Captain Formica: 2nd Congressional District's Best Hope!

The folks in Congressional District 2 have a something to really cheer about this week.  Sunday's announcement that East Lyme First Selectman Paul Formica is going to run for Congress is great news for all Republicans involved in statewide politics (except Daria Novak and her five supporters).  This is a guy who knows how to win, and is respected and admired not just in CT02 but in all corners of Connecticut politics.

A hero's welcome for Paul Formica!
When his district needed him, he rose to the occasion!
And unlike most of the CT Republican Congressional Field - Formica knows how to win!

When Chris Coutu created a mess of things last week by dropping out of the Congressional Race to run for Edith Prague's soon-to-be up for grabs State Senate Seat, things looked pretty bleak.  Paul Formica's name along with a handful of others was buzzing around the CTGOP rumor mill as everyone waited for the formal announcement.  Formica was one of the first names floated out of the box as the best possible choice given his winning background, but former candidates like Grassroots East stalwart Doug Dubitsky also remained a possibility.  The biggest concern being discussed was not the absence of a candidate but the fear of seeing a three or four way race emerge which would have been counter-productive to finding a viable alternative candidate strong enough to knock Daria Novak from contention.

And to be clear on this point, it's not that Daria Novak is a bad person or that her heart isn't in the right place, it's just that just like Linda McMahon - Daria is not electable!  Daria is a bright lady but lacks the temperament or personality for the job.  Make no mistake, Novak is a bright lady, but belongs working in a back office somewhere crunching numbers or researching policy information, and not in the Halls of Congress in the public light.  If elected, she would only end up being ignored for her fringe positions, and divisive rhetoric. 

Paul Formica is a sharp contrast to Daria Novak because he comes comes with the total package: he's energetic, articulate, and knowledgeable, plus he's a long time successful small business owner (of Flanders Fish Market which he started with his late wife Donna nearly 30 years ago).  He also doesn't come with any controversy or baggage like Novak does; he's extremely upbeat, and doesn't walk around with a dark cloud over his head muttering to himself about the Constitution all day long.

Oh, and did I mention that Paul Formica knows how to win?  But did I also tell you that he knows how to win BIG?  Back in November, First Selectman Formica didn't just take it by a handful of votes, but rather stomped his opponent by a margin of 3,580-622 . If I were Joe Courtney, I'd place myself on notice because the walk in the park scenario just vanished!  If there's a candidate who could knock Mr. Tax and Spend off his liberal pedestal - it just might be Mr. Formica!  A Formica candidacy means a whole new ball game, baby!  And elevates the Second Congressional District to be the one with the best hope of bringing a Congressional seat back home to the CTGOP!

With the State Convention only a week away, Paul Formica has a lot of work to do to win the nomination so let's hope that Second Congressional District leaders do their part to make this happen, and make certain that nothing goes awry.

Hold Fast! Captain Formica is here to save the day (and the District) after Coutu abandoned ship! But its ok! He's got his propellers locked in forward, engine in full, one-eye patch on, sword raised, and his crew ready to go  - because it's going to be one wild ride!  The Connecticut Media should put CT02 as a seat in play because Captain Formica doesn't typically lose a fight!  Arrrrhhh!

So move over Jack Aubrey! For its on to victory with Captain Formica!! Hip-Hip-Huzzah!

I AM

THE KING

Other Links to peruse:

Paul Formica's East Lyme First Selectman's Page

Paul Formica on local issues, campaign website

State of Connecticut Liquor Law Testimony that mentions Paul Formica


This original blog entry can be found at http://www.thekingsview.blogspot.com

Disclaimer: This entry and others will be modified/updated at a future date. All entries are for the sole purpose of entertainment. This article does not imply endorsement of the candidate mentioned above, nor has this article been solicited for publication by any political candidate, campaign, or PAC

GOP Party Insiders already seeking "viable candidate" to replace Coutu in CT-02 Race

Based on the latest report published by The New London Day, State Representative, and current CT-02 Republican favorite, Christopher Coutu, might be switching gears to seek Democrat Edith Prague's soon-to-be vacated State Senate Seat.  Rumors are already swirling that GOP Party Insiders -  unhappy with the remaining option - are seeking a replacement candidate to take on incumbent Democrat Joe Courtney.

One high ranking GOP Party official told a large group of Republicans:

"Ultimately, Chris [Coutu] has to make his own decision. Selfishly speaking, I'd be thrilled to enlist him to help us take back the State State from Democrats.  However, if Chris does drop out [of the Congressional] Race, there is no way that we can allow Daria Novak be the Party Nominee to challenge Courtney in November." 

The comment has credibility given the weak support that Novak has received from Second District constituents in the early months of the race, and compounded by meager amount of money she's been able to raise over the last three quarters. 

Evidence shows that while the Second District is certainly winnable for the CTGOP, the chances of someone on the fringe like Novak gathering enough support to win is rather minuscule.  At present, the overwhelming majority of endorsements out of CT-02 have been in support of Chris Coutu; Novak has received only a sprinkling of support, and wasn't able to secure the endorsement her own Town Committee in Madison.  It probably doesn't help her cause that she's been embroiled in a major controversy over accusations of extreme plagiarism on the local patch blog; or her decision to battle back and forth with The Norwich Bulletin columnist Ray Hackett over trifle points on the matter which has only exacerbated her public relations crisis.

Of much worse concern is the question of the legitimacy of her self-proclaimed background, and credentials.  Novak tells everyone she meets that she was appointed by President Ronald Reagan, and served on Air Force One - a claim that neither CTGOP leaders or Washington-based insiders have been able to validate. 

Her only evidence of her Reagan-appointment comes from what she refers to as A Lasting Endorsement from Ronald Reagan (taken from in her campaign literature) dated January 6, 1989, and reads: 

"...Dear Daria: ... with your help, our administration has proven what no one need ever have doubted; the American Dream of Liberty and Justice for all is alive and well... through your efforts and sacrifice, you have truly made a difference in the daily lives of our fellow citizens.  On their behalf, and with my own heartfelt gratitude, I commend you for a job well done.  God Bless you always, and God Bless America. 
Sincerely,
Ronald Reagan"

Novak Campaign Literature

It's hard to speculate whether or not this letter was sent to all civil service employees who worked in Washington under Ronald Reagan, or not.  Heck, I see this kind of language at the bottom of many of the Washington-based think-tank fundraising letters which I receive from time to time.  Whatever the source, I have a hard time seeing it as a legitimate letter of endorsement from one of the most loved and respected Presidents of the last century.  If this letter was merely a thank you for service - it should be left to stand alone as such, and not used as a tool of propaganda on behalf of a Congressional Candidate.  Combined with the issue of plagiarism, is this activity a sign of pathological behavior or intentional deceit?  Well, I guess that's up to those living in the Second Congressional District to decide.  Good luck.

Moving Forward to Find a Candidate

Grass doesn't grow under the feet of the political opportunist subclass for long.  There are already a few names that have been floating around to challenge Novak at the upcoming State Convention - or at least start the ball rolling to begin a petition drive to get on the ballot in time for the August Primary.  Some of these names that have been raised as possible candidates include: the 2010 Republican Nominee and former News Anchor Janet Peckinpaugh, North Windham Attorney Doug Dubitsky, fomer CTGOP Vice-Chair Catherine Marx, and 2008 State Senate Candidate, and Retired Navy Officer Sean Sullivan.  I'm sure we could see a few more stars pop out of the woodwork.  No matter your political alliance, any of these choices might be preferred to a Novak Candidacy which is already Dead on Arrival.

One thing is for sure - if anyone thought the upcoming Republican State Convention was  going to be a one-dimensional, boring viewing of The Linda McMahon Fireworks Show, then it looks like you're in for a special treat!

I AM,

THE KING

This original blog entry can be found at http://www.thekingsview.blogspot.com



Disclaimer: This entry and others will be modified/updated at a future date. All entries are for the sole purpose of entertainment. This article does not imply endorsement of the candidate mentioned above, nor has this article been solicited for publication by any political candidate, campaign, or PAC.

The King Absolves Editor Ray Hackett

Just who was that masked journalist?

Article Update: The King has received the word and honor of  Norwich Bulletin Editor Ray Hackett that he was not aware of The King's View, or has ever read this blog until this morning.  Regarding similiarties between our two articles - evidently, in this case, great minds think alike.  The King's men will be keeping a close eye on Ray Hackett going forward due to general mistrust of the paid media.

Furthermore, additional information has been learned about the Daria Novak plagiarism issue which has given The King pause.  We will research the matter fully before before updating this piece of the article.  To be determined at a later date.

Original Article: (SNIPS indicate removal of paragraphs no longer applicable):

You might be surprised to read that unlike some of my good friends, I do not stay tuned to the political world 24/7.  Fact is, most of my time is either spent working, slaving on the castle grounds, or playing servant to those around me (although I might get a stern look from some on that final point).

By yesterday afternoon, I had no fewer than nine emails directing me to a column by Ray Hackett, a big-time editor of the Norwich Bulletin.  When I glanced at the title: "On Politics: Delegates still 'for sale' after rule rejection." I didn't think much of it except that I was happy that the story of Linda McMahon's disgraceful antics and the corruption within the CTGOP was being published by yet another regional Connecticut newspaper.  It's interesting how slow the Connecticut media is, as its taken about a week since my article, CTGOP Referendum on Integrity Fails, Linda McMahon Resumes Convention Buy, opened a few eyes within the social-media blogosphere when it was published on Friday, March 16 (and my follow up on March 23, 2012).

I was grocery shopping at Whole Foods yesterday, when my phone rang.  "Hey King, this guy Ray Hackett took your article and splashed in a few extra facts and published it as his own without giving you credit. And Rick Green tweeted it and he didn't give you credit either." 

I laughed. And dismissed the conversation as someone just trying to bust my horns.

Then he said, "No really, go home and print down both articles and put them side by side and look for yourself."  He then read a few paragraphs, and indeed I was taken aback.

So I went home, checked twitter, and read, and reread both articles, and I have to agree that the similarities between my piece and Hackett's are striking. 

Obviously, the elevation of the CTGOP Corruption story had much to do with Niel Vidgor's article which made a huge splash on Friday and caught the attention of voters outside of the Connecticut political establishment.  You can't question the reach of ctpoliticalreport's impact as an online hub for Connecticut news.  And, as well read as The King's View is, I'm happy that its readership is limited to only those who are political junkies, and know where to look for it.  I'm also happy that this is an unpaid gig because it alleviates the pressure of being obligated to any candidate or political alliance  - one of the the main reasons the CTGOP is in this mess in the first place. (wink, wink).

-SNIP-

It's funny because on Sunday morning, I tweeted high praise of both Rick Green and Ray Hackett for their insightful comments about the Shays-McMahon race.    Rick Green didn't retweet my initial column, but Daniella Altimari did when it first came out.  I should carefully point out that Ms. Altimari's tweet does not signify agreement with my column, as she always retweets opinions of conflicting viewpoints.

-SNIP-

I probably would not have cared about this had I not been egged on by a few of my friends who've been adamant that I set the record straight.  But they also brought to my attention that there is one additional element of this story that needs to be discussed.  Ray Hackett went out of his way to pick on CT02 Congressional Candidate Daria Novak in his piece: Novak Banned on Blogging because she didn't footnote or properly cite a few sources on her blog (oh please, the travesty!).

If you want to hear Daria's show,
you'll need a special receiver

And I have to say, that Daria Novak is a nice lady, and she's extremely passionate about her beliefs, but the poor lady is dangling by a thread in a race that has her challenger Chris Coutu beating her by a wide margin - and the guy isn't even in Connecticut to campaign.  -SNIP-  Leave the poor woman alone.  Let her blog and talk into her Fisher-Price Microphone.  In a month or so, it will all be over.  Let her have her moment in the sun, and just get off her back. For God-sakes, please!

-SNIP-


Readers - you pull down the articles, and you decide.  Whatever.

I AM

THE KING

This original blog entry can be found at http://www.thekingsview.blogspot.com
Disclaimer: This entry and others will be modified/updated at a future date. All entries are for the sole purpose of entertainment. This article does not imply endorsement of the candidate mentioned above, nor has this article been solicited for publication by any political candidate, campaign, or PAC.

Christopher Coutu: The incredible shrinking candidate

Someone sent me this tidbit and it was all too entertaining to not post it. 

It appears that State Representative Christopher Coutu is back in the press again.  A few weeks ago, Coutu was warned by The King that by putting up his Congressional signs all over the 2nd Congressional District that he was trampling on local races, and pissing off local candidates who are working day and night trying to keep their voters focused on their upcoming municipal contests set for November 8th of this year.

"But I'm telling ya... the snow is murder on dem dar signs."

So I wasn't surprised to see this letter to the editor by a voter who seems to have had it with Mr. Selfish.  The piece is almost funny because you can almost hear the angry tone of the writer who is clearly furious with Coutu's mojo.

But here's the kicker - the part that made me laugh out loud, and really has everyone wondering how this guy's little mind works - Coutu apparently acknowledges that he's upset several Republican Town Committees by putting up his signs too early, and when interviewed by the Norwich Bulletin on October 19th, they wrote:

Coutu said he will pull the signs after the municipal election season — to save wear and tear on them and to make sure the public gets a break. 

Gets a break? Are you kidding me?  So help me out - he's still driving all around the Second District this week plastering his name up all over place  - to do what?  To simply muck with local elections, confuse voters, and then AFTER elections are over, and the damage has been done - he'll drive around and take them down?  That doesn't make a bit of sense to anyone with a rational mind.  Of course, being Mr. Selfish - his only concern is with saving his precious signs from the bad weather. 

Is this guy for real?  It's one thing to think something this idiotic, but its another to actually say it! And say it to the Press!

Well, at least local candidates know where they stand with Mr. Coutu.  Simply amazing!

I know it seems like I'm coming down harshly on this guy - alleged to be one of our own, but since he obviously only cares about Numero Uno, he deserves a good arse-kicking.

And Coutu - if you can stop chewing gum, and stop shadow-boxing in the Legislative Chamber for a moment, I have a bit more advice for you.  If you are going to run on the big stage - please try to get your story straight.  I mean, really.

In the article above you told the Norwich Bulletin that you've "had [your] eye on the U.S. House and the seat held by Democrat Joe Courtney since 2006.  But then in your blog article in the Haddam-East Haddam Patch, you say you planned on running just under a year ago after your daughter was born.

Now I don't mean to minimize the incredibly wonderful way that you're caring for your daughter (and she is beautiful and a walking miracle to behold) but if you are going to use her as a prop, and as your inspiration for your run for Congress - then for Godsakes - stick to that one story.  If on the other hand, you want to run because the sight of Joe Courtney representing Eastern Connecticut makes you sick to your stomach - then say that.  But please - get your story straight, and don't deviate from the script.

The people over in the Second District will have to make their own decision on who to vote for in the primary next year - whether it's this Coutu Character or Daria Novak, or some other candidate waiting in the wings to announce.  Whatever you do, look at the total package - and remember that decency and courtesy do matter because it's a sign on how this person will actually represent you in Washington.  And least not forget - the ability to articulate a position beyond three staggered sentences is going to be very important when going up against a professional liar like Joe Courtney. 

As far as I'm concerned, Joe Courney and his corrupt UConn-Mansfield Acorn crack-squad stole the Second Congressionial Seat illegally from Rob Simmons. It's high time that the Second Congressional seat came back home to the GOP where it belongs.  It would be nice to see at least some Connecticut residents represented properly in Washington in 2013.

Stop the selfish antics. Let's get it together.

I AM

THE KING

This original blog post can be read at http://www.thekingsview.blogspot.com