out of state so it can’t be used against those poor Dem slobs who are all queasy over the fierce challenge being mounted by NoTaxBill, StatewideTOm RXRon and the blowhards.
S.T.L. I actually believe that Palin talked about her experience in foreign affairs included negotiating a multi-billion dollar, international oil deal that involved Alaska.
===They can’t explain her===
Simple: She is what Rod Blagojevich wishes he was.
- The REAL Anonymous fka Anonymous - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 4:11 pm:
I think you and some others are missing the real point, 47th. Bottom line is that whatever “power” and base Sarah has, it’s hers because she acquired it.
And Sarah seems to have quite a large base out there at her call–considering she “lost” the election. Heck, I’d be willing to guess she has more true followers than many who won theirs.
- The REAL Anonymous fka Anonymous - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 4:13 pm:
Kirk is racking up those frequent miles I guess. I sat behind him on a Monday flight from DC to Chicago. Turns around on Wednesday? Hmmm. Guess he couldn’t fit all his clothes into his J.Crew garment bag.
- How many colleges can you attend? - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 6:51 pm:
Ms. Palin has as much intelligence (and character) in her body as Rich Miller has in his finger nails. Sorry if I offended your hands Rich.
She is the worst example to come out of American politics. Ever. A semi-pretty face with no brains to back it up. Yes, I apologize to those who attended those wonderful higher institutions of academic learning: HAwaii Pacific University, Noth Idaho University, Matanuska-Susitna College, and finally the Vandals of the University of Idaho in fives years.
In between, she finished third in Miss Alaska pageant. Isn’t that like being the tallest midget? Again, I apologize to those offended.
She “worked” as a sports reporter on TV for one year.
She, like the Rush Limbaughs, the Sean Hannitys, the Glenn Becks, just wants to make money. No education. No willingness to learn, to listen to people that don’t share the same religion as you. Which is fine. Just don’t drag our country down with you.
Go get on a helicopter, shoot at moose with an AK-47 and call yourself an outdoorsmen.
The IL GOP is so bizarre and out of step with the national GOP & conservativism. I don’t “get” them. No wonder they can’t win elections in this state. They need to quit reading Chicago media. Farmboy–we’re not allowed to mention I-80 here, you know.
Is the vulgar slur “teabagger” acceptable at this blog?
I hate to wade in on this one, but I read comments of people upset that Brady favors euthanization of dogs, under certain conditions. I wonder how these same folks feel about euthanization of people–you know those who will drain the new ObamaCare system of funds–or dismemberment of babies in the womb. I used to be pro-abort until I read what actually happens with an abortion. A very brutal “procedure.”
Sorry. I probably broke etiquette on these topics here.
==Great hair, pretty, popular, and another governor whose term ended early.==
I was thinking they are both attention-seeking, short, camera-friendly ex-governors who didn’t want the job, and one of whom used it as a stepping stone to a profitable career…
–Germany, France and now England have conservative leaders who are trying to address the failed policies of several generations of liberalism that have nearly bankrupted the continent.–
DD, save it for Fox. Several generations of what? How long are you talking? Let’s try post WWII. Conservative party’s have dominated all three.
Germany — Christian Democrat Chancerllors Adenauer, Schmidt, Kohl, now Merkel.
In the UK (not England) the Tories had Churchill, Eden, Macmillan, Douglas-Home, Heath, Thatcher, Major.
France had DeGaulle, Pompidou, Giscard d’Estaing, Chirac and now Sarkozy.
I didn’t realize it was European liberalism that created the housing bubble and AAA-rated subprime mortgage securities.
- Small Town Liberal - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:11 am:
- I just appreciate the fact she’s willing to come in and help raise money for Republican candidates. -
Sounds about right coming from the guy who really doesn’t care if animals suffer when being euthanized, he just appreciates getting donations.
- shore - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:12 am:
800 jobs were lost in lake forest this morning when takeda pharmacuticals bolted. The state democrats who have run illinois for 8 years need to focus on their horrendous economic record rather than playing media pundit.
Robin Kelly has done much more harm to the state of illinois than sarah palin and she needs to join alexi and explain how they merit higher office when their record continues to merit defeat in november.
- shore - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:13 am:
this election is not about animals getting euthanized its about the peoples careers who have been euthanized because the democrats in this state continue to spend all of their time making sure they and their insiders get theirs.
back to real issues please. thanks.
- Rich Miller - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:18 am:
Shore, those job losses had nothing to do with Illinois. It’s a national cut.
- Adam Smith - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:23 am:
Can’t help a gratuitous swipe at Kirk, eh? Kirk was in DC when Steele came to a GOP fundraiser too, so this is not unprecedented.
As you noted, Tuesday votes in Congress are usually naming post offices and congratulating the national champion tiddly winks team. Many members who are running for statewide offices miss them to spend more time on the campaign trail. Wednesday is when the real business usually begins.
Alexi ad is well produced but like all his attacks is only geared towards the Palin-hatin’ base. Independents may not like her, but they are also generally (as many polls show) very down on Obamacare. And since almost no independents (the key to this race) will see this ad it doesn’t matter anyway.
- D.P. Gumby - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:27 am:
Gee, if Blago were speaking at a Dem fundraiser, I doubt that “some people agree; some people disagree; I’m just glad he’s raising money for the party” would be an adequate statement!
- Yellow Dog Democrat - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:32 am:
Sounds like GOP insiders don’t see Sarah Palin polling too well among independents for the General Election.
- TaxMeMore - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:35 am:
Robin Kelly endorsed Rod Blagojevich. Twice. At least, probably more including Congressional races. And she is questioning Rutherford’s “ties” to Sarah Palin and attacking him for talking about Palin?
We already know where Robin Kelly stands. Robin Kelly stands side by side with the corrupt crooks like Rod Blagojevich and not with the people of Illinois.
Is the Democrat media going to ask Kelly about her ties to Blagojevich or just let her get away with this blatant hypocrisy?
And I don’t support Rutherford either, especially if he isn’t smart enough to defend himself from such a silly attack from Kelly, the Blagojevich cheerleader.
- Plutocrat03 - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:35 am:
Lets be accurate about the Takeda cuts.
It is 20% of the 820 Lake Forest Global positions and 20% of the 5000 national positions (1,300 in Deerfield) It is unclear whether the cuts in Deerfield will be proportional to the national or not.
These are all high paying jobs. Illinois can ill afford to lose the income from these salaries as well as a reduction in the economic activities.
Don’t kid yourself. If a company is downsizing their forces, they will cut more in unfriendly states than friendly ones. We will see how the rif plays out in Deerfield.
- Niles Township - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:37 am:
800 jobs were lost in lake forest this morning when takeda pharmacuticals bolted
———-
Shore…those jobs are cut because Takeda’s one big drug is about to go generic and because they have failed in their R&D to produce another big drug. Don’t just be reflexive…educate yourself before you make broad brush statements.
- Niles Township - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:38 am:
Quinn would probably kill for a picture of Brady with Palin.
- jonbtuba - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:39 am:
shore is incorrect. This election SHOULD be about many issues, and simply because Brady blusters about other issues does not mean we should overlook his extremist-level right positions on dog euthanasia (kill all of them), sexual and religious discrimination (sponsored a bill about the latter), or women’s rights (no abortions even in cases of rape or incest, no equal pay).
Also, if you’re really concerned about the economy, it makes no sense to back Brady, who can’t even remember his own stance on the issue.
- Lakefront Liberal - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:40 am:
Shore, how is Robin Kelly involved in the Takeda cuts?
- wordslinger - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:43 am:
I have immense respect for McCain’s service to his country, and I favored him over Obama due to his experience.
Until Palin. She represents the worst in American politics; ignorant and hateful.
The only good thing to say about her is that she’s just in it now for the money. She’s not running for president, no way, no how. It’s a joke to even think of such a lightweight as a viable candidate.
To borrow from yesterday’s QOTD, Sarah Palin is to Ronald Reagan as Sean Hannity is to Eric Sevareid.
Kirk used to be sweet on her, and actually asked her to say nice things about him. Not his best moment.
- The Doc - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:44 am:
==800 jobs were lost in lake forest this morning when takeda pharmacuticals bolted==
Gee Shore, which IL congresscritter represents this area (as well as Deerfield)?
- Montrose - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:48 am:
*Reporters are going to be allowed into the WIND event, but cameras and recorders have been banned. Weird, that.*
Given Brady’s recent “across the board” mess-up, it was probably a precondition to him setting his foot in the door.
- cassandra - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:48 am:
So, what families does Palin represent, per Ms. Kelly, I wonder. I had the impression she had quite a bit of support in rural America. These would be the fringe families? The wacky families?
The dumb families?
When local pols make statements like Ms. Kelly through her spokesperson, we really need to ask them what they mean.
- Bill - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:49 am:
==It’s a joke to even think of such a lightweight as a viable candidate.==
That’s how I feel about both candidates for governor.
Oh wait, make that all of the candidates for governor.
- Small Town Liberal - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:49 am:
shore - Making sure insiders get theirs appears to be what Brady is all about, given the fact that he doesn’t seem to care what favors he does for them as long as they keep sending checks. But I realize its difficult for you to actually grasp that animal euthanization was an example of that, not the point of my post. I’ll try to make things more clear for you in the future.
- grand old partisan - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 10:59 am:
Rich, I don’t think it’s fair to say that Brady “talked out of both sides of his mouth” in that clip. The first part of what he said is just an obvious statement of the fact; after all, Palin does appeal to some and not to others, right? The second part is cagey, but it hardly counts as double-talking. Brady may very well be genuinely appreciative of the fact that she is willing to come and help his campaign. Could he have offered a more expansive, definitive statement about his thoughts on Palin and her brand of politics? Sure – but why do so if not pressed for it?
- Reality - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 11:03 am:
Let’s get real here. This election is about the economy–not puppies and platitudes. Sarah Palin is to Mark Kirk about the same as Bill Ayers to Obama. It’s nonsense. Alexi is as intellectually bankrupt as his bank is financially. That advert is juvenile and there is a lot there to fire up the anti-Obama folks. Not a masterpiece of political advertising to say the least. Even his adverts are going from bad to worse.
- Ghost - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 11:09 am:
I follow the crowd which percieves Palin hints at a canidacy to keep the cahsola flowing, but she is following path of income eaning, not campaigning.
Brady and Palin can work to help protect the US from Canada…. which is just across from Chicago via lake MI….
- Yellow Dog Democrat - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 11:13 am:
@Reality -
Mark Kirk asked Sarah Palin for her endorsement, and his victory depends on her followers supporting him. Sarah Palin is radioactive, but other than that I think your analogy is off.
- just sayin' - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 11:18 am:
Mark Kirk wanted Palin’s blessing during the primary, but now that he doesn’t need the hick vote anymore, he’s got no use for Palin.
And then there is Bill Brady, who was originally going to snub Palin today too.
Hey Bill, you’re on record as against abortion even in the case of rape and incest. I think the cat’s out of the bag that you’re conservative.
Why are so many of the Republican officials in this state just a bunch of wimps?
- Reality - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 11:21 am:
Yellow Dog Dem….”Sarah Palin is radioactive”. Really? To whom? Chicago Dems? “Progressives”? Check back with me on November 3rd and we’ll see just how radioactive she is to the overall Republican cause. Voters are smart people, they will see Palin for what she is, a hard right of center political “star” who has some media glitter and can pull down a buck or two. She has about as much policy sway over Kirk as you or I do.
- Chi Town Brown - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 11:38 am:
Mark Kirk is not a moderate. He was able to win the 10th District year after year by bring over single issue Israel voters. Giannoulias is smart to educate the people of Illinois on the true political leanings of his opponent and point out how out of touch he is with the people of Illinois. If he keeps on doing this his poll numbers will continue to rise and he will eventually win in November.
- Reality - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 11:42 am:
Chi Town Brown, your lack of understanding of the North Shore clouds your analysis. The 10th probably one of the most educated districts in the United States–certianly in Illinois. Are you really suggesting that Mark Kirk was able to hoodwink the people of the 10th? I think not. It has the highest income and education levels of anywhere in the state and the voters in the 10th are critical thinking business and civic leaders of high stature. They evaluated the records of all candidates and made a choice to back Kirk because of, not in spite of, his positions and record.
- JonShibleyFan - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 11:46 am:
People, people, people. Please. No need to fight.
Whatever your position is, Mark Kirk agrees with you.
- The REAL Anonymous fka Anonymous - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 11:52 am:
===
Mark Kirk wanted Palin’s blessing during the primary, but now that he doesn’t need the hick vote anymore, he’s got no use for Palin.
===
lol This will be an interesting one because we’ll actually have an opportunity to see–in the end–how big of an impact Sarah actually has on Kirk’s campaign, and then some of you can revise your comments accordingly.
I don’t know why, but people keep underestimating Sarah based on some of the jabs people take at her. She strikes me as someone who knows what she’s doing. I’d imagine Kirk does, too.
- Conservative Republican - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 12:29 pm:
Robin Kelly’s press release is laughable… it invites and identical hit back with Broadway Bank, Blago, Roland Burris, and any other guilt by association one could think of.
Pingback Sarah Palin In Rosemont, Illinois: Bill Brady Attending Fundraiser, Mark Kirk Bows Out | World News Mania - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 12:33 pm:
[…] That’s all well and good — except that Kirk isn’t voting on anything. Rich Miller from the Capitol Fax blog points out that of the four pieces of minor legislation moving through the House Tuesday night, Kirk voted on zero of them. […]
- fedup dem - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 12:49 pm:
I think that WIND should start worrying about someone filing a complaint aganist the station with the FCC, stating that their actions demonstrate a failure to serve in the public interest (as stated in their liciense to be on the air).
- Windy City Mama - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 12:57 pm:
Once again the libs need someone to ridicule and hate. Bush is gone. So I guess Sarah will do.
This from people who voted for a man that can’t speak to a third grade class without a teleprompter. Grow up guys.
- VanillaMan - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:02 pm:
The only people upset with Sarah Palin are the ones who are jealous of her successes. They can’t explain her, so they insult her and anyone who isn’t foaming at the mouth over her.
Silly people.
- Honest Abe - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:04 pm:
Alexi has to be really desperate if he thinks that he can rely upon Obama’s fast fading popularity to pull this race out of the dumpster.
The polls, the Congressional Budget Office and recent election results point to the fact that Obamacare is hugely unpopular, but Alexi is tone deaf.
I do not think that Kirk is the best possible politician or a particularly good candidate, but it sure helps to have a wounded opponent.
- wordslinger - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:12 pm:
i can explain Palin. She appeals to the worst instincts of chronic whiners who think there are simple, no-cost answers to everything.
You’re kind of gal, VMan.
- Small Town Liberal - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:18 pm:
Windy City and Vman - Upset at Palin’s success? She lost, she’s not in charge of anything, you think everyone is upset that she’s out making money off the fame handed to her by McCain? I’m not, I wish her all the best, but the fact is that she’s encouraging policies that are offensive to people who care about things like equality, the environment, and social justice. And talk about teleprompters all you want, its a typical talking point for people who don’t know much else. The woman said she has foreign policy experience because she can see Russia, I mean, you’re going to defend that?
- just sayin' - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:26 pm:
If Biden, or Pelosi, or Obama for that matter came to town, there would be lots of Repubs squawking. But the Dems wouldn’t care and they would just ignore it.
It’s pathetic how so many Republican officials in this state run at the first sign of trouble. They can’t even stand up for a woman like Palin who, agree or disagree with her, has stood up to a LOT of really nasty abuse. Not just directed at her, but her young kids too.
- FarmBoy - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:27 pm:
Still trying to figure out why “conservative” values play so poorly in this state. The north of I-80 voter is understandably more moderate (read liberal), but downstate voters are overwhelmingly more conservative in their views. Palin’s visit to raise money for the ILGOP should be successful, and Brady is going to lose the RINO’s up north anyway. He is smart to play to his base support and hopefully generate a little excitement in the base. Palin’s endorsement might actually increase voter turnout with the conservatives. BTW, this is a group that Kirk has lost already with his vote for cap-and-trade last year.
- wordslinger - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:31 pm:
FarmBoy, that I-80 stuff is nonsense. There are many more conservative voters in the northern part of the state simply because that’s where 2/3 of the state’s population resides. Deal with it.
- cousin ralph - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:36 pm:
In the post before this we are discussing what crimes former Dem Gov. Blago should be tried for. We are also looking at the lunatic the Dems nominated this year to run for Lt. Gov. Rich points out correctly that the state budget is a mess because the only ones who have any say are the DEM Speaker, the Dem. Sen. Pres and the DEM Gov. The policies of liberalism are failing before our eyes and certainly failing before the eyes of our friends in Europe.
Meanwhile, those who dont want to embrace the truth of any of those facts want to regail us with how hurtful Sara Palin will be to the GOP. You guys are making this too easy. In Nov., Brady by 5, and Palin higher approval ratings than Obama.
- Windy City Mama - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:37 pm:
Small Town Liberal ” There you go again. “
- FarmBoy - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:43 pm:
Wordslinger, you missed my point. There may be more conservative votes in the northern part of the state, but they are vastly outnumbered by moderates (I call them RINOs). And the ILGOP, trying to win over moderates, is alienating their core base of conservative voters. Just don’t think it is smart politics. And from the looks of things in this state, it is a strategy that has failed the ILGOP miserably.
- wordslinger - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:50 pm:
–Palin higher approval ratings than Obama.–
Approval of what?
Farmboy, Reagan did awfully well in Illinois. Maybe it takes a good candidate.
- JonShibleyFan - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:52 pm:
“The only people upset with Sarah Palin are the ones who are jealous of her successes.”
Good grief. Do you realize how ridiculous that sounds? Like an indulgent mother telling her chubby kid that the other kids are just jealous of his big strong muscles.
- The REAL Anonymous fka Anonymous - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:55 pm:
===
Upset at Palin’s success? She lost, she’s not in charge of anything, you think everyone is upset that she’s out making money off the fame handed to her by McCain?
===
Oh…so her success and base are ALL thanks to McCain? Like someone GAVE all that to her v. her seizing it herself and continuing to build it up? Thanks for explaining that.
- The REAL Anonymous fka Anonymous - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 1:59 pm:
Hey, FarmBoy, you sure Moderates and Indies don’t like Palin? In a Party where we have very few women in power at the national level, you think we’d like a lefty similar to Pelosi better?
- Small Town Liberal - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 2:00 pm:
- The policies of liberalism are failing before our eyes -
Please, you’re telling me it was the policies of liberalism during 8 years of GW that caused the economy to fail? What a joke. The problems in Illinois are hardly about liberalism.
Windy City - I don’t know what your quotes mean, but are you really trying to point fingers when you just ridiculed Obama for using a teleprompter?
- FarmBoy - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 2:03 pm:
Just looking for someone to come in and be honest about this state’s financial situation. We cannot continue to increase the size and scope of government, either statewide or nationally. There are too many “piglets” feeding off the “sow”. I am dying to hear a candidate that will speak the truth, that we need to cut the number of people taking from the system….vastly decrease the size of government (especially mid and upper level positions), and live within our means. It would mean painful cuts to all programs, but it is either that or going broke. Courageous and thoughtful speech, backed up by action. It might be a recipe for defeat, but it would sure be refreshing.
- grand old partisan - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 2:05 pm:
Small Town Lib – you are only proving their point by basing your criticism of Palin on SNL sketches, and not what she has really said or done. She never said that she could see Russia from her house. Never happened. It was actually Charlie Gibson who matter-of-factly suggested that she might have a unique perspective on relations with Russia because of her state’s proximity to it, and she commented that, yes, Russia was so close that you could actually see it “from an island in Alaska,” not her house.
- wordslinger - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 2:06 pm:
Sen. Brady is free to put pen to paper anytime with his budget proposal. Can’t imagine why he doesn’t.
- Small Town Liberal - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 2:14 pm:
GOP - Here’s what she said, and this is better than her later answer to Katie Couric about it:
GIBSON: What insight into Russian actions, particularly in the last couple of weeks, does the proximity of the state give you?
PALIN: They’re our next door neighbors and you can actually see Russia from land here in Alaska, from an island in Alaska.
GIBSON: What insight does that give you into what they’re doing in Georgia?
PALIN: Well, I’m giving you that perspective of how small our world is and how important it is that we work with our allies to keep good relation with all of these countries, especially Russia.
- VanillaMan - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 2:35 pm:
The only whining I’m reading here are from liberals obsessed over Palin and behaving as though anyone she see, agrees with, or endorses has some kind of disease. It is ridiculous.
- Way Way Down Here - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 2:37 pm:
FarmBoy
It is a recipe for defeat, which is the really tragic thing about it.
- Louis G. Atsaves - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 2:40 pm:
The “smart” pundits here and elsewhere thought Palin’s 15 minutes of fame was supposed to end after the November 2008 election.
Just sayin’
- 47th Ward - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 2:57 pm:
===They can’t explain her===
I can. She is the 21st Century political version of PT Barnum, a shamelessly opportunistic huckster appealing to the base instincts of the crowd and selling snake oil to the gullible.
As for her successes, let’s count them up here: One half-term as Governor, check. Two months as the VP nominee for John “Not a Maverick” McCain, check. And…what else?
But yeah, Wordslinger nailed it. She’s your kind of people VanillaMan. Have fun in Rosemont.
- VanillaMan - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 3:06 pm:
She is the 21st Century political version of PT Barnum
I pity your keyboard.
- Aldyth - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 3:09 pm:
The biggest problem with Illinois government is not liberal or conservative, Republican or Democrat. It’s that the system is completely dysfunctional because protecting the seat of the incumbent (which could be worded differently if this weren’t a high class blog) is the number one priority of the legislature and the executive branch. No one wants to take responsibility for ugly or unpopular decisions - even if they are in the best interests of the state.
- dupage dan - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 3:11 pm:
That liberalism is a failed concept is evidenced by the events unfolding in the European Union. Germany, France and now England have conservative leaders who are trying to address the failed policies of several generations of liberalism that have nearly bankrupted the continent. The social safety net has been proven to be unsustainable due to chronic low employment, low industrial productivity, low birth rates, high taxes and capital flight to name but a few. Guaranteed income, health care, month long vacations for all and silly environmental actions (the Swiss gov’t enshrined into law plants rights) make Europe a failing entity. Many there have come to the realization, likely too late, that liberalism and socialism simply does not work. They have elected leaders who are trying to move in the right direction. In the US, however, we appear to be looking to Europe as a role model when they don’t see themselves in that light.
And instead of dealing with that, the left screams about Palin. Ridiculous.
- wordslinger - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 3:15 pm:
Barnum actually put on a good show. Like Hannity and Rush, Sarah knows her audience, gives them what they want and makes a buck off of it. It’s a free country, so salud.
But forgive the rest of us who don’t take her seriously as a potential leader of the free world. I have a lot more respect for the GOP than some of you do.
- Going nuclear - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 3:22 pm:
I can understand why some in the state GOP would run from Sarah Palin. She quit her job and has turned into a right wing crazy like Limbaugh, Hannity, Bachmann and Beck. She’s come to symbolize empty rhetoric, ideological intolerance and religious zealotry. I’m all for the Republicans having a seat at the table, but Palin has nothing to offer to help our state address its financial mess.
- Bill - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 3:37 pm:
Palin is my favorite Republican. She tells it like she thinks it is and doesn’t try to hide her true feelings as opposed to someone like Mark Kirk who is more liberal than half the democrats in Illinois but fakes it to pander to moderates in his district and wing nuts like Roeser.. At least Palin is authentic and entertaining. Listening to Kirk speak is like watching grass grow. Brady is not much better.
I wish Palin was running for Governor. She’d kill Quinn.
- CircularFiringSquad - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 3:46 pm:
Folks who have seen the act will tell the media they are missing much by leaving cameras and recorders behind…writes on her hand, makes joke about straw, fancy jets,and Washington elite.
She’ll go lite on TeaBaggers in the GOP event since they are paying some part of the tab.
But watch out when she hit. We think she took questions in AL the other day. Yawner
CaribouBarbie..thanks again for taking all this cash out of state so it can’t be used against those poor Dem slobs who are all queasy over the fierce challenge being mounted by NoTaxBill, StatewideTOm RXRon and the blowhards.
- dupage dan - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 3:59 pm:
Going nuclear,
Thanks for the invitation. However, I believe we have been at the table all this time, without your largess.
We will keep our own counsel, thank you.
- Cousin Ralph - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 4:07 pm:
S.T.L. I actually believe that Palin talked about her experience in foreign affairs included negotiating a multi-billion dollar, international oil deal that involved Alaska.
- Vote Quimby! - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 4:09 pm:
===They can’t explain her===
Simple: She is what Rod Blagojevich wishes he was.
- The REAL Anonymous fka Anonymous - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 4:11 pm:
I think you and some others are missing the real point, 47th. Bottom line is that whatever “power” and base Sarah has, it’s hers because she acquired it.
And Sarah seems to have quite a large base out there at her call–considering she “lost” the election. Heck, I’d be willing to guess she has more true followers than many who won theirs.
- The REAL Anonymous fka Anonymous - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 4:13 pm:
lol Good one, dan!
- Aldyth - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 4:14 pm:
===They can’t explain her===
Simple: She is what Rod Blagojevich wishes he was.
Great hair, pretty, popular, and another governor whose term ended early.
- The REAL Anonymous fka Anonymous - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 4:16 pm:
Ouch, Aldyth. I bet that’d really hurt someone like Sarah. lol
- The REAL Anonymous fka Anonymous - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 4:23 pm:
Sorry:
Bottom line is that whatever “power” and base Sarah has, it’s hers because she acquired it HONORABLY.
Honorably…keep forgetting to add that.
- mary - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 5:43 pm:
Kirk is racking up those frequent miles I guess. I sat behind him on a Monday flight from DC to Chicago. Turns around on Wednesday? Hmmm. Guess he couldn’t fit all his clothes into his J.Crew garment bag.
- How many colleges can you attend? - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 6:51 pm:
Ms. Palin has as much intelligence (and character) in her body as Rich Miller has in his finger nails. Sorry if I offended your hands Rich.
She is the worst example to come out of American politics. Ever. A semi-pretty face with no brains to back it up. Yes, I apologize to those who attended those wonderful higher institutions of academic learning: HAwaii Pacific University, Noth Idaho University, Matanuska-Susitna College, and finally the Vandals of the University of Idaho in fives years.
In between, she finished third in Miss Alaska pageant. Isn’t that like being the tallest midget? Again, I apologize to those offended.
She “worked” as a sports reporter on TV for one year.
She, like the Rush Limbaughs, the Sean Hannitys, the Glenn Becks, just wants to make money. No education. No willingness to learn, to listen to people that don’t share the same religion as you. Which is fine. Just don’t drag our country down with you.
Go get on a helicopter, shoot at moose with an AK-47 and call yourself an outdoorsmen.
- Peggy SO-IL - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 7:12 pm:
The IL GOP is so bizarre and out of step with the national GOP & conservativism. I don’t “get” them. No wonder they can’t win elections in this state. They need to quit reading Chicago media. Farmboy–we’re not allowed to mention I-80 here, you know.
Is the vulgar slur “teabagger” acceptable at this blog?
I hate to wade in on this one, but I read comments of people upset that Brady favors euthanization of dogs, under certain conditions. I wonder how these same folks feel about euthanization of people–you know those who will drain the new ObamaCare system of funds–or dismemberment of babies in the womb. I used to be pro-abort until I read what actually happens with an abortion. A very brutal “procedure.”
Sorry. I probably broke etiquette on these topics here.
- Park - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 7:15 pm:
I still like her. Just wouldn’t vote for her for anything except maybe governor of Alaska. and I guess she’s now too cool for that.
- WindyCityGardener - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 8:32 pm:
Some people probably shouldn’t be involved in politics. Too thin skinned. Probably why no one is participating anymore.
- Vote Quimby! - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 9:27 pm:
==Great hair, pretty, popular, and another governor whose term ended early.==
I was thinking they are both attention-seeking, short, camera-friendly ex-governors who didn’t want the job, and one of whom used it as a stepping stone to a profitable career…
- Vote Quimby! - Wednesday, May 12, 10 @ 9:27 pm:
== negotiating a multi-billion dollar, international oil deal==
that didn’t require having a passport…
- Windy City Mama - Thursday, May 13, 10 @ 8:18 am:
I have always thought people who use all caps tend to border on insane. Hello ? Sarah’s a nut ?
- wordslinger - Thursday, May 13, 10 @ 12:40 pm:
–Germany, France and now England have conservative leaders who are trying to address the failed policies of several generations of liberalism that have nearly bankrupted the continent.–
DD, save it for Fox. Several generations of what? How long are you talking? Let’s try post WWII. Conservative party’s have dominated all three.
Germany — Christian Democrat Chancerllors Adenauer, Schmidt, Kohl, now Merkel.
In the UK (not England) the Tories had Churchill, Eden, Macmillan, Douglas-Home, Heath, Thatcher, Major.
France had DeGaulle, Pompidou, Giscard d’Estaing, Chirac and now Sarkozy.
I didn’t realize it was European liberalism that created the housing bubble and AAA-rated subprime mortgage securities.