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Sen. Bill Brady has defended Bob Kjellander in the past. No more.
Brady, Oberweis and Gidwitz all said Kjellander should go for the good of the party.
Topinka, the former state party leader, went further than she ever has before in criticizing Kjellander. She all but called for him to step down from his party posts.
And that flip-flop allows Brady to turn the tables on Oberweis.
During a particularly testy exchange, Brady pointed out the Federal Election Commission has an open investigation into Oberweis’ 2004 campaign committee for U.S. Senate, and that the State Board of Elections has fined two political action committees run by Jack Roeser of Carpentersville. Roeser has donated more than $185,000 to Oberweis’ campaign, making him the 59-year-old Aurora businessman’s largest contributor.
“You are tied to someone who is a deadbeat in the eyes of the State Board of Elections,” Brady said, staring at Oberweis. “Do you deny that?”
Oberweis called Brady’s comments a “low blow” and said Roeser is only interested in “clean government.” While he explained that Roeser is appealing the fines, Brady interrupted, causing Oberweis to shout, “May I finish, Bill…. You’ve interrupted me three times now.”
And Brady hasn’t even begun to talk about Oberweis’ two meetings with George Ryan, or his other ties to the disgraced former governor.
UPDATE: For whatever reason, the AP story had almost as much info about the Tribune debate as the WILL debate in Champaign County, rendering it not so useful. Luckily for us, Illini Pundit live-blogged it. Very good stuff. Read the whole thing.
From the AP story, it looks like Brady pulled a George W. Bush in Urbana.
Asked about their political role models, Gidwitz named Teddy Roosevelt, and Oberweis mentioned both Ronald Reagan and corruption-fighting prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald.
“I’m a Roman Catholic, and I grew up modeling myself after — asking myself the question ‘What would Jesus do?”‘ Brady said, before praising Abraham Lincoln.
I’ve been waiting for that one because it has seemed fairly obvious to me that Brady is running a Bushlike campaign (without the gobs of money and oodles of support, of course) while Oberweis is attempting to be Reaganesque.
posted by Rich Miller
Friday, Feb 10, 06 @ 10:10 pm
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Looks like Oberweis is losing it, having been unable to turn this into a two person race. Does he strike others as just a few cards short of a full deck?
Comment by Elder Friday, Feb 10, 06 @ 10:19 pm
Rich
What does that have to do with kejellander? Why are you compairing the two? Your not taking sides are you?
Comment by Reagan Democrat Friday, Feb 10, 06 @ 11:06 pm
The fur is only starting to fly between Bill and Jim. Bill has finally (!) figured out Jim’s Achilles Heel. There is lots more there, Bill.
But how do you attack Jack and not help Judy, since she has stood up to his bullying for years? A puzzle.
Welcome to the Land of the Red Fox, Bill. She is not in the lead by accident. She is smarter than you think, Boys.
Comment by Anon Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 12:20 am
Good for Brady on K but the R comment was a low blow…
Comment by Bill Baar Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 5:19 am
I read this blog all the time but very seldom post but this morning feel the need to answer Bill Baar! WHY is the Roeser comment a low blow? (IT IS TRUE) You wingnuts feel that you can do what ever you want and its OK but find fault with everyone else. I for one will be supporting anyone but Obie!
Comment by southeastIllinoisGOP Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 6:30 am
If JBT is calling on BK to step down, then she’s proving she’ll say/do anything to try to get elected.
Comment by Krenzler Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 7:25 am
It is amazing that Oberweis, Brady, and Gidwitz are “just now” realizing that they had better take off the kid gloves with Judy Barr Topinka. She is, by far, the better political strategist in this group of GOP gunernatorial contenders. She is playing the same game of “Rope A Dope” as Blagojevich and Muhammed Ali did. She chooses not to mix it up in the ring with her opponents and lets them wail away at each other until they are spent and worn out. These guys are in Round 10 and the fight is about over. They are going to run out of time. They better start making their punches against her count. So far, they have been only weak jabs at Judy. They better unleash their heavy artillery on Judy quickly or it is going to be too little and much too late.
So far, these guys have spent a ton of campaign money for naught. No more Marquis of Queensbury rules or they have lost the fight.
Comment by Beowulf Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 7:54 am
Wingnuts….now there’s the most overused word in the blogging world. But, it’s fun to see people not make their case, and simply through that word out there.
Comment by tired Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 8:25 am
Good job Bill !!! Good job in the “debates” too on WILL! You are the real candidate my friend !! It’s time for all to realize that Brady is the choice that can win this for the GOP ! The associations of others to others of questionable repute or motivation is fair game not the “low-blow” that others would have you think. It’s information, news & it’s directly about policy or a candidates stature not a personal attack. JBT, Gidwitz & Oby-won {also Andy Martin} should join Bobby Kejellander & exit the political arena. Their best day was 20 years ago. Despite what people post, write in papers, belittle & try to “will it” Brady’s staying, he’s building momentum, staying on message & moving to the finish line. Despite what the big city paper polls tell you the real numbers are very different south of I-80 it becomes a really different story in the “”Great State of Central/ Southern Illinois”" that’s starting to see change in support. And also quit “gigging” Brady on his religion .. it’s refreshing to see and hear someone, though not perfect trying to start his day & conduct his life, family & business in a Christian manner. If he’s sincere & I believe he is doesn’t make him a fanatic … just trying to be a good person. There are certainly worse people you could aspire to be like. Not political “insider ship” as some would think … I’m one of those central Illinois folks who watches from the side lines & reads & observes. I think others feel the same way.
Comment by the old republican Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 8:40 am
Old Republican, that wasn’t a “gig” at his religion by any means. It was an observation.
Comment by Rich Miller Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 8:53 am
Rich, perhaps the case & fair enough sir, but to people in general as was the intent .. it has been a “topic” of discussion throughout this campaign about Brady & though an observation in this case as you say ..I am saying {right or wrong in my expression} is that a person with a religious tone is refreshing & prayer before anything silent or public “ain’t a bad thing” . I think Brady is trying to keep it straight & issue based as well. Thanks !
Comment by the old republican Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 9:17 am
Brady is a tool.
Would Jesus Christ have called out Jim Oberweis on the FEC violations or the “deadbeat” Roeser? Doubt it.
Comment by Anonymous Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 10:01 am
Your right about Judy’s campaign strategy of bobbing and weaving and not showing up at debates to defend her record campaign issues in front of voters may work to get her elected but it’s bad for our party in the long run for her to hide from our primary voters what she might do if she’s elected.
Comment by Anon Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 10:20 am
I don’t think Jesus Christ would have called Brady a “tool,” either. Move along, please.
Comment by Rich Miller Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 10:21 am
So, Rich, who are you supporting? Bill Brady? You seem to be giving Jim the short end of the stick attacking him like you have been doing in recent days all the way going back to the first debate.
Rich Miller…. Brady’s Man!
Comment by Anon Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 10:52 am
One said I “gigged” Brady for his religion, another says I’m Brady’s guy. Some of you people are just too much.
Shouldn’t you be walking precincts or something?
Comment by Rich Miller Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 12:00 pm
To all : Rich Miller is a good journalist & I’m sure he’s not taking sides, at least publically. He reports & comments as he sees it … as do we all in this ‘blog. Mr. Miller has as good or better handle and insights on issues effecting gov’t. His column and insights are informative. While I always don’t always agree … I do respect his positions & respect his opinions even when we disagree. Perhaps the truth on some is hard to handle. ?? I don’t think he’s giving anyone the “short end of the stick” .. just calling it as he sees it. {{PS It’s his ‘blog man … respect that} Thanks !! Rich Miller for this forum to express our various views !!
Comment by the old republican Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 12:09 pm
Rich,
Has there been anymore of those similar polls that you showed us last fall showing any Republican ahead of Blago. If I remember correctly they were found in an economic type publication. Rauschy was touting them back last fall, would like to see if there are newer similar ones
Comment by southernilrepub Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 12:13 pm
Southern, you may be thinking about the Zogby internet polls. Those are useless, in my opinion. Completely.
And, “Old,” thanks. But I was making a joke. Guess I didn’t make it clear enough.
Comment by Rich Miller Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 12:22 pm
Rich, If you were sending it to me, you are welcome !!! I’m sincere when I say thanks in providing this forum & the time it takes to produce. freedom of speech {or ‘blogging] what a wonderful thing & a treasured right we enjoy !
Comment by the old republican Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 12:31 pm
“What would Jesus do?” You’ve got to be kidding me. First he wants the bible taught in public schools and now he’s throwing out Sunday school phrases thinking it will get him elected. The real question he should be asking is what are moderate Repubs looking for, because the far right aint gonna get it done. Brady is too cute for his own good. I have yet to hear or read a single, detailed policy statement out of this guy. I would be curious if any of his minions on this site could detail any signifgant legislation that he originated. This guy is a clown and need to be sent packing. The same is true of Oberweis. There should be a limit set on how many times the people of Illinois have to witness this guy making a jackass out of himself in statewide campaigns.
Comment by DuPage Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 1:19 pm
Desparate people say desparate things; Brady is biting the hand that delivered the “conservative” endorsement - Jack Roeser. And then, Jack gives $15ok to Obie?
The people that know Bill Brady best are giving to anyone but Bill Brady.
What huge wasted opportunity for IL conservatives when Obie has no chance and Bill Brady hsa no clue.
Comment by Bill Brady is Jesus Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 1:28 pm
Not a “minion” reporting in here but someone who’s talked with the candidate several times … I really don’t think its Sunday school phrases Brady’s throwing out there to get elected but maybe words to live by. If more did sure wouldn’t be a bad idea … it’s not far to the right it’s what a particular man believes in & tries to practice {along with a few million other WWJD-er’s}. What are moderate “Repubs” looking for DuPage {the heart of Ill.republican land}?? Fill us in !? Looks like he can bring the best of both working to unite which is a real problem in the Ill. GOP. The current chairman can’t seem to. Wouldn’t call him “cute” necessarily {I assume in your sarcastic tone is what you meant} , successful maybe & a legislative career to boot representing the interests of his district … apparently as they keep sending him back. As to policy, apparently you’ve been out of state for the last several months. Brady talks about his legislative votes and efforts in both the House & Senate , his own policy, ideas brought forth for working on problems plaguing this state, & not just campaign retoric but a consistent message !! Right , wrong or otherwise the guy is moving forward. He has a few good original thoughts {which is a plus in and of itself} & like any plan or concept requires work. And really what’s wrong with a man who puts his family & God 1st ?? He’s NOT a clown, he’s an Ill. State Senator, businessman, father, husband & friend to others & because you don’t happen to like him doesn’t necessarily make him less than what he is … apparently a decent man !! {P_S Wonder who’s disgruntled minion this one belongs to? … {someone left the gates open again}
Comment by anon Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 1:48 pm
From Brady we often have heard,
That Darwin is somewhat absurd.
In silent rebuke,
Their fossils no fluke,
The Dinosaurs flip him the bird(s).
Comment by Limerick Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 2:24 pm
Old GOP
Yes things are happening in Southern Illinois for Oberweis Phyllis Schlafly has endorsed Jim! She and the women from Egal Forum will be another link in the conservative chain that will win this primary for Jim. It will help get the message out to the conservative voters that there is only one candidate who can beat Judy Oberweis. Old GOP not only the big city paper but the medium city paper (Brady didn’t even show up in their poll) has Brady nowhere. Brady said he would have 5 million it was a lie then he released a poll that had him at 17 it was a lie. The Brady campaign has been doing whatever it can to just hold on, now he is attacking the other conservative. BTW didn’t I hear about a certain Senator meeting with FTN and asking for support? I thought so.
Comment by Reagan Democrat Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 2:59 pm
Old Republican -
Brady helped bring his religious views to the forefront when on Springfield morning AM radio and statee he supported teaching Intelligent Design in science classes.
Limerick - Well done!
Comment by Smitt Irving Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 4:02 pm
See, the Tattler did get Brady to come out against Kjellander, although I admit we drove Judy’s numbers up, and stagnated Oberweis and Brady.
Don’t let anyone say we’re not effective.
Comment by Carpentersville D-bag Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 5:34 pm
Beowulf - You may not like Judy, but at least spell her middle name right. Its Baar, not Barr!
Comment by Norseman Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 6:15 pm
I suppose Saint Brady ponders “What would Jesus do?” just before he makes a scurrilous attack on Oberweis?
Comment by The Colonel Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 6:49 pm
Gidwitz is cold
Oberweis got mold
Judy’s just bought
Brady’s turning gold
Comment by paul g Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 8:10 pm
I couldn’t let the “Schlafly and Eagle Forum is the link in the conservative chain” comment go untouched. That’s too funny.
I picture a bunch of eighty-year-old women in bright alternating red, white and blue suits playing Red Rover.
I’d take the bunch of Republican legislators from southern Illinois that have endorsed Brady over Schlafly and that tired crew anytime.
I think Luechtefeld could take her. What do you think!
(I kill me!)
Comment by Anon Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 10:45 pm
Actually Eagle Forum is not a bunch of old ladies, but I’m also not sure they represent a very large percentage of the populus. They are not too unlike the FTN so it’s no surprise they back doh’ber …
Some of you posting here just make me laugh … or ache, or both.
I know we’ll all make typos here, but we can at least try to make the posts legible … and on point.
I think the topic of this started with a Brady flip-flop on BK … and what position that puts him in. It also reference the way he and obie, specifically, are running their campaigns, or trying to model themselves after as candidates.
Maybe the thing that got missed in all of this was Oberweis heralding Fitzgerald as his role-model … ???
Comment by YNM Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 11:23 pm
Anon 10:45 This is the Email Brady sent out.
Dear Friend of Bill Brady for Governor,
It has come to my attention Phyllis Schlafly of Eagle Forum has endorsed candidates for the upcoming Illinois primary on March 21, 2006. I would hope Eagle Forum would consider State Senator Bill Brady and his stellar conservative voting record of twelve years. Please call/email Eagle Forum and have them carefully research Brady’s voting record.
I guess Brady and his followers don’t think they are “a bunch of eighty-year-old women in bright alternating red, white and blue suits playing Red Rover.” do you? They seem to want the endorsement, as would the list of southern Illinois Legislators. I wouldn’t count on Luechtefeld taking Phyllis out.
Comment by Reagan Democrat Saturday, Feb 11, 06 @ 11:58 pm
Brady’s “stellar conservative voting record” includes:
“YES” on the ridiculous (ERI) Early Retirement Initiative that repeats an earlier fiasco, seeing four-times the number of early retirees and adding to the pension crisis!
“YES” on +$240 million in local telecommunication utility taxes.
“YES” on Blago’s +$240 million more in ‘pork.’
“YES” to shovel +$396 million more down the school foundation level chute.
“YES” for mandated taxpayer housing for low-income and homeless.
“YES” to exempting an illegal Ford Heights dumpsite from IL-EPA regulation.
“NO” to the successful effort to limit assessment increase in Cook County to 7%.
“YES” to taxpayer tuition to illegal aliens.
“YES” to foreign issued ‘Consular ID cards.’
“NO” to IL income tax break for Doctors practicing in areas of physican scarcity.
“YES” to employment protections for day & temp labor services, who employ a great swath of the 400,000 illegals in Illinois.
“NO” to Referendum reform, which would insure property taxes are extended ONLY to the amount approved in a referendum.
Comment by The Colonel Sunday, Feb 12, 06 @ 8:57 am
To be clear this is not an endorsement nor support for any particular candidate at all ! Just in observing comments & reading some of the comments beforehand it’s interesting reading and in through the views of others. I do understand through friends there is or was “division in the ranks” within that particular organization regarding said endorsement and some organizations of similar type, supporting similar cause(s) are seemingly quite concerned as well as amazed that Shafley and her group are endorsing Mr. Oberweis. The Eagle Forum is well known & their opinion does matter shaping political views if even regionally & not to be taken lightly. This isn’t an idol posting comment or responding to the blog comments for the heck of it as it was actually heard. Mr. Oberweis’ position changes over “pro-life” over the last 2 election cycles & now with the governors race & other comments made are apparently why folks are asking. Mr. Oberweis, despite what he proclaims, is in fact a politician as they all are politicians. He is a veteran of 2 un-successful bids for state wide office, the senate & then failed to be appointed or slated when canididate Ryan left the senate campaign in 04′ & then his party wouldn’t consider him as state party chairman. That to me is 4 un-successful attempts in the political ring not counting his bid for governor. He’s never won an election, never getting out of the primary in any cycle. Other than a very few over the years who’ve been consistent either left or right of any particular issue such as pro-life, Mr. Oberweis seems to go each cycle where the power lies, or out courting the “right” endorsements with no pun intended. Mr. Oberweis in 2002 was Not professing a “pro-life” stance in fact was for abortion rights in his 1st un-successful run in the primary election for U.S. Senate & then somewhere along the way in primary 2004 & now in primary 2006 is changing his mind again. His positions & considered radical approaches to serious problems professed on issues such as pro-life, immigration & other important issues are out there now for public consumption from current past or previous attempts to win a state wide office. With regard to abortion in this cycle his view as given to reporters is it’s political rather than moral. I think core value things of mom, apple pie, religion, pro-life, marriage issues, abortion are among things you are with or you are not & not changing ones own inner belief depending on which way the “political weather vane” is pointing. Please seriously consider all (5) of the candidates carefully for what they really are saying & look at their records , information past & present. Read literature, newspapers & listen to programs. Be thoughtful in your process. This primary election cycle is very crucial to this state on a wide variety of issues & consistency, true trust or the ability to trust is more essential now than ever. As a lifelong GOP voter I realize whom ever comes out of this primary election will be a deciding factor continuing this pathway of problems or in ousting the current administration who in the opinion of many, myself included is ruining this state for years to come on just about every level. These are serious times requiring serious people to make good choices in the voting booth. Please vote carefully.
Comment by anon Sunday, Feb 12, 06 @ 9:24 am
Remember Brady is from McLean County where once an incumbent it is terribly hard to be defeated. In Bill’s first election as state rep he defeated the incumbent by eight votes in the primary. He later ran for Congress and lost that primary. When Senator John Maitland gave up his seat due to his health, Brady was appointed to the position giving him a leg up in the next election as the incumbent.
In this area, it is rarer than hen’s teeth for a Democrat to be elected. If a Republican wins the primary, it’s a given he or she will win the general election.
Comment by Nearly Normal Sunday, Feb 12, 06 @ 10:08 am
I am currently in DC and attended the National Conservative Political Action Conference. You try telling the people here that Phyllis Schaffly is nothing or an old lady that just plays red rover. She is an icon, a legend, and she made a good pick in Jim Oberweis.
Why does it seem that all the pro-life, pro-family organizations are coming out to endorse Oberweis? They realize they must unite or they will have at least 12-16 more years (assuming Lisa Madigan will be the governor in 4 to 8 years) of opposition.
Bill Brady…you are playing the SPOILER!
Comment by Jeff Sunday, Feb 12, 06 @ 10:37 am
This new avenue of attack on Oberweis is that he thinks the abortion issue is “political” not moral, is a red herring. Here is where that came from and I think he explanes it quite well along with Justice White one of the two dissenting Justices of Roe. This was given on Life day at the Albion Senior Citizen Community Center, it has been sent around as an email .
As I sat down to write this, I was looking for the correct word I wanted to use for this day. I choose the word “Milestoneâ€. It does not fully express the sadness and destruction this day marks, but I could not bring myself to use the word anniversary since that is too cheerful. I looked up milestone in the thesaurus and under it were words such as discovery, event, landmark, occasion and turning point. To me, these seem more like the way to describe this day. This is the Milestone of the day - millions of our children were given a death sentence in absentia. Over 2 million abortions are performed in America a year! Think of that for a moment… an average of 2 million abortions a year in the United States. After 33 years that is 66 million truly innocent souls.
66 million brothers and sisters or friends that were not allowed to grow up, not allowed to be held, not allowed to fall in love, not allowed to have families of their own. Some might say, “ we can’t miss them because they were never here.†But the fact is their presence is everywhere, every empty chair in a class room, every couple that can’t find a baby to adopt, the cry for workers from industry, forcing us to import more workers are all a direct result of 66 million people missing. Nothing has done more to split the very fabric of this country since slavery. The courts caused this split by forcing something on the American people that never could have been done politically. Roe vs. Wade finally opened the way to, as Justice White described, “an exercise of raw judicial power†and in my opinion, was the start of a period that is hopefully coming to an end, of what we now call legislating from the bench. The dissenting Justice saw that for exactly what it was. I want to read you a portion of the dissent from Justice White.
“The Court apparently values the convenience of the pregnant mother more than the continued existence and development of the life or potential life that she carries. Whether or not I might agree with that marshaling of values, I can in no event join the Court’s judgment because I find no constitutional warrant for imposing such an order of priorities on the people and legislatures of the States. In a sensitive area such as this, involving as it does, issues over which reasonable men may easily and heatedly differ, I cannot accept the Court’s exercise of its clear power of choice by interposing a constitutional barrier to state efforts to protect human life and by investing mothers and doctors with the constitutionally protected right to exterminate it. This issue, for the most part, should be left with the people and to the political processes the people have devised to govern their affairs.”
As was stated by the justice, this issue not only should, but has to be solved by the political process, and I am asking that you entrust in me the power to bring this issue into the political process as your Governor.
We know that it is within the political process that we will end this horror, not in the streets or by taking the law into our own hands. We stand here together at this milestone because we believe in the power of prayer, and because, as Americans, we have faith in our country and our people to see that this injustice must stop. Some may ask why? Why do you care? You have your family, your kids and grandkids. Why go through all of this? I say if we do not stand up for the most innocent of human lives, what lives would we stand for? It is up to us, people who understand that these children feel pain, and are in fact living beings, to peacefully but forcefully lead our fellow citizens away from this inhuman and barbarous course that was set for us 33 years ago.
I have faith in the American people that they will one day understand that to be a free and caring people we cannot continue to allow the murder of our unborn. I use the word murder not to incite but to enrage; for who can look at the baby in the womb with our magnificent new technology and not admit that this is a living human being; and once you admit it is a human being, who can just stand by and allow the murder of 2 million people a year? That is how we will win the hearts and minds of our fellow Illinoisans. We know that the truth and, quite frankly, technology, are on our side.
I want to thank you for allowing me to share this milestone day with you and I will give you my word that while I am Governor of the State of Illinois, I will do whatever I can to curb, diminish, and end this holocaust. In closing, I will leave you with a part of Ronald Reagan’s speech for the 10th Milestone of Roe vs. Wade in 1983. He said,
“My Administration is dedicated to the preservation of America as a free land, and there is no cause more important for preserving that freedom than affirming the transcendent right to life of all human beings, the right without which no other rights have any meaning.â€
Thank you very much. God Bless you and your families and God bless the Great state of Illinois.
Comment by Reagan Democrat Sunday, Feb 12, 06 @ 10:37 am
exactly what are you saying here?? that he beating st. rep. gordon ropp ended the trend to kick out incumbents in & around mclean county? true he ran for congress and lost in a 3 way primary against a sitting legislator and the former congressmans kid{not elected}to a guy outside mclean county. obviously not re-elected he set out till the next cycle & with sen. maitlands retirement the political leaders of the much bigger senate district {outside the confines of mclean}, namely the GOP county chairman in the district in a legally sanctioned system called an ‘elective committee’ chose mr. brady as someone to fill the exiting senators position & he then successfully ran & won again. I’d say that if voters like the guy they’ll continue to send them back & apparently in rep. ropps case , incidentally a very good public servant , they were serious enough & committed enough to make choices and a change even by a slim margin. there are in fact other areas that tend to be more rep. or dem it’s true but i don’t think in these times people walk lock step … if they really don’t like you you are gone.
Comment by anon Sunday, Feb 12, 06 @ 10:54 am
Phyllis Schlafly has not resided in Illinois for several years (she’s back in her native St. Louis). At least that is what all the reports say.
Although prescient and successful on many national policy issues, Schlafly and Eagle Forum have made a rather mixed (and over the past 12 years or so, unsuccessful) contribution to Illinois campaigns for public office. The Schlafly endorsement appears to be following the conservative money trail (i.e. Oberweis giving generously to Roeser and others) rather than an objective assessment of the candidate’s political record.
Comment by Schlafly a plus? Sunday, Feb 12, 06 @ 1:32 pm
In the Tribune ed. meeting, the candidates, per the report, were asked “Should Kjellander resign?” Brady and Oberweis said yes. But Brady hasn’t “flipped” on the issue, he simply came out publicly on a question not yet publicly put to him in that fashion.
Jack Roeser, Oberweiss and Rauschenberger (the latter two financed by the former) have made Kjellander an issue and have publicly called for his ouster as Rep Natl Committeeman. Brady has refused to call for KJ’s ouster for several reasons, not the least being that KJ’s record was made an issue at his last reelection and KJ won decisively. Brady’s position is that that election is over and now is not the time to fight it.
Another reason is that it is the height of stupidity to attack and disparage one of Karl Rove’s oldest friends. (Since Oberweis alienated the White House in 2004 over the immigration issue, he has nothing more to lose on the matter.)
However, Brady has personally recognized the lack of party success under KJ’s stewardship and the unrelenting public controversey surrounding his record. Thus, Brady recognizes the clear potential for moving forward if KJ were to resign. The Trib simply brought forward the question, and Brady answered it straightforwardly. It is a suprise only to those muddle-headed in the media who can’t make distinctions. Brady’s position is that KJ should make his own assessment and appreciate that his resignation would be of value to the party at this time.
Comment by Are you missing the difference? Sunday, Feb 12, 06 @ 1:47 pm
jeff- i’m not sure how someone who is running for statewide office for the first time (brady) is a spoiler and someone who is in his third run for statewide office (oberweis) is not. either side of the conservative debate in the gop primary would have liked to have schlafly’s endorsement. i don’t think that’s the issue.
Comment by Colt 45 Sunday, Feb 12, 06 @ 4:35 pm
Okay, Reagan Democrat … I think you may have gone a step too far this time … I can guarantee that the email you quoted above didn’t come from the Brady campaign (at least not in the last several months) … I happen to be the one who sends out those emails.
And, none of our emails even begin with that salutation.
Although, I’d be happy to be proven wrong … just send me the email and I’ll eat crow. You can forward me the email at ben at bamdesign dot net …
Comment by bmatt Monday, Feb 13, 06 @ 8:41 am
hi rich … tried to reply to your email, but seems maybe it didn’t go through?
Comment by bmatt Monday, Feb 13, 06 @ 9:25 am
You know it ought to be a realization to someone that the candidate biting at Oby’s heals … is in fact Brady. Quietly & steadily despite what they say & wish for he’s moving on. Oby may pay lip service to JBT or in her absence, scarsely mentions Gidwitz & Martin isn’t on his radar. …but his negative comments are directed at Brady if even on the “whisper campaign circuit”. Some of the bizaar comments this campaign has put out there would floor you. And remember those “letters to the editor” a few weeks ago showing up all over the state with a subtle threating tone..get out of the race or else. Just directed at good old Bill Brady, not Martin, Gidwitz or JBT. Is this all he can seem to talk about?? Brady ,he knows is the threat! When a campaign starts going negative like his is by various means right here in this ‘blog … his numbers got to be tanking & the only thing left to do it throw mud & throw money at it hoping it will help. His message ,as it were, is worn out & isn’t catching on, support base is small & provincial at best, he can’t rebound & his negative attitudes especially toward some GOP county chairmen across the state is taking its toll. As someone pointed out earlier if anyone is a “spoiler” in this race to all others it is Oberweis. He just can’t seem to win, always the perpetual candidate & two times previous and never out of a primary. If he won’t leave the race at least please stick to the issues & good debate NOT discounting or minmizing the other candidates. And if he loses, which lots of folks I know think is the case, don’t be a sore head & blame everyone in site, including the others. He’s tried 2 times before for state wide office & the majority of voters said Thanks ! but NO. What makes you think they’ll elect him governor. Same thing over & over again ! To all candidates as you move to election day, keep it clean & stick to the issues. There is far to much to lose !! This state is in trouble & a GOP candidate is the hope. Debate & discuss but keep it clean , no attacking … the voting public will appreciate it !!! To you who do, win or lose you’ll be respected & remembered.
Comment by anon in central illinois Monday, Feb 13, 06 @ 11:32 am
How can the Democrats say Rod is always trying to find an enemy to make himself look better when they’re doing the exact same thing when it comes to Kjellander?
Comment by Mellow Yellow Monday, Feb 13, 06 @ 3:28 pm
anon
Brady has been in this race for one year, he is not sneeking up on anyone he is and has been in the single digits. If Oby loses by 1 or two points it will be Brady who will carry the loss. I know alot of people who have just come to realize that they have been fed a line of lies from the Brady campaign for months now. When the last poll and the 2 that did not even mention him came out it proved that Brady was not telling the truth and to make matters worse he is going after the only conservative in the raxce besides him. If Bradys numbers were as good as you say he would be doing the same thing as Oberweis and going after JBT.
How do you think they got to him? Do you think they offered him a job in the JBT admin? or just helpin his next race? He will have a tuff time running for dog catcher if it is thought to be his fault Judy wins. Fair or not. Again I will point to O’Malley where is he now?
Comment by Reagan Democrat Monday, Feb 13, 06 @ 7:51 pm
Reagan Democrat … I’d still love to see the source email you quoted earlier when you bashed Brady.
Comment by bmatt Monday, Feb 13, 06 @ 8:43 pm
Just reading papers & listening to information is how I arrive at my opinions. In response do you know sir/ madam {Reagan Democrat} how wierd all that you’ve put out there really sounds? With all due respect possible you should really stop & listen to yourself ! He’s not in single digits and most folks know this. If Oberweis loses its because he just plain loses & after 2 un-successful attempts at state-wide office never getting out of ANY of the primaries it is not surprising. Who was the blame then the last 2 times, the “spoiler” there ? Hmmm ?? Old tired message, promising the moon, not well organized perhaps or whatever … you have to take responsibility for your own campaign & the outcome. Does he think it’s a right of passage or something, an entitlement cause he’s tried so many times?? This is America not merry old England in the 1600’s & he isn’t a royal heir that I’m aware of. Polls are only as good as the questions & the people you ask the questions of. People will really say anything in a telephone poll & most real campaigns do their own internal polling to see & gauge what’s going on & what they need to know to campaign. The real “poll” that counts will be March 21. And, I ask how has the Brady folks carried out a “bunch of lies” ?? There must have been on hell of a bunch of hornswaggled volunteers who bought it hook, line & sinker. Brady is just running his campaign like all the others my friend. He’s offering out a vision, message & a campaign that people will either accept or reject. It’s the same with any race. He’s not going after anyone .. he’s running to win, discussing issues & from what I see is the real conservative as exemplified publically by the “Conservative Summit” , a meeting of not one but SEVERAL conservative groups covered by newspapers last Sept. perhaps you’ve heard of it IE: past endorsing Salvi & Fitzgerald. {{or what did he buy them off as you would believe?} Where’s all this cash coming from by the way ?? for these secret clandestine operations ?? CIA ? INTERPOL ? Do you know?? With all the people endorsing him it must be one hell of a conspiricy. Geezzz !! He doesn’t have to go after anyone & really neither is anyone else running for that matter. They just run to win. Nobody “got to him” & who on this earth would it be. I’m sure that’s just what he needs is a “secret job” in an adminstration yet to or never to exist as he’s apparently got several jobs in fact Senator, businessman & maybe governor if it works out. I don’t see how he’ll have time for the secret stuff. Maybe play your cards right & you’ll get a “secret job”. I & others watching this race, don’t think peoples opinion of Mr. Brady is as low as you apparently & desperately want it to be … sorry. Running for dog catcher ?? Still have those?? I thought those were term appointments made by the mayor of the respective communities. And,what about Mr. O’Malley, a good man and public servant, successful in his own right … fought the good fight, lost the election & went on with his life apparently doing good things, making a living {at maybe “”one of those secret jobs”"} & no worse for the wear. How on earth did he “screw things up” ?? He just ran for election. Your guy is probably going to lose my friend so brace yourself. People win & people lose elections … it’s kind of how it works & has for about 230 years or so. But your guy should really quit blaming in advance everyone one in sight. What if he wins?? Did you ever once think about that one ?? Who’s going to take credit there … everyone seems to be in the losing mode. Got to really wonder about a person who assumes defeat before defeated and its ALWAYS someone elses fault or looking for someone to blame. Just these folks should run out their respective campaigns through the primary , cleanly & in all honesty give the voters of this good state credit & let them decide. They can’t all be on the take, getting checks & “plum assignments” in the next administration …Hell man it could be Blago back & then as the good folks of the GOP we can blame OBY. 3 times may be the charm.
Comment by anon in central illinois Monday, Feb 13, 06 @ 9:35 pm
bmatt, he/she isn’t responding because he/ she can’t. R-D is working on yet another conspiracy theory or polishing up the resume’ for a “secret job”. God bless them !
Comment by anon in central illinois Monday, Feb 13, 06 @ 9:46 pm
Anon in Central Illinois -
Holy Never-Ending Story, Batman!
You don’t really think we are actually going to READ all that that meandering stuff, do you?
Comment by Bubs Tuesday, Feb 14, 06 @ 12:12 am
Do you have a list of the groups from the conservative summit that voted for Brady? Or even the ones that participated in the event? I have never seen one, although I have spent alot of time looking. What was the vote?
Comment by Reagan Democrat Tuesday, Feb 14, 06 @ 1:37 am
check out the chicago tribune from october 9, 2005, your guy was there!! Article was by Tom Roeser. says made up of representatives from several …anti-abortion, pro-gun, home schoolers, libertarians & illegal immigration folks.
Comment by anon Tuesday, Feb 14, 06 @ 3:49 pm