Thoughts on the 14th Congressional Race in 2008?

Here is your chance to weigh in on your thoughts for the 2008 Congressional Race for the 14th District. Cast your vote on our on-line poll, and then post your thoughts here.

Thoughts on 2008 Presidential Nominee?

Here is your chance to weigh in on your thoughts for the 2008 Presidential Candidate. Cast your vote on our on-line poll, and then post your thoughts here.

Problems at your polling place?

All Republican Voters:

Last night, hundreds of Republican signs were torn down or vandalized. Many also had other signs produced by the Kane County Democratic Central Committee stapled to them. Today at the polls, good voters have called in to inform us that Democrat thugs are electioneering at the polls, and placing illegal signs along the right of ways and near polling places. Its like we've said all along, when you can't win on ideas, you try to win with dirty tricks.

Never fear! We have replaced every sign that they destroyed and we will be keeping an eye out for more of their juvenile tactics. We are prepared to press charges if we catch Democrat operatives in the act. But we need your help. If you see anyone destroying or stealing our signs, please contact your local law enforcement officials immediately. Below are instructions and contact numbers. If you have any questions, please call us at 630-232-0822. If you witness any electioneering or voter intimidation tactics by Democrats near your polling place, don't hesitate to contact the Kane County State's Attorney directly at 630-208-5328.

We've worked hard to win this election on solid issues and clean campaigns. Don't let the Democrats steal it with dirty tricks and Chicago-style machine politics.


Instructions for Contacting Police Departments for Defaced Signs

If you come across a person defacing one of our campaign signs, immediately dial 911 for an officer to come to the scene and provide a description of the person damaging the sign.

If you come across campaign signs that have been defaced call the police department for the town in which you found the sign. In some towns an officer will be sent to the scene but in other towns you may have to go to the police department to file a report. The numbers for the police departments are below:


Aurora P.D.
(630) 859-1700

Batavia P.D.
(630) 879-2840

Geneva P.D.
(630) 232-4736

St. Charles P.D.
(630) 377-4435

East Dundee P.D.
(847) 428-4034

West Dundee P.D.
(847)551-3810

Carpentersville P.D.
(847) 551-3481

Elgin P.D.
(847) 289-2700

South Elgin P.D.
847-741-2151

North Aurora P.D.
(630) 897-8705

Sugar Grove P.D.
(630) 466-4526

Kane County Sheriff's Office
(630) 232-6840

Why Should I Vote???

Unfortunately, we have heard the above statement uttered too many times in the last several weeks. But nothing could be further from the truth.

With the mid-term elections less than 24 hours away, your vote couldn't be more important.

Consider the following from recent elections...

* In 2004, a whopping seven Senate races and twelve House races were determined by a mere one, two or three percent of the vote.

* In 2004, the governor of Washington was elected by a mere 129 votes.

* In 2000, Al Gore won New Mexico, a pivotal state in the election, by a mere 365 votes.

* In 2000, President Bush won Florida by a mere 537 votes, ultimately winning him the election.

There are literally hundreds, if not thousand of examples that we can point to where a small number of votes made the difference on Election Day. And make no mistake, literally dozens of House and Senate races across the country will be determined by the slimmest of margins this year. With less than 24 hours to go, those races are too close to call or within the so-called "margin of error" -- making your vote that much more important!

Whether the issue most important to you is the War on Terror, taxes, property rights, judicial nominations, tort reform, social security, or a combination of some or all of these issues and others, the outcome of those races will have a significant impact on the direction of the country.

As Election draws near, Topinka closing the gap on Blagojevich

FROM THE STATE JOURNAL-REGISTER www.sj-r.com


The campaign for Illinois governor is a horse race after all, a new Copley News Service poll shows.

The poll gives Gov. Rod Blagojevich only a 44 percent to 40 percent lead over his Republican opponent, state Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka with less than a week remaining before the election.

Green Party candidate Rich Whitney has the support of 7 percent of likely voters, according to the poll. Another 9 percent remain undecided.

The gap between Blagojevich and Topinka is within the poll's margin of error of plus or minus four percentage points. Other recent polls have indicated a much wider margin in favor of Blagojevich.

Mason-Dixon Polling & Research conducted the poll of 625 likely voters Monday and Tuesday, Oct. 30-31.

The poll also shows that large numbers of votes still have unfavorable opinions of both Topinka and Blagojevich, but recent stories about federal investigations into corruption in state government are taking a toll on Blagojevich's support.

Kerry Belittles U.S. Troops

And Democrats say that they support our Armed Forces... it looks like Kerry is showing his true colors. What's next, calling Abe Lincoln a racist? Oh wait, John Laesch already did that.

Bush calls Kerry comments disgraceful...

Crains rips apart Blago in Topinka Endorsement

...Her opponent, Gov. Rod Blagojevich, has presided over an administration of
unparalleled venality, and for that reason alone we cannot endorse him.

A man who ran as a self-styled reformer four years ago has taken the state's
pay-to-play system to new heights. His campaign promise to "end business as
usual" in Springfield has been kept only in the sense that payola politics
now far exceeds what had been usual before he took office.

Gov. Blagojevich allowed his top political fund-raisers to dole out state
jobs and steer state contracts as rewards for campaign contributions. In so
doing, he made it clear that state government is for sale.

Now a trail of indictments is working its way toward the governor's office,
forcing him into the last refuge of the political scoundrel: claiming
ignorance of what goes on in his own administration.

In sum, Gov. Blagojevich has disgraced himself and the state. Nothing he may
have accomplished in office can erase that taint or entitle him to another
term. Voters must send a strong message that Illinois will no longer
tolerate the corruption his regime has fostered.

The Democratic incumbent portrays himself as the champion of the little guy.
But the working people of Illinois bear the ultimate cost of pay-to-play
politics. When the state is for sale, those without cash are excluded.

Dan Rutherford campaign ad

One of the better ads that we have seen

John Laesch on why lincoln freed the slaves

The hell you say? Does this guy just make things up as he goes along? One of our greatest leaders in American (if not world) History, and in so many words he calls him a racists. Unbelieveable!!!

Johnny Laesch acting like a Congressman

Yeah... this is the guy I would want to represent me in Washington...

Response Ad to Michael J. Fox

Not all celebrities are easily controlled by the Hollywood Left. While the Dems are pulling out Micheal J. Fox to tug on the heart strings and move numbers for their candidates, other celebrities are jumping into the line of fire to counter this last minute ploy.

People may have more sympothy for Fox if he wasn't doing commercials attacking Candidate Steele, while the candidate that he is backing voted against stem cells as well!

New Dem commercial...

OK, ok, ok... I think Blago and Guethle may have gone a little too far on this one.

Guethle Gaffes

WARNING:
WITH ELECTION DAY LOOMING
MARK GUETHLE AND THE DEMOCRATS
ARE SPREADING LIES

(You might want to cover your ears)

Rumor has it there is an election coming up in less than twenty days. With each passing day, Guethle and Company are starting to once again realize that their candidates can't win on issues... so they are resorting to outright lies and slander. So pull out your ear protectors, because it looks like the Democrats want to make this one nasty election cycle in Kane County.

The following is a press release from the Kane County Republican Central Committee:

Democrats Resort to Lies and Slander As Election Nears

Geneva, IL… Following the Democrat press conference today, the Kane County Republican Central Committee is issuing a warning to voters. Don’t fall for lies and half-truths this close to Election Day.

“Today’s press conference showed the public one thing,” said Republican Chairman Denny Wiggins. “Without a legitimate plan to win this election, the Kane County Democrats have resorted to mud slinging and lies. The public deserves better than partisan rhetoric that falls terribly short of the truth.”

Democrat Party Chairman Mark Guethle and Aurora Township Supervisor Jim Murphy today accused Kane County Clerk Jack Cunningham of “fixing” the up-coming election by hiring David Braun to “mastermind” the attempt to change election results in favor of Republican candidates. They showed no evidence of voter tampering, fraud or mismanagement on the part of the Clerk’s Office, and failed to mention the nationally heralded success of the new eSlate’s first use in the 2006 primary elections.

The Republican Party feels that it is disingenuous for the Democratic Party to lay out these types of slanderous accusations against a person who has repaid his debt to society. Interestingly enough, the Democrats failed to mention that Aurora Township Clerk Juan Thomas, a Democrat, was recently stripped of his law license for stealing money from one of his clients. Murphy, who sits on the Township Board with Thomas, has neglected to ask Thomas to resign his post.

During the press conference, Guethle and his counterparts also failed to mention that before selecting the locations for Early Voting sites, Cunningham sent letters to both parties requesting input as to which locations would best accommodate the public. The Democrats responded with only one location, well after the deadline for recommendations had passed. Despite the belated response from the Democrats, Cunningham made every attempt to oblige their request.

“The Republican Party is proud of our record. We stand on principles and solid ideas of how to serve our community. We have run our campaigns according to those principles. We refuse to join the Democrats in creating a campaign atmosphere where lies and mud slinging become common place. That type of politicking is why many voters have become disenfranchised over the years. Kane County voters deserve better.”

For more information regarding the activities of the Kane County Republican Party, please contact Republican Party Headquarters at 630-232-0822.

Williams gets some good ink...

Kevin Williams touts education, experience
Courier News, October 16, 2006

By GLORIA CARR STAFF WRITER

GENEVA -- Kevin Williams is the kind of guy who always accomplishes his goals. He always dreamed of being a police officer. His career path, though, did not lead him directly to law enforcement. Williams, 47, spent six years as a firefighter. He worked in construction. He was an auxiliary Batavia police officer. And a Kane County correctional officer.

He became a Kane County sheriff's deputy in 1993.

"I never gave up on my dream," said Williams, now a lieutenant.

Williams has set a new goal -- becoming Kane County's next sheriff.

As a self-described "regular guy," Williams does not see himself as a politician. But he has taken on the role of political candidate with enthusiasm. And he is getting comfortable with the role. He has spent months traveling all around the county, knocking on doors, talking to people and attending candidate forums.

"I'm finding out people in municipal areas don't know they are supposed to vote for the sheriff," he said.

Williams has found himself explaining the different aspects of the sheriff's office. What people talk to him about focuses on gang crimes and keeping children safe, he said.

His answers to those questions: improve gang intelligence gathering and launch technology aimed at providing information to parents about sexual predators.

He is proposing the creation of a Gang Intelligence and Narcotics Tracking program to help police collect and share data about gang members. Williams feels the sharing of real-time information is a key to effective gang violence and drug suppression.

The county is the perfect agency to spearhead the program because the information, including photos of tattoos and graffiti, can be gathered at the jail, which is fertile ground for gangs, he said.

GIANT will cost about $5,000, and Williams looks to obtain funding from drug forfeitures or federal grants to pay for it.

Additionally, he would introduce an electronic alert system to notify residents when known sex offenders move into their neighborhoods. The program is called the Offender Watch system and employs registration, Web site integration, geographic risk assessments, e-mail notifications and postal card notifications.

He has touted his experience in different facets of the sheriff's office during his campaign against Democrat Pat Perez. He said he currently supervises five sergeants and 20 detectives in the investigations unit. He has worked in the drug unit, juvenile division, and the bomb and arson unit.

Williams has attended the Northwestern University Center for Public Safety Schools of Police Staff and Command to obtain more education and went back to college. He is a semester away from earning his bachelor of arts in criminal justice management from Judson College in Elgin. He has taken a break from school during the campaign and plans to return next term.

"With all my experience and education, I know I am the best candidate," Williams said. "I have the best qualifications. I have the comprehensive background to manage the diverse responsibilities of the sheriff's office."

A business strategy he learned from his additional training is empowering employees, he said. As an example, he worked with his colleagues on a plan to restructure the Corrections Department. The three-prong plan is to first create a Corrections Oversight and Assessment Committee of correction and public safety professionals, the judiciary, county board, Sheriff's Merit Commission and citizens. Second, he wants to implement the existing but currently not used retinal scan identification technology to record and track members of the inmate population.

Finally, he wants to restructure and better train the existing officers assigned to the department to ensure each officer is able to safety execute his or her duties, he said.

Ending the Culture of Corruption... or Perfecting it?

Top Blago Aide Tony Rezko Indicted.

Four years ago a do nothing Congressman from Chicago's Gold Coast promised that he would end the culture of corruption in state politics. Coming off four years of Governor Ryan, the Illinois voters bought it, and gave him a four year stint in the top slot. Now its present day, and this new Governor with the helmet hair is surrounded by the same filth that he pledged to clean up.

Tony Rezko (a top fundraiser for Rod Blagojevich), along with former TRS trustee Stuart Levine, are accused of soliciting and demanding millions of dollars in undisclosed payments and kickbacks from investment firms seeking to do business with Teachers Retirement System.

In a statement form the Topinka/Birkett Team:

In this case, the level of greed is unprecedented. In the words of the U.S. Attorney, there was a "pay-to-play on steroids" mentality in early 2004 and right in the middle of it was the Governor's close confidant and top fundraiser, Tony Rezko. Rod Blagojevich is the governor who said he was going to clean up corruption in Springfield and instead, it has been flourishing like never before.

Rod Blagojevich was the governor when "pay to play on steroids" was happening right under his nose. He needs to answer questions about why he allowed this to happen -- before the election. He needs to stop hiding behind campaign commercials that may have been funded by this very corruption, and come clean with the public.

Daily Herald: How the Scheme was going to Work
Tribune Story on Rezko
Suntimes Article on Impact for Campaigns

Check, what check for $1,500 dollars??? Uh... could you repeat the question???

BUSTED!

The David Zucker Albright Ad

The Kane Dems have taken to the airwaves buying an ad on the Daily Herald's website where they show two women criticizing Bush's handling of the war in Iraq. Of course they always seem to forget about all of the actions leading up to our current state of affairs. Lucky for us David Zucker is here to remind everyone...

Congressman Hastert

"Over the last few weeks, the Democrat Party has maliciously attacked Speaker Dennis Hastert in an attempt to bring down the entire Republican slate of fine Candidates here in Kane County and across our great nation. We applaud Speaker Hastert for doing the right thing in the recent Page Scandal, calling for a swift independent investigation into the details surrounding the allegations against former-Congressman Mark Foley. It was the right move."

"For those of us who know Denny, we can easily see through the lies put forth by George Soros and his band of Leftists. As a father, teacher and state champion coach it is impossible for us to believe that Denny would knowingly ever allow any child to be placed in danger. Soros and his crew of out of state political hacks can spin all the lies they wish, but we know better."

"Denny has always been there for the people of the 14th Congressional District, and now for the people of the United States. As Speaker, his district boundaries far surpass those of his Congressional District. Denny was there standing beside the President as we suffered through the tragedy of 9-11. He was there when we cut taxes and turned the economy around. Denny has been there for us, and now its time for us to be there for him."

Cunningham clear choice in Clerk's race

Kane County Clerk Jack Cunningham has been widely recognized for his outstanding success in implementing the new eSlate voting systems in Kane County. The 2006 Primary Elections went off without a hitch, and election totals were reported in less than an hour and a half. Match that with the huge success of modernizing the Clerk's office to include more information available on the web, and you have a candidate that is a lock for re-election this fall.

On the Democrat side, challenger Annie Collins believes that her experience as a flight attendant would make her much more qualified to carry out the duties of the office. I guess when she announces where people should vote, she can point to the forward and rear compartments.

The Kane County Chronicle has both of their interviews on-line for you to view.

Congressional Quarterly tracking polls show Republicans holding both the House and Senate

Good news for America. It looks that the united State House of Representatives will not Nancy Pelosi pounding the gavel. Congressional Quarterly, a nationally renown source on all things national shows that both the US House and Senate will stay under the watchful protection of the friendly Republicans. With 12 districts still too close to call, CQ is projecting a 220 to 203 Republican lead in the House, and a 51 to 44 lead in the Senate with 5 states too close to call.

One seat that is in the too close to call column is IL-6. This is the neighboring district being vacated by retiring Congressman Henry Hyde. With Denny Hastert picked to easily defeat Democrat John Laesch, residents of the 14th might want to lend Republican Peter Roskam a hand in insuring that the 6th stays Republican.

Kane YR's raise thousands for families that have lost troops overseas

Kane County's next group of leaders took it upon themselves Monday night to make a real impact on the lives of families who have paid the ultimate price for freedom. The Kane County Young Republicans packed Riverside Banquets with hungry supporters of our troops. Rather than starve for attention (like a certain woman in Texas who will go nameless), Republicans feasted on all you can eat spaghetti, with all proceeds going to TAPS (a national organization dedicated to supporting families who have lost a member overseas).

As of Monday night, the YRs had raised over $4,000 for the organization, with more money coming in from across the nation. Kudos go to YR President Mark Vargas for all his hard work on this project. Mark has become quite the local celebrity, having been featured on Deborah Rowe, Terry O'Brien, Bill Bennett and other local and national radio programs. ABC Channel 7 also featured the event on Tuesday morning's Eyewitness News.

Dems' Congressional Lead Narrows in Recent Poll

In the last edition of the TRUNK, we spoke a little about the recent Gallup Poll showing President Bush's Approval Ratings on the rise, and the Generic Congressional races becoming much more close. Here is an article from Gallup on the Congressional races:

PRINCETON, NJ -- A new USA Today/Gallup survey finds Republicans edging closer to the Democrats in voter preferences for this year's midterm congressional elections, mirroring the slight increase seen in President Bush's job approval rating on the same poll.

According to the August 18-20 poll, the Democrats now lead the Republicans by two points, 47% vs. 45%, as the party more registered voters say they will support in this fall's congressional elections. That is down from a 9-point lead earlier this month, and an average Democratic lead of 10 points in the previous three polls conducted in July and August. It also represents the Republicans' best performance in a single poll during the 2006 election cycle on this important measure of electoral strength.

At the same time, Bush's overall job approval rating rose from 37% in early August to 42% currently. Both this and the narrowing of the Democratic lead for Congress may be tied to a mini surge in public approval of the way Bush is handling terrorism in the wake of recent news about a foiled terrorist plot to blow up several airplanes headed for the United States.

Bush's approval rating for handling terrorism -- typically his best-rated issue -- increased by eight percentage points since July (from 47% to 55%), at the same time his score on a range of other policy issues remained the same.

Sheehan sent to the hospital...

Cindy Sheehan is recovering in a Waco Hospital following a hysterectomy on Tuesday. She has vowed to rejoin her fellow Liberals in the Bring Home the Troops Fast when she is released.

Cindy, Cindy, Cindy... hasn't anyone ever told you that starving for attention is bad for your health? Instead of running your mouth off and bringing down troop morale, why not join the Kane County Young Republicans at their "Feasting for our Troops" Fundraiser for TAPS on October 28th in Batavia?

We'll save you a plate of spaghetti.

GOP out raises Dems 3 to 1 nationally...

Republicans trying to hold onto the House raised $12.5 million in July, outpacing Democrats by a 3-to-1 margin but leaving the GOP just $1 million ahead in cash on hand.

The influx of money _ largely from political action committees _ gives Republicans a slight advantage more than two months before the November elections. Democrats hope to gain 15 seats to seize control of the House.

The NRCC has raised $70 million so far and has $34.1 million in the bank. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee raised $4.2 million in July, taking the group's total to $81 million this cycle and $33 million cash on hand.

"Our phenomenal fundraising in July is the product of our members' hard work and the support of Americans who want leaders with a record of accomplishment and a positive vision moving forward," Rep. Tom Reynolds, R-N.Y., chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee, said in a statement. "It stands in sharp contrast to the Democrats, who spent the month of July raising dollars by exploiting the deaths of U.S. soldiers."

<<>>

Bush speaks to war concerns...

Bush: GOP on right side of Iraq war issue

By Terence Hunt

the associated press

WASHINGTON — President George W. Bush on Monday embraced the Iraq war as a top issue in the November elections and tried to make it a weapon against Democrats rather than a liability for Republicans.

"There's a fundamental difference between many of the Democrats and my party, and that is, they want to leave before the job is completed in Iraq," Bush contended at a news conference.

He said the highly unpopular war is "straining the psyche of our country" but leaving now would be a disaster.

Bush served notice he would not change course or flinch from debate about the war as he campaigns for Republicans in the fall congressional elections. In fact, he suggested that national security and the economy should be top political issues, and criticized the Democrats' approach on both.

In response, Democrats said it was time for a new direction and Bush should begin redeploying troops this year.

"Our soldiers in Iraq should transition to a more limited mission focused on counterterrorism, force protection of U.S. personnel and training and logistical support of Iraqi security forces," House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi said.

Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid said, "Far from spreading freedom and democracy in the Middle East, the Bush administration has watched while extremists grow stronger, Iran goes nuclear, Iraq falls into civil war and oil and gas prices skyrocket. Simply staying the course is unacceptable."

Insisting that the United States cannot leave before the mission is accomplished, Bush said, "I can't tell you exactly when it's going to be done." But, he said, "if we ever give up the desire to help people who live in freedom, we will have lost our soul as a nation, as far as I'm concerned."

<<>>

Dems the Party of Ethics? Sure, and Kennedy never sipped a beer.

Here is a great example of the "ethical" practices of the Democratic Party in our neighbors to the east.


--County clout boss ousted
August 22, 2006

BY ABDON M. PALLASCH Staff Reporter


Cook County Board President Bobbie Steele asked the county's patronage chief Gerald Nichols to clean out his office just outside her own Friday because she could not figure out exactly what his official job was.

The Sun-Times on Monday reported county officials saying that for years Nichols called them to plug politically connected people both for policy positions -- which is allowed -- and also for lower-level jobs, which by court order are supposed to go to job applicants who score well on tests.

"I had a meeting with him Friday and removed him from his position," Steele said. "He explained to me that his role when he worked for President [John] Stroger was to sort his mail, prioritize invitations and to sometimes serve
as a surrogate for the president. Well, I don't need him to do that."

PATRONAGE CHIEFS FALL ON HARD TIMES
Daley administration: Robert Sorich, convicted of mail fraud this summer.

Blagojevich administration: Joseph Cini, reassigned this year to nonpersonnel duties.

Stroger administration: Gerald Nichols, moving to the county's bureau of administration.

Steele took over Aug. 8 as board president after Stroger's stroke.

"I asked him is there a job description someplace that I can look at the other things that he did for the president, and we were unable to verify a real job description," Steele said.

So Nichols has been kicked upstairs for the time being to work for the bureau of administration -- "until we could make a final decision as to where he should go if he should stay in his job at all," Steele said. He will continue to draw his $114,000-a-year paycheck from the county highway department where he has not worked for nearly 20 years.

Steele said her dispatching of Nichols on Friday was unrelated to a call she took the night before from the Sun-Times seeking her comment on a story about whistleblower county supervisor Eric Petraitis. Petraitis claims
Nichols called him and told him to recommend a man active in Stroger's 8th Ward organization for a job for which the man was unqualified.

Steele may investigate claims...

Steele said Monday she had just finished reading the Sun-Times' story and would be "reaching out" to see whether Petraitis' claims of pressure to rig job-test results were worth an investigation by her inspector general.

Even before she took office this month, at least three or four other commissioners suggested she move Nichols out of her office for reasons she did not specify.

Asked if Nichols was the patronage chief, Steele, who has members of her own family on the county payroll, said, "Well, he did a lot of things . . . constituent service . . . on many occasions take job requests I guess from
whomever made 'em. Jobs are institutional in this city, as all of you know. When people elect you to office, they have some idea that you can access job opportunities for them. And it's true on the city side. It's true over here
on the county side. Yes, I do believe Gerald did serve in that role. To what extent he took care of jobs, I don't know."

Commissioner Tony Peraica, the Republican candidate for Cook County Board president, who also has a relative on the county payroll, held a news conference Monday to urge that Nichols and highway department personnel
chief William Krystiniak -- also accused by Petraitis of encouraging the rigging of test scores -- be put on administrative leave.

Steele said that would deny Nichols "due process."

Peraica also said that his rival, Democratic nominee Todd Stroger, John Stroger's son, had Nichols playing a major role in his election campaign. Peraica said Nichols and Todd Stroger had been together at political events
over the past week.

Nichols assists Todd Stroger

Stroger's campaign spokesman said Nichols was only a friend of Todd Stroger, not a paid employee of the campaign. The younger Stroger also has relatives on the county payroll.

Commissioner Mike Quigley said the revelations of Nichols' uncertain job description are useful at a time when the county could face a budget deficit of $300 million.

"There has always been a black box of county hiring where good names go to die," Quigley said. "I'm hoping it will also draw attention to the county departments that have money to burn, so to speak, and help us draw the line."

Nichols and Krystiniak do not want to talk with the Sun-Times about Petraitis' allegations, said county spokeswoman Chinta Strausberg. But they have relayed to county officials that the allegations are false, and Nichols
has indicated he and Petraitis have never gotten along, Strausberg said.

Capitol Fax Columnist takes the words out of our mouth...

"John Laesch is a jerk"
Rich Miller, Capitol Fax
Tuesday, August 15th

If attacking Kane County's Young Republicans wasn't bad enough, Democrat John Laesch found a new way to insight the ire of citizens across the state last week by setting his sites on members of his own party. While Speaker Hastert has been spending his time and energy dealing with real problems facing our nation, John has plenty of time to spend outing anonymous bloggers.

In Rich Miller's widely read political blog, he comments on Laesch's obvious lack of ability. The post and comments are a great read, and will most likely bring a smile to your face. Check them out in their entirety here, or check out this one choice post from someone within his own "base" below:

"Seems to me and from friends that this guy, Laesch, just makes stuff up. No offense to him, but if he is as great as he is, why does he still live with his parents? Not to keep going... But, Zamora was WAY better. Everytime Laesch talks its seems more and more like he makes stuff up. I bet if a good reporter looked into this guy they would find out he is a fraud. Even as a Dem, and i hate to say it, I am leaning toward Hastert. I mean his politics arent like mine, but whats the alternative? I dont think a Green or other party is runnin..."

County Board vacancy in District 1

Democrat incumbent Dorthy Sanchez has officially vacated her county board seat in District 1. Although she was not a candidate for re-election, how do you feel that this turn of events will affect our candidate Ronald Newman's chances?

Dems headed to the left...

With the close of the polls in Conneticut, political pundits are clamoring on how Lieberman's primary defeat will foreshadow the coming election. One thing is for sure, the Democratic Party is shifting strongly to the Left.

In 1988, the Dems headed Left... and they got beat. In 1984 the Dems headed Left... and they got beat in huge numbers. In 1972 the Dems positioned an anti-war candidate, arguably the most Liberal of their presidential candidates up against embattled President Nixon. They got beat... bad.

See a pattern forming here?

Tired of Cindy Sheehan starving for attention? Join the Kane YRs for a "Feast for the Troops"

While Cindy Sheehan and various Hollywood Celebrities have declared a hunger strike in protest of our Armed Forces deployment overseas, the Kane County Young Republicans urge fellow Americans to join them in Feasting for Our Troops on Monday, August 28^th.

“While Cindy and her Liberal friends in Hollywood continue to protest and damage troops morale, the Young Republicans wanted to hold an event that would actually help the families of our nation’s heroes,” said Mark Vargas, president of the Kane County chapter of the Young Republicans. “Unlike Cindy, we aren’t just starving for attention. We are trying to make a difference in the lives of these families.”

The Kane County Young Republicans will host an all you can eat spaghetti dinner on Monday, August 28^th from 5 pm – 7:30 pm at Riverview Banquets in Batavia. All proceeds of this dinner will go directly to the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), a support network for the surviving family members of soldiers who have died in service to America. For the last 14 years, TAPS has been offering counseling, literature on how to cope with grief and loneliness, workshops and summer camps for the children of fallen soldiers. Area Gold Star Families will be attending the event to share their stories.

Tickets are priced at $15.00 a person with Gold Star Sponsorships available at $150.00. Donations are tax deductible. Dinner includes all you can eat spaghetti, garlic bread, salad and beverages. Riverview Banquets is located at 1117 North Washington Avenue (Route 25) in Batavia, IL.

Thoughts and Prayers...

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Mary Richards and her family. A little over a week ago, our former county board member and current Aurora Township Republican Committeeman suffered a stroke and has since been recuperating at Alexian Brothers Hospital in Elk Grove Village. By our last report, she is doing very well.

We all wish her the very best, and pray for a fast and strong recovery. All well wishes can be sent her home at:

Mary Richards
460 W. Downer Pl.
Unit# 5A
Aurora, IL 60506-5072

Looking ahead...

A recent Gallup Poll has found that "America's Mayor" Rudy Giuliani is leading the pack of potential Republican candidates for the 2008 Presidential nod. The former 2 term Mayor from New York was found "acceptable" by 73% of the Republicans polled. Running a close second was Secretary of State Condi Rice who pulled 68%. Running a distant third was the runner-up for the 2000 primary, Senator John McCain who pulled 55% acceptable. Other potential candidates who were polled included former Speaker Newt Gingrich, Florida Governor Jeb Bush, Senate Leader Bill Frist, Virginia Senator George Allen, Vice-President Dick Cheney, New York Governor George Pataki, Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romeny, Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee and Kansas Senator Sam Brownback. You can see the full article here.

What are your thoughts on the GOP race in 2008? Any local Republicans from the midwest that you would like to see added to the list? Chicago Republican John Cox has already told media sources that he is in. Who else?

Open thread...

Why?

Thank you to Precinct Committeeman Ed Southwell (EL-9) for sending in this touching email. I thought that others may want to read it as well, so we decided to post it on the Blog.

A mother asked President Bush,
"Why did my son have to die in Iraq?"

Another mother asked President Kennedy ,
"Why did my son have to die in Viet Nam?"

Another mother asked President Truman,
"Why did my son have to die in Korea?

Another mother asked President F.D. Roosevelt ,
"Why did my son have to die at Iwo Jima?"

Another mother asked President W. Wilson,
"Why did my son have to die on the battlefield of France?"

Yet another mother asked President Lincoln,
"Why did my son have to die at Gettysburg?"

And yet another mother asked President G. Washington,
"Why did my son have to die near Valley Forge?"

Then long, long ago, a mother asked...
"Heavenly Father, why did my Son have to die on a cross outside of Jerusalem?"

The answers to all these are similar --
"So that others may have life and dwell in peace, Happiness and freedom."

Governor fires Republicans, Republicans sue...

Aides to Gov. Blagojevich allegedly ordered a former state agency director to fire a handful of employees "because those persons were Republicans" -- even though, by law, their political affiliations weren't to be considered as conditions of employment.

Former Illinois Historic Preservation Agency Director Maynard Crossland leveled that charge Thursday in a lawsuit that names the Democratic governor's former chief of staff as the top defendant. Two gubernatorial aides, Crossland alleges, showed him an organizational chart in 2003 that had red "X" marks drawn over "the persons that the Governor's office wanted fired." >

Bit of Humor...

Cardinal Sermon for John Kerry

On a Saturday afternoon, in Washington, D.C., Senator John Kerry's campaign manager visited the Cardinal of the Catholic cathedral. He told the Cardinal that John Kerry would be attending the next day's sermon, and he asked if the Cardinal would kindly point out Kerry to the congregation and say a few words that would include calling Kerry a saint.

The Cardinal replied, "No, I don't really like the man, and there are issues of conflict with the Catholic Church over certain of Kerry's views."

Kerry's manager then said, "Look, I'll write a check here and now for a donation of $100,000 to your church if you'll just tell the congregation you see Kerry as a saint"

The Cardinal thought about it and said, "Well, the church can use the money, so I'll work your request into tomorrow's sermon."

As Kerry's manager promised, Senator Kerry appeared for the Sunday sermon and seated himself prominently at the edge of the main aisle. And, during the sermon, as promised, the Cardinal pointed out that Senator Kerry was present. Then the Cardinal went on to explain to the congregation, "While Senator Kerry's presence is probably an honor to some, he is not my favorite person. Some of his views are contrary to those of the church, and he tends to flip-flop on many other views. John Kerry is a petty, self absorbed hypocrite and a nit-wit. John Kerry is a liar, a cheat, and a thief. John Kerry is the worst example of a Catholic I've ever personally witnessed. He turned on his buddies in Viet Nam. He wrote a book and portrayed himself in
the best light when he was a traitor to his fellow servicemen. He has lied about his military record and had the gall to put himself in for a medal. He married for money and is using it to lie to the American people. He also has a reputation for shirking his senatorial obligations both here, in Washington, and in Massachusetts. He simply isn't to be trusted."

The Cardinal completed his view of Kerry with, "But, when compared to Senator Ted Kennedy, Senator Kerry is a saint."

Fitz tosses the salad;

Patrick Fitzgerald charges two with selling expired salad dressing:Showing he will leave no leaf unturned in battling crime, U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald poured on the latest: corrupt salad dressing. <>

Gang Drug Panel begins work in Aurora. Sen. Millner and Rep. Dunn to serve.
The first meeting of the state Gang/Drug Task Force on Wednesday started with the facts and figures about the deadly connections between gangs and drug sales. Now the question facing the six-member panel is whether they will be able to turn future sessions into meaningful recommendations to the General Assembly. <>

Bush coming to Aurora, and other local news...

Bush to make stop in Aurora plant on Friday
Staff Reporter Matt Hanley, Courier News

AURORA — President George W. Bush is expected to make his second visit to the Fox Valley in less than a year on Friday, stopping at an Aurora-based manufacturer of liquid abrasives for the semi-conductor industry, where he will tout his plan to fund science and technology research.

A Cabot Microelectronics Corp. official on Wednesday confirmed the presidential visit, although the official would not elaborate on details. According to the White House, Bush is scheduled to speak in Aurora about the American Competitiveness Initiative, a plan he introduced in his State of the Union address earlier this year.... <>

Blagojevich's donors son is best, but designated intern
Staff Reporter John O'Connor, Courier News

SPRINGFIELD — Gov. Rod Blagojevich's administration picked a campaign donor's son over eight other applicants for a high-level prison job but designated him an intern when it was time to put him on the state payroll, saying he needed more experience.

The intern status meant the administration did not have to follow the normal hiring restrictions that limit political influence and favor military veterans....

...Ysursa, 34, is the son of a lawyer in a prominent St. Clair County firm whose contributions to Democratic campaigns top $100,000 since 2000 — including $15,000 to Blagojevich.... <>

Governor Rod Ryan

Chicago Tribune Editorial
June 29, 2006

In late 2002, Illinois legislators threw themselves into a final wild spending bacchanal. In the years just before that, Gov. George Ryan had given lawmakers $1.6 billion in play money to distribute to favored friends, relatives and constituents for their pet projects.

But then Rod Blagojevich got elected governor. Blagojevich spent his entire campaign professing zero tolerance for such pork spending. He decried the lack of oversight or accountability for the projects. He fumed about the waste.

He said the party was over.

But the party's on!

Blagojevich is making just like George Ryan, handing out free money to legislators' friends, relatives and constituents for their pet projects.

The Tribune reported Wednesday that Blagojevich and a few legislators awarded $12 million in after-school grants last year. They'll hand out another $24 million in the next school year. How some of that money has been thrown away would make you laugh--if it wasn't your money getting thrown away.

Sen. Rickey Hendon's sister got $25,000 to run a drama program that wound up with only four students. They were going to put on a play--but skipped that idea.

A Chicago woman and her son received $30,000 to conduct a hip-hop exercise class at a shopping mall. They say they had 12 to 20 students.

One group got money to run an arts education program but wound up providing lunchroom monitoring.

Some grant money went to pay off personal debts and taxes that recipients owed the state.

The applicants for these grants received only superficial review and follow-up. Why would they? They had political sponsors, which in the Ryan, and now Blagojevich, tradition apparently exempts applicants from needing to show experience, success or accountability.

The Tribune got a peek at some of the applications, which looked a bit like this:

Name of organization: Tribune Editorial Board.

Requested grant amount: $50,000

Objective: To train students in essential life skills that will assure future workplace advancement.

Number of students served: Three. Possibly two.

Activities: Students will learn beverage ordering and acquisition skills in a real life office environment. Student discussions will be conducted to facilitate understanding of individual worker needs in re: coffee. Travel opportunities included (to Starbucks, across the street.)

Benefit to organization: Continuous caffeination.

Benefit to student: Whatever.

The governor and select lawmakers have chosen more than 200 groups to share next year's pot of after-school money. We can't wait for this time next year, when we can read about all the worthwhile after-school activities provided. We only hope one of those activities involves coffee acquisition in a Michigan Avenue office building.

Copyright �© 2006, Chicago Tribune

Kane's Andy Rooney Gets one Right... For Once.

Lately, Kane County Chronicle gossip writer Bill Paige has been writing some unflattering remarks regarding Republican Candidates. Whether or not he has not been able to accept that the people of our county chose candidates other than those he deemed worthy should be left up to you to decide. HOWEVER... for once, he hit the nail squarely on the head. Here is his column on Speaker Hastert, featured in the Kane County Chronicle.

Hastert's gain on land deal not out of line

One of the hot stories in the press this week is a real-estate transaction involving Dennis Hastert, and to put it bluntly, most of the articles have been less than kind to the speaker.

In a nutshell, Hastert recently sold some farmland that he had bought a few years ago – and for a pretty nice profit, I should add. The story of Hastert's land sale has caused a stir in the media, with many reporters and pundits at least suggesting that something was amiss. That's not my reaction at all.

As someone who has watched – and profited – as land and real-estate prices have soared in this area of Illinois, I honestly don't see anything remotely nefarious about Hastert's actions. And although the profit he made when he re-sold the land was a chunk of change, it isn't out of line for what has been happening for years in Kane and Kendall counties.

To back up a bit, those who know me are aware that I don't share a good percentage of Hastert's political views. However, I have genuine respect for the man, and I believe he always has worked for the best interests of his constituents. Said more simply, I plain like the guy. Certainly I would be critical of him if I thought he was pulling a fast one with this land deal, but I don't, and furthermore, it is hard to criticize Hastert for doing the same thing I have done – and hope to do again. I suspect that many of you fall into that category, too.

See PAGE, page 2C

That something is to sell real estate for a profit. The home we own is worth about 85 percent more than what we paid for it; the one before that we sold at a 20 percent profit after owning it less than six months, and selling the one before those two gave us the boost we needed to pull off subsequent deals. It's the way it works.

Land and homes are sold for what the market will bear, with worth and value determined not by what the seller wants, but by what a buyer is willing to pay. There is not one of you homeowners reading this who isn't at least vaguely aware of your home's current value versus what you paid for it. My guess is none of you intend to sell your home for less than market value, or that you would turn down a buyer because he offered too much.

The property Hastert sold was part of what had been farmland in Kendall County. Anyone who knows anything about land values – and that specifically excludes the hysterics in the national media and the clueless in the local press – knows that the Kendall real estate market is sizzling. Just as in Kane County, Kendall's farms are disappearing to make way for residential and commercial development. Land changes hands several times before anyone actually moves into a house, and someone profits each time the land is sold.

That's what I've done, that's what you've done, and that's what I assume we hope to continue doing. How is it then that when Dennis Hastert does the exact same thing, it become something dark and suspicious? As far as I can tell, what has gotten some of theses critics in a knot are two issues: the profit Hastert made and the proximity of the land to the proposed Prairie Parkway.

On the first point, yes, he made a killing. Well, good for him; I just wish I had a chance to buy that land. Oh, wait. I did. As did you or any of the people railing against Hastert. The land was – now listen carefully, all you Washington press folks – for sale. If any of us had met the farmer's price or beaten Hastert's offer, we could have bought it.

The second point stretches credulity. The farmland in question lies 5.5 miles from where the Prairie Parkway someday might be built. Somehow, Hastert's detractors consider that prime proximity, and point to Hastert's sponsorship of the parkway as proof that he did something if not illegal, at least unethical.

Baloney. That charge makes absolutely no sense at all. The distance – 5.5 miles – is hardly next door, and in case no one noticed, the parkway is many years away from even breaking ground. To put it in perspective, by chance my house is 5.5 miles from I-88. I have no idea what, if anything, that adds to the value, but all I know is that it's a hike through parts of three towns to get there.

In the interest of full compass disclosure, it appears that my home also is 5.5 miles from the "gentlemen's club" in West Chicago, and about the same distance away from the strip joint on Route 25. Now that's proximity.

Unfortunately, Hastert probably is going to have a rough few weeks while this nonstory works its way through the papers and the talk shows. But in the end, he should emerge relatively unscathed. I should hope so, as much for Hastert's sake as for all of us who work hard, save our money, and then invest it with the prime goal of making a profit.

If you and I are able to that without criticism, so should Dennis Hastert.

– Bill Page lives in St. Charles and owns a marketing company. He also writes about local issues on Wednesday and Friday. Calls and e-mails answered at (630) 584-0809 or wpage@mediawerks.org

Munson Opponent Exits Race...

Citing a growing concern over the safety of her family, Democrat challenger Hollie Kissane has stated that she will bow out of her bid for the 43rd State House Seat.

"Kissane, 44, cited "unforeseen circumstances that have taken place since the primary election" as the reason for her decision. Those circumstances include a March 28 drive-by shooting in which shots were fired at Kissane's home in the 400 block of Tulsa Avenue, she said. Shortly after she returned home that night and turned on the light in her bedroom, bullets came flying, sending her to the floor, where she screamed for family members to get down, and she crawled to the phone, Kissane recalled." --- Courier News

The incident appears to be gang related, according to Kissane. Her son Jesse has had some brushes with the law in the past. It is unclear whether Hollie or her son was the intended victim in the shooting.

With the unexpected exit of Kissane, the Democrats are looking at bringing in Education activist Laurel Bault. You may recall Bault as the campaign manager for Mike Noland's unsuccessful bids for the State House in '02 and '04, as well as his failed City Council race in 2005. Glad to know that they are slating a real "winner" here.

With Ruth handing Noland one of his many losses already, we're sure that his campaign manager won't be that much more of a stretch.

"Is America ready for Nancy Pelosi's Contract With San Francisco?"

So this guy wants to represent us in DC, huh? He seems to think that his philosophy is a closer match with the common man than those of Speaker Dennis Hastert.

Amazingly, his first vote as a Congressman would be to elect Nancy Pelosi as Speaker of the House. So does that mean that the views of Kane County match the Liberal counter culture views of San Francisco?

I think not.

Senate Passes Immigration Bill

WASHINGTON (UPI) -- The U.S. Senate voted Thursday to approve a compromise immigration reform bill that has few similarities to a House bill passed in December.

By a 62-36 vote, the upper chamber set the stage for a possible showdown with the House when the competing measures are sent to a conference committee for reconciliation, The Washington Post said.

The Senate bill is similar to the House bill in that it increases border patrols, and provides for construction of a 370-mile border fence and the use of National Guard troops. However, the House bill deals only with border and workplace enforcement matters and makes no provisions -- as the Senate bill does -- for a guest-worker program and a three-tiered system for dealing with the estimated 11 million to 12 million illegal immigrants in the country.

"This is not the final scene of this blockbuster that we have on the Senate floor," said Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev. "There is another act to go."

If House and Senate members can't agree on a compromise, the political "consequences ... should properly be very high," said Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., who voted for the bill.

Some House members say compromise with the Senate is possible, the Post reported, if only because it would not be feasible to prosecute and deport millions of illegal immigrants.

The newspaper earlier reported that White House political adviser Karl Rove met with House Republicans to urge them to move closer to the Senate position, which President George W. Bush endorses.

Hastert May Sue ABC...

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - House Speaker Dennis Hastert might sue ABC News for libel and defamation for a news report that said he was "in the mix" in a corruption investigation, according to a letter sent by Hastert's lawyer on Thursday.

The letter from Hastert counsel J. Randolph Evans said statements in ABC's report constitute libel and defamation, and asked who could "accept service of process to remedy this intentional falsehood."

Citing anonymous law enforcement sources, ABC News reported on Wednesday that Hastert was under scrutiny in an FBI corruption investigation centered around former lobbyist Jack Abramoff.

ABC updated its story later to say Hastert was not a formal "target" or "subject" of the investigation, but was "in the mix."

Hastert's spokesman called the story "absolutely untrue" and demanded a retraction, and the Justice Department said the story was wrong.

At the Capitol, Hastert told Reuters: "They made an accusation. The Justice Department denied it."

Rep. Chapa LaVia hugs teachers, while picking their pockets!

I know the end of the school year is here, and that means busy schedules for teachers. I wanted to make sure you were all made aware of the successful sweeping of your valuable retirement funds by our Democratic state representative, Linda Chapa LaVia. While Chicago teachers have their pensions funded fully, you and your peers (both active and retired) have had your pockets picked.

To add insult to injury (and as an obvious move to mitigate any fallout from her vote), Linda Chapa LaVia is honoring educators at a Teachers Town Hall meeting from 5 to 7 p.m. tonight (Tuesday, May 9) at North Island Center in Aurora.

I owe so much of my personal success to the wonderful teachers I had growing up, and I know the pay didn’t (and still doesn’t) adequately compensate you for all you do. That’s why I was so angered by Linda Chapa LaVia’s vote to take away your pension funding. A poorly funded pension not only does a disservice to you and your peers, it also discourages other teachers from bringing their talents to our state. Why choose to teach in a state that fails to recognize your importance to society upon retirement?

Our other state legislators respected the sanctity of the teachers’ retirement fund and would never vote for a budget that relied upon such a tactic. Please remember this as you talk to your family, friends and associates who have a say in the November elections. Linda Chapa LaVia should be voted out of office this November.

Penny Falcon
Republican Precinct Committeeman, Aurora

A moving tribute to our Armed Forces

To every family who has a son or daughter fighting over seas, our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with you.

We found this moving tribute on the web. Very well done.

Take a look, while thinking of all those who are risking their lives for their country.

Nottolini could be next ethics advisor...

Retired Judge Gene Nottolini joined 5 others in interviewing for Kane County's new Ethics Officer position. Nottolini, who retired in November and will be replaced by Judge Thomas Mueller, has spent 21 years on the bench. He is a former Chief Justice.

The other contenders are attorneys Robert Greenwalt of Sandwich and Travis Ketterman of Geneva, marketing consultant Michael Monteleone of St. Charles, retired professor Charles Ellenbaum of Geneva, and Aurora University human resource director Therese Hoehne of Batavia.

Here's the Budget, take a quick look because you'll have to vote on it tomorrow...

It is widely rumored that the Governor, Speaker and Senate President will be unveiling their budget today. Remember, these three Chicago officials are the only one's who have seen it so far. The Republicans will have less than a day to look it over before the expected vote tomorrow.

We'll post some updates as we hear what the budget entails, and how it will affect Kane County.

UPDATED: So far details are scarce, but it looks like Kane County received only a small portion of the funds. Here is a brief over-view of some of the projects coming to Kane County...

• A project that will test emissions from diesel powered vehicles for Kane, Cook, McHenry and several other counties
• Rebuilding the Batavia Dam
• Indian Creek flood control project
• Elgin Armory's interior will be re-furbished

FURTHER UPDATED: Here is a link to the Senate Bill that has become the new state budget.

EVEN FURTHER UPDATED: Republican Judy Baar Topinka called on legislators to pas a constitutional amendment that would make it mandatory for the Budget to be on public display for at least one week prior to any vote being taken. Blago called it a "gimmick." We call it Democracy. What do you think?

Gay marriage Question could appear on November Ballot...

Is marriage a sacred institution between a man and woman, or is the government's interpretation open to criticism? Members of "Protect marriage Illinois want the voters to have their say. In a move similar to efforts in the 2004 and 2005 elections across America, Illinois may very well include a statewide referendum question regarding the institution of marriage.

Protect Marriage Illinois predicted Monday that they will have enough signatures (thousands more than the 283,111 needed) to get a referendum on the November ballot.

It would ask voters whether they think the Illinois Constitution should define marriage between a man and a woman as the only valid legal union in Illinois. The results wonÂ’t change the constitution but could influence whether lawmakers ever take that step.

What are your thoughts? Shouldmarriagee be between a man and a woman? How will this affect voter turnout throughout Illinois? Will it help or hurt our candidates in Kane County?

Open Thread...

Madonna: What a ClassLESS Act!

In a concert last week in California, singer Madonna changed the words of her song to say," Just go to Texas and suck George Bush's d**k."

All four people in attendance cheered.

Sounds like another has been trying to spark a little life back into her career by becoming political. Funny how she would think that anyone cared about her political views, when no one has really cared about her singing for years. Way to show your in depth knowledge of complex political issues there Madonna. Why don't you leave politics to the grown-ups for now.

I think that the material girl needs to get some new material, and quit ripping off the Ditsy Chicks.

Bit of Humor...

Incident in Iraq:

A U.S. Marine squad was marching north of Basra when they came upon an Iraqi terrorist, badly injured and unconscious. On the opposite side of the road was an American Marine in similar but less serious state.

The Marine was conscious and alert and as first aid was given to both men, the squad leader asked the injured Marine what had happened.

The Marine reported, "I was heavily armed and moving north along the highway here, and coming south was a heavily armed insurgent. We saw each other and both took cover in the ditches along the road.

"I yelled to him that Saddam Hussein is a miserable, lowlife, scumbag, and he yelled back that Senator Ted Kennedy is a good-for-nothing, fat, left wing liberal drunk.

So I said that Osama Bin Ladin dresses and acts like a frigid, mean spirited woman!"

He retaliated by yelling, "Oh yeah? Well so does Hillary Clinton!"

"And, there we were, standing in the middle of the road shaking hands, when a truck hit us.

Kane Dems use War as a means to drive Dem Voter-Turnout

Last week at the Annual Town meetings, Kane Democrats tried to take over public meetings in each of the 16 Townships in an effort to place Anti-War Referendums on the November Ballot. The effort was orchestrated as a means to drive Democrats to the polls to support Dem-Candidates. Demoralizing our troops, of course is but an after-thought to these folks.

Of the 16 Townships, the Democrats' tactics were defeated all but two, Geneva and Aurora. What are your thoughts on using our Armed Forces as political leverage?

First GOP Governor's debate

Four of the five Republican candidates for Governor of the state of Illinois met Wednesday night to allow the voters a chance to hear their vision of Illinois' future.

Here is your chance to offer your thoughts on who came out on top. Remember, this is not who you are supporting in the election, but rather who you thought did the best job in the debate.

If you missed it, CBS News has a webcast and trascript availabe on their website.

Has Bin Laden been beat'en?

The pan-Arab TV station al-Jazeera has broadcast an audio tape of Osama Bin Laden offering the American people a truce in Iraq and Afghanistan. Within the speech, Bin Laden threatens the United States with further attacks, claiming that they are simply still in the planning stages. While he out right states that he intends to attack US soil once more, he thinks that it might be a good time to stop fighting on Arab soil.

That sounds fair, huh?

In reality, the truce is a sign that President Bush's vigilance in bringing the war to the terrorists has continued work. With Bin Laden on the run, he is coming to the American people with a proposal that basically states," stop attacking us so that we may catch our breaths and start attacking you!" This is not a sign of man that believes he is winning the war, rather the ramblings of a man on the brink of ruin.

Sources who heard the recording believe that Bin Laden is in poor health. In the speech he acknowledged his own mortality, saying that the jihad would continue even after he meets Allah.

The US Marines have offere to arrange the meeting as soon as they can.

The Blame Game

Rod delivered his State of the State speech today, avoiding the one issue that he pledged to champion during his 2002 campaign for governor, "ending business as usual."

Rather, his focus appeared to be blaming President Bush and Washington for the problems facing Illinois. The Governor would like us to believe that its Washington's fault that he put the state of Illinois into tremendous deficit with his bond proposals.

Its Washington's fault that the governor has scared businesses from Illinois by creating fees that have overtaxed our local industries.

Its Washington's fault that the Blagojevich administration has under-funded and neglected the state's pension system to a tune of $39 billion.

Its Washington's fault that there are probes involving the tollway, DCFS, IDOT, CMS, the pension scam, and allegations of the exchange of campaign cash for state contracts and jobs.

Following the speech, Blago thanked Senator John Kerry and former Vice President Al Gore for writing the speech.

Blago and Daley trample 2nd Amendment rights with proposed gun ban

In a purely political move, Governor Rod Blagojevich will begin his latest assault on gun owners' rights tomorrow as his annual State of the State Address before a joint session of the IL General Assembly.

With crime on the rise in Illinois (and his poll numbers plummeting), the Governor is expected to propose a ban on the so-called "assault weapons" collected by law abiding citizens.

At his side in this endeavor will be Mayor Richard Daley. Daley looks to support this legislation in order to deflect recent criticism following the indictment of several key members of his administration. Daley is a nationally known opponent of the 2nd amendment, laying down some of the most restrictive gun laws in the United States within the City of Chicago. But alas, studies have shown repeatedly that Daley's tireless efforts to steal guns from law abiding citizens have only made Chicago less safe.

Congressional studies dealing with the federal version of Blago's proposed ban have yielded results contradictory to what the Mayor and Governor will tell you. Of all violent crimes in America, the firearms banned under their proposal only account for 1 to 2%. Murders with knives, clubs and hands out number those with these firearms 20 to 1.

Thank you for keeping our streets safe Mr. Governor. Maybe next year you can ban "Bat Day" at US Cellular Field, and make our streets real safe.

His voice is as shaky as his administration...

Turn up your speakers when you check out this video of the Governor singing his heart out.

Video link

Priceless. Don't quit your day job.

The Republican Party says goodbye to a dear friend

The Republican Party mourns the loss of one of our favorite members following the passing of Elgin legend Richard Gromer from congestive heart failure Wednesday.

To anyone who spent their childhood in the greater Elgin-Area, we will always remember Mr. Gromer as the friendly neighborhood grocer. When parnets shopped at the Gromer's Supermarket on McLean and Wing Blvd, their children begged to join them in the hopes that they may be rewarded with some of Mr. Gromer's legendary ice cream. Parents didn't mind paying for the treat (afterall, at only a quarter it was the coolest deal in town).

The Republican Party remembers Mr. Gromer for his strong support of the Party. He was always willing to buy a table at a local fundraiser or support a good candidate. He was a loving family man, and a beloved member of the community.

We'll miss you old friend.

Earlier Campaign Time Table

As mentioned in the last edition of the TRUNK, Republican Governor Candidate Ron Gidwitz went on the air Monday, in what he vowed would be the beginning of media buy that would carry him through the Primary Election. This is the second media buy that the Gidwitz camp has purchased, focusing on prime-time spots. The first started earlier last year. Gidwitz is currently filming a second commercial featuring he and his running-mate state Senator Steve Rauschenberger that will go on the air soon.

Word is that Brady's camp has several commercials in the can ready to go. The question remains whether or not they will have enough funds to go live, or if the commercials will be posted on his website in an effort to garner some earned media through the network news. From what we've heard, Brady used a Californian ad agency that has done a terrific job on the commercials. If they go on his website, we'll post some links here. His radio commercials have been playing quite often in the downstate media markets, where his 4x8 signs are lining the interstates. (Is this a sign of his overall campaign strategy?)

The Topinka and Oberweis camps have been relatively quite so far in terms of media buys.
Although neither has filed their year end D2s, we can safely assume that both camps have some green in their reserves. Oberweis made a name for himself during the '04 elections with his commercials, and Judy's last Treasurer piece was quite well done.

You can probably expect both to go live in the next couple of weeks.

Alito hearings proof Democrats out of touch with America

When an animal is trapped in a corner, it will fight tooth and nail to try and escape. It will risk its life against immeasurable odds. In Washington, the Democrats have found themselves trapped hopelessly in a corner.

With the American public increasingly disenchantment with their policies and leadership (as evident in the last two national elections), the Democrats find themselves once again in the minority. Their actions during the Alito confirmation hearings have shown that they no longer care about public opinion, rather their sole objective is to be a deterrent to the Republican Majority.

Despite the overwhelming national support of Alito, Senators Kennedy, Durbin and Feinstein have continued to assault this jurist's noble character, and reduce the confirmation hearings to a sideshow attraction. The DNC is so consumed with hatred of the Republican majority that they have gone so far as threaten a filibuster to prevent Altio from taking O'Connor's seat on the highest court in the land.

Will the Democrats ever learn that America is sickened by these tactics? In the mean time, the Republican Party looks to continue to gain ground nationally. Keep up the good work Dean old buddy. You are the Republican's MVP!