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* Yesterday, Bruce Rauner was asked for the kabillionth time where he stood on gay marriage…
“I do not have a social issues agenda,” said Rauner.
OK, so he doesn’t have a social agenda, even though his spokesman has repeatedly touted Rauner’s endorsement by GOProud, a group that went out of business a few days after issuing that endorsement.
* Well, then what does Rauner want to talk about?…
He told the crowd his agenda is focused on economic and educational issues, not social issues, garnering applause from the group.
Huzzah! Applause all around! Finally, we have somebody who wants to talk about the “real” issues! Forget those silly social distractions! Get to the meat of it! He made it through the primary without talking about social issues, so why is everybody picking on him now?! Bruce doesn’t want to talk about those gay people and their marriages, Bruce wants to explain to us how he’d fix the state’s economy, schools and budget! So listen up, you twits and leave Bruce alooone!!!
* Alright, I’m down with that. Let’s start with economic issues. Check his website. There’s nothing there but a thin list of platitudes. Education? Not much more. And he had more platitudes yesterday…
Rauner said he believes his economic and educational goals are common concerns across the state.
Um, OK, we all have concerns. But what are his actual plans? He’s never said.
* More from yesterday’s speech…
When asked how he planned to win the Democratic vote, Rauner separated himself from other Republicans.
“We’re not doing what most Republicans do, and that is going to a few country clubs and going to a few farm events,” he said.
Dude, you did not just dis farmers, did you? Aren’t they the backbone of Illinois? Are you one of those uppity Chicagoans or something? Oh, right. I forgot.
* So, to sum up, Rauner has no social agenda, except for that much-ballyhooed endorsement by a discredited and now defunct LGBT tea party group. He says he has an economics agenda, but won’t expand on his tiny outline. He says he wants to cut taxes, but won’t say how he’ll deal with the deficit. He says he’ll improve schools, but won’t say how he’ll pay for it, especially with those tax cuts of his. And he apparently thinks he’s gonna win by not hanging out on farms.
Got it.
* Rauner is also faithfully sticking to Cam Brady’s script of praising everybody he speaks to as being the “backbone” of Illinois, without ever saying much else, and he did it again yesterday…
He called small business owners the backbone of Illinois’ economy
So, we got that going for us.
* The New Yorker had this to say about Will Ferrell’s mega hit…
Despite some funny bits, the movie ultimately undercuts its laughs with its rampant cynicism.
That reviewer ought to visit Illinois for a few days because we’ve got all the rampant cynicism of “The Campaign” without any of its humor. It’s like we’re living through a horribly botched sequel.
* But there are consequences to all this dodging of his. Take, for instance, today’s Tribune headline…
Rauner leaves door open to repealing gay marriage law - Rauner says he’s open to referendum to overturn
Oops.
posted by Rich Miller
Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:05 am
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So on target Rich.
Comment by Norseman Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:11 am
His supporters hear what they want to hear.
“He’s open to” anything they might want.
The Invisible Candidate is beautiful — if only you could see him like I do.
Comment by Walker Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:13 am
==Dude, you did not just dis farmers, did you?==
Rich, c’mon, you’re better than this hyperbole spin, put the caffeine down, you know what he meant. He’s been meeting with groups all over the State but also, unlike sir Brady, he’s also ventured into the city to meet with groups.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:13 am
You have to elect the Bruce to find out what’s in it. Silly voters… You want the truth?…YOU CAN’T HANDLE THE TRUTH!
Comment by PublicServant Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:14 am
“Black Hawk Down!”
Comment by Ron Burgundy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:16 am
The Libertarian candidate for Governor, whoever it is, is sounding more and more appealing.
Comment by Just Observing Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:17 am
The “Alpha” Raunerbot, sticking with a script, based on nothing but say anything, meaning nothing, but wanting something; to fool voters to vote for “Bruce Rauner”.
Dis farmers, 1/3 of the elected GOP GA, country club Republicans, when, in fact, you can make a case that either Rauner is a Limousine Liberal in his “non-existent” social stances.
Make no mistake, SSM supporters, Bruce Rauner would gave vetoed that legislation, and now “Bruce Rauner” is not opposed to a referendum to repeal.
Both Rauners are now saying SSM, they don’t favor it.
This idea that Pat Quinn hadn’t done enough…
Signed Civil Unions…
Signed SSM…
That is more than Both Rauners will or would have done.
Unions, teachers, union members, take heed; Bruce Rauner is willing to shut down Illinois government to destroy you. Not to bargain, not to leverage, but destroy who you are and what you may represent. Period.
Educate everyone you know. Shine a white hot spotlight on both Rauners. Learn from the primary, and get a GOTV to follow through and defeat Rauner.
“Right? Exactly right.”
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:18 am
From the Rauner website:
–Overhaul the tax code so that is fair to all taxpayers.–
What a great idea!
He’s starting to give “vapid” a bad name.
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:22 am
Thanks, Rich. Lt. Gov. candidate Vallas spoke at the Dem dinner in Champaign on Sunday night and felt he hit a lot of this, but it is good to hear from someone who has been very critical of Quinn and who has been around forever to say it. Hate it if you want, but Quinn has put out a plan. Rauner hasn’t, and appears unwilling to do so.
Voters must decide between the realistic, but not perfect, plan from Quinn or the rainbows and unicorns from Rauner.
Thanks again, Rich, and maybe this pressure will lead him to actually revealing something, anything, he would do as governor. I hope so, so we can have a real debate, but I’m not going to hold my breath.
Comment by Big Debbie Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:22 am
Let me be clear, Capital fax readers are the backbone of Illinois! Williamjkellyforchicago.com
Comment by William j Kelly Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:23 am
The Rauner Campaign Slogan…
Better to say nothing and be considered a fool then to open your mouth and remove all doubt.
Comment by John A Logan Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:23 am
And the Harpies have been fed their sardines for the day…
Comment by A guy... Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:24 am
“He told the crowd his agenda is focused on economic and educational issues, not social issues…”
I’ve read any number of articles making the case this *is* an economic issue, and on that basis, worthy of a follow-up question to the “no social agenda” candidate.
To wit, this excerpt from a Crain’s opinion piece by Sunil Garg, January 2, 2013:
“Practical employers understand this. When corporate CEOs are deciding where to locate, they look at a number of factors, of course, but access to top talent will be at the top of the list. They know they need workers from diverse backgrounds who can understand their diverse, changing clientele. They know they need access to the best employees, regardless of sexual orientation. They understand that helping same-sex couples and their families by offering domestic partner benefits, for example, is good for business. That is why, in state after state, the business community has stepped forward and endorsed marriage equality.”
So Mr. Candidate, please answer the question about this economic issue!
Comment by No Peotone Airport Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:25 am
- A Guy … -,
What isn’t true? Are you an utterly blind Raunerbot to all these nuances?
Is this your idea like either Rauner saying “It’s Baloney, all Baloney!”….lol
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:27 am
I think it would be more actuate to say Quinn had a plan…
Comment by OneMan Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:27 am
Why isn’t a third candidate emerging? This seems to be a perfect opportunity.
Comment by Frenchie Mendoza Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:28 am
If this keeps up Bruce Rauner’s businesses might get the Chick-fil-a treatment from Chicago. How could Rahm Emanuel vacation with someone who’s not strongly for gay marriage?
Comment by Steve Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:28 am
–And the Harpies have been fed their sardines for the day…–
What a friendly fella.
You’re a “Harpy” if you want to know where a gubernatorial candidate stands on anything?
The Raunerbots can dish it out, but they sure can’t take it.
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:29 am
“Hate it if you want, but Quinn has put out a (failed) plan.”
FTFY
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:30 am
===How could Rahm Emanuel vacation with someone who’s not strongly for gay marriage?===
When a guy makes you a millionaire, a vacation at his “Montana Lodge” is a small… price…to pay.
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:31 am
== “We’re not doing what most Republicans do, and that is going to a few country clubs and going to a few farm events,” he said. ==
Notwithstanding my progressive political views, I am on fairly good terms with a number of local Republicans here in SE DuPage County.
Rauner’s words also dis-respect a great many hard working and sincere precinct committee-folk.
Comment by Bill White Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:32 am
–If this keeps up Bruce Rauner’s businesses might get the Chick-fil-a treatment from Chicago.–
A location by the Water Tower? Another at State and Lake?
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:33 am
His agenda is right to work, outlaw teachers unions and demonize people what are silly enough to seek public employment in this state. That is the meat of it Rich. Education funding will based on taking rights away from teachers. The deficit will be dealt with by privatizing and giving his wealthy buddies contracts. As for pensions 401 ks for all and oh by the way I don’t care if you do not get SS. Any other questions?
Comment by Obama's Puppy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:34 am
Once again the Republicans have managed to nomonate the one person that PQ just might be ablde to beat….amazing.
Comment by facts are stubborn things Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:34 am
There is no way Rauner’s campaign should go out and make their candidate the election issue when we have a perfectly fine incumbent seeking reelection.
This election is not about Governor Rauner, who does not exist.
This election is about Governor Quinn. Why? Because he has actually has been governor since his running mate’s impeachment and removal from office, then was elected governor in Chicago four years ago, which term ends in January.
You want to talk about facts? Then take a look at how well the incumbent has been doing his job. He wants us to renew his administration. How is he doing? What are the facts here?
Instead of rampant speculation over a candidate who has no record in public office - how about looking at the decades of years of public service we have with the incumbent?
How good of a governor has Pat Quinn been? If you think he has been a good governor, reelect him. If you believe he has been an effective governor, reelect him. If you think he knows how to steer our state past the problems we are struggling with, reelect him.
Stick with what we know.
If you don’t think Pat Quinn deserves reelection, then vote for an alternative. For most voters, there are two choices. Pat Quinn, and the other guy.
Quinn has to earn his reelection. He has to tell us what he has done, does, and will do as our governor. His staffers should be telling us how Pat Quinn has earned reelection. His advertisements running on all our media should be convincing us that we made the right choice in 2010 and should give Mr. Quinn a repeat this year.
This election is about Pat Quinn. It is his election to lose.
Hounding the candidate for details about how he intends to govern Illinois is complete speculation. He isn’t governor. Any candidate claiming they know what they will do in office, who has never held an office, who has never held a similar office - is talking out their patootey. What is the point?
We got the facts. Stick with them. Rauner has no chance of being elected if Pat Quinn decides to begin telling Illinoisans why he should be reelected in November. Pat Quinn is the issue. Pat Quinn is the incumbent.
Vote based on Governor Quinn, not some imaginary Governor Rauner.
Comment by VanillaMan Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:34 am
The Emperor has no opinions.
Comment by Amalia Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:36 am
A few country clubs and some farm events? There is a reason he has no idea what “most Republicans do.”
Comment by The Prince Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:37 am
Jimmy Johns Bicycle sandwich delivery workers are the backbone of Illinois’ economy.
Comment by Waffle Fries Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:37 am
Unfortunately, all of these things need to be said again and again. I say unfortunately because I doubt Rauner will ever tell us any of his plans. Someone said in snark that you have to elect the Bruce to know what you’re getting. I actually think that’s true. In the meantime, we’ll be fed his banal bromides ad infinitum. Lather, rinse repeat. Tastes like chicken.
Comment by Joe Bidenopolous Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:38 am
===Rauner’s words also dis-respect a great many hard working and sincere precinct committee-folk.===
True.
Keep in mind, however, both Rauners are NOT Republicans, not even R _ _ _S either. They are Raunerites, seeking votes from Democrats and Indies, while slamming all GA Dems, and 1/3 of GOP GA members.
The Raunerites care less about Republicans, and more about being the Tom Hagen of all they can manipulate through their “fears” and “weaknesses”.
Once you wake up to this, it’s not surprising who the Rauners are, what Raunerites want, and what Raunerbots want to “Sell”.
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:38 am
Oswego Willy
Let’s think the best on Rahm and why he went on vacation not knowing Bruce’s views on gay marriage. Rahm also didn’t know Bruce’s views on kinky accounting at Freddie Mac. We all know Rahm got into politics to serve the public good. He’s so selfless.
Comment by Steve Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:40 am
==And the Harpies have been fed their sardines for the day==
I’m not interested in what you had for breakfast today.
Comment by Wensicia Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:40 am
==== wordslinger - Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:29 am:
–And the Harpies have been fed their sardines for the day…–
What a friendly fella.
You’re a “Harpy” if you want to know where a gubernatorial candidate stands on anything?
The Raunerbots can dish it out, but they sure can’t take it.====
Sorry Word. Harpie, not Harpy. There’s nothing here to comment on. Our moderator just dropped a rant this morning, that’s all. His place, his prerogative. What could I possibly do to address this one? There are days I’d nominate him for a Pulitzer. Other days, like today, not so much. I’m a patient dude. I’ll wait for one worth commenting on. There’s only room for one view on this one, and you’re reading and hearing it.
Comment by A guy... Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:41 am
Quinn does not have a FY15 plan. The legislature rejected that proposal, which Quinn was constitutionally required to provide as Governor.
So what is Quinn’s FY15 plan? What is his FY16 plan?
Comment by Befuddled Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:41 am
You gotta love his “some of my best friends are gay” response yesterday.
Comment by Roland the Headless Thompson Gunner Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:42 am
I’m beginning to think that Rauner might just lose this one after all.
Comment by Paddyrollingstone Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:42 am
–There’s only room for one view on this one, and you’re reading and hearing it.–
Yet you’ve commented twice.
Another victim heard from.
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:43 am
The last thing the Rauner campaign wants is to give people a reason to vote for Quinn. It ain’t rocket science or brain surgery., just keep foot out of mouth.
You aren’t upset because you don’t know Rauner’s plan. You are upset because you can’t rip it to shreds. His plan is that he is not Quinn. If that’s enough to win then so be it. It won’t be the first candidate or politician elected by the uninformed.
Comment by Phenomynous Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:45 am
===What could I possibly do to address this one? There are days I’d nominate him for a Pulitzer. Other days, like today, not so much. I’m a patient dude. I’ll wait for one worth commenting on. There’s only room for one view on this one, and you’re reading and hearing it.===
1) When you are a guest, even left-handedly “praising” the host is Bad Form.
2) You had a drive-by, Dopey comment, get called out on it, them you drop this;
=== I’ll wait for one worth commenting on.===
Then, next time, get a clue, keep your powder dry, and do just that, “I’ll wait for one worth commenting on.”
Embarrassingly pathetic.
Either “own ‘Your Guy’ here” or wait for the next Bud to come along. Dope .
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:46 am
=== I’ll wait for one worth commenting on.===
Said A Guy in his second comment. Nothing to comment on, so you just lob an insult at every one else here?
I know it’s tough to defend your guy Guy, but sometimes you really should just shut the heck up. This would be one of those times.
Comment by 47th Ward Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:46 am
If Quinn had a brain, he would sit back and just let days like this happen. He is, without a doubt, the luckiest IL politician in history. Gets a seat because the governor gets indicted. First election against a puppy-hating wacko. Second election against a gagillionaire with a bad past and dumb one-liners. You can’t make this stuff up
Comment by capjunkie Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:47 am
@A guy:
It might be nice if you addressed Rich’s legitimate criticisms instead of simply dismissing it. You can be good on some days and on some days but lately you’ve been a complete hack defending Rauner at all costs. Address the criticism instead of whining about it.
Comment by Demoralized Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:47 am
You put a whole new light on Rahm for me - Steve -.
I am way too hard on Rahm. Your points are clearly a teaching moment for me.
I thank you! lol
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:49 am
I’m going to assume that what Rauner said in the primary is what he really believes, absent of any plans. He laid stuff out there, but because he almost lost and is under scrutiny, he’s not saying much. This is not my idea of leadership.
Comment by Grandson of Man Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:49 am
==Quinn does not have a FY15 plan. The legislature rejected that proposal, which Quinn was constitutionally required to provide as Governor.
So what is Quinn’s FY15 plan? What is his FY16 plan?==
That’s probably one of the dopier statements I’ve seen on here in a while. The FY15 plan passed the GA and now the Governor has to deal with it. As for FY16 that work will start pretty quickly. The budget cycle is never ending.
This defense of Rauner on not offering any plans is pretty pathetic. The guy wants to be Governor. It would be nice if he would tell us what he might do as Governor. Anything. Bueller . . . Bueller . . .
Comment by Demoralized Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:49 am
With the GA adjourned the media need something to focus on. This might be the issue that develops critical mass. On the other hand, the media rarely seems to be able to focus on anything more than 2 days, so maybe this is the right time for the Rauner campaign to take this particular hit so it can become yesterday’s news.
Comment by steve schnorf Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:50 am
Rauner’s entry into the Republican primary reminded me of when Pat Buchanan ran as a Reform Party candidate or a handful of Illinois candidates opted to run under the Illinois Solidarity banner before that label went defunct.
Rauner has no strong attachment to the GOP. He ran as a Republican because it was simpler for him to do so in order to gain ballot access.
As for Rauner’s silence as a candidate, in given election years, such an approach has proven to be a winning formula. It has worked from the Chicago mayoralty to the White House. The recipe requires an unpopular incumbent who is trailing in the polls. As long as Quinn is behind, Rauner is not going to be too talkative.
Comment by Upon Further Review Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:51 am
Do you anti-Rauner folks really believe that the State’s current leadership has been effective? Isn’t it time to “throw the bums out” and give someone else a chance?
Comment by Anon Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:52 am
==Do you anti-Rauner folks really believe that the State’s current leadership has been effective? ==
Dude, you just don’t get it do you? That’s got absolutely nothing to do with the criticism of Rauner on this issue. The guy hasn’t offered ANY plans. I’m not going to “throw the bums out” just because somebody else is running. I’d like to know what I’m voting for for pete’s sake.
Comment by Demoralized Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:53 am
No babies have been punched as of yet…..
Comment by Jorge Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:53 am
If Bruce Rauner were to release any plans it would confirm he is part of The Combine, teaming up to distract from #BENGHAZI!
Comment by Precinct Captain Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:53 am
What? Bill, at least a bit west of DuPage county, generally the country club events have ticket prices that are not aimed at the precinct committee-folk.
Again, dislike Rauner all you want, but having seen him in action at a low price ticket event, he is BY FAR, the best at ‘workin it’ of anyone who hasn’t been elected to anything I have ever seen and to be blunt would likely be in the top 5 I have ever seen period.
Most rich guy candidates didn’t seem to enjoy that part of it much, he at least gives the impression that he at least seems to do.
Also how I would take the country club and farm comment is, at too many events the candidate will talk primarily to the 3~5 most important people in the room and very little to everyone else.
I will give you a very real example. At a Lauzen event both Rauner and Dillard were there. Spoke with both briefly then watched Rauner spend 10+ minutes talking to someone who was just a dude attending the event and watched Dillard talk to a couple of elected officials.
Would I like more details, yeah. Do I think it makes more tactical sense to wait a bit longer IMHO. Again, the goal is to win the election not to help govern. That is the advantage and disadvantage of not being the incumbent.
Comment by OneMan Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:53 am
what quinn should have learned from obama/romney 47 percent is that if you let the ceo’s bank account do the talking in ads and campaign operations-you lose. If you let the ceo candidate do the talking in real time-you win because he’s so awkward, so unused playing it by ear, so used to being coddled, so awkward that he’ll say the dumb things you need and want him to say once he gets beyond his first level talking points.
That I think is the key for quinn-get Rauner in waters where his rehearsed talking points are meaningless. Push the glbt issue to the next step-ask him whether he thinks for example homosexuality is a choice or something you’re born as. Ok he has a wife that loves him-now which programs affecting young girls and women will his scott walker and mitch daniels are my idols budgets going to cut. Ect.
Comment by shore Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:54 am
Pheno is correct on Rauner’s plan, and as I stated yesterday, that is pretty much it. He is one of the most politically tone-deaf candidates to come along in a while–almost going out of his way to alienate the base of the GOP, figuring they have nowhere to go.
Comment by The Prince Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:55 am
It is going to be interesting if Rauner is invited to the parade on Halsted Street. Does he attend or pull a Daley and skip it?
Comment by Upon Further Review Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:56 am
“Do you anti-Rauner folks really believe that the State’s current leadership has been effective? Isn’t it time to “throw the bums out” and give someone else a chance?” Is that a serious question?
Comment by Paddyrollingstone Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:58 am
He skips it.
Comment by The Prince Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:58 am
Thank you, Demoralized. You answered my question about the anti-Rauner folks. Anon 10:52 or should I say “Dude?” Considering my advanced age, I like that.
Comment by Anon Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:59 am
Bruce is still more popular than Quinn, people don’t care he doesn’t have a plan. Regular folks want to hear how things are going good, how things are moving in a positive direction. Quinn is not delivering that message, Democrats are not delivering that message. You have to show people that the State is working again, it is moving forward. If they can’t do that, this election is over, barring an amazing collapse of scandal size proportions. People are tired and when tired they’ll be willing to accept something/anything different. Just keep putting the Rauner name out there with groups of smiling faces and Quinn scowling and groups of people depressed.
Everone has been assuming he’s using the Cam Brady strategy book- he’s really using the “Spinning Boris” plan.
Comment by DuPage Bard Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:00 am
===Demoralized - Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 10:47 am:
@A guy:
It might be nice if you addressed Rich’s legitimate criticisms instead of simply dismissing it. You can be good on some days and on some days but lately you’ve been a complete hack defending Rauner at all costs. Address the criticism instead of whining about it.====
Demo, at the considerable risk of being criticized for responding (some people count calories, others count comments-lol), let me posit this: I loved Royko. Read him everyday, agree or not. He once said, “everyday I roll in a blank piece of paper with the obligation to type something that hundreds of thousands of people might find interesting. 6 columns a week. Every week”. I didn’t like or appreciate everything he wrote, but I read him everyday and purchased every book he wrote. Same with Mssr. Miller. I don’t know of a higher compliment any soul could pay. It’s not left-handed at all. I’m supporting Rauner over Quinn. And I actually like Pat. It’s hard to imagine anyone truly supporting the Governor who could not be described as a “hack” given his record. If I’m labeled a hack here, how could that be surprising?
So, I come here knowing I might not like everything I read. Personally I believe this particular entry stinks. I don’t think we’ll see it in Crains. But I’ll come back regularly because the potential for greatness exists with every post he lobs out there.
A lot of people here have a predisposition- including me. Mine is opposite. I’m not whining. I think this particular entry just pleases a constituency here. I believe the response bears that out. No disrespect. Just me being me. For better or worse.
Comment by A guy... Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:00 am
I didn’t realize that harpies were particularly fond of sardines. I always thought of them as snatchers of souls. And if you’re correcting Word on the singular, you need to correct Mr. Webster too, as he cites the “harpy” spelling.
Also - you’re aware that “harpy” is a gendered insult, right? I mean, snaps to the highly evolved OW, Word and 47th for not taking offense at being called mean girls. And I’m used to it, heaven knows.
I can see why you didn’t use the phrase “Caucasian Eagles,” even though that would probably be a more specific insult. (The Caucasian Eagle was the mean bird who fed daily on the liver of Prometheus.) But I think that reference better captures your intention.
And people say that a solid humanities education is not useful in later life…
Comment by Soccermom Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:02 am
Daley’s reason was that Sunday was his family day. Fair enough, I do not believe he attended events on Sundays generally once he was elected. It will be interesting to see how Rauner handles this.
Comment by The Prince Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:02 am
And, “A guy,” wordslinger is one of the top 3 most insightful commenters on this blog, you have nothing of substance to offer, so you ding him on a supposed typo. Pathetic. Even more so, because the singular form is actually as he has it, “Harpy,” not “Harpie.” “Harpies” is the plural. You only reinforce your weakness with such small-mindedness. Take a break from comments today and engage in self-reflection. We’ll see you tomorrow.
Comment by Willie Stark Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:04 am
==It might be nice if you addressed Rich’s legitimate criticisms instead of simply dismissing it==
I have no problem doing that, but spinning a statement about campaigning to more than just farmers and country clubs into somehow saying Rauner hates farmers, or that that’s disrespectful to farmers is, how does OW put it….dopey. It’s a shot, and a legitimate one, at the failed Republican candidates before who thought they only had to concern themselves with those two groups. If you think it’s a shot at farmers, you should logically also say it’s a shot at country clubs, but using logic wouldn’t allow you to spin like you want to.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:04 am
===spinning a statement about campaigning to more than just farmers and country clubs into somehow saying Rauner hates farmer===
LOL
It was a JOKE. For crying out loud, you Raunerites are the most humorless victims on this blog since the RRB days. And that’s really saying something.
Comment by Rich Miller Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:06 am
@A guy:
I have no predisposition to anybody. But I’m not supporting Rauner simply because he isn’t Quinn.
And you still didn’t address Rich’s criticism of Rauner in this instance. It’s a perfectly legitimate criticism. I’d like to know something about Rauner’s plans. Being the anti-Quinn isn’t good enough.
Comment by Demoralized Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:07 am
===It’s hard to imagine anyone truly supporting the Governor who could not be described as a “hack” given his record.===
How about the Veterans Quinn has visited time and time again, many times without any fanfare, to support our Troops. So those Vets who support Quinn due to his long history, you imagine they are “hacks”?
Ron Burgundy had great advice for Champ;
“How about you sit out a few plays…”, as I thought you were going to do anyway.
(Aside: Tips cap, deferring to - Soccermom - and thanking her as always.)
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:09 am
I dub thee RaunCo, the Spin Master Deluxe. Apologies to Ron Popeil…
Comment by 32nd Ward Roscoe Village Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:10 am
I’d like to know what I’m voting for for pete’s sake.
You do.
You will be deciding if Governor Quinn should be reelected.
Governor Pat Quinn was a tax attorney. How well has he handled taxes in your opinion?
Then he was an aide for Governor Dan Walker. What did he learn there? Beside patronage?
He was a commissioner on the Cook County Board of Tax Appeals. How well has his tax appeals been working out recently? He was a commissioner.
He was Revenue Director for Harold Washington. What did Washington say about his job there? How well does Pat Quinn know tax revenue? He was Chicago’s top guy on that issue. How well is he doing as governor on this?
Pat Quinn was State Treasurer. So, he was a tax attorney, then a commissioner for tax appeals, the revenue director for Chicago, and he was one of our state’s treasurer. Look at what Pat Quinn has done for decades regarding taxes, revenue and bill paying - HOW IS HE DOING AS GOVERNOR on these issues?
Then he became Lieutenant Governor for Rod Blagojevich. How did he do in that job? Did he share everyone’s revulsion over Governor Blagojevich? What did he do to ready himself for the entire Blagojevich disaster as the governor in waiting? Was he ready to govern?
Then he became governor after Blagojevich? What did he do to clean up the Blagojevich administration? Who did he fire? Who did he replace? Was Pat Quinn as effective post Blagojevich as White was effective post Ryan in the Secretary of State’s office?
How has Pat Quinn done considering his many decades of public service specializing in taxes, revenues and bill paying? Unlike nearly any other Illinois governor, Pat Quinn should know Illinois fiscal issues, tax issues and revenue issues, like no other person ever elected before. He should be considered an absolute professional on these issues.
So how well has Pat Quinn done?
You want to quibble over an imaginary Governor Rauner before deciding who to vote for? Jeez - this is a reelection campaign for one of Illinois’ longest political careerists. You could stuff books on Pat Quinn’s public life.
This election is about Pat Quinn.
Do you think he has earned reelection?
Comment by VanillaMan Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:11 am
===For crying out loud, you Raunerites are the most humorless victims on this blog since the RRB days. And that’s really saying something.===
Agreed. Rauner supporters, the talking points and defending to the hilt is what gets my ire. Sometimes you have ton “eat it” or “laugh at it”, and see that the human element here make dialog. Heck, even Quinn’s Crew and commenters here see humor at times…
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:13 am
===This election is about Pat Quinn.===
And that’s where you’re wrong. This isn’t an up or down, yes or no vote. It’s a choice between two human beings.
You can stomp your feet and repeat yourself all you want (and you have, umpteen times), but you’re still wrong.
Comment by Rich Miller Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:13 am
Didn’t our downstate newletter editor (AKA Bernie at the SJ-R) just plug an event at Ilini Country Club? That must be a good country club rather than the 30 % of the country clubs that are corrupt. Oh wait that’s 30% of the GOP reps who are corrupt.
Opps…Mr Shrimp, Mr. Shrimp can we please put out another list of my 400 business successes so these media dwarfs quick askign questions about gays.
Next they will want to know if I will repeal Broom Hilda’s repeal of gay marriage bill. I, of course, will call for a referendum first.
Comment by NoBody's Perfect Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:13 am
Geez, VMan, do you really need to write that much in defense of lack of substance?
You’re definitely the guy for the job, though.
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:14 am
===Do you think he has earned reelection?===
That depends on who he is running against. This isn’t a referendum, it’s a choice between candidates.
Comment by 47th Ward Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:16 am
Bruce Rauner, Empty Suit for Governor
Comment by PolPal56 Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:18 am
Bruce, don’t give in. You have enough dough to buy ads before the election. Be like us GOP legislators. Don’t come up with a plan, do your polling, and bash away. It works in our districts. It’ll work for you.
Comment by Weenie Caucus Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:20 am
The single biggest handicap that Pat Quinn has in this election is that he has been on the political scene forever (dating back to Dan Walker’s administration)and people are simply tired of him. He is verbose public speaker who never saw a microphone that he did not like. He bores most listeners.
I am not sold on Rauner, but Quinn does nothing for me. Maybe a third party candidate will enter the race.
Comment by Upon Further Review Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:20 am
Soccermom: {slow clap}
If we had a way of following commenters here, I would follow you.
Comment by Colossus Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:21 am
A Guy, Rauner is taking heat in plenty of media outlets now for his Duck Dodger routine, not just here.
What exactly are you defending, anyway? You don’t even know.
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:25 am
=== Rich Miller - Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:06 am:
LOL
It was a JOKE. For crying out loud, you Raunerites are the most humorless victims on this blog since the RRB days. And that’s really saying something.===
Yikes, now they’ve got you using the term “Raunerites”. I thought it was mostly limited to the class pet who never graduates. lol I stand corrected.
I do beg to disagree on one point here. While this is not a referendum on PQ and it is in fact an election, there are plenty of voters in this state who think this election is very much about Pat Quinn. You must know that.
Soccermom: As the author of my own post, I’m invoking my own right to poetic license. lol
Comment by A guy... Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:29 am
@One Man
I fear my point has eluded you.
My comment was not about whether Rauner works hard on the stump. Surely he does.
It was about whether Rainer appreciates and values the rank and file GOP precinct level people, whether he sees them as part of his team or whether his intention is to replace *both* Pat Quinn and the existing GOP party apparatus.
Comment by Bill White Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:31 am
- A Guy … -, for your sake,
Stop. Typing.
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:32 am
===wordslinger - Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:25 am:
A Guy, Rauner is taking heat in plenty of media outlets now for his Duck Dodger routine, not just here.
What exactly are you defending, anyway? You don’t even know.====
Defending? Yep. Nothing. Wasn’t doing any defending. Rauner can take care of himself in the media.
Comment by A guy... Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:33 am
=== Oswego Willy - Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:32 am:
- A Guy … -, for your sake,
Stop. Typing.====
Willie, for your sake….No.
Comment by A guy... Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:34 am
===Do you anti-Rauner folks really believe that the State’s current leadership has been effective? Isn’t it time to “throw the bums out” and give someone else a chance? ===
I might agree with you, if not for the sense I get that Rauner is at minimum one of the “bums” who wrecked the state in the first place, and at worst, the second coming of Blagojevich.
I’d rather stop a return of Blagojevich before it stops, n’est-ce pas?
Comment by CollegeStudent Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:35 am
“But what are his actual plans? He’s never said.”
In 1968 Richard Nixon campaigned for President saying he had a “secret plan” to end the war in Vietnam. Nixon was obsessed with power and needed to be in control of everything, which resulted in a bad ending in Vietnam and ultimately an end to his Presidency.
Rauner is probably not another Nixon, but Nixon showed us that secret plans and a thirst for power are not a good mix. We need to know what we are voting for and it’s time for Rauner to start leveling with us about exactly what he stands for and exactly what his plans are.
We may not be happy with the status quo, but at least we know what the status quo is, and it’s no secret.
Comment by Sangamo Sam Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:35 am
i had considered rauner but after reading rich today no way i will vote quinn. rauner really is an empty suit albeit a rich one
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:37 am
It’s how Obama has gotten elected.
Comment by BIG R. Ph. Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:38 am
So it looks like you have a choice for governor between a rotting, smelly fish or what’s behind door number 3.
Whatever’s behind that door HAS to be better than the rotting Quinnfish.
It’s a matter of asking yourself whether the incompetence and corruption you know is better than an unknown.
Ya gotta do SOMETHING differently or suffer the same disastrous results over the next four years, only worse.
I’m not going to knock on doors for Rauner while I’m in town this summer because I can’t find out what he’d do to address the problems plaguing Illinois. That only cost him a few hundred bucks and maybe a couple hundred votes.
He can live without me.
Thank God I moved to a state where we have Gubernatorial candidates who have common sense and try to serve the best interests of the people. It’s such a pleasure trying to decide between several excellent candidates rather than the lesser of evils as in Illinois.
Comment by Arizona Bob Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:38 am
===Wasn’t doing any defending.===
Defending? No. Insulting? Yep. Again, fur future reference, if all you’ve got to say is calling other commenters names, you should just push the keyboard away and go out and get some fresh air.
And today is an especially nice day by the way.
Comment by 47th Ward Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:39 am
=== Isn’t it time to “throw the bums out” and give someone else a chance? ===
Yes, it’s time to throw the incompetent out and prevent the phony from further destroying state government, write-in Oswego Willy for Governor.
PS pretty quick climb to 85 + comments.
Comment by Norseman Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:40 am
===It was about whether Rainer appreciates and values the rank and file GOP precinct level people, whether he sees them as part of his team or whether his intention is to replace *both* Pat Quinn and the existing GOP party apparatus.===
Pretty insightful.
To your Comment,
I believe that Rauner’s Crew believes that they have all the “Anyone but Quinn” voters locked, including lemming GOP rank and file voters.
What makes your comment even more interesting to me is this false bravado Rauner’s Crew has with satellite offices, via the Twitter, and the “Call ‘We’, maybe” plan on the income tax into districts. What is actually “missing” is the skeletal people apparatus that Rauner’s Crew would like to replace from the non-existing ILGOP Field Operations.
The Raunerite Cake that they are baking is not GOP based, but GOP filling, with Moderate Indies and Conservative Dems, melding with uninformed Tea Party members and wealthy family friends really baking the cake to defeat Quinn.
Throw in Rev. Meeks, minority endorsing Ads in Cook and the Collars, that GOP established voter is not on the radar or considered. That is exactly why Rauner’s Crew has to build from scratch. It’s the cake they want baked more that the lack of a GOP Field Operation to work with.
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:41 am
Keep in mind though that there are “media values” - what journalists care about - and what the mass public in IL cares about. The two overlap but they’re distinct.
Journalists get annoyed when candidates are as blatantly disrespectful / vague to them (and to issues, which journalists like to cover at least in a bit of detail). But the general electorate is kind of cagey about all this. I’d love to see internal polling showing that Rauner’s vagueness really is a liability for him come November. Some voters do intuit if a candidate is just vague, that means he -could- flip in your direction - better the devil you don’t know. Rauner is clearly counting on this ambiguity to not hurt him very much come autumn.
So Rauner is very much running the be-everything-to-everyone race Romney tried by late 2012, except Rauner unlike Romney managed to avoid getting himself in the primary more tied down to unpopular issues (with some exceptions, like his blurted-out true opinions about lowering the minimum wage). But Obama’s team ultimately didn’t beat Mitt just on his vagueness. They took it and used it to paint that Mitt had a secret agenda to really take down the American worker - that he was a vulture capitalist who would run America in favor of a privileged few. I think Quinn might need to copy some of that pagebook from Obama in this summer and fall.
Comment by ZC Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:44 am
Just trying to help - A Guy… -.
- Norseman -, the opening for this campaign is getting wider and wider. I feel the momentum, thanks!
===Thank God I moved to a state where we have Gubernatorial candidates who have common sense and try to serve the best interests of the people. It’s such a pleasure trying to decide between several excellent candidates rather than the lesser of evils as in Illinois.===
“How can we ever miss you…”
But I wi say this - Arizona Bob -, you are no one’s fool when it comes to both Bruce Rauners.
Good on you for that.
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:46 am
==Vote based on Governor Quinn, not some imaginary Governor Rauner.==
That makes about as much sense as going to buy a new car and being offered two choices: a Chevrolet like the one you’ve been driving for 10 years or an undisclosed car that you’ll only get to see after you sign on the dotted line. Given my lack of faith in salesmen whose only selling point is, “Just trust me,” I’ll go with the Chevy.
Comment by OldSmoky2 Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:52 am
@Oswego Willy
I am reminds of this joke . . .
After the primary, Bruce Rauner needed to catch up with some young relatives he hadn’t had time for. So he took three of them out to the circus and on the way asked them want gifts they might like.
“Uncle Bruce, Uncle Bruce” one said. “I like airplanes! I like airplanes!”
So he bought United Airlines for that one.
Then the second, “Uncle Bruce, Uncle Bruce! I like boats!”
“Okay, it’s Carnival Cruise lines for you.”
The last one said, “I like Disney, can you get me a Mickey Mouse outfit?”
“Of course.” Uncle Bruce answered.
So he went out and bought the Illinois Republican Party.
Comment by Bill White Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:53 am
===Do you think he has earned reelection?===
As a certain Chicago political science professor would say, elections are multiple choice, not essay exams.
Comment by bottom rung. Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:54 am
I knew it. Bob is a snowbird. Heh
Comment by Jorge Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:55 am
===47th Ward - Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:39 am:
===Wasn’t doing any defending.===
Defending? No. Insulting? Yep. Again, fur future reference, if all you’ve got to say is calling other commenters names, you should just push the keyboard away and go out and get some fresh air.
And today is an especially nice day by the way.===
47, please re-read it all. Would hate to see you going soft. I could have said red meat for the ferocious tigers instead of sardines for the harpies. In essence, it’s the same idea. But, alas, the Harpy theme struck me more suitable for this particular post. No more, no less, no insult intended, no defense offered. Consistently inviting people not to post seems counter intuitive to this format by the way.
Comment by A guy... Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:56 am
The “Anyone But Quinn” votes are already banked and would have been ror whoever won the GOP primary.
But they’re not enough to win the election.
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:56 am
Maybe B. Rauner is taking a page out of the Dick Nixon 1968 playbook about a “secret plan” to exit Vietnam if he was elected.
Comment by Cool County Commoner Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:56 am
Yeah, the Arizona race is a real inspiration for us all.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/05/29/benghazi-arizona-governor-primary_n_5413569.html
Comment by Soccermom Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:57 am
Re-read what I wrote genius. If all you have is name-calling, spare us. You’re better than that. Your guy is getting hammered. Deal with it like an adult.
Some days you’re the windshield, some days you’re the bug. That’s politics.
Comment by 47th Ward Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:59 am
Four years ago the election was almost decided by voters who saw it as a referendum of Quinn’s administration. A downstate underfunded conservative Republican came within an eyelash of pulling the upset. So why wouldn’t a well-funded anti-tax, socially ambivalent Republican candidate use the same referendum approach. Rauner seems to court trouble with independents and potential crossovers every time he takes a position such as minimum wage. If he keeps the narrative simple and noncommittal, I would think he could easily expect to flip 2-4% over to the Republican column. Quinn saw last time that his margin is very small.
Comment by Budget Watcher Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 12:00 pm
===The “Anyone But Quinn” votes are already banked and would have been ror whoever won the GOP primary.===
Yep. How the Rauner Crew has decided to build upon that, less the GOP voters less inclined to vote Republican, blindly, is what makes their Cake different.
Still got to get those ID’d “pluses” voted, and there the weakness is found.
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 12:00 pm
==== Bill White
The last one said, “I like Disney, can you get me a Mickey Mouse outfit?”
“Of course.” Uncle Bruce answered.
So he went out and bought the Illinois Republican Party.====
This is a worth a good chuckle, but I think you might be firmly in “glass house” territory here. lol
But again, it was a good chuckle.
Comment by A guy... Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 12:01 pm
If Republicans like candidates with few thought out details and specific positions, they should be really happy that we elected Obama.
Comment by siriusly Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 12:42 pm
I get that Rauner is trying to stay out of the way, hoping the economic/budgetary situation drags Quinn down enough on its own.
But I feel like Rauner is giving Quinn a huge opportunity here to completely define him on their own terms, before Rauner drops even a hint of a policy proposal.
I expected to see a broad narrative already, describing Rauner as basically incompetent for the job because he can’t deal with any pressing state issues he’s asked about. Then some additional targeted narratives using his various primary statements against him.
I’m not sure why the Quinn campaign has been as quiet as they have been right now.
Comment by Wondering Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 12:47 pm
Opps we made a huge mistake…Bernie was promoting out Hilton event …”People interested in attending Friday’s fundraiser can RSVP to Sangamon County GOP headquarters at 528-6267, or via email to Drinda O’Connor at drindao@comcast.net.” AND NOT THE PRIVATE DINNER AT ILLINI.
btw we do like the ‘MO quite a bit. We had out secret meeting with Cellini a few weks ago and Slip and Sue was there too
Comment by NoBody's Perfect Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 12:50 pm
Rauner has said over and over that he HAS detailed plans on a number of subjects.
Now developing them, not mulling them over, has them.
http://www.sj-r.com/article/20140227/Opinion/140229413
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 12:53 pm
===Now developing them, not mulling them over, has them.===
I think even Beer Can Chicken has to ferment overnight…
But eventually, you bake and serve it.
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 12:57 pm
=== I’m not sure why the Quinn campaign has been as quiet as they have been right now. ===
It’s summer and perhaps we few (we happy few?) are the only ones paying attention.
Comment by Bill White Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 1:03 pm
- Weenie Caucus - Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 11:20 am:
Bruce, don’t give in. You have enough dough to buy ads before the election. Be like us GOP legislators. Don’t come up with a plan, do your polling, and bash away. It works in our districts. It’ll work for you.
Nice job on offering a concise description of today’s GOP–out of ideas, full of attacks. It didn’t work during the 2012 election. It might not work during this election, and maybe even less in the future, when the older, loyal Republican voters are no longer around in great numbers to vote in midterms.
This is an opportunity for Quinn to define Rauner. We know that Quinn has less money than Rauner, but shouldn’t he start airing some commercials now? I haven’t seen or heard anything yet.
Comment by Grandson of Man Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 1:07 pm
@VMan:
As I said, I’m not voting for somebody simply because he’s not Pat Quinn. Contrary to what you say this isn’t a referendum - at least not for me.
@Arizona Bob:
You’ve told us all a billion times how great Arizona is. Good for you. I’m glad you enjoy it. But frankly I could care less about Arizona and I suspect almost everybody on this board would agree with me. Do us all a favor and comment on something relevant like, oh, I don’t know, ILLINOIS. Dope.
Comment by Demoralized Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 1:26 pm
I don’t recall ever seeing campaign for Governor with as little substance as Bruce Rauner’s. I’m no fan of Quinn but what will it say about Illinois voters if this guy is elected solely on the pledge to shake up Springfield. I just hope at some point during this campaign he is forced address his positions on certain important issues, social or economic. He owes us that.
Comment by Stones Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 1:37 pm
To the post,
Rauner is being a politician. GASP! Not defending, but the uproar is amusing. I believe he said he would come out with a plan soon enough. If he doesn’t then that classifies as a bold faced lie. Then y’all can skewer him but please, this is not out of the box for a politician to be vague this far from an election.
Oswego Willy,
I agree with probably 80% of what you write and think you are right in regards to your little tiff with A Guy today but I constantly found myself rooting for A Guy and other people who argue with you. This is because you have to be the most insufferable, pompous, jerk of a commenter I have ever read. Seriously man, you would do yourself and your arguments good if you stopped calling everyone who disagrees with you a dope. It distracts from what you are saying and denigrates the good point you might otherwise be making. Can’t we all be friends? (snark-ish…but for real, be nicer lol)
I await your wrath…
Comment by J. Nolan Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 1:43 pm
- J Nolan -
Thanks.
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 1:47 pm
Here at Shakey Mitt HQ we got Mr Shrimp on the phone buying farms in every county of the state then we can call everyone “Naaaabore” that should turn the corner…Meanwhile Bishop Meeks is plantin’and one the gardeners is driving in from Winnekta to plant on the roof of the Chicago condo
Whew that bungle was really close.
Comment by NoBody's Perfect Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 1:53 pm
LOL no problem
Comment by J. Nolan Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 1:55 pm
==That makes about as much sense as going to buy a new car and being offered two choices: a Chevrolet like the one you’ve been driving for 10 years or an undisclosed car that you’ll only get to see after you sign on the dotted line.==
If that’s the analogy you want to go with, that 10 year old Chevy is one that constantly breaks down, drains your wallet with how much gas and oil it leaks, and never gets you to where you need to go. Based on that, I’ll take mystery car.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 1:59 pm
=== J. Nolan - Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 1:43 pm:
Oswego Willy,
I agree with probably 80% of what you write and think you are right in regards to your little tiff with A Guy today but I constantly found myself rooting for A Guy and other people who argue with you. ====
J. Nolan, even the most conditional support and rooting is appreciated! lol.
Nice post.
Comment by A guy... Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 2:01 pm
My penance for feeding Trolls…
To the Post,
Is this also like one Rauner being for a right to work state, Bd another that is against that, but for right to work regions.
So… which is it?
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 2:08 pm
To paraphrase Bruce Rauner, Oswego Willy is the backbone of the Capital Fax comment section
Comment by Bill White Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 2:24 pm
=Rauner is being a politician. GASP! Not defending, but the uproar is amusing. I believe he said he would come out with a plan soon enough. If he doesn’t then that classifies as a bold faced lie. Then y’all can skewer him but please, this is not out of the box for a politician to be vague this far from an election.=
I thought Bruce Rauner wasn’t a career politician? I thought he was gonna shake things up and get rid of the career politicians? This is Willie’s point, if I may say so. He’s a politician when it suits him, but he’s not a politician the rest of the time.
Just because other politicians do it does not mean it’s OK for him (or the other politicians). It does not mean his feet should not be held to the fire until he offers some answers.
Comment by Chi Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 2:44 pm
==I believe he said he would come out with a plan soon enough. If he doesn’t then that classifies as a bold faced lie.==
June 19, 2013, Bruce Rauner: “We’ve got a detailed plan.”
It’s right in the link from Wordslinger.
Today is June 3, 2014. Where is any “detailed plan”? The man has had nearly a year since that pronouncement to release his “detailed plan.” Where is it? Does he not have one? If he does, why does he refuse to release it when he says he would? Either way, he has committed a “bold faced lie.”
Comment by Precinct Captain Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 2:54 pm
- Bill White -
Funny stuff. Cam Brady would be proud of that.
I would gladly be one vertebrae in that backbone, with all the really great commenters that make up the whole community.
To the Post,
From the Rauner website:
===Government union bosses and trial lawyers run this state. They wholly own the Democrat Party, but they also own parts of the Republican Party, too. We don’t like to talk about it, but it’s true.===
“Democrat” Party? Wholly owned?
What parts of the GOP are owned? Is it that 1/3 of the GOP GA? Which members are owned
Which GOP Members are owned?
That’s not a social question.
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 2:56 pm
==What parts of the GOP are owned? Is it that 1/3 of the GOP GA? Which members are owned
Which GOP Members are owned?==
If the unions didn’t have Dillard bought, they seemed to have him down for a long term lease. Seriously, Willy, you’re in denial if you think their aren’t GOP’s out there who would respond “how high” if AFSME asked them to jump, especially close to Springfield.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 3:07 pm
As long as Mitt Rauner talks about his plan he does not need to talk about the carnage of his 400 businesses. As long as IL media writes about his lack of plans, they don’t have time to trace down all the suits, shady deals and scams that helped Mitt become a gazillionaire
Comment by NoBody's Perfect Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 3:17 pm
Rauner already called out Dillard, Rutherford, and Brady as “problems”, who else does Bruce Rauner think are “corrupt”?
As Bruce Rauner bobs and weaves on social issues, who in My Party are corrupt. Which members? Which 22 members, which 6 Senators, sorry 4 Senators (Dillard and Brady are mentioned) and 16 GOP House members ARE corrupt?
Everyone tells me “Rauner is my Nominee”, so tell me Rauner Crew, as you run Democrats and Indies for Rauner, who are these 20 corruptors of My Party?
Call them out, Rauner Crew. Say their names, Bruce.
Blow the whistle on them, “Slip and Sue”, or can’t Evelyn understand corruption…again.
Who are these 20!
Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 3:18 pm
Illinois - where “The Campaign” meets “Groundhog Day”
Comment by Formerly Known As... Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 4:00 pm
In one version of the future, we’ll learn about two months after the election that Rauner’s post-primary was an absolute mess. Staff infighting, confusion, and conflicting gag orders on the candidate based on (retrospectively) incorrect tracking polls. We’ll learn the debate was how to lose the least GOP voters and gain the most Dems. The goal was some ever-changing crossover voter tipping point based on the (mis)informed polling data. In the end, though, what sinkes Rauner is his inability to deal with the intricacies of social and economic policy. He was, we’ll learn, very good at soundbites — and very good at laughing at reporters as if they were idiots.
There are other versions of the future. But this one is becoming (for me, at least) more and more plausible.
Comment by Frenchie Mendoza Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 4:04 pm
Frenchie: As they say, the future is now.
Comment by The Prince Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 4:24 pm
Not choosing sides you understand, but I think Pat Quinn needs to challenge Mr. Rauner to a series of debates. It would really show where both men stand or it could end up being a real laugh fest. This blog would be overloaded for the next week with comments. Lets get is started.
Comment by Ginhouse Tommy Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 4:38 pm
Frenchie, I honestly can’t wait to read what your colorful rationale will be if he wins. You can usually see massive disarray in a campaign before it’s over (see the other one). This one doesn’t have any of those symptoms you’re seeing in your own mind’s eye. In fact, they’re remarkably consistent. I know everyone here wants to see the economic plans. The media is starting (just starting) a drumbeat for more information on those plans. Cap Fax is always months ahead of media and many more months ahead of the general public. When the public cares enough to push on this, I think that’s when you’ll see it. JMO.
Comment by A guy... Tuesday, Jun 3, 14 @ 4:38 pm
fail to plan is planning for failing rauner`s plan is thinner than soup made only from a shadow of a chicken a fool and his money is soon parted
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Jun 4, 14 @ 5:53 am
===In fact, they’re remarkably consistent.===
Including a complete lack of a Field Operation.
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Jun 4, 14 @ 7:05 am
As I said, I’m not voting for somebody simply because he’s not Pat Quinn. Contrary to what you say this isn’t a referendum - at least not for me.
Thank you. I am pointing out that unless Pat Quinn tells us why he is worthy of reelection, he isn’t going to beat his opponent who is hurrying to figure out what he stands for.
We already know what Quinn stands for and what he has done. So anyone on the fence regarding their vote, can begin there.
It is up to Rauner to fill in the blanks before the election, if he can - and Governor Quinn’s job to tell us why he ought to be reelected.
That is what this election is about.
Everything else is just speculation and emotions.
Comment by VanillaMan Wednesday, Jun 4, 14 @ 8:25 am
===Thank you. I am pointing out that unless Pat Quinn tells us why he is worthy of reelection, he isn’t going to beat his opponent who is hurrying to figure out what he stands for.===
Or Quinn’s Crew can run an campaign based on the fact that he is the lesser of two evils, and Unions, Teachers, Minimum Wage, SSM Marriage truths…and educate voters on the two Rauners, and all the Walker-Daniels malarkey…
Quinn’s Crew can choose to tell voters that…I think they are telling voters that…
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Jun 4, 14 @ 8:37 am
- VanillaMan -,
I think what you are failing to see is that the “2″ and “Mr. Friday Fiasco” failed to do, with a complete lack of any resources, is that they properly could not go negative on Rauner, at all.
Period.
Rauner’s Crew was still at 10% negatives a few short weeks out, and still win by less than 5 points, and the Unions and crossovers exposed a complete lack of GOTV.
The voice between two men, the lesser evil, with real negatives at Rauner, and months andontgs to saturate Rauner negatives, and motivate turnout and GOTV for the Dems can put Quinn in a sweet spot for victory.
It’s not only possible, I see this plan rolling out every day, referendums included…
Comment by Oswego Willy Wednesday, Jun 4, 14 @ 8:45 am
rauner`s plan is .01% complete nutty math does`t add up
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Jun 4, 14 @ 8:55 am
Rauner will be on board with the Koch Brothers’ agenda which is basically reverse Robin Hood: take from the poor and give to the rich
Comment by Rudy Thursday, Jun 5, 14 @ 12:19 pm