No Guts?

Just came across this discussion in a professional journal:

Appointments to five-year terms on the board require Senate confirmation. The president can make shorter appointments without confirmation only when the Senate is in recess, which the Democratic-controlled body has refused to do. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) announced Dec. 19 that the Senate will convene for brief pro forma sessions until Dec. 31, when it will officially end the 2007 session, and then will continue holding pro forma sessions until Jan. 22, when it will begin active work in the 2008 session.

It doesn't really matter to what "Board" the article refers. The point is, why aren't Republicans protecting Presidential prerogatives by challenging this practice?

The Board at issue is one important to millions of Americans, and American business. Democrats are trying to run out the clock in the hopes of a Democrat President who will appoint more crypto-Socialists to that Board.

Now, I'm no expert on Senate rules, but it seems to me that even "pro forma sessions" require a quorum. Wouldn't one Republican Senator with the courage to show up and suggest the absence of a quorum be all that it would take to end this fraudulent practice? Doing so would require Senators to show up and enter their presence. Wouldn't failure to do so result in declaration of a recess?

Perhaps the problem with the question lies in the premise: "one Republican Senator with ... courage."

A Lump Of Coal For Christmas

Well, the guy at TVGuide said it best: USA Network is delivering its viewers two lumps of coal for Christmas.

It seems that the NBC/Universal cable network is cancelling The Dead Zone after six seasons, and The 4400 after four.

Both have been great continuing sagas that have the Youngs glued to the television on Sunday nights.

The Dead Zone is based upon characters created by Stephen King in his wonderful novel of the same name. The movie version starred Christopher Walken as Johnny Smith, Brooke Adams as his love interest, and a chilling Martin Sheen as Greg Stillson. My autographed version of the novel, which I got when I was 18 and a senior in high school, is one of my prized possessions.

The 4400 is a quirky sci-fi vehicle about the return of over four thousand missing people who had been transported to the future, and returned with special abilities to save it.

They will be missed in our household.

Hollywood's Odd Choices

I've been seeing numerous ads for the upcoming movie Charlie Wilson's War, starring Tom Hanks.

Now, anything with Hanks is likely to be worth seeing. But it just strikes me as rather odd that Hollywood finally finds a story about a Cold War hero worth telling, and it's about a Democrat?!?!

I guess it's necessary to throw all of those nasty facts about the McGovernites and their policy of appeasement (circa 1972-1991) down the proverbial "memory hole."

Mr. Deeds Runs For Governor

Must've gotten on this list out of some blogger fishing expedition, but for some reason, Senator Creigh Deeds has me on his mailing list. In an apparent effort to get a jump on fundraising before next year's legislative session begins, he has just formally announced for the Democrat nomination for Governor.

Dear Friends,

Under the leadership of Governors Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, we have experienced significant progress in the last few years. Because of their optimistic, commonsense approach to solving problems, we have all been proud to call Virginia our home. Today I’m announcing my campaign for Governor to continue that tradition of moving Virginia forward.

Please visit my new website at www.DeedsforVirginia.com to view my announcement video and join my campaign.

The election for Governor in 2009 will offer every Virginian a choice: do we continue and build upon the work of Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, or do we chart a different course that embraces the attack politics and policies of George W. Bush’s wing of the Republican Party?

I believe that Warner-Kaine approach is the better way to keep Virginia the best place to live, work and raise a family. And, that better way is how I will lead us forward if given the privilege to serve as your next Governor. For me, it’s about creating opportunity in every corner of Virginia: building a modern transportation system that moves our state and our economy forward, creating a research-based economy that develops new sources of alternative energy by investing in our colleges and universities, and retooling our community college system so we can train for the jobs of the 21^st century.

I invite you to please join me.

His website is here.

Of course, his announcement makes the obligatory homages to Governors Marky Mark and Timmy!

One has to wonder whether he will wage the same dishonest campaign to con the voters of Virginia into believing that he is not, and will not govern as, a tax-and-spend Liberal.

Somebody Didn't Get The Memo

Doing a little Christmas shopping today, and ran into Bill Ryland, defeated PW Democrat candidate for Clerk of the Court, and the wife of winning Democrat Paul Nichols, who won the seat for the 51st District House of Delegates district.

In Sam's Club.

Oh, foresooth! I wonder if Ben Tribbett wants to launch a jihad against them, too, for disrespecting the goonion ... er, union base of the Democrat Party?

After all, unions are apoplectic over their inability to force ... er, persuade, Sam's Club and Wal-Mart employees to grant to them monopoly bargaining power.

Christmas Party Season

It truly gets crazy this time of year, and one frequently finds one's self with more parties to go to than there are hours in the day.

Jeff and Amy Frederick held a wonderful open house in their home this evening, with a gift for Toys for Tots as the "price" of admission. Good thing the Fire Marshall was not among the guests.

We also attended a very nice affair at the home of friends in Fairfax. Among the guests was Howard Phillips, former third-party presidential candidate. What a fine gentlemen. It was my first opportunity to meet him, though Mrs. Young had a much more lengthy conversation with him. We exchanged stories about mutual friends.

He was Conservative when Conservative wasn't cool.

The Latest In Bush Derangement Syndrome

This is really funny. Now the boys and girls at Ranting Kids ... er, Raising Dough ... er, "Raising Kaine" are blaming President Bush for the slight uptick in teen pregnancy rates.

Yeah. I guess they're confusing him with the last Democrat President.

A Reflection On Democrats And Christianity

Isn't it ironic that the only time Democrats invoke Christian principles is when they can beat Republicans over the head with it?

As Mel Brooks famously observed, "The Inquisition ... what a show!"

They seem so all-fired-up to defend the "wall of separation" ... until it comes to spending other people's money. Of course, "Christian charity" is an individual choice, and has nothing to do with forcibly taking other people's money and handing it out to discrete groups in order to buy their votes.

And the author of the above-linked post is confusing his caricature of the GOP --- I don't know anyone who claims that the GOP is the "party of Christian people" --- with fact.

SCC Turns Its "Advance" Into A "Retreat"

Well, that should have been the headline in the WaPo.

Some are celebrating. One who scrupulously hides his identity so his record (or perhaps, lack thereof; other than his nihilistic rantings) is not subject to equal scrutiny. My guess is he's not a Republican at all, and that, if his identity were known, it would be revealed to those who read his comments that his goal is not in accord with the GOP, but is more closely in alignment with those who seek to destroy it.

In fact, when I chaired the committee to write the PWC Party Plan, we were quite adament in our efforts to ensure that the grassroots controlled the County GOP (barring things like slating and instructing), something that John Light seems to have forgotten with his irresponsible and inaccurate reference to "the proletariat." Wasn't he one of those who complained when some unwashed proles dared to sign up for and vote at a recent GOP Convention?

I don't care whether the pledge is required or not. I'd much rather see that result achieved by the device of party registration, but not so much that I am willing to allow the perfect to become the enemy of the good and discard any effort to ensure that Republicans select Republican nominees available under current law.

What I DO care about is the conspiracy-theory rantings and nihilistic efforts which seem to be the coin of the Realm in some places (others have raised responsible criticisms which, while I disagree with them, are certainly not off the deep end). Most from people scrupulously hiding their identities. It causes those of us who actually have built something to question whether they come from those who have ever built ANYTHING (other than a giant case of phallus-envy, that is). I don't know much about, for instance, Help Save Manassas or its operations, but one has to wonder whether it would retain as a member an individual who regularly hired illegal aliens, or who publicly advocated amnesty or other things opposed to its stated goals.

The SINGLE purpose of the pledge is to ensure that Republicans selected the Republican nominee. It has nothing to do with "the ability of a few party leaders to control the outcome," or barring participation of "the proletariat" (other than those who aren't Republicans, of course). Those are the plaintive whinings of those who find themselves in a minority. All of the sound and fury offered here never really addressed that point, but instead, suggests that having Republicans select Republican nominees is some sort of bad thing. Likewise, it sanctimoniously and inaccurately suggests that primary voters are somehow more likely than convention-goers to become actively involved in party operations. From whence that assumption arises is something of a mystery. Convention-goers have already demonstrated their commitment by going to the time and, frequently, expense of showing up to support their candidate or candidates. What to primary voters do? Stop by their local schools for 15 or 20 minutes? Which demonstrates a stronger commitment to the process or to the Party (any party)?

The single reason to eschew such a device is to remove any impediments to those uncommitted to Republican goals and principles from participating in the GOP nominating process.

Congratulations. Your goal is achieved.

Michael Savage Sues CAIR

CAIR is, of course, the Council on American-Islamic Relations, race hustlers of the Muslim community.

You can read his Complaint, but as an attorney admitted to practice before the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, and someone who was filed a half-dozen or so cases in that court, I've got to say that it's unlike any Complaint I've ever filed.

Or read.

Rossie D. Alston, Jr., Set To Become Chief Judge

One of the more junior judges on the Prince William County Circuit Court has been selected by his colleagues to become Chief Judge of the Circuit Court for the 31st Judicial District, which covers Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park.

Circuit Court Judge Rossie D. Alston, Jr., a life-long resident of Prince William County, has been elected by his colleagues to replace LeRoy Millette, who has been elevated to the Virginia Court of Appeals by the Governor, subject to legislative confirmation.

Judge Alston was the first Circuit Court Judge selected by local lawmakers when the Republicans became a majority in the Virginia House of Delegates, having been elevated from the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.

He is also a former colleague of mine, and is known as "Uncle Rossie" around the Young household. He is godfather to both of my sons, and a fine choice.

Congratulations, Chief Judge Alston!

Can It Get Any Worse For The Redskins?

I'm not a big fan of the Redskins, but the team's travails are starting to have the characteristics of a Greek tragedy.

Safety Sean Taylor succumbed to his wounds earlier this morning. By all accounts, he appears to have been a real team leader who, despite some missteps earlier in his life, had been getting his act together.

RIP.

What A Great Read

Just finished Justice Thomas' new book, My Grandfather's Son.

What an amazingly moving and remarkable book. Highly recommended.

Another Pandak Whine Exposed

Well, I heard today that Prince William County BOCS Chairman Corey Stewart has announced that he will not be running for Congress if Congressman Tom Davis (R-11) declines to run for another term.

What was it that his opponent was saying about his overweaning ambition?

Top Ten Moonbatosphere Priorities For 2008

They are listed here at Ranting Kids ... er, Raising Dough er, ... "Raising Kaine."

However, it's been tried before. A better title might have been "Socialism in One State."

Enabling Comment Moderation

I hate anonymity. I particularly hate it this week, when a friend and a good man was denied a seat in the Virginia House of Delegates (the margin was 499 votes) mainly because of the cowardly and largely anonymous/pseudonymous smear campaign run against him.

And yeah, yeah, it was good enough for Publius. However, none of the cowardly lurkers in the Virginia blogosphere would pass for Hamilton, Jay, or Madison. Not even George Hamilton.

I don't expect to effect a sea change in the Virginia blogosphere because of my decision. For one thing, not enough people read my rantings to make much of a difference. Even fewer agree with them.

So I'm initiating comment moderation. If you sign your name on your comment, and it's not a personal attack on me or someone else, chances are almost 100% that it will appear. I don't mind if you disagree with me; I don't have to allow you to do so here if you choose to hide your biases and your history. If you don't sign your name, I reserve the unfettered discretion to approve it, or not, as I see fit.

If you don't like it, tough. My space. My rules. I live by my own standards, never making an anonymous or pseudonymous comment anywhere. Usually, I am rewarded with a personal attack, or some kind of peurile misrepresentation about me or my record by some blowhard who hides his or her identity so I can't respond in kind. However, here, in this space, I will require that you live by my rules and standards. I require nothing more. I will accept nothing less.

It's good to be the King.

H-SC Wins ODAC Title and NCAA Division III Playoff Berth

Wow! For the first time in, well, decades, Hampden-Sydney College will be going to the Division III football playoffs after today's victory in the 113th meeting with Randoph-Macon College in Ashland.

With the victory, the Tigers finished the season 8-2, including a victory over Bridgewater for the first time since 1998. While not the best season in recent years --- I believe the Tigers went 9-1 for two seasons --- this is the first time that the school has reached the playoffs.

GO TIGERS!

More About The 51st, By The Numbers

The Gill-Haters are amazing. Even though he was defeated in Tuesday's election, by a 52%-48% margin (499 votes), they still attack.

Now, one might attack it as an unhealthy fixation, or merely childish "I-told-you-so"-ism, thereby implicitly belittling the comments and those making them. One might dismiss it as mere racism/bigotry. In some, at least, there seems to be an element of this motivation.

However, there is clearly a much more logical and mature reason for their continued attacks: pest (from their perspective) control. Understandable in Democrats (who want winner Paul Nichols to avoid a tough race in his most vulnerable defense of the seat), but despicable in self-identified Republicans, who in 2009 would have little choice but to consider Gill a serious and perhaps even favored candidate for a rematch with Nichols, depending upon the state-wide races.

Had any other candidate lost in a race that could have been swung to the GOP by a shift of just 250 votes, the losing candidate would be trumpeted as a good bet the next time around. But of course, that doesn't fit in the Gill-Haters' meme.

So they have to advance the canard that Gill lost because of his own flaws, rather than their own perfidy and smears. Quite popular among the Gill-Haters is the notion that Gill not only lost in his own right, but that he dragged down Jay O'Brien with him.

But the numbers simply don't bear that out. And facts are stubborn things.

According to the State Board of Elections, Jay O'Brien won 5,334 votes in nine PWC precincts in 2007; Democrat challenger George Barker won 4,272 in those precincts. Eight were shared with Gill, and O'Brien won six of eight. 1102 of Jay's votes were won in Buckhall Precinct, shared with Delegate Bob Marshall.

By comparison, in 2003, O'Brien won 4,688 votes in nine PWC precincts, while Democrat Greg Galligan won 2,519 votes.

So, between 2003 and 2007, O'Brien increased his vote by 546 votes, while the Democrat candidate increased his PWC vote by a significant 1,753 votes. In short, O'Brien won more Republican votes in 2007 than in 2003, but Democrats increased their turnout.

What explains this increased Democrat turnout? One has to believe that part of the explanation lies in the fact that GOP fortunes have been in decline for the last two years, both nationally and in Virginia. However, I don't believe this was the most important factor. Moreover, the 51st District race did have an impact, but not in the way that the Gill-Haters think.

The most relevant comparison is the last time O'Brien ran for the seat, in 2003. Then, O'Brien won 3,681 votes in the portion of his district which overlaps the 51st, according to the State Board of Elections. In 2007, O'Brien won 4,232 votes in the portion of his district which overlaps the 51st, increasing his vote by 551 over 2003, according to the State Board of Elections.

The results in the 51st District in 2007 were 12,246 voters (30.49%), with 5,844 votes for Gill, and 6,343 for Nichols.

In 2003, after all, it was not an open seat, but it was held by Michele McQuigg, an incumbent running for her third full term (having been elected to nearly another full term when she replaced David Brickley in 1998). McQuigg had no opposition in 2003, and her total vote in the race was 8,128, about two-thirds of those voting for 51st District Delegate in 2007 (12,246). Turnout in 2003 was 19.28% in the District; turnout in 2007 was 30.49%.

An equally interesting comparison is between 2005 and 2007. In 2005, Democrats ran Earnie Porta (now Occoquan Mayor). In that race, total turnout was 15,434 voters (36.78%), an increase (over 2003 and 2007) clearly attributable to the statewide races for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Attorney General. The State Board of Elections reports that McQuigg won 8,313 votes in 2005, while Porta won 7,107 votes.

The explanation for this discrepancy is obvious: Democrats were more motivated to turn out by the prospect of an open seat, always a party's best chance of winning. Thus, the fact that the 51st District race was contested increased voter turnout, as it inevitably would.

Thus, the notion that Faisal Gill had any negative impact upon Jay O'Brien is nothing more than a self-serving canard. If anything, Faisal's strong but unsuccessful candidacy aided O'Brien's losing effort.

At least, to the extent that any down-ballot race has an impact upon another race.

Perhaps the most significant element of the argument that Gill's candidacy harmed O'Brien is in the fact that the Gill-Haters are suggesting that voters cast their ballots against O'Brien because they didn't like Gill.

This sounds a lot more like projection of their own sophomoric behavior than it sounds like a rational analysis of the outcome of the election and the actual votes cast.

Fourth Amendment Repealed!

Well, that's what the loons at Special Privilege ... er, "Equality Loudoun" seem to think. They allege that sodomy laws which have been part of Anglo-American law for centuries somehow "permit[] law enforcement officers to force their way into private bedrooms and arrest people for having [perverse] consensual sex."

Of course, that's nonsense. Even before the Supreme Court declared unconstitutional laws which predated and coexisted with the Constitution for most of the history of the Republic, law enforcement officers were not "forc[ing] their way into private bedrooms and arrest[ing] people for having [perverse] consensual sex."

Even in Bowers v. Hardwick (1986), in which the unfortunately-named Mr. Hardwick was arrested in flagrante delicto in a bedroom, there was no dispute that the officers were lawfully there, having lawfully appeared at a party to serve a lawful warrant, and having been directed to the bedroom by others in attendance. Probably thought it was funny. Even then, Hardwick was not prosecuted for his perverse act, and actually pursued a declaratory judgment action to get the case before the Supreme Court.

Of course, the truth is a little more complicated than the glib rhetoric of partisans for the radical homosexual agenda.

And of course, it's little surprise that people who don't understand the word "marriage" are using fanciful hyperbolic misrepresentation to support their agenda.

Good Luck With That

According to today's Anchorage Daily News, PETA is calling upon Alaskans to stop consuming fish.
.
It's not People for the Eating of Tasty Animals, to which I belong; it's so-called "People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals."

The Youngs spent a week in Alaska this summer, and I can proudly say that a morsel of beef did not pass my lips during the entire trip. With my many cases up there, many was the occasion where clients generously made gifts of Alaska's wonderful bounty of the sea. On one occasion, a very generous witness in a case appeared at my hotel to present me with two well-wrapped frozen silver salmon that he had caught himself, to bring home to the family. I had clients who told me that they wouldn't eat seafood products from the lower 48.

Good luck with that.

What Would Have Been A More Shocking Headline?

Much of Virginia's far Left moonbatosphere is trumpeting the fact that Senator John Warner was quoted in today's Richmond Times-Dispatch as "blast[ing]" the Virginia GOP.

This is hardly news.

What would have been news would have been a Warner comment lending support to the Party that gave him its nomination five times.

President Bush To Address Federalist Society 25th Anniversary Gala

Just got this from the Federalist Society:

The Federalist Society is pleased to announce that President George W. Bush will address the Federalist Society at its 25th Anniversary Gala on Thursday, November 15.

Happily, as the founder of the Society's Emory University School of Law Chapter, I will be in attendance.

Along with about a thousand of my closest friends.

Scapegoating Gill Is Nonsense

Some people want to blame Faisal Gill for Senator Jay O'Brien's loss. It's a nice story, but appears to be entirely fictitious. Here are the actual numbers for those eight precincts which overlap:

McCoart (Nichol/O'Brien winners):
Gill: 562 O'Brien: 618
Nichols: 572 Barker: 510

Westridge (Nichols/O'Brien winners):
Gill: 542 O'Brien: 582
Nichols: 545 Barker: 510

Penn (Gill/O'Brien winners):
Gill: 419 O'Brien: 470
Nichols: 353 Barker: 308

Lake Ridge (Gill/O'Brien winners):
Gill: 638 O'Brien: 648
Nichols: 593 Barker: 598

Old Bridge (GIll/O'Brien winners):
Gill: 534 O'Brien: 617
Nichols: 451 Barker: 377

Rockledge (Nichols/O'Brien winners):
Gill: 561 O'Brien: 651
Nichols: 621 Barker: 538

Mohican (Nichols/Barker winners):
Gill: 289 O'Brien: 293
Nichols: 330 Barker: 322

Springwoods (Nichols/O'Brien winners):
Gill: 146 O'Brien: 207
Nichols: 214 Barker: 155

Now, let's look at an O'Brien District which did not overlap the 51st, but overlapped the 13th, where Bob Marshall clean Bruce Roemmelt's clock:

Buckhall
Marshall: 1,083 O'Brien: 1,102
Roemmelt: 716 Barker: 702

When one looks at these numbers, it seems that O'Brien consistently outperformed the GOP candidate in Prince William for House of Delegates (in both the 51st and the 13th Districts), and that Nichols consistently outperformed the Democrat candidate for State Senate.

What conclusions can be drawn? Well, of course, it is and can only be only speculation, but --- believe it or not! --- Greg Letiecq, no friend of Faisal, thoroughly refutes the suggestion that Faisal can be blamed for O'Brien's defeat here. Since I can't disagree with what he says, and he has already saved me the legwork, I commend it to your attention.

What is likely provoking the scapegoating of Faisal is that his numbers and the narrow, 495-vote margin in his race fully justifies another run in two years, when buyers' remorse should have well and thoroughly set in with the voters of the 51st District. However, doubtless a small number of ill-advised, moonbat "Repubmocrats" who --- all evidence to the contrary notwithstanding --- labor under the misconception that Gill's nomination was "stolen," will continue to think that Julie Lucas can actually beat an attractive, well-spoken attorney. They will be joined by Democrats who --- to be certain --- would love to send the less-capable Lucas sent as a lamb to the slaughter.

Of course, that the former are foolish enough to listen to the latter is one of the reasons why Samuel Francis famously labeled the GOP "the Stupid Party."

Memo to the former: these people do not wish us well. Their advice is designed to advance their candidates and ideology, not the GOP's. Don't listen to them!

UPDATE: "Fredo" over at Greg's site is still trying to scapegoat and smear Gill, evidence to the contrary notwithstanding. This is my response:

“Fredo,” that you find it so easy to demonize an organization which seeks to mainstream Muslims into American society — and was concededly but unfortunately infiltrated by one among that small minority who are Jihadists — says more about your biases and bigotry than it does about the organization you condemn. It is, of course, ridiculous to assume that the individual of whom you speak shared his treacherous views with Gill, who served in that role for only a short time, years before that treachery was revealed, but your entire web of fantasy relies upon that proposition.

Sadly, the treacherous frequently rely upon lies to infiltrate organizations which rely upon the honor and good will of their membership. Sadly, good people are sometimes taken in by pretensions of those of a different sort. Sort of like the GOP relies upon the honesty of those who pledge their “intent to support all of the Party’s nominees for public office in the ensuing election.”

Which brings me to your comment that “no one, repeat NO ONE who took any kind of oath to support any particular candidate.” You are, of course. correct. Nice phony straw man. Of course, that’s not what I said, and it’s not what the Republican Party Plan says. What it says is that all participants in official Republican Party nominating contests must pledge their “intent to support all of the Party’s nominees for public office in the ensuing election.” THAT is the oath that was violated by those who attended the 51st District Convention and refused to support the nominee chosen by it, and I have suggested nothing else.

Even Greg was conceding before Election Day that Faisal stood a good chance in the race, notwithstanding the smears of you and others, and his best efforts to provide a forum for you. It’s also ironic that those who speak so sanctimoniously, so frequently, and so unconvincingly about a “big tent” were unwilling to open the flaps for those that Gill brought into the Party. The “big tent” that they/you want is only one “big” enough to include those you deem worthy.

Of course, your claim that “all PWC Republicans were warned, time and again” is nothing that a self-fulfilling prophecy brought about by the dishonorable who violated their oath. Hindsight is 20/20, and it’s truly sad that the GOP is populated by a contingent less interested in electing Republicans than it is in indulging its petty and self-serving, fanciful grievances when it doesn’t get its way. We may well face the same thing from the threat of some Christian Conservatives to sit out the 2008 presidential race if Guilliani is the nominee. I wonder what you’ll say if they do?

As for Gill’s effect on Jay’s race, “Fredo,” or “Gredo,” or whatever, it is GREG who manages to argue quite convincingly, based upon the evidence, that Gill had little to do with O’Brien’s results. Your argument is therefore with him, primarily, not me, though if you’d like to see the actual figures, I would commend to your attention this post. The numbers demonstrate that Jay actually did quite better than Gill in the precincts they shared than he did compared to that single precinct he shared with Bob Marshall. It is impossible to construct from those results the notion that Gill was a “drag” on O’Brien. Turnout was 35.09% in PWC precincts in Jay’s district. Turnout was 33.56% in Fairfax County precincts in Jay’s district. If anything, Faisal’s candidacy AIDED O’Brien’s efforts by facilitating a higher GOP turnout in PWC.

Once again, “Fredo,” when the truth doesn’t suit your purpose, you simply make it up. And belittle. That, along with your cowardly pseudonymity, bespeaking your unwillingness to bear the consequences of your perfidy, speaks volumes about you and your character, or more accurately, your lack thereof.

What To Expect Next?

With last night's election returns, a natural question is "What to expect next?"

Democrat George "That's all we need to know" Barker defeated incumbent Republican Senator Jay O'Brien, with a mandate to do nothing but repeal abusive driver fees. He otherwise carefully hid his crypto-Socialist, pro-radical homosexual agenda, and should be savaged when he tries to pursue it.

Incumbent Republican Supervisor Mike May (Occoquan) handily defeated Republican/Democrat/Independent/Whatever John Gray by a 2-1 margin, though oddly, the headline in today's Daily Fishwrap ... er, "Potomac News" reads "Supervisor May edges indy challenge of Gray." Huh?

Incumbent School Board member Julie Lucas (Neabsco) received 71% of the vote over two rivals. There's an old saying in politics that "You can't beat somebody with nobody." Young's Corollary: "You can't beat somebody with two insane people." Word is that an arrest warrant was issued for one of her opponents on Election Day. Curiouser and curiouser.

Also a big winner was Gainesville District Supervisor John Stirrup, over Democrat Corey Riley. Aside from the confusion which would have resulted from two Corey's on the Board of County Supervisor, this result should lay to rest any talk that Stirrup is more of a show horse than a work horse (like the equestrian reference, John?).

Democrat Paul Nichols barely defeated Republican Faisal Gill in the 51st House of Delegates district, calling him "an honorable man" in today's Daily Fishwrap ... er, "Potomac News." Given the breadth of Nichols' law practice, and the fact that he attacked Faisal for practicing immigration law, he will be unable to vote on a majority of matters regarding criminal and family law that might come before the legislature. Oh, yeah: and he wants to bring Metro to Prince William. Best of luck with that.

And given Nichols' silence in the face of the smear campaign against Faisal --- and active employment of those engaged in it --- one wonders about the sincerity of the comment. One might believe that it would have been "honorable" to denounce it ... and discipline any supporter involved in it.

Republican Corey Stewart won a resounding victory over Democrat Sharon Pandak for Chairman of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors. This outcome, coupled with others in the region, may demonstrate that, while sleazy attacks (see Faisal Gill) and outrights lies (see Barker/Colgan/Brown campaign against Governor Timmy's! abusive driver fees only for Virginians) work for Democrats, whining does not.

See, former Chairman Sean: you can actually do something (other than promote your own ambitions for statewide office) as BOCS Chairman! And get a mandate for doing so.

Resisting The Urge

I won't encourage you to get out and vote, since I work under the presumption that my readers (both of you) are smart enough to figure that that it's Election Day.

Understandably, the far Left moonbatosphere is encouraging its readership to exercise their franchise.

Know Your District II

Was working Henderson Precinct, Dumfries District, this morning with Amy Frederick, and who should show up by Senator Chuck Colgan.

Someone might want to let him know that the Henderson Precinct is in the senatorial district currently represented by Toddy Puller.

I figured we should just let him troll for votes for a while.

Know Your District

Ran into an old political ally this afternoon, and he informed me that he had removed scores of signs for Aracely Panameno, the Mexicanos sin Frontieras candidate running a write-in campaign against Neabsco District Democrat John Jenkins.

Now, normally I frown upon such activity. Whether legally placed or not, signs constitute the hard work of a candidate and his/her campaign, and should be respected.

But for some reason, these signs were placed on the median down Waterway Drive.

Memo to the candidate: Montclair is in the Dumfries District, not Neabsco.

You would think that someone offering him/herself for public office would show the wit to know which neighborhoods are in his/her district.

This sounds a lot like the Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight.

A Day Late And A Dollar Short

According to today's Daily Fishwrap ... er, "Potomac News," Paul Nichols got around to condemning the illegal flier distributed in the 51st District, smearing GOP candidate Faisal Gill. There's no link, but the story appears on page A4 of today's edition, under the headline "Nichols denounces anti-Gill flier, claims no involvement. It appears that the press conference took place a day after Nichols' initial comments.

Of course, that wasn't his first reaction.

And if you read the story, nowhere does Nichols actually condemn the illegal act of distributing campaign literature without an "Authorized by" line. Instead, Nichols once again denies involvement, and claims victim status because Gill has alleged that it is Nichols and/or his far-Left backers who are behind the smear.

Now I really understand what that phrase in the headline means.

Perhaps the headline-writer should have actually read the story before writing a headline which suggests that Nichols and House of Delegates Democrat Caucus leader Brian Moran had said what he/she wishes they had said.

And what he should have said.

Pot. News Reverts To Form --- Endorses Tax-And-Spender

Well, I guess it was inevitable: note that something good is done, and you're rewarded with idiocy.

Today's Daily Fishwrap ... er, "Potomac News" endorsed Sharon Pandak for Chairman of the Prince William County Board of County Supervisors.

It's hardly a surprise: unbridled development brings to the County more people, and hopes for increased circulation. Of course that's what the Daily Fishwrap ... er, "Potomac News" wants.

But what's most amazing are the serial idiocies in the endorsement. The endorsement reads like a virtual litany of campaign talking points from the Pandak campaign. Incumbent Board Chairman Corey Stewart is condemned because of "graaandstanding" [envision The Whiners from SNL]. It's apparently "graaandstanding" because, during the debate on the resolution regarding illegal immigrants a few weeks ago --- perhaps the biggest news event in the County since the trial of the Beltway snipers, or the Bobbitts --- Stewart didn't ignore the CNN crew that appeared to interview him.

In a county with the John Jenkins Neighborhood Park, the Hilda Barg Center for Homeless Prevention, the Sean T. Connaughton Community Plaza, and the Kathy Seefeldt Parkway, that's a rather bold charge. At least Stewart hasn't had the gall to put his name on anything since he's been in office.

Oh, and he is "diviiiiding our community" [whine]. Dividing it how? Apparently, by wanting to enforce the law against scofflaws (which the Fishwrap describes as "championing a resolution that did very little"... but which the Fishwrap opposed anyway.

Oh, and the one that is only intimated: by not going along to get along with County bureaucrats and their efforts to increase the size of government. The Fishwrap codeword for this is that Pandak "clearly understands the importance of an effective county staff," and that she will "bring consensus" [read: do whatever big government advocates tell her to do].

And here's the funniest one of all, in a journal that was a virtual mouthpiece for the ambitions of Stewart's predecessor: he "has clearly worshiped at the altar of his own ambitions."

As evidence, the paper cites Stewart's mailing of a postcard, using his Supervisor's Discretionary Fund (which the paper has never managed to complain about in the past, when other Supervisors were using it to buy votes) to inform County citizens about the impending vote on the resolution. Three individuals who opposed it thanked him for doing so. Apparently, Stewart is to be condemned because he "sent out a mailer to county residents" with "his name in big, bold letters." The Fishwrap calls it an "advertisement," though of course, if a tax-and-spender had done the same thing, it would have been called a "notice."

But "clearly worshiped at the altar of his own ambitions"?!?!?

Yeah. Like that's ever bothered the editors of the Fishwrap in the past.

Paul Tibbets, RIP

A participant in one of the watershed events in human history died yesterday. Gen. Paul Tibbets (USAF, ret.) died at 92 at his home in Columbus, Ohio. In Googling his name, I found that he had an official website.

Unless I am mistaken, this means that the last surviving member of the crew that carried out the mission is Theodore "Dutch" Van Kirk, a native of Northumberland, Pennsylvania. I, too, was raised in Northumberland.

RIP.

Desperate Dems And Their Serial Lies

Today's Daily Fishwrap ... er, Potomac News, had a front-page story about the latest evidence of increasing Democrat desperation in the face of the impending GOP onslaught.

According to the Pot. News, an illegal and scurrilous flier has been distributed in the Lake Ridge portion of the 51st District to smear Republican nominee Faisal Gill. Of course, leave it to that journal to get the facts wrong: it says that Lucas "filed an appeal [from her loss at the 51st District GOP Convention] and it was denied."

Actually, Lucas filed two appeals, and both were denied, the second, unanimously, by the Eleventh Congressional District Republican Committee.

Revealingly, Democrat candidate Paul Nichols doesn't condemn the flier. And, of course, he plays the "Not me!" game, claiming that "it was something that I decided I wasn't going to get into." Not that he minds of his minions do get into it; I have specifically heard Nichols' supporters repeating these scurrilous charges.

I will admit that I used to think more of Nichols than this. Yet he has failed even to condemn the blatant violation of campaign laws evident in its distribution. Let alone the sleaziness of the attacks.

Never mind that it's abundantly clear that it's distributor is a psychotic who can't pay attention to the evidence, and wants to promote his or her views contrary to the evidence.

Sounds a lot like a Democrat to me. Or, at best, a Republican who's not and never been much of one.

On second thought, it could easily be a member of Lucas' "Brain Trust."

You know: the guys who couldn't preserve Lucas' rights to appeal by following the rules and tried to game the system every bit as much as they wrongly claim Gill did. Having miserably failed to present a qualified candidate, they've made it quite clear that their only goal is sliming a well-qualified GOP candidate.

Why Are Maryland Labor Unions Contributing To Virginia Candidates?

Interesting phenomonon. I went to the VPAP website, and just for grins looked up the donations given to Paul Nichols, Democrat nominee for the 51st House of Delegates district seat.

Now, I expected to see a lot of contributions from lawyers, because you ask for money from the people you know, and you cannot doubt that Nichols knows a lot of lawyers. That's what I did, when I made the mistake of running for office. Sure, there are the a**holes who will complain about out-of-state or out-of-district contributions, but when they're from individuals, one can hardly legitimately complain, since it is highly likely that such contributions come from the people who know you the best: the people who's lives you've touched, and who are impressed enough with you that they are willing to underwrite your candidacy.

And, of course, I remember the Democrat candidate who stupidly attacked Maureen Caddigan for such an out-of-state donation, from New Jersey, as I recall.

It was from her mother.

But you've got to wonder about some donations, particularly from institutions. And the VPAP website lists not fewer than four donations from labor unions. Two come from Virginia organizations: the Virginia "Education" Association, a teachers union, and the Virginia AFL-CIO.

But two are very interesting. They come from Maryland, of all places. One is from the Sheet Metal Workers Union, Local 100. The other comes from the Amalgamated Transit Union, Local 689.

Then there's Bruce Roemmelt, Prince William County's own "union-label" candidate. Nearly a third ($18,050) of the money he's raised ($57,663) comes from labor unions.

Why, oh why, would these Maryland labor unions have an interest in electing a Democrat in Virginia House districts?

Actually, the answer is probably pretty simple: all of these unions want to attack Virginia's Right to Work law, as well as the Commonwealth's strong stand against public employee monopoly bargaining.

Might it be that they view a Democrat majority as more amenable to these outcomes? One has to wonder why Democrats aren't talking about these issues. Perhaps because it is a stealth effort to elect anti-worker, union-friendly candidates? After all, the first thing that many Dems do when they enter office is grant special privileges to Dem-friendly constituencies. It's a necessary course to perpetuate your own power when your agenda is so unpopular with the people.

After all, few Dems in 2006 ran for Congress on a platform of giving more power to labor unions. And what was among the first acts of the Democrat majority in the House? Passage of the fraudulently-misnomered "Employee Free Choice Act," which force employers to recognize unions as representatives of workers based upon cards (no inquiry into how obtained) signed by a majority of employees.

It certainly wouldn't be surprising if Virginia Dems, having run the sleaziest campaign in modern Virginia history, were to have also set themselves on a course to illicitly perpetuate their own power by becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of the VEA and the Virginia AFL-CIO.

To the extent, of course, that they are not so already.

"No Qualms About Crossing The Ethical Line"

Today's Daily Fishwrap ... er, Potomac News shows a surprising level of integrity and foresight in endorsing Faisal Gill for the 51st District House of Delegates seat over Democrat Paul Nichols.

Hardly a Republican organ, the newspaper's editorial page stays mostly positive about Faisal.

However, perhaps the most damning element of the endorsement is its discussion of Democrat Paul Nichols' sleazy campaign tactics, which the paper cites as support for the proposition that he has "no qualms about crossing the ethical line."

As I've said here and elsewhere, Paul is a social friend, and I like him. Therefore, I would prefer to believe that these sleazy tactics are not his, but rather, bad advice that he's received from the Virginia Democrat Party.

However, in this instance, association with this group and, more importantly, standing by idly while they smear Gill in his name, is sufficient to disqualify him from serious consideration for public office.

Of course, Greg Letiecq has thus far remained silent on what must, for him, be a frustrating development.

And reports that Psychotic Racist Jonathan Mark is sitting in a Fairfax "Job Johnny" with a Glock-shaped water pistol to his head are apparently greatly exaggerated.

Didn't I Read This Somewhere Before?

According to some scientists, "The human race will one day split into two separate species, an attractive, intelligent ruling elite and an underclass of dim-witted, ugly goblin-like creatures, according to a top scientist."

Could've sworn I read this somewhere before.

Oh, yeah. H.G. Wells said the same thing over a hundred years ago, in The Time Machine. And all you need to read is the headline to know the punchline. Even the reporter was able to figure it out (scroll down).

H/T to Drudge.

Contrived Outrage, Vol MCMXLI

There they go again: the far Left Virginia Moonbatosphere is in full throat over Jay O'Brien's latest mailing, which uses that sleazy, time-tested Conservative tactic of using a far Left candidate's own words and radical promises against him.

It's de rigeur that the Moonbat meme is fully endorsed by the boys and girls at Ranting Kids ... er, Raising Dough ..., er, Raising Kaine, Blueweeds, and, of course, Special-Privilege ... er, "Equality" Loudoun. They are, after all, little more than propaganda outlets for the Moonbat wing of the Democrat Party. You expect to hear them calling truth "homophobia," or "an ugly ... smear." They are not, after all, serious people.

But it's a little disappointing to see the smears appearing from normally serious people like Vivian Paige and Ben Tribbett.

Colgan Running Scared?

It appears that Senator Chuck Colgan is attacking Bob FitzSimmonds because of Bob's sterling Pro-Life credentials.

Huh?

Colgan has, for years, tried to sell himself as some kind of "moderate" who opposes abortion. However, as a member of the Democrat caucus, the pro-abortion maniacs of his party virtually guarantee that no meaningful Pro-Life legislation will receive a vote. And never mind that no one can meaningfully be called "moderate" when they endorse a Supreme Court decision (Roe v. Wade) which struck down abortion laws in all fifty states, and rejected the considered wisdom of centuries of Anglo-American common law.

It appears that the mailer emanated from the swamp that has become state Democrat Party headquarters in Richmond, demonstrating what some have known for years: Colgan has ceded his judgment to party powers-that-be, and that he is running merely to advance the power of the state Democrat Party. I was told on good authority four years ago that the only reason that he ran for reelection then was the personal intervention of then-Gov. Marky Mark.

But if Colgan is serving as a member of Warner's Funky Bunch, is he really serving the people of his District?

This ham-handed attempt to smear FitzSimmonds demonstrates signs of desperation in the Colgan campaign.

Is Chuck's forced retirement at hand?

Interesting Story In Today's Anchorage Daily News

It's about three Arctic villages on the edge of civilization which are threatened because of storms.

An interesting question arises, too: WHY WOULD ANYBODY TALK ABOUT SPENDING A BILLION DOLLARS OF TAXPAYER MONIES TO MOVE THEM?!?!?!

Feeding Democrat Smears

Well, as I predicted, Democrats are making charges about Republican bigotry again. 'Cept this time, maybe they'll actually have a point.

Waldo talks about it here.

The boys and girls at Ranting Kids ... er, Raising Dough ... er, "Raising Kaine" take up the drumbeat here.

There you have it: the Gill-haters are giving aid and comfort to the enemy.

What Is The Basis For This Assumption?

Driving in this morning, I heard a report on WMAL to the effect that the recent resolution on illegal immigrants in Prince William County was having an effect, causing Hispanic/Latino immigrants to leave the County in droves, both legal and illegal. Here's the text from the station's web site:

If the Prince William County supervisors were trying to send a message to illegal immigrants that they're not welcome, the message appears to be getting through.

The measures adopted last week in Prince William County were created to send the message signal to the county's mostly Latino illegal immigrants that they are no longer welcome, supporters say.

Since July, it appears both illegal and legal immigrant relatives and friends have been moving out of Prince William County, fearing the new policies will incur mass deportations, although the exact numbers of the migration are difficult to measure.

Although the measures passed last week direct county police to verify immigration status specific to criminal suspects, immigrants are concerned the entire Latino community is being targeted for immigration sweeps.

The county police department will begin immigration status training in January.

The source? None is stated in the text report, but the on-air report cited a company that teaches English to immigrants reports that its business is down.

But how does this business know which of its patrons is legally in the country, and which is not? Do they ask? One has to wonder, since they are not an employer, and therefore under no obligation to ask.

The WaPo story to the same effect (H/T to Doug Mataconis) is here, and provides some answers. It has more detail, and suggests a truly positive effect (emphasis added):

Among the absent students was Jose Luis Pubeac, 42, a day laborer who sneaked into the country 18 months ago. He was busy preparing for his flight back to El Salvador on Saturday.

That's a bad thing?!?!? The guy "sneaked into the country"! If he's leaving, it sounds as though PWC's actions have been more effective than those of ICE, who couldn't seem to find him.

Of course, those in the country legally --- at least, those who are not aiding and abetting those who are not --- have and should have nothing to fear from the County's actions, since legal immigrants are welcome, even celebrated.

More Elaborate Fantasies from PRJM

There he goes again!

Now, Psychotic Racist Jonathan Mark would have you believe that PWC GOP Chairman Tom Kopko has scheduled a County GOP Committee meeting to prevent people from meeting Democrat Paul Nichols. Why? Because Greg Letiecq, President of Help Save Manassas, decided at the last minute to schedule a candidate's forum.

Calls for County Committee meetings must be issued not fewer than ten days before the meeting, which means that the Call went out on 12 October. I have been unable to find Greg's notice that he was planning some sort of candidate forum for HSM, but my recollection is that it was made well after I received the Call.

Aside from that, only a psychotic would suggest that Tom Kopko scheduled a meeting of the Counthy GOP Committee 15 days before the election just to steal Greg's thunder.

Of course, it is of a piece with PRJM's other fantasies.

Shameful Application Of Objective Criteria For Partisan Purposes

Complaints about signage just tick me off. They are never made against anyone but politicians, and politicians are the only ones --- unlike developers, those selling health insurance, etc. --- who every bother to take down their signs.

Now "Too Conservative" is jumping on the bandwagon, complaining about the signs of those, the site's name to the contrary notwithstanding, Conservative Republicans they loathe.

It would have been a better title for their post. At least it would have been more honest.

Letiecq Announces Resignation From County GOP Committee

OK. Not formally. But you can read his endorsements for public office here, and the implicit has become the actual, and he has disregarded his pledge "to support all Republican nominees for election to public office in the ensuing election" by failing to support Michele McQuigg for Clerk of the Circuit Court, and by endorsing Democrat Paul Nichols to succeed McQuigg as Delegate for the 51st House of Delegates seat.

He could have just kept his mouth shut. Many do. Of course, now the blogosphere gives those equally dishonorable the opportunity to trash anonymously/pseudonymously Republicans they are honor-bound to support.

As for Greg, he has allowed his personal problems --- Faisal Gill's law firm is representing an individuals suing Greg for libel/slander, and Michele McQuigg has endorsed his candidacy to succed her --- to lead him on a dishonorable course, after months of giving aid and comfort to, inter alia, racists.

Those who assume a leadership role by joining the County Republican Comittee, which is responsible for the conduct of Party business between County Conventions, assume a higher burden. Greg has not only failed to assume that burden, he has spit in the face of those who do.

Despicable.

Dick Black Announces For Congress

Just got this from former Delegate Dick Black

DICK BLACK ANNOUNCES BID FOR VIRGINIA'S

FIRST CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT SEAT

Black: "This campaign is about who can best serve the good people of Virginia's First..."

FREDERICKSBURG, Virginia -- Dick Black today announced his Bid For Virginia's 1st Congressional District seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. "This campaign is about who can best represent the good people of Virginia's 1st Congressional District," Black said. "This campaign is about government of, by and for the people of Virginia's First."

In making his announcement, Black said his decision to run for the seat is based on the strong support and urging of many friends in the First Congressional District of the Commonwealth of Virginia. The 1st Congressional District seat became available with the tragic passing of Congresswoman Jo Ann Davis, Virginia's first Republican female representative in the U.S. Congress.

Black is a decorated Marine who headed the Pentagon's Army Criminal Law Division where he was responsible for military justice throughout the Army. In 1998, Black was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates. During his four terms, he authored key legislation including: Providing $200 Million to build highway interchanges, expanding heart and lung coverage under Workers' Comp, prohibiting abortions on minors without their parent's consent, expanding 2^nd Amendment rights, and tightening bail for sexual predators.

Black is considered one of Virginia's most consistently conservative members of the General Assembly. He served on Committees on Courts, Transportation, Education, and Elections and helped elect over 30 Public Officials to House, Senate and local offices throughout Virginia--including three Delegates in the 1st Congressional District.

The 1^st District includes The City of Fredericksburg; parts or all of Spotsylvania, Stafford, Fauquier, Prince William, King George and Caroline counties; all the Northern Neck Counties, the Middle Peninsula counties of Virginia, Williamsburg and parts of Hampton, Newport News, and James City County.

I like Dick Black, and think he'd be a great Congressman.

But who persuaded him that it would be a good idea to move across two congressional districts and three or four counties to run for an open seat?

No Wonder He's Smearing Jay O'Brien

Greg has the story here.

Apparently one reason why George Barker's only campaign strategy is to attack Jay O'Brien for one minor and utterly fixable misstep is because, in addition to being an advocate for socialized medicine, Barker is a proud advocate for the radical homosexual agenda.

The Far Left Myth On Abusive Driver Fees

There he goes again! Jeff Dion, in today's Daily Fishwrap ... er, Potomac News repeating the Democrats' lies about Virginia's abusive driver fees.

To hear Democrats like Dion, George Barker, Paul Nichols, and Chris Brown tell it, you might think Republicans were responsible for the targeting of Virginia drivers (out-of-state drivers are exempt).

Well. Those nasty Republicans. Screwing Virginians again.

'Cept the charge is totally false. Here's how WTOP relates how the fees were limited to Virginia drivers:

"... Governor Kaine amended the legislation by removing out-of-state drivers from the abusive driver fees."

So get it right, Dems: the notion that such fees should apply only to Virginia drivers --- not those licensed in other states --- was Governor Timmy's! idea, not Republicans'. Republicans only supported the amendment to preserve the grand "compromise" that Democrats were demanding. So much for "compromise" with Democrats: do so, and they'll beat you over the head with it. I'd note that it's shameless, but when talking about Democrats, that's pretty much redundant.

Dems might want to think about cleaning up their own house before attacking Republicans on the issue.

Stewart Dominates Pandak In Debate

The second debate at tonight's Committee of 100 debate was between BOCS Chairman candidates, incumbent Chairman Corey Stewart and former County Attorney Sharon Pandak.

Stewart easily dominated his Democrat challenger. Pandak was shrill, inconsistent, and made elaborate claims unsupported by the evidence.

She started out on the offensive, attacking Stewart as "divisive," perhaps the whiniest and weakest charge one can make in politics. I guess Pandak missed the fact that most major votes on the Board since Stewart took over as Chairman have been unanimous. But why let the facts get in the way of a good, substanceless argument that Corey "doesn't work and play well with others"? What a crock!

Then there was Pandak's attack on Stewart's use of his "Supervisor's Discretionary Fund" to send an apolitical mailer informing all County households of the impending vote on the resolution regarding illegal immigrants. Pandak failed to note how other Supervisors have used their monies in the past, most to give the public's money to their favorite charities. She declined the invitation to expound on how she would limit the use of such funds or, better yet, do away with them entirely. I don't recall if he said it in the debate, but Corey noted that at least three people opposed to the initiative thanked him for sending the mailer.

Pandak also attacked Stewart by intimating that he was using his position as a stepping stone for higher office. It was unclear whether Pandak was angry because Stewart is much younger, has done so without laboring as a bureaucrat for decades, or because she didn't think of it years ago.

'Course, I don't remember her raising similar complaints when Chairman Sean Connaughton was trying to do the same thing.

The only enlightening moment came when Pandak --- according to some, for the very first time --- said that she opposed the unanimously-adopted initiative on illegal immigrants.

One can only hope that Corey gets the word out on an initiative supported by approximately 80-90% of County voters.

Cheap Stunts Substituting For Substance Among Democrats

Sitting down to report on tonight's Committee of 100 debates, I was once again treated to George Barker's substanceless and cheap-shot political ads against Senator Jay O'Brien.

Is this the best the Dems have to offer?

Aside from the foolishness of attacking abusive driver fees (proposed to be limited to Virginia drivers by Democrat Governor Timmy!), Barker is obviously using O'Brien's misstep on the issue in order to avoid revelation of his own Socialist background as an advocate for a government takeover of health care. And, of course, it ignores that O'Brien has promised to work for repeal in the next session of the legislature.

Remember those Republicans who sold the transportation "compromise" by telling staunch anti-taxers that it was necessary to defend against a Democrat onslaught? In order to tell voters that they "did something" about transportation?

Once again demonstrating that getting rolled by Democrats on their bigger government agenda simply gives aid and comfort --- and ammunition --- to the enemy.

What is truly sleazy is the use of looping footage from a Committee of 100 debate --- specifically, of O'Brien shifting his eyes and paying attention to his opponent's comments --- to cast O'Brien in a negative light. A similar effort is being made by Democrat Chris Brown, against Delegate Jeff Frederick. In that vignette, Brown's campaign is completely misrepresenting a statement by Frederick, who was criticizing Brown for his self-contradictory (and false) accusations against Frederick. Brown has criticized Frederick both for supporting abusive driver fees, and for voting against the transportation "compromise." Of course, as Frederick points out, he can't have it both ways.

On the bright side, I suspect the absence of similar commercials against Faisal Gill --- as well as the lack of commentary among the far Left nutroots --- demonstrates that Gill did well in his debate against Democrat Paul Nichols (a professional conflict precluded my attendance at that debate). That was confirmed tonight by a Democrat who told me that Gill had done well.

Lucy Beauchamp --- The Peter Principle In Action

Tonight's Prince William Committee of 100 debate featured the candidates for two County-wide offices. Actually, for Clerk of the Circuit Court, the office covers the County, and cities of Manassas and Manassas Park.

The first debate was for Clerk of the Circuit Court, with three candidates: Republican Michele McQuigg; Democrat Bill Ryland; and Traitor Lucy Beauchamp.

I missed most of it, being on the "questions committee" (along with Republican Trent Barton, and Democrats Bill Westhoff and Keith Scarborough) for the BOCS Chairman debate scheduled later. However, that portion of it that I saw demonstrated beyond question that County and Cities voters have a choice between two well-qualified candidates.

From what I saw, both McQuigg (a long-time friend and political ally) and Ryland (a social acquaintance) acquitted themselves well. Oddly, though, Ryland focused upon his credentials as an attorney, hardly a qualification for the job. Indeed, one has to wonder why a successful attorney would seek the job.

Perhaps the most enlightening part of the debate was seeing School Board Chairman Beauchamp in action. The portion that I saw had her making elaborate claims of accomplishment as a member of an eight-member School Board. Of course, to hear her tell, she was actively managing the schools. Ryland was devastating in wondering why, then, we were paying dozens of administrators millions in salary to do the same job.

It was a reminder that Beauchamp long ago reached her level of incompetence, and certainly doesn't deserve election to a $100,000+/year job. Her continued presence in the race is nothing more than the childish effort to petulantly harm the prospects for Michele McQuigg to hold the seat for the GOP.

Given that she has always been identified as a member of the not-much-of-a wing of the GOP, it remains to be seen whether she takes more votes from Ryland than she does from McQuigg.

UPDATE: Bryan J. Scrafford thinks that Bill Ryland won the debate. Wow. A Democrat partisan thinks a Democrat won the debate.

Now, Bill Ryland is a social friend of mine. I spent a considerable amount of time after the debate talking to his wife, Sally, about their son's college choice and impending visit to my alma mater. And he did have the single best line of the debate when he quoted back to Beauchamp her idiotic statement to the WaPo --- quoted on her own website! --- that she was qualified to be Clerk of the Circuit Court because she watched a lot of Perry Mason in her day (though, as I recall, neither Perry nor any of his people spent a lot of air-time in the Clerk's office). But I didn't see much of it, and the part that I saw was not dominated by either Ryland or McQuigg.

Does Scrafford really labor under the belief that he has any credibility here?

Lucy Beauchamp: Endorsed By No One

Just out of a morbid curiosity, I went to Lucy Beauchamp's website today to find out who was publicly supporting her.

I found this: Lucy Beauchamp's endorsements page was last updated on 5 May, when she betrayed the GOP and narcissistically decided that her personal ambitions were superior to the considered wisdom of the GOP. Or at least, that risking the considered wisdom of the GOP wasn't worth the risk that she would be found wanting.

I guess these are the wages of treachery.

Marc Fisher Owes Corey Stewart An Apology

Here's what Fisher had, in part, to say today:

This, to Prince William's great credit, was a real, honest, old-fashioned hearing in which everyone got to hear each other. Lately, governments in Fairfax, the District and Maryland have turned to cynical tricks to diffuse and defuse citizens' voices: "breakout groups" and "town hall" sessions in which the public is shunted to little tables and forced to talk to hired consultants rather than elected officials.

But this is how he was attacking Corey Stewart on his blog, "Raw Fisher," on Tuesday:

When the top official in the county sends out a mailing to every resident less than a month before that official is standing for reelection, and when that mailing costs $31,000 in tax dollars, and when the mailing does nothing but remind voters that that same official's pet proposal is coming up for a vote today, something's fishy.

And while Fisher says Stewart's action is "not the sleaziest campaign tactic of the week" --- he attributes that honor to Democrat Rex Simmons, causing one to wonder why that story was not the lead of his blog posting --- he does describe Stewart's mailing as a "usurpation of public money to push his campaign against" Democrat challenger Sharon Pandak.

Yeah, right. One that resulted in "a real, honest, old-fashioned hearing in which everyone got to hear each other."

Can't have had one without the other, Marc. 'Fact is, Corey Stewart's mailer facilitated that "real, honest, old-fashioned hearing in which everyone got to hear each other." Yet you have criticized him for it.

Fisher owes Corey Stewart an apology. Either that, or he should be posting at Ranting Kids ... er, Raising Dough ... er, "Raising Kaine," the Criticize-all-Republicans-all-the-time-over-everything blog.

Interesting History

All those Democrats suggesting that Mark Warner will cruise to victory in the 2008 Virginia Senate race, and those Republicans saying that Jim Gilmore cannot possibly beat Warner because he is currently polling badly (though slightly better than Tom Davis), might want to take a look at this poll's results, appearing on Ben Tribbett's website in March 2006.

Question For The Gill-Haters

As anyone who knows me will attest, I am extremely skeptical (get it?) of accusations of "racism" and/or "bigotry," which coming from the far Left too often translate as "I hate your argument, but I can't refute it."

Even in the controversy over GOP 51st House District nominee Faisal Gill, I have been loathe to make such accusations. Indeed, the only times I have done so are regarding Jonathan "I'm A Psychotic Moron" Mark, whose blogsite attacking Gill evidences an entirely unhealthy pathology that can only be explained as racism and/or bigotry, and a number of pseudonymous commenters at BVBL who statements suggested it, and who freely admit their racism and/or bigotry (at least they're honest about it). Contrary to what some might think, I haven't thrown the charge around freely, or without specific justification. To the contrary, I have no basis for making such a charge against Greg Letiecq, whose site is a center for the Gill-haters, since his reason for hating Gill --- Gill's law firm represents someone suing Letiecq --- is well-known.

Nevertheless, I am truly puzzled, and a question arises:

Are you Republican Gill-haters really so stupid as to believe that the Left won't cite a Gill loss (if there is one) and his lack of Republican support as evidence of Republican/Conservative racism?

I suspect that most of the Gill-haters really are that stupid. Then again, most of them aren't honest enough to admit that much of their contempt for Gill stems from is sterling Conservative credentials, and the fact that he historically has had little use for those opportunistic types whose main reason for being Republicans is its current utility in getting elected.

A Modern Krakatau In The Making?

As if the people of Indonesia haven't had it bad enough in recent years, via Drudge, we learn that a red alert has just been issued for a Javan volcano. If I read the maps correctly, more than 25 million people living within a 60-mile radius.

If this one blows on the same scale as Krakatau, it could cause the greatest loss of life of any natural disaster in history. I picked up Simon Winchester's magnificent book on that subject a few years back, while traveling through O'Hare.

Why Does Jonathan "I'm A Psychotic Moron" Mark Care?

Noting Tom Davis' newly-expressed doubts about running for the Senate, this psychotic Democrat continues to ignore the will of a majority of 51st District Republicans, and gives all the credit to PWC BOCS Chairman Corey Stewart for Faisal Gill's nomination.

While I'm sure that Corey would like that much authority and influence --- who wouldn't? --- he is probably enough of a realist to never have even considered such a thing.

I guess that the truth is truly damaging to Democrat fortunes.

How's That For "Divisive"?

Prince William County's Board of Supervisors voted unanimously early this morning to move forward with a nationally watched plan to crack down on illegal immigrants by increasing local police enforcement and restricting certain public services to legal residents.

Nevertheless, Pravda-on-the-Potomac, ... er, The Washington Post called the proposal a "contentious bill." And, of course, Democrat partisans have been calling the bill --- and its primary advocate, Board Chairman Corey Stewart --- "diviiiiisive" (kindly insert whine).

According to Pravda, the debate was not without drama, contrived and otherwise. Dumfries District Supervisor Maureen Caddigan, who voted for the proposal notwithstanding the fact that she is violating her oath to support all Republican nominees for public office in the ensuing election by supporting Board Chairman Corey Stewart's Democrat opponent, decided to carry water for her in the meeting. And apparently, a statement by Occoquan District Supervisor Mike May drew what was probably a planned outburst: according to Pravda, his statement "was interrupted by a woman who shouted at him and rushed out of the room crying, saying the measures would separate her from her daughter."

Never mind that this lawbreaker should stop violating American law, go home, and take her anchor baby with her.

Oh, and Pravda reports that Coles District Supervisor Mary Nohe authored the resolution; the Daily Fishwrap, ... er, "Potomac News" reports (accurately) that it was authored by Gainesville District Supervisor John Stirrup. The local paper also reported on the use of "anchor babies" for propaganda purposes.

To its credit, more interesting news appeared on the web pages of the Pot. News. For example, the Pot. News reports that a table for propaganda was set up by the Socialist Workers Party, with classics like The Communist Manifesto, and biographies on that old Party animal Che Guevera (not to be confused with Mandy Patinkin or Antonio Banderas).

It appears that rumors that the local Democrat Party had a voter registration table at the location are unsubstantiated.

You Heard It There First

That's right. According to the boys and girls at Ranting Kids ... er, Raising Dough ... er, "Raising Kaine," a proposal to spend $14.2 million over five years (less than $3 million per year) to enforce the law against lawbreakers is a "recklessly expensive proposal."

Yeah. 'Cept for the next time some Democrat politician wants to spend that much to buy votes.

Sad News On Classmate's Passing

Opened my e-mail today to find this bad news on the death of a high school classmate, Rodney Swineford.

Forty-three years old is just way too young to die.

RIP

Contrived Outrage

The family and I have been out of town for two days, visiting friends in Williamsburg, and it seems that I've missed a huge imbroglio.

It's the campaign season, and Prince William BOCS Chairman Corey Stewart has stepped in it. All over the blogosphere and various mainstream journals, the "scandal" is trumpeted. The Daily Fishwrap ... er, "Potomac News," has it here. The Washington Post has a report here.

And the blogoshere is all atwitter, too. Democrat activist Ben Tribbett declares "Corey Stewart Under Investigation" ... by a Democrat Commonwealth's Attorney. He provides "More Details on Corey Stewart Scandal" here. The boys and girls at Ranting Kids ... er, Raising Dough ... er, "Raising Kaine" have at least two posts, one here, and another here. Craig Vitter is likewise perturbed, with not fewer than three posts.

And what are they all atwitter about? It seems that Chairman Corey Stewart used his "Supervisor's Discretionary Fund" --- public funds --- to send out a mailer to County households.

I agree. This is horrendous. That a County Supervisor should be able to use taxpayer funds for whatever he or she chooses, without any responsibility, is a travesty. I've said so for years. Most apparently decide to give it to their favorite charity. I'm somewhat surprised that Corey hasn't tried to do anything about this.

But that, of course, is not what these Democrat partisans are complaining about. That's not why Democrat Commonwealth's Attorney Paul Ebert has launched into his patented strategy of appointing a special prosecutor to attack ... er, "investigate" a political opponent shortly before an election.

They're complaining because Stewart sent out a mailer informing County households about the impending vote on a resolution to deny County "services" --- really, welfare --- to illegal immigrants.

And like cockroaches, they're scurrying when the light is shone on their deficiencies on this issue.

Craig Vitter at least has the honesty to put the text of the mailer up here.

Ben Tribbett is not quite so honest. He declares that Stewart has "used Prince William tax dollars to send out a mailing from the Prince William Republican Party." I usually expect more from Ben.

My expectations are lower for the boys and girls at Ranting Kids ... er, Raising Dough ... er, "Raising Kaine," and I'm never disappointed. They, too, claim that it's "illegal." A later post declares the mailing "clearly political."

Of course, the mailer is and does no such thing. It advocates no position; it was not targeted at GOP households (or any other households, for that matter); it doesn't say whether the recipient should support or oppose the measure. And as far as we can tell, the Prince William County Republican Party had utterly nothing to do with it. It simply informs County households --- all of them --- of an impending vote over a matter of exceeding public importance. Even an individual with the obviously limited intellectual ability of a far-Left Democrat in full partisan fervor should be able to figure it out.

Yet they persist in misrepresenting it. One hopes that Corey has enough sense to use his campaign funds to attack the lies and smears of the far Left.

As well as some RINOs who are violating their oaths to "support all of the Party's nominees for public office in the ensuing election" by attacking him for it.

Interestingly, boys and girls at Ranting Kids ... er, Raising Dough ... er, "Raising Kaine" have a post in the very same post atacking Corey in which a Democrat Party official complains about one of their own (who submitted his resignation from the County Democrat Committee) violating his oath by supporting Corey. One might expect to see a few words about Maureen Caddigan's violation of her oath by supporting Sharon Pandak, but of course, that would be too much like applying an objective standard objectively, and wouldn't serve the Democrat goal of power at any cost.

Wonder Why Chairman Sean Got Out Of Dodge?

Part or most of the answer is in today's Daily Fishwrap ... er, Potomac News.

Ann Coulter Announces Retirement?

Doug has a critique of her latest comments here.

I've always liked Coulter. Just finished her latest book, and laughed out loud many times. She interviewed me once, many years ago, regarding one of my cases, for a story she was writing. She's attractive, witty, sharp, and has the ability to reveal puncture far-Left pretensions almost like no other, revealing the nasty, foaming-at-the-mouth characteristics that they usually hide so well.

However, her comments here leave one wondering whether that attractive exterior and sharp mind harbors an anti-Semitism which would render her persona non grata in all respectable circles.

I truly hope not.

Bolling Monkey-Wrenches Blogosphere Speculation

Just received this from Randy Marcus, Lt. Governor Bill Bolling's spokesman:

STATEMENT OF LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR BILL BOLLING ON FIRST CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT VACANCY

RICHMOND - Recent media and blog articles have reported that Lieutenant Governor Bolling may be considering a possible candidacy for the United States Congress in the First Congressional District. Given these reports, Lieutenant Governor Bolling has issued the following statement:

“Over the past several days, I have received a great deal of encouragement from business and political leaders throughout Virginia and in Washington, DC to consider running for the United States House of Representatives in the First Congressional District. I am deeply flattered by their belief that I would make a good Congressman and serving in the United States Congress would be a tremendous honor.

“However, as Lieutenant Governor of Virginia and as President of the Senate of Virginia, my full attention is currently directed toward the upcoming General Assembly elections and doing everything I can to make certain that we retain our Republican majorities in the State Senate. Given the importance of the position I currently hold at this critical time in Virginia history, it would not be appropriate for me to consider running for any other political office.

“I am confident that the people of the First Congressional District will find a suitable candidate to replace Congresswoman Jo Ann Davis, who did an outstanding job representing the First District in Congress. My thoughts and prayers continue to be offered for Jo Ann’s husband, Chuck, and their sons. I wish them all the best during this difficult time in their lives.”

A good call by the Lt. Governor. Though I believe that he would make a fine Congressman, I always thought the suggestions that he might move to run for this seat were a little silly, anyway.