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* It takes five signatures among the 19 state central committeemen to call for a special Illinois Republican Party meeting. Jim Oberweis couldn’t even get that…
Despite reserving a hotel conference room on his own dime, a Saturday meeting to oust Illinois GOP party chair Pat Brady for statements supporting gay marriage won’t be happening as a suburban state senator has hoped. At least not yet.
And, now that he is spending a bulk of his time down in session in Springfield, dairy magnate Jim Oberweis of Sugar Grove is hoping some others, including Congressman Randy Hultgren’s former chief of staff will step forward to organize a meeting “as soon as possible.”
In an admonishing Feb. 3 email to fellow state central committeemen obtained by the Daily Herald, Oberweis noted that “I was hoping someone would take a leadership role when the need became apparent but no one stepped up to the plate.” Instead, Oberweis himself attempted to organize a meeting, reserving a conference room at an Aurora Hampton Inn at his own expense, for what he described as “less than a couple hundred” dollars.
But, without the required five signatures of committeemen, hopes for a meeting were dashed.
“It’s now too late to call a meeting for Feb. 9. I’m hoping someone else will pick up the gauntlet,” Oberweis said Tuesday.
* Greg Hinz’s take on Oberweis’ failure…
It looks like that conservative revolt against Illinois Republican Chairman Pat Brady has fizzled.
Yep.
* The gay marriage proposal passed the Senate Executive Committee again yesterday. But the Right isn’t giving up yet. From Illinois Review…
Alliance Defending Freedom’s legal counsel Joe LaRue, who testified in the committee hearing on SB 10, said,
The bill to redefine marriage provides inadequate safeguards for religious liberty. It leaves churches and religious organizations at the whim and mercy of the courts, who will have to interpret the marriage redefinition law and how it interacts with Illinois’ public accommodation and employment non-discrimination laws.
Simply put, this bill does not protect churches and religious organizations from having to rent their facilities to same-sex couples for wedding ceremonies, even when doing so violates the church’s religious beliefs. Nor does the bill protect churches and religious organizations from being forced to hire employees from same-sex marriages. The bill also provides no protection for individuals, like wedding photographers, who object to same-sex marriages but may be asked because of their business to participate in same-sex ceremonies.
This law does not protect religious freedom as it claims. Rather, it promotes religious intolerance, bigotry and discrimination.
* On to the coverage. * Champaign News-Gazette…
Danielle Cook of Farmer City, who already has a civil union with her partner, Suzie Hutton, told state senators Tuesday that she wants a full-fledged marriage because “marriage is the standard in our society.”
The Senate Executive Committee, in a 9-5 party-line vote, approved a bill (SB 10) allowing gay marriage in Illinois. It now moves to the full Senate, where passage is considered likely. But it may find a tougher time in the House.
“In numerous settings and in ways big and small, we learned that a civil union is not the same as being married,” Cook said. “It’s not really recognized or understood as marriage is. After getting a civil union, for example, we decided to add Suzie to the health care plan at my work. Everyone and my employer knew that Suzie and I had been together for years. Everyone knew that we were getting a civil union. When I contacted the human-resources department, I was told that we would have to produce the civil-union certificate before Suzie could be added to my plan. That department does not ask anyone for a marriage license, but they asked us for a civil-union certificate.”
Further, she noted that forms at doctor’s offices have boxes for “single,” “married” and “divorced,” but not for civil unions.
“The message was sent in other, more personal ways as well. It even came in how individuals responded to learning that we had gotten a civil union,” she said.
* Tribune…
But the Rev. Keith Williams of Cornerstone Christian Fellowship Church of Country Club Hills said he was in “vehement opposition” because same-sex marriage goes against basic tenets of the Bible.
“This bill puts the state very much in the church’s business, and I think we find ourselves deteriorating to a level of immorality that will lead this nation to a high level of judgment,” Williams testified.
Sen. Matt Murphy, R-Palatine, maintained churches will be “dragged into a court” until judges have “delineated every line possible” on religious freedom and public accommodation. Proponents said current laws on human rights and religious freedom would prevent a major flurry of lawsuits from being filed.
* Sun-Times…
The same Senate panel approved similar legislation during the lame-duck legislative session in early January. But that plan stalled when backers acknowledged absences of three key votes kept them below the minimum 30-vote threshold needed to pass the Senate.
A central question before the committee then was how institutions receiving public funding would be required to receive same-sex marriage ceremonies. But that language has been dropped from the bill this time, Steans said.
“We didn’t do anything with public funding in this bill,” she said. “There have been concerns about that in the original language. That language is all removed. We’re not touching that.”
Tuesday’s debate focused on whether churches are defined as public accommodations under the state’s Human Rights Act, which says the availability of public accommodations shall not be determined on the basis of sexual orientation.
Though the word “church” does not appear under that section of the law, one definition of a “public accommodation” comes close, describing “an auditorium, convention center, lecture hall or other place of public gathering.”
Some of the bill’s opponents say a lack of clarity in this area could cause trouble in the courts. Joseph La Rue, legal counsel for Alliance Defending Freedom, testified before the committee that the bill doesn’t clearly exempt churches from renting out their facilities such as in other states like New York.
* Daily Herald…
Murphy said the law could prompt a wave of lawsuits to figure out which facilities could be used.
Harmon said, though, that there haven’t been similar lawsuits over civil unions in Illinois.
“The civil unions law did not create a race to the courthouse,” Harmon said.
posted by Rich Miller
Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 9:38 am
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From my Post on Rich’s Feed post …
Oberweis!! What is it with McCarter, McSweeney and Oberweis?
Do they all have a Tin Ear, do not understand the political landscape of their Dopey moves, and how it will impact how the ILGOP is to be seen?
Maybe we (me included!) are all wet on this, maybe MJM’s “plants” are McCarter, McSweeney and Oberweis! They must be living in a vacuum, reading about what is going on here in Illinois, and then doing the exact opoosite of what needs to be done, not understanding HOW they do things is not going to bring about the needed changes, or the needed outcomes favorable to the electorate to allow the ILGOP to grow.
Rent a room, no one shows.
Hope all the ice cream won’t melt.
The three of them remind me of the kid who, after Junior High, when parents allow the kids to CHOOSE what birthday parties they go to, finds out all the kids who use to go to their party, are forced, and when they have the choice, don’t choose them.
“But I’m cool, just ask me!”
Oberweis, not helping my party. Dump Brady, but not at the pitchforks and torches of SSM.
Dope!
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 9:44 am
First Oberweis tries to dump Radogno, then Brady.
Obviously, an MJM plant.
Where, is his many failed attempts for higher office, did Oberweis get the idea that he should be the Grand Inquisitor of the GOP?
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 9:48 am
Sure alot of chutzpah on Oberweiss’ part. After a boatload of losses, the guy finally wins an election in a district that would have elected Bozo the Clown Senator provided he had an ‘R’ behind his name and now all of a sudden he’s running the show!! Give me a break.
I live in the 25th Senate district and I deeply appologize for using Bozo the Clown’s untarnished name in the same sentance as Oberweis’. Obie didn’t get elected with help from the train111 family.
train111
Comment by train111 Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 9:49 am
=== Grand Inquisitor of the GOP ===
“Put her in the comfy chair”
Comment by dupage dan Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:00 am
I can’t wait for his latest statewide campaign. Senator Oberweis, seriously, you are on the wrong side of history, again.
Comment by Rahm's Parking Meter Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:04 am
train111, Jim was elected a state central committeeman before he was elected to the state senate.
Comment by OneMan Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:07 am
Disappointing to see the GOP continue to try and be attacked and controlled by the social conservatives on the fringe.
In a state like Illinois, the GOP should be working to combat the fiscal issues facing our state rather than attacking the notion of equal protection of the laws. The party of “small government” seems to morph into a party of control when it comes to infringing on the civil rights of gays and lesbians in the state.
Comment by B2Chicago Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:09 am
Opponents of the marriage equality bill are grasping at straws. These fictional legal issues are a circus act. Murphy should stop performing as their barking seal.
Comment by walkinfool Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:10 am
If there’s anybody more politically inept than Oberweis, I cannot imagine who it is. Embarrassing.
Comment by LincolnLounger Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:11 am
–“This bill puts the state very much in the church’s business, and I think we find ourselves deteriorating to a level of immorality that will lead this nation to a high level of judgment,” Williams testified.–
Reverend, since you speak for God, apparently,where would you rank this proposal on the old judgment for a nation scale: above or below dropping bombs out of the sky on civilian populations?
Do a lot of testifying against that, did you?
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:13 am
dupage dan,
Nice Monty Python reference (I think)!
It’s exasperating that people think our laws must accord with the Bible. The whole point of America is to have a secular state, not a theocracy.
Comment by Grandson of Man Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:17 am
I consider myself to be a republican. But, this is just an embarrassment. Not all Republicans are as hateful and out of touch as Oberweis and others in the party seem to be.
I would love to see some of our Republican Party leaders focus on the work ahead instead of attacking people within the party (and beyond) just for having a different view. And when I use the word “some”, its because I know of many good republicans who know the true meaning of leadership.
What Oberweis and others like him have to understand is that they talk a good game about compromise, but when it comes down to it they miss the true nature of it when they are unwilling to give up something for the common ground and common good.
Comment by LadyKane Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:22 am
==This law does not protect religious freedom as it claims. Rather, it promotes religious intolerance, bigotry and discrimination.==
These people clearly do not know what religious intolerance, bigotry, and discrimination really are. Pathetic.
Comment by Roamin' Numeral Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:22 am
One more thing: I’m also encouraged that Obie wasn’t even able to get the minimum amount of signatures. So, even other leaders in the GOP see through this petty, mean-spirited attack….
Comment by LadyKane Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:26 am
To be VERY clear …
I want Brady gone … yesterday …
But not under this inoculation of “They are throwing me out becasue of intolerance” garbage!
That is the Rub here. Oberweis’ Tin Ear and lacking the “grasp of the moment” ruined the opportunity to dump Brady, almost forcing the ILGOP to keep him.
Heck, for all we know, Brady did everything he did to FORCE the hand of Oberweis, give the inoculation to keep his job!
The Dopiness is just Beyond The Pale!!!!
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:30 am
Here’s a thought - BOYCOTT OBERWEIS DAIRY. Stop buying his milk and ice cream until he shuts his piehole. Quoting the late Senator Dirksen, “When I feels the heat, I see the light.”
Comment by Darienite Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:30 am
==This law does not protect religious freedom as it claims. Rather, it promotes religious intolerance, bigotry and discrimination.==
It’s disconcerting that while arguing for tolerance, bigotry and discrimination hides behind a religious argument.
Comment by RetiredStateEmployee Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:37 am
All of Oberweis’ grandiose ideas to wind up a 66 year-old freshman State Senator in a deep minority caucus.
Do folks think he goes back to his room at night, puts on his comfy pajamas, warms up some milk and sobs quietly at the choices he’s made?
Or would that require a level of self-awareness he just doesn’t possess?
Comment by Bill F. Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:37 am
Just when I think Jim Oberweis has run out of novel ways to fail in public…
– MrJM
Comment by MrJM Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:39 am
Also, who the heck talks to the press and confirms the following:
“Oberweis himself attempted to organize a meeting, reserving a conference room at an Aurora Hampton Inn at his own expense, for what he described as “less than a couple hundred” dollars.”
What a Dope!
“I got stiffed a couple hundred dollars by people who has no intention to liste to my Dopiness…”
I would love to hear McCarter, Oberweis, and McSweeney, having dinner, talking about how they are “leading”, “making the difference”, and all the while thinking about the Millions wasted by McSweeney to be a fresham, veto-proofed, state Representative (no offense to others, but did you spend, personally, millions, to get your seat AND get a staffer fired?) and Oberweis and his millions, and McCarter and his complete lack of political instincts beyond his rigid Litmus Tests…A fly on that wall is what I would love to be, listening how they come up with being so out of touch…
Now, if they make it a table for 4, I would have to get back to them…
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 10:49 am
Wouldn’t it be more fitting to say that Oberweis’s call for a right wing revolt have … soured?
Comment by Shoeless Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 11:22 am
==forced to hire employees from same-sex marriages.==
Horrors!
What right does any organization (religious or not) have on if your marriage is gay or not after gay marriage is legal?
Comment by Wensicia Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 11:29 am
–It’s exasperating that people think our laws must accord with the Bible.–
A particular interpretation of the Bible, at that.
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 11:41 am
–Heck, for all we know, Brady did everything he did to FORCE the hand of Oberweis, give the inoculation to keep his job!–
I think that could be the case. Given the Illinois’s GOP performance in 2012, there were plenty of grounds to dump Brady.
Do it over gay marriage, and how do you convince the kids coming up and suburban independents that you’re not just the party of peek-in-the-window social issues?
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 11:46 am
=basic tenets of the Bible=
I thought the basic tenets were Hope, Faith, Peace and Love.
Comment by Endangered Moderate Species Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 11:46 am
I thought that guy the Christians worship told his followers to treat people the way they would like to be treated.
Comment by Cheryl44 Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 11:59 am
Oberweis-Making Lauzen look better every day.
Comment by Arthur Andersen Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 1:08 pm
=“They are throwing me out becasue of intolerance” garbage!=
Talk about a “tin ear.” People can keep restating over and over again why this whole fiasco is an issue and all others seem to hear is they want to throw Brady out because of this “‘intolerance’ garbage!”
(So, why even bother trying to carry on the types of discussions this blog was always known for?)
And LadyKane, here’s my interpretation: they can’t find anyone who wants the job and/or they know of some(one) who might, but don’t want that person. And it’s not Oberweis.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 1:23 pm
===People can keep restating over and over again why this whole fiasco is an issue and all others seem to hear is they want to throw Brady out because of this “‘intolerance’ garbage!”===
Uh …Oberweis … specifically … said he wants Brady out on the SSM issue, period.
So … um … yeah…My ear works fine, thanks.
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 1:30 pm
See what I mean about “why bother?” Seriously, Willy, the one-liners (which have also teed off quite a few people) seem to be your forte.
And, if Brady is in fact trying hard to drive out (or “purge” as Responsa said) some current members–rather than what Reince Preibus has set as objectives, you seem to be the “Republican” to do it. Listen to the cheers of the Democrats, Willy, as they applaud your unifying presence.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 1:39 pm
- Listen to the cheers of the Democrats, Willy, as they applaud your unifying presence. -
Actually, I deeply hope the IL GOP keeps ignoring folks like OW, because it makes it much easier for us Democrats.
It’s those like Oberweis we’re cheering.
Comment by Small Town Liberal Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 1:48 pm
===Willy, the one-liners (which have also teed off quite a few people) seem to be your forte.===
Thanks, trying to be pithy. If you don’t like them don’t read them.
Further, no one takes me seriously, and if what I am saying does not make sense, argue your side. Being seen as Litmus Testers ain’t going to grow the party. Oberweis SPECIFICALLY said he wanted brady out, making my party look intolerant. Questions?
===And, if Brady is in fact trying hard to drive out (or “purge” as Responsa said) some current members–rather than what Reince Preibus has set as objectives, you seem to be the “Republican” to do it. Listen to the cheers of the Democrats, Willy, as they applaud your unifying presence.===
what you are missing … with your tin ear … is that not following the Reagan Rule of 80%, thinking all of this is “bad” for the party, all the while casting us Republicans as intolerant, rigid, closed-minded baffoons … and you think the Dems are cheering because I rip Oberweis and McCarter and McSweeney on the Dopey things they do, brother, I can’t help ya!
If you think cutting off our nose to spite our face, and following Oberweis is smart for the party…Bless. Your. Heart!
If you can’t see I want the party to grow, take of the shades, and read what I post.
Should I continue, or should I end with a one-liner to be pithy …nope … how about …
With kindest personal regards, I remain.
Sincerely yours,
Oswego Willy
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 1:53 pm
Yes, STL. And that’s why all the Democrats on this blog are obviously avoiding Brady’s subsequent response to this issue. Couldn’t possibly talk about something that could be perceived as decent for Republicans. Hit jobs on individuals are so much easier, aren’t they?
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 1:53 pm
===Actually, I deeply hope the IL GOP keeps ignoring folks like OW, because it makes it much easier for us Democrats.
It’s those like Oberweis we’re cheering.===
Thanks - STL -, a Democrat understands I am trying to make things BETTER, while the Oberweis’ the McCarters, and the McSweeneys think I am doing harm.
Thank you(?) - STL - for seeing me screaming in the wind.
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 1:55 pm
Oswego Willy for junior high class president!
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 1:57 pm
- And that’s why all the Democrats on this blog are obviously avoiding Brady’s subsequent response to this issue. -
What on earth are you talking about? Personally I hope Brady remains chairman for a long time, because he’s terrible at what he does. However, if he is fired, I hope it’s because the far right continues their losing battle of intolerance.
And OW, you’re welcome, I think…
Comment by Small Town Liberal Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:00 pm
===Hit jobs on individuals are so much easier, aren’t they?===
Oberweis is a State Central Committeeman. Oberweis wants the party to go in a way not helpful. Rich Miller posted the story, I am commenting. Jim Oberweis is not backing down.
I called out his ilk. Do you agree with Jim Oberweis and want to take out Brady on the SSM issue?
Can you answer that - Anonymous -?
I asked directly … got an answer?
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:00 pm
@Anon:
Brady should have been fired for his abysmal performance inthe last election and his failed silly little “Fire Madigan” campaign. Speaking of hit jobs on individuals . . .
Comment by Demoralized Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:02 pm
===Oswego Willy for junior high class president! ===
Really, that is ALL you got?
My worst beats that… That’s it?
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:02 pm
If you’re JO, what is the benefit of playing this out in public and the media? Is the motivation to make a change or look good for the base?
The revolution will be televised?
Accompanied by full coverage in The Daily Herald and Illinois Review?
Comment by Formerly Known As... Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:03 pm
===Brady should have been fired for his abysmal performance inthe last election and his failed silly little “Fire Madigan” campaign. Speaking of hit jobs on individuals . . . ===
But dopes like Oberweis inoculated him, making it seem wwe Republicans are intolerant and want Brady out solely on the SSM issue.
Are you follwing along …
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:04 pm
Herr Oberweis is performing a valuable service for his party. He is clearly proving that the patient is in a coma, and that his positions on these issues will not wake the patient.
Now we’re clear.
I see no reason to tell him to sit down, shut up or go away. There are plenty of loonies in both parties, but with a smaller party, Oberweis is more noticeable.
Everyone calm down. The best solution is to ignore him. Bringing Herr Oberweis to everyone’s attention just to berate him doesn’t work since he doesn’t listen and has a whole lot of money.
Comment by VanillaMan Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:07 pm
Jim Oberweis is comedy gold. I hope when the crazies finally peal off and form their own party the moderates get to keep the Republican Party name.
Comment by Cheryl44 Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:07 pm
- Formerly Known As… -,
This is is why my party gets nowhere. McCarter, McSweeney and Oberweis think they are so correct, heck, talk to the media about it!!! What can go wrong?!?!?!?!?
- Anonymous -,
If you can’t undertand the basics of this very specific power play gone wrong, and why its wrong to begin with, maybe Junior High is better for you … than me.
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:08 pm
===Do you agree with Jim Oberweis and want to take out Brady on the SSM issue?
Can you answer that - Anonymous -?
I asked directly … got an answer?===
Asking … again, to give - Anonymous - his day.
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:10 pm
In some circles, Willie’s great sin is that he wants the Illinois GOP to actually compete to represent Republicans, Independents and Reagan Democrats and their real-life concerns.
Or, they can continue taking the scraps that Madigan and Cullerton give them, and spend their time peaking in bedroom windows, railing about hard-working Mexicans and analyzing the urine of poor people.
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:13 pm
===(which have also teed off quite a few people)===
Look! Leave “two putt” Tom Cross and him “teeing off” on Election Day out of this. This is about Jim Oberweis.
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:17 pm
- wordslinger -, thanks.
I will take that sin, especially if thees are the best shots they got.
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:20 pm
Demoralized, I agree that alot of what Mr. Brady has done, including the “Fire Madigan” and the–was it $5–to “buy a vote” campaigns have not been the Republican Party’s greatest moments.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:23 pm
=== Couldn’t possibly talk about something that could be perceived as decent for Republicans. ===
While a bit harsh, there may be some semblance of truth to it. Not necessarily on CapFax, but concerning the coverage of this and reaction as a whole.
Illinois Republicans move towards the center. The result?
No “welcome to the party” from anyone or support for those standing up amid a barrage of criticism.
No advocates or even Log Cabin Republicans, to the best of my knowledge, hailing the sudden movement.
Just crickets and media coverage mostly focusing on the unhappiness of some, purported discontent in the GOP ranks, and so on.
That is NOT a criticism directed at this post or CapFax. It’s an observation of the tone of media coverage on this.
I may be mistaken though, and hope I am. Has there been any positive media coverage of this?
Any receptive press releases or support from advocacy groups or other “non-partisan” organizations?
Comment by Formerly Known As... Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:23 pm
- Formerly Known As… -,
Great Points. Well done.
The problem is that 1) the “base” favors Jim Oberweis’ position. 2)Can’t disturb the base until after the 2014 primary. 3)Oberweis and Co., are the only ones clamoring, publically about the issue, while those supporting Brady, for the VAST most, part are the “Some Republicans have said”, or “In most Republican circles…”, won’t go fully ON the record and go toe-to-toe when Oberweis does these dopey things and gets QUOTED.
Loudest voice is winning, and its the “other” side here.
By NOT meeting, the SCC is telling him to just stop this. Have any issued a statement, a SCC Member, to say, literally, “Enough. We want Jim Oberweis to stop this and I am calling him, offically, to stop.”
I haven’t seen the coverage of that. Has Rich gotten a press release, I dunno. They may have, but that is not what this post on this blog is about.
Either someone needs to be as out there like Oberweis is, on the committee, specifically, and be quoted, like Oberweis, and say, “Yeah, we decided Jim is wrong, we are not about this.”, then this is the coverage we as a party deserve.
Speaking of crickets, - Anonymous - got an answer?
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:33 pm
=If you’re JO, what is the benefit of playing this out in public and the media?=
That’s one of the issues, FKA. I believe Mr. Brady began this whole thing in the media (and some speculate it was a calculated move to keep his post because it would be perceived as an “intolerance” issue if questioned by anyone in his party–which lead to many of the other issues).
It was not Mr. Oberweis who selected the theater. As a matter of fact, it seems that he’s trying to bring some sort of closure to it behind closed doors.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:36 pm
So where do you stand on the issue, - Anonymous - ?
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:38 pm
===(and some speculate it was a calculated move to keep his post because it would be perceived as an “intolerance” issue if questioned by anyone in his party–which lead to many of the other issues).===
And some have done it out loud, like ME!
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:39 pm
“No advocates or even Log Cabin Republicans, to the best of my knowledge, hailing the sudden movement.”
Actually, the Log Cabin Republicans publicly praised Brady for the move. It was all over the web.
Comment by ChicagoR Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:41 pm
===It was not Mr. Oberweis who selected the theater. As a matter of fact, it seems that he’s trying to bring some sort of closure to it behind closed doors.===
When Oberweis is being quoted, how is he not aiding and abbetting? Seems to me, Oberweis, instead of NOT commenting, loves the idea of saying how much the room costs, or who is not returning his call …
Seems to me Oberweis can’t tell enough about his troubles to get this to end … voting out the Party Chair, making us all look intolerant.
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:42 pm
–The problem is that 1) the “base” favors Jim Oberweis’ position.–
I don’t believe that. The real “base” of the Illinois GOP is those that now that call themselves Independents because they’re turned off by the hypocrisy of alleged conservatives who want to put government in everyone’s personal business.
VMan, Herr Oberweiss? C’mon, dude. I’m not a fan of his, but don’t go there. You’re better than that.
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:44 pm
===I don’t believe that. The real “base” of the Illinois GOP is those that now that call themselves Independents because they’re turned off by the hypocrisy of alleged conservatives who want to put government in everyone’s personal business.===
Well Said!
My “Quotes” around base was a vailed mocking of the Far Right and their “claim” to be what ALL Repubs should be, and without question.
Apologies - wordslinger -.
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 2:48 pm
===Do you agree with Jim Oberweis and want to take out Brady on the SSM issue?
Can you answer that - Anonymous -?
I asked directly … got an answer?===
Asking again, - Anonymous -, It’s as straight-forward as possible.
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:01 pm
And … (crickets)
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:09 pm
=The real “base” of the Illinois GOP is those that now that call themselves Independents…=
Depends on how you’re looking at it. Some consider the “base” those who have always been well known for all the groundwork they do around election time and those who are successful in gathering them up and deploying them.
I don’t think they label themselves, nor are they labeled by others as “Independents.”
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:17 pm
If you’d stop spewing, Willy, you’d notice that I already answered the question posts ago.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:19 pm
BTW, Willy, do you get some sort of a “reward” for posting to simply raise the thread count and is badgering others who comment part of your strategy?
Or, is that just your…umm…”personality?”
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:21 pm
(scratching head) … so … do you agree with Oberweis or not?
Still seems easy enough to answer … again. And say “yes” or “no”…”Y” or “N”…
===I don’t think they label themselves===
Uh, they DO label themselves that, ask them.
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:24 pm
–Depends on how you’re looking at it. Some consider the “base” those who have always been well known for all the groundwork they do around election time and those who are successful in gathering them up and deploying them.–
You can’t be serious.
In recent years, the GOP “base” sabotaged their nominee Jack Ryan, selected Alan Keyes as his replacement and got beat by Pat Quinn in the governor’s race in a historic GOP year.
Not too many years ago, none of that would have been considered a possibility.
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:25 pm
===BTW, Willy, do you get some sort of a “reward” for posting to simply raise the thread count and is badgering others who comment part of your strategy?
Or, is that just your…umm…”personality?”===
I dunno. Never thought about it. I think, thou, if Rich doesn’t want me here, or I get bored, i will move on, but some of the Dopiness passed off as what my party believes deserve som sort of comment.
You don’t like it, don’t read it….
Maybe if you wouldn’t have taken my post and decided to commment, i wouldn’t be commmenting…
Have a Nice Day!
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:28 pm
- Oswego Willy - Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 1:53 pm:
“Further, no one takes me seriously…”
You’re selling yourself short. FWIW I take you seriously. Your comments on grassroots campaigning are spot on, and you (and I) argued weeks ago that SSM is NOT the thing Pat Brady should be judges, but as Demoralized says above, his performance as Chairman measured by election results.
Unfortunately, now, PB is inoculated from criticism based on election performance since the SSM issue hit. Politically, the ILGOP has its hands tied because if PB were removed now, the media, Democrats and just about every voter in the State would see the Republicans as intolerant and hateful.
I don’t know if PB played it this way as a shrewd maneuver (unlikely because of past performance), luck or providence. But I think the ILGOP is going to be under his leadership for a while longer, at least until the next convention.
Comment by Cincinnatus Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:29 pm
As I said, word: the definition of the “base” depends on how you’re looking at it.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:30 pm
Did - Anonymous - ever answer the question again?
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:30 pm
- Cincinnatus -,
First, With very much respect, I thank you.
To lighten it up, So “YOU” are the one, thanks!
And we did have a fine back and forth, and your post, today, is as right as I remember our discussion before. You have put it much … “nicer” than I have, but I stand by how and what I say, while agreeing with your post above.
Very much respect - Cincinnatus -.
As for …
===the definition of the “base” depends on how you’re looking at it.===
If my “base” thinks NOT growing, what is THAT base a “Base” of … standing still and dwindling?
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:35 pm
- Democrats and just about every voter in the State would see the Republicans as intolerant and hateful. -
Cinci, with all due respect, it’s not that we would see them as intolerant and hateful, it’s that the people coming out swinging against Brady over this ARE intolerant and hateful. If more GOPers don’t stand up against intolerance and bigotry, it’s only natural to assume that they themselves are intolerant.
This isn’t just a matter of opinion to most people these days, it’s a matter of equality and freedom.
Your man Dillard got any plans to put these clowns in their place? Something tells me not.
Comment by Small Town Liberal Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:41 pm
=In recent years, the GOP “base” sabotaged their nominee Jack Ryan…=
Sorry, word, I didn’t understand that. Who are you saying sabotaged Jack Ryan?
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:42 pm
===Sorry, word, I didn’t understand that. Who are you saying sabotaged Jack Ryan?===
“Jack!” Ryan sabotaged “Jack!”
“There is NOTHING IN THOSE FILES …”
Blair Hull, “Jack!” Ryan, Jason Plummer …they all blame others, when they should all look at themselves.
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:45 pm
Back to the post, - Anonymous -, you are so much smarter and more clever, did you say “yes” or “no” in agreeing with Oberweis? I get so easily confused, so sometimes, a straight answer works best.
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:47 pm
===If more GOPers don’t stand up against intolerance and bigotry, it’s only natural to assume that they themselves are intolerant.===
Some are trying, we are trying the best as we can…
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:52 pm
- Some are trying, we are trying the best as we can… -
I know some are, but I don’t think Dillard, or Cinci, are among them.
Comment by Small Town Liberal Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:54 pm
- Small Town Liberal -,
I am not geting in the middle of THAT, i am just going to leave my comment as-is, and focus on how Oberweis is NOT
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:56 pm
===Sorry, word, I didn’t understand that. Who are you saying sabotaged Jack Ryan?===
Are you kidding me, man? Do you not know, or are you just pretending not to know, where the dirt came from, who sicced the Tribbies and WLS-TV on Ryan was nominated, by the way?
Who forced him off the ballot? Democrats?
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 3:58 pm
=Some are trying, we are trying the best as we can… =
And, of course, Willy with his/her broad brush is more than happy to paint “intolerant” whatever Republican meets his/her fancy through spinning v. based on history and facts. What a gift and power play.
Are these the types of tactics that are now covered under the term “bipartisanship” and/or for giving that term a bad connotation?
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 4:04 pm
No, word. I’m pretty sure that I do know. That’s why I asked for a definition of the term “base” in your statement that the “base” sabotaged him. You’re saying that you believe Independents sabotaged him?
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 4:08 pm
Sorry…or are you saying you believe Conservatives sabotaged him? Or that those who sabotaged him used to be called Conservatives but now consider themselves Independents?
Also, are you saying that your findings concluded that it was an inside job and that an ENTIRE faction of the GOP was behind it–whether it was the Independents or Conservatives or even Moderates?
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 4:16 pm
- Anonymous -,
Are you with Oberweis or not on removing Brady on the SSM thing?
Conservates were so put out on “Jack!”s dopiness, they had to have Alan Keyes, according to “Jack!”s handlers, so it was a failure of so many, bu mostly “Jack!” thinking he could get away with something his Ex-Wife was not about to take back…
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 4:20 pm
===And, of course, Willy with his/her broad brush is more than happy to paint “intolerant” whatever Republican meets his/her fancy through spinning v. based on history and facts.===
Are ya for SSM or not, and if you are not, fine, but are you in favor of the tactic being employed by Oberweis, dumping the Chairman under the guise of intolerance?
That is pretty doggone straight forward!
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 4:23 pm
=according to “Jack!”s handlers,=
lol
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 4:28 pm
–You’re saying that you believe Independents sabotaged him?–
You can keep asking dopey questions like you have some sort of brain trauma all you like, but any fool that was around then knows that it was Republican primary opponents who first started spreading the nasty about the divorce papers.
And it was the Illinois GOP, including JBT, who drove Ryan out and gave you Keyes.
I know you’re desperate to be a victim, but dude, get some game.
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 4:29 pm
=according to “Jack!”s handlers,=
I Know … Proft’s big move …but I digress …
Got an answer for me, … yet?
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 4:33 pm
Oswego Willy-Keeping Them Honest!
Geez, it is tough enough to be a Republican these days without also taking the self-inflicted wounds.
Comment by Arthur Andersen Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 4:35 pm
Thanks, word. Just asking you to clarify the confusion regarding how your definition of the term “Republican ‘base’” changes whenever you need the change in definition to support whatever position you’re taking on whatever issue you’re raising (or is raised).
Also, many thanks to both you and OW for all the valuable insight on “who sabotaged Jack Ryan?”
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 4:37 pm
===You can keep asking dopey questions like you have some sort of brain trauma all you like, but any fool that was around then knows that it was Republican primary opponents who first started spreading the nasty about the divorce papers.===
Amen!
Seriously, what is your point? I have yet to determine what you are for/against …
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 4:38 pm
===Thanks, word. Just asking you to clarify the confusion regarding how your definition of the term “Republican ‘base’” changes whenever you need the change in definition to support whatever position you’re taking on whatever issue you’re raising (or is raised).===
Nah, I think -wordslinger - knows exactly what he meant, how he meant it, and not twised.
===Also, many thanks to both you and OW for all the valuable insight on “who sabotaged Jack Ryan?”===
Glad I can help.
Although you never answered any direct questions, made no rational position except to wahtever might be counter, but may not, but not answering, and asking no snark, but being snarky …
“Jack!” takes the brunt of the blame.
With the kindest personal regards, I remain.
Sincerely yours,
Oswego Willy
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 4:43 pm
Willie, the Illinois GOP right-wing big brains who drove out Ryan by peeking in his bedroom window gave a certain state senator from the South Side the passing lane to the Senate.
It’s not possible that a black dude from the South Side could be elected president, is it?
If the GOP is not bat-s crazy, no, it it’s not.
I think we’re going to hear more from that kid, and I don’t mean a postcard.
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 4:53 pm
===It’s not possible that a black dude from the South Side could be elected president, is it?
If the GOP is not bat-s crazy, no, it it’s not.
I think we’re going to hear more from that kid, and I don’t mean a postcard.===
- wordslinger -, I mean, how do you even SAY this State Senator’s name. Easy win, this “Baramba” is nothing to fear.
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 4:57 pm
- Arthur Andersen -,
Just when we thought all the silliness was done …
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 5:02 pm
Anonymous, a quick check of the historical record regarding who sabotaged JACK! Ryan’s campaign will show Rod McCullough as one of the first to step forward publicly with allegations of sneeze against Ryan. McCullough, you will recall, revealed these allegations while in the employ of General Borling, a rival candidate for the GOP Senate nomination.
But OW is right, no surprise. JACK! made the unfortunate decision to share the gory details of his divorce/custody fight with several consultants prior to running back to LA to beg the judge to seal the records (presumably based on the advice of the consultants he shared this info with). So it really is JACK!s fault that this all came out.
Then the big brains in the GOP decided that Alan Freaking Keyes was the solution to their problem of how to stop a guy like Obama. Epic fail.
Those are the facts.
Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 8:35 pm
Sneeze=sleaze.
Comment by 47th Ward Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 8:37 pm
Thanks, 47.
I thought that I remembered that nasty right-wingers like Rod and Gen. Borling were the ones who did JACK! in.
Strange, the google doesn’t seem to care. And that says a lot.
How’s Rod doing? Witness-Nobody-Cares-Protection Program? Boring the U.S. Attorney’s Office with Sheehan’s old hack, Marty Walsh?
Big hitters, back in the day, lol.
Comment by wordslinger Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 8:48 pm
- 47th Ward -,
Thanks so much for the clarification, and Holy Name…from the past, Batman! Rod McCullough! Wel, wel, done, - 47th Ward -! (Thanks for the Hat Tip as well…)
- wordslinger - going “Gen. Borling”! Man, that seems a thousand years ago. the rally for “Jack!”, the “Jack!” crew …
Thanks to you both.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 9:08 pm
I’m guessing that last Anonymous is Oswego Willy pretending to be Anonymous.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 9:19 pm
Nah, I ain’t that clever!
Stupid Laptop Recycling!
Sorry “the real” - Anonymous - !
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 9:21 pm
47th, thank you for “the facts” as they were published. I’m well aware of those and the related details, so please don’t feel that you have to provide me with any additional information.
My “thank you” to Willy (or “Willie” as word often types) on getting me up to speed on the Ryan campaign, it’s demise, and related details was actually snark.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 9:23 pm
===My “thank you” to Willy (or “Willie” as word often types) on getting me up to speed on the Ryan campaign, it’s demise, and related details was actually snark.===
I figured, but “Why take a chance …”
You’re welcome, either way. While you are at it …. was it “yes” on the Oberweis handling… or a “no”, I never got that….
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Feb 6, 13 @ 9:29 pm
=Uh, they DO label themselves that, ask them.=
So, if according to word and Willy, the new “Republican ‘base’” now consists primarily of “Independents,” how is the term “Independents” then defined?
If you’re referring to those who “behave” independently (i.e., they can generally support either Ds or Rs based on whatever their criteria is for that election, office, etc.) and/or those who have already made clear their dissatisfaction with the Republican Party and therefore “left” (which many seem to have seen in great numbers in recent polls), just how committed are “Indies” to e.g., being the primary resources for executing “logistics” for and on behalf of IL-GOP?
Just to be clear, I’m not questioning their reasons for becoming or calling themselves Indies. I’m just wondering what would motivate an Indie to volunteer (whether consistently–or not) as a key resource to help either party–and how the “number” of Indie resources who will actually show up to help can be estimated in advance.
Same question applies to fundraising.
Seems like all of that could be a huge operational risk and maybe even why ILGOP has recently been accused of being unable to produce the ground troops they promised?
A little too “futuristic” maybe in the belief that elections are now won solely via social media, press releases, and glossy brochures?
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Feb 7, 13 @ 12:55 am
If I were a Dem strategist, that’s exactly what I would pitch to the GOP.
And I’d tout the Kirk Campaign as a case study in success, because–of course, at how good his team were at issuing press releases, winning via “social media,” and not requiring any ground troops…
…except, of course, those they were accused of stealing from Brady’s camp…because they didn’t need any ground troops, and actual volunteers who were helping them while being shunned by them.
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Feb 7, 13 @ 1:02 am
So … you …. agree … with Oberweis???
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Feb 7, 13 @ 7:15 am
- Anonymous -
While I love a good discussion, you have yet to answer the simple question.
Further, my mocking of “base” being the rigid, Litmus Testing, Far right still rings true.
As for these posts you put up, 3 hours after I have asked the question of you multiple times about your position on Oberweis rings as true about this “base” as it did the first time I asked.
“Base” Republicans just don’t understand that they are not welcoming to Reagan Democrats, to Lunchpail Republicans, Moderates, or Independents.
“We do ALL the work, get no credit, and everyone else is tearing down the party we want pure!”
===Just to be clear, I’m not questioning their reasons for becoming or calling themselves Indies. I’m just wondering what would motivate an Indie to volunteer (whether consistently–or not) as a key resource to help either party–and how the “number” of Indie resources who will actually show up to help can be estimated in advance.===
A fair number of Indies use to be Republicans, but the “base” with the Litmus Tests and Blood Oaths, those “Indies” are put off by the likes of YOUR Republican Party will NEVER walk a precinct or do anything to build a party they feel is intolerant. It is a Catch 22 that the “Right” LOVES! We don’t want “them”, but they won’t come back, so “forget” them, becasue they won’t come back!
They, the Indies, need a reason to come back to, candidates to beleive in, and leadership that understands the Reagan 80% Rule. They don’t need Dopes telling them how to exactly BE a Republican, and that is the ONLY way.
===Seems like all of that could be a huge operational risk and maybe even why ILGOP has recently been accused of being unable to produce the ground troops they promised?===
I have taken to task many who sat on their hands and watched Bill Brady go down. Use your Google Key. Heck, for a while, some thought I was a rigid “base” type, while I blamed everyone and their brother for NOT ensuring Bill Brady won, and the Map was still in play. If you forgot that, do a little research. The party can not build on the “base” of calling out the Chairman on something like “intolerance”, then you for sure ain’t going to get anyone to walk anywhere.
The rest of your 2 posts, never answering a direct question is quite sad, pathetic and unhelpful. You blame everyone for not being like “you”.
You have such little faith in people to see what a Republican stands for, you dismiss the voter, “they have no clue what we are, you can’t count on them, so the heck with them!”
I feel so sorry for you, that you think so little of people, and I am embarrassed for you that you think people are not smart enough to follow candidates that make sense to them.
As you make sure you “get your thoughts down” in the cold night, ensuring only “base” Republicans are the true Republicans and the only ones that can be counted on, you dismiss the voter, the people you want to attract, as almost a distraction to what you consider the hard work you, and only you, do.
I am indeed embarrased for you, like I am embarrassed for my Party when Oberweis wants Brady out so we are deemed intolerant.
Like when I am embarrassed when McCarter had to tweet his intolerance, applauding Lauzen, but never going to the floor and stating for the record HIS beilefs.
Like McSweeney, in his last attempt to feel “love of the people!”, made a Republican staffer his crutch, eventually having the staffer lose his job, all the while touting, “conservative, conservative, conservative” … in the seat … of Mark Beaubien.
No matter how you post, or even “when” you post, that is the Republican Party you tout. We can only hope you do not get what you want.
So I, again, ask as plain as I can … Do you want Brady out as Oberweis has touted, because of the SSM issue?
You hiding your answer, even while typing in the night, as if hiding both in the night and your words, your true beliefs, becasue even you know, by the manner in which you evade and respond, that you are “right”, but also very wrong in you politcal acumen.
With Kindest ….
You know, you don’t even DESERVE the courtesy of snark, I feel sad for you.
Best of luck, and how about we give the people a chance to see how good we Republicans are.
Oswego Willy
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Feb 7, 13 @ 8:11 am
I must have missed the memo, Willy.
When the FRICK did I start working for you and hence, when do you feel the obligation that I jump when YOU try to pull puppet strings form?
Comment by Anonymous Thursday, Feb 7, 13 @ 12:24 pm
If you can’t answer a question, directly, then … well, …
Only Oberweis sends memos, about going to rooms, and scheduling meetings,….I don’t send memos.
Think I should?
And STILL … no answer … to the question.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Feb 7, 13 @ 12:33 pm