Connecticut Convention Hell - Republicans should hang their heads low

The Republican Party boasts of being the party of principle and open process. Yet on Friday night at the 2010 Connecticut Republican Party Convention, I and many others witnessed behavior that brought shame on the party, its officials, and its Chairman - Chris Healy. The Linda McMahon campaign along side of State Central officials worked endlessly to threaten, intimidate, and force delegates to switch sides and support Linda McMahon over Rob Simmons. Many of these delegates switched from Peter Schiff to Linda McMahon after it was clear that Schiff was unable to barely get to a quarter of the support needed for a win.


Moreover, the behavior of the hack convention security team under direction from State Central Operatives were hawks about throwing Simmons election team members off the floor or impeding their ability to talk to delegates, meanwhile Linda McMahon herself and her army crawled all over the convention floor as convention security simply looked the other way. I watched one of the Simmons team members being harassed by the Chris Healy, pro-McMahon forces, and out of frustration he turned to the hack, pointed to the three McMahon team members standing behind the hack, and said, "*uck You, you're letting those [McMahon] guys run the floor and sending the Simmons team off. Your showing your biased support for McMahon's team! What the hell is this?"


Watching it all up front and close, I watched several people upset about being threatened that they would lose their seat on their town committee, and I saw one guy being told that if he switched his vote to Simmons that "he'd never be involved in politics again, and he'd live to regret it." If I hadn't had my wits about me, I would probably exploded and would've grabbed the guy threatening the delegate by the neck and thrown him against the wall. The reek of Stalinism, the smell of corruption, and the image of Chicago-style bullying filled the convention air. It was nauseating. Simply putrid!


As I watched people turn their votes over to McMahon's team, I also couldn't help notice the clear support and shrill of excitment in the voice of the announcer at the microphone. One delegate turned and said, "My God, they are cheering Linda on from the Podium. I've never seen anything like it." Yeah, well me either. The bias was clear - the crack security team pushing Simmons team members off the floor, at the podium with the wild cheerleading of switches to Linda, and in the itimidation by State Central stormtroopers. This is Republicanism?


As most readers know, I'm not a fan of Linda McMahon, and do not intend to support her even if she were to ever win the Republican Primary. During most elections, I support candidates who's positions either mirrors my own views, or supports a particular hot button position that I think outweighs the rest of the issues that may be on the table. Party hacks (and these people are on both sides of the aisle) believe that regardless of the outcome, we are simply supposed to fall in line with the Republican candidate at the end of the cycle and blindly support them in order to make sure that the opposition party doesn't take the seat. But does such an act of blind loyalty mean anything if the manner in which the Republican candidate violated the basic principles of Republicanism or fair play?


Connecticut Republicans are most known for being referred to as RINOs (Republicans in Name Only) by the majority of Republicans in other states. Today, most of Connecticut's Republicans arrogantly believe that Conservatism - even common sense Reagan Conservatism is reactionary or out of touch with modern American despite the fact that its principles are built on common sense positions. I raise this because its was clear at this year's convention that the Republican Machine supported moderate and liberal Republicans over their conservative counterparts (trying to push Janet Peckenpaugh over Daria Novak is a perfect example). Many of these candidates don't even have a Republican record, or have a clear record of funneling money and support to Democrats in the past. And some, like Janet Peckenpaugh, who made the claim to not even remember who she supported in 2008. These are people that CT State Central pushes in our faces - unprincipled, convictionless, money windbags. Ideology means nothing to these Healy-types.


Linda McMahon, for example, gave thousands to Democrats over the years to defeat Republicans, including giving money to Joe Courtney to successfully defeat Rob Simmons last time around. Given this paradox, how on Earth could a Republican delegate even consider giving Linda McMahon their support? It's said that people have short memories, but I think they just lack principle.


Getting back to the results - I suppose some of it was the big checks Linda wrote to RTCs in need, and some of it was just people getting caught up in the frenzy of wanting to put a unknown entity who runs a wrestling business and promises "something different" in play as their nominee. But its the threats and intimidation that I can't go for. Now how much of each element comprised the nomination, we don't know right now. But any of the latter is shameful, and I witnessed enough of it to make me want to either work for Rob Simmons in a primary setting, or vote third party in the General. (something I've actually never done before).

There is a reason only thirteen states use this rediculous forum for nominating their politicians. Last nights jury-riging event is the reason why this concept should be stopped. It's time to go to the primary system and leave all the decisions to the general public; not a handful of grimy people pulling strings in the back.

Lastly, I do want to discuss the Simmons campaign. I'm sure I might get a few angry messages after this posting but as they say - it is what it is. I have to say that I agree with many delegate's criticism of the Simmons camp for its lack of organization and overall lack of activity on the floor of the convention. My own personal experience left me with a bit of a sour taste. On the day of the convention, I called and volunteered to come down and help out. I was told they would be happy to have me help in a variety of ways, just to come down. After arriving in the afternoon, it took hours to finally connect with people who were running all over the place trying to get organized. I spoke with several campaign folks who weren't able to find me ANYTHING to do. Then I was told to come back at six o'clock to help with the "running". Even during the chaos of the convention, when Rob Simmons needed his staff doing their part, they didn't find any work to do for a large number of us to do. There we were, about seven of us wearing Simmons t-shirts, standing against the back wall, and given absolutely nothing to do.

On the basis of pure organization, it probably would have been more unbelieveable if Rob Simmons had actually won. That would have meant that the Simmons camp had done their homework in advance of the convention, and the delegates were locked up. Well, I guess that wasn't the case. My thinking is that they were as disorganized on Friday as they have been all along. How much Rob Simmons knows about this the lack of eptitude and the overall mess is unknown to me. But an honest Simmons campaign staff can only point inward at itself for creating such a mess, and allowing Linda McMahon to run a veteran candidate into the ground on a night that based on experience and ability, should have been his victory to savor.

As for where Rob was during all of this. I'm not sure. If he was on the convention floor (like Linda McMahon was) I sure didn't see him. Sort of disappointing.

Vote Rob Simmons for U.S. Senate

I'm sure this essay won't make me popular with some of the tea party folks or the libertarian members of the Republican party, but the best I can do is explain why I am voting for Rob Simmons on August 10th.

As everyone who reads this column knows, I supported Rob Simmons before he suspended his campaign shortly after the circus of a Republican State Convention. For all the reasons, outlined in my previous essay, Rob Simmons, is simply the best qualified individual to represent Republicans and Connecticut constituents. Rob has the legislative background, military service, job creation expertise, and temperament to handle the job. No on the job training will be required. What some people deem as "Washington Insider" I believe is simply background and experience to navigate the complexities of the Halls of Congress and get the job done.

I've discussed a lot about how I'm no fan of Linda McMahon and the fact that she's not qualified for a role much bigger than state representative, let alone running any major agency. She is full of baggage and evidence shows that her bankruptcy and wrestling background is an automatic disqualifier in most minds. Linda is shark meat to the Democrat-Blumenthal machine which would chew her up and spit her out in record time. Linda is better off in the pro wrestling arena than in Washington. And we'd be all better off for her departure from the race to take the elements of stupidity and nonsense which would engulf any attempts at issue-based rationale discussion and debate.

As you also know, after Rob Simmons suspended his campaign, I opted to give Peter Schiff a good look. I felt that Peter was also a victim of some unethical antics by Chris Healy and his drones who worked tooth and nail to eliminate the possibility of Peter receiving a fair hearing by delegates. The baloney with not showing his video, cutting him off, and doing everything they could do to eliminate his voice was clear corruption that will be forever identified with the legacy of Connecticut Chairman Chris Healy. And face it, I was supporting Rob Simmons at the State Convention, so my view on the Schiff situation was obviously neutral. The fix was in and Linda was pushed to endorsement - chair leading and all from the Healy machine (well financed by the McMahon campaign).

After the convention, Peter Schiff never got going. He ran a very incompetent campaign - outright refusing to leave comfortable surroundings down in Southwest and Western Connecticut. His visits to the Connecticut Second Congressional Distinct were few and far between. Peter had weeks to get his act together and travel the state to get his message out, and had he done what any competent candidate would have done - he probably could have done well, and eliminated the need for Rob Simmons to get back in the race.

The feedback I heard at Town Committee meetings ranged from "Who is Peter Schiff" to "Why won't he come to the second district". Peter blew it. I'm convinced that Rob Simmons withdrawal from the race gave Peter the opportunity to come in and make his case to the anti-McMahon voters. So, instead of doing this, he did nothing. He put up a few videos on youtube and attended rallies close to home where the money is, and a few in Hartford County, but never traveled to the poorer districts of Connecticut to hear the pain of jobless residents in places where job creation is needed most. Moreover, he never even bothered to go to Norwich, a very large Tea Party town; he never took the opportunity to energize his own local base; these folks spent hours and days dedicated to his grassroots cause. In the end, Peter Schiff rewarded them with NOTHING.

Moreover, Peter Schiff owes an apology to all those folks who ran around collecting signatures and putting up signs (some bought at their own expense). His failure to act cost him. He will be lucky to get a third of the vote. Peter Schiff is the poster child for failure based on his own arrogance and ignorance. Either or both, it doesn't matter. As one voter said to me "if he can't even show up in our district during the campaign, how is he going to represent us once elected into office." Point taken. Point accepted.

I'm sure I sound a little bitter about Peter Schiff's lack of dedication to his own cause. But this happens in many campaigns. Campaigning is a full time gig, best left managed by experienced people who understand how to get the message out, and how to make even the most dismal of candidates appear engaged and accessible.

All this brings me back to Rob Simmons.

Simmons is getting flack for withdrawing and reappearing late in the game. But when you think about it, it's ridiculous to hear Linda McMahon complain about it when she has the capacity to spend $16 million dollars on TV, mailings and to buy Town Committees for their support. Be happy that Rob Simmons didn't go the dirty route and that we see our US Senate primary become like what you see in the the Malloy/Lamont or Fedele/Foley TV drama. None of this endless attack ad garbage is appealing to constituents. The result is we know even less about these four than we did before it became a mud slinging contest.

Rob Simmons isn't charismatic; He's capable. Its not a surprise to me that the Hartford Courant gave him their endorsement even with controversy of his early withdrawal. The endorsement was based on a holistic view of his past accomplishments and temperament. Obviously, Connecticut is best represented by Simmons' character, independence, experience and dedication. Rob Simmons cares about his constituents. Few people question his motives and ability to do the right thing even if its unpopular. There are a few cries of RINO, but that term is just an empty name-calling tactic used by opponents during campaigns to try to elevate their candidate to a higher position than they are capable of attaining on their own merit. Yes, Rob isn't right on everything, but who cares, he's electable, and he's right where it counts.

On August 10th, let's give Rob Simmons the nod. He's the best opportunity for an issue based debate without the circus or phony rhetoric. And based on every poll, he's the GOPs only realistic options for defeating Richard Blumenthal in November, and keeping Obama's government expansion in check.

A final note on Rob Simmons

Like most of you, I was sitting at work on Monday when I heard the news that Congressman Rob Simmons had quit the race for US Senate. I think it took me by surprise because it seemed only forty-eight hours prior, that Rob was telling a select few of us in his post-convention war room that he intended to fight on to the bitter end. The shenanigans in the convention hall seemed to reinvigorate him to the point where he said he would not allow (and I'm paraphrasing) the night's backroom deals and payoffs to stand; that he would take his case to the voters through a primary. Out of respect, I leave his private comments at only this, since it was a closed door discussion and what I've posted here he also pretty much said publicly.

I have to say I'm not necessarily bitter about it. And I'm not going to belly-ache about the state of his campaign in this essay (that's water under the bridge now). But I do believe that at that moment, Rob did want to take his case to the voters and not give up the race. But whatever happened between Friday at 10pm and Monday at 9 am, altered his viewpoint and he reluctantly withdrew. I do not know what the main rationale was behind the decision, and I'm not close enough to the man or his family to ask. It very well could have been the complexity of trying to overcome the millions of dollars that Linda McMahon was willing to invest in her own campaign (she had already blown $16 million on the primary), or maybe it was the anger at betrayal by party kingpins who were busy colluding with McMahon cronies, and pulling strings behind the curtain, or maybe he just didn't have the energy or fire to go the distance in what clearly would have been a blood-bath of a primary. Maybe it was all three plus a number of other things that haven't been disclosed. I don't know.

In a way, you have to appreciate that Rob Simmons took the initiative to stop. Just stop. We know he could have gone the distance with a lackluster campaign and in a half-hearted manner just to make a go of it - but for what? That would have been far worse for him, his family and for supporters. He did the noble thing and made a call to end his campaign. By this gesture, Rob put the public first.

Rob Simmons spent a majority of his life in public service. He served his country admirably for nineteen months in Vietnam, continued military service and rose through the ranks through merit and dedication, and worked for years keeping American safe as an Intelligence Officer in the CIA. He has served as council to Presidents and leaders on foreign policy and military affairs directly and indirectly for most of his life. As a Congressman, he fought tooth and nail for Veterans. And was a relentless advocate for Connecticut, and in particular worked night and day to keep the Groton Submarine base open, and by that - keeping thousands of Connecticut residents and companies like Electric Boat who rely on projects and contracts - on the job. Linda McMahon may have created 500 wrestling jobs (so she says), but Rob Simmons saved 500,000 Connecticut jobs which is a matter of fact that cannot be denied. And the people in the second district, and in Connecticut are grateful.

I hope this isn't the last we hear from Rob Simmons, or his family. (One day I'm looking forward to working on fiery Jane Simmons' campaign!). Rob has the potential to offer so much more, and it would be unrealistic to imagine that someone isn't going ask a man of his caliber and experience, cares and says what he thinks, who isn't afraid to buck the trend or party line, to take part in some future public service endeavor. He's a brilliant resource just waiting to be tapped.

Congressman Simmons - Rob, if I may - thanks for your service and patriotism. Thanks for making Connecticut strong. History will show that you were one of our best leaders during some tough times. Until that next time, I wish you and your family Godspeed!

The last thing Connecticut needs is Linda McMahon

During his 1966 campaign for the Governorship of California, Ronald Reagan once said, ""Thou shalt not speak ill of any fellow Republican." But what if that so-called Republican was a new convert to the GOP, and who only recently gave a huge donation of $10,000 to the Democrat Congressional Committee in 2006. What if that same person donated large sums to Democrats directly to unseat incumbent Republicans Nancy Johnson and Rob Simmons during the 2006 race? Would that person really be a true and loyal Republican? I think not.

Well meet Linda McMahon, our brand new United States Senate candidate alleging Republican credentials. Famous for her appearances and ownership of World Wrestling Entertainment, which beams into households around the world each week feigning entertainment and teaching our kids to punch, kick and hit each other, demean women, scream at the camera, and do all kinds of things that McMahon claims is less violent than the news, and merely falls under the category of PG rating.

Ok, so granted she claims she's donated more to Republicans than Democrats overall, but what she might have called smart business, normal people call - lack of conviction and simply hedging your bets. And when the people of Connecticut needed job growth and stability the most, Linda was working to undermine pro-business Republicans in favor of high tax and spend Democrats who she suddenly tells us in her latest TV ads - are hurting Connecticut's business climate. The fact is that Linda McMahon worked to unseat good people like Representative Rob Simmons, who fought tooth and nail to keep Groton Sub-base open so that jobs would stay in Connecticut's second district, and not simply be moved to Virginia or elsewhere.

If I didn't know any better, this might be right out of the WWE storybook; she couldn't have written a better Heel-Face turn than the one she's been performing over the last three years.

McMahon has never showed any political aspirations having never bothered to run in any local city or Connecticut State political races. She has occasionally made appearances to defend Pro Wrestling against family organizations that have taken issue with the violent impact wrestling has on children, but little else of consequence which directly impacts the creation of actual policy on a state level.

But any wolf can smell blood. With President Barack Obama's job performance in the tank nationally, and Connecticut U.S. Senator Christopher Dodd limping from poll to poll from self-inflicted wounds caused by his own egotistical power grab involving real estate deals and other typical political cronyism, Linda McMahon suddenly found an opportunity of a lifetime. Just like the packaging she does for her WWE characters, McMahon remade herself into Republican (she could have easily put on the costume and persona of a Democrat - which some argue might have been an easier path), and starting running commercials about the ills of those in power making life impossible for those in Connecticut. The very people she donated huge sums of money to get elected in the first place - by the way!

What also irks me is the way someone completely uninvolved in state politics finds support in less than meritable ways. Linda McMahon has been writing check after check to local Connecticut town committees with the obvious intent to buy votes or if that is too strong for you -- let's just go with -- influence votes. Some votes which might be oh so valuable at say a ... Republican State Convention. Hmmm?

And shame on Connecticut GOP Chairman Christopher Healy, a man who has no loyalty and no shame. While saying nice things about Rob Simmons on the one hand, its been widely reported that Healy's wife, Suzan Bibisi, is now on Linda McMahon's payroll as a campaign consultant making over $100K to help defeat Rob Simmons and Peter Schiff. I hope Rob Simmons was able to pause long enough to take the knife out of his back. But I'm sure the Healy's just see it as just - business. And after all, I'm sure they needed the money. Oh yeah, all of us understand. A Republican State Chairman that puts his personal interest first and the rest of the party in the gutter. Sorry Healy, we don't buy that malarkey that your wife is her own person. Your reputation is seriously damaged as we watch you stradle your loyalty between two camps - just like Linda McMahon - hedging your bets. It shows you are just another individuals without conviction. Another reason why Republicans do so well in Connecticut. What did Rob Simmons due to deserve such loyalty from his own State Chairman?

Much like her predecessor, P.T. Barnum, McMahon can read a good opportunity and recognizes that "there is a sucker born every minute", which is why there are people like WDRC's Brad Davis fawning all over McMahon for his 10 minutes in the spotlight. Davis, who spends hours on his morning radio program reciting facts and figures to his listeners seems to lost sight of the McMahon track record on her donations, handling of campaign spending (which as of this writing may be questioned by state or Federal authorities), or her own voting experience. One has to wonder what size check Mr. Davis received for suddenly becoming ignorant of the facts and jumping on the McMahon pay-wagon.

We all know that Rob Simmons doesn't have 30 million dollars plus to buy votes, run commercials, and hire long-time friends and associates out from under Linda McMahon. But at least Mr. Simmons has a record of hard work and accomplishment in Connecticut's second district. And maybe he isn't the perfect conservative, but he has a solid record of many other patriotic accomplishments like 37 years of military service, working as a member of the Intelligence Community, and fighting for Connecticut jobs - all which dwarf the running of a circus act that doesn't even bother to provide health insurance to its employees.

Connecticut Republicans - the ball is really in your court. Ask the hard questions about Linda McMahon, and her true background - as a business owner, as an employer, as a voter. Read how her employees see her. Watch how she influences town committees with her checkbook and see how she's been rebuffed by Republican Town Committees like the one in Preston which sets the standard, and who prefer to make their own decisions without a pay for patronage scheme.

The bottom line is very clear. Republicans must chose a candidate who is consistent by their record and by their actions. Connecticut Republicans - principle and convictions do still matter. Let's show Linda McMahon that our votes are not for sale. Let's show her that there are more important things than the almighty dollar.

Watch this space for more on Linda McMahon. And on a hard-working gentleman that truly deserves Connecticut's support to become the next legitimate United States Senator from the State of Connecticut - Mr. Rob Simmons.

Rick Torres cuts a deal with Aniskovich; Simmons reported to be next

Not that Rick Torres was ever a factor in the Connecticut GOP Chairman's race, but it appears he's cut a deal with Wild Bill Aniskovich, and has endorsed him for CTGOP Chair.

CT Republicans will need to rethink
the slippery slope they are on
before its too late

The next story simmering on the front burner is that everyone is waiting for Rob Simmons to send out a formal communication over the next few days endorsing Bill Aniskovich.  This won't be big surprise since Simmons is eager to run for U.S. Senate and wants to cut a deal that doesn't permit Linda McMahon to have her henchman running the next Connecticut Republican State Convention.

I still believe this is a foolish move on Simmons' part.  His assumption that Aniskovich wouldn't eventually follow the money and stab him in the back is by far not a foregone conclusion.  Simmons, instead of being above the fray is opting to choose sides - quite a gamble for someone who has so much more to lose than gain.  Simmons is best to keep his mouth shut, be neutral, and avoid all entanglements during this process.  But as of this writing, it looks as though he won't thus signing a suicide pact for the remainder of his political career. Tisk, Tisk.

I further expect that Doug Hageman, who is seeking a consolation prize for his valiant effort will join Wild Bill's alliance with his handful of votes.  And everyone knows that Simmons and Hageman are good friends in and out of politics.  Should a deal be struck, Hageman would likely secure badly-needed employment under an Aniskovich regime.

This move will result in a shock-wave of realignment within the Connecticut Republican Establishment. Former foes may find themselves lowering their swords against each other and banding together in order to defeat a far more dangerous enemy to the future of the Republican Party - Bill Aniskovich (of course, that's only if they're smart enough to do so).  Wild Bill's letter to State Central Members last week created a firestorm that is continuing to spread at a rapid pace. 

Besides the concern with turning the Party over to a Chairman with several known improprieties, the Aniskovich strategy seeks too surrender control of State Central from the public body politic of (mostly) citizen representatives to leaders within the Connecticut Legislature.  You would think that after this last session, Republican leaders in the Statehouse would want to straighten out their own caucuses before trying to seize control of Republican State Central.  Moreover, its said that Derby-Orange-Woodbridge Representative Themis Klarides, who is always embroiled in controversy (not to be taken as a compliment), is being fronted as a possible Vice Chairman under Wild Bill.

What will be interesting is how the other candidates will ultimately react to the Aniskovich surge, and the outcome.  Will Art Scialabba work with Justin Clark, and/or Catherine Marx (and possibily Al Alper) to form a counter alliance?  Or will they all remain independent, frozen by their own egos, and simply become crushed under by the Statehouse-run machine?   And how does Pauline Kezer fit into the mix?  Will she join the contest and siphon off Aniskovich supporters, or will her entry into the race have the unintended consequence of further eroding the opposition against him?  And has anyone even seen the rules that Chris Healy is using to preside over this great big giant nightmare?

One thing is for certain, Joe Visconti, the de facto leader of the Connecticut Tea Party (via Liberty Unplugged) is watching all of this very carefully, and is likely to reject any Chairman who would abandon key positions on social issues, have a background of unethical (if not illegal behavior), or continue the failed practices of Chris Healy.  My own fear (and for disclosure I am NOT a Tea Party member) is that Visconti might work to set up a third party thus creating additional hardships for the Connecticut Republican Party to overcome resulting in further setbacks the CTGOP. 

And this, my friends, is a MAJOR concern that others should start to take an interest in.

Ok, enough for today...

I AM

THE KING


For the record, the following letter was sent out today by Bill Aniskovich to his followers:


June 12, 2011


Connecticut Republican State Central Committee:


For the past many weeks I have attempted to line up support in my run for Chairman of the State Republican Party. I am honored to have had the opportunity to get to know the other candidates better and I am especially happy at the opportunities to share my personal philosophy with many state residents.

Additionally, I think that the process has ultimately given the state party a clear opportunity to choose among many capable people who have offered themselves up to scrutiny. All of the candidates would bring unique and valuable capabilities had any one of us been able to serve. Although I felt deep in my heart that I offered an especially unique set of abilities that would have been useful to a chairman, there ultimately can be only one. In my analysis I recognized that I could not harness the necessary support to win.

However, I did spend a good amount of time accessing the other candidates and in my opinion Bill Aniskovich has a skill-set that is most competent. Bill’s legislative experience is unmatched. Bill has an exceptional track record in fundraising. Bill is a conservative. This fact alone will allow the state Republican Party to reach out to disaffected folks who feel the Party has lost its way. Bill understands my contention that Republicans have ignored minorities, the poor and urban dwellers. Bill also recognizes that we have also ignored rural communities and that we must never again ignore our natural constituencies.

If I were to think of what it is that impressed me most about Bill Aniskovich I would say it is Bill’s heart-felt and genuine sincerity. Bill will be proactive to improve the things we’ve done right and repair the things we’ve done wrong. I look forward to working hard with a person with these qualities. I believe that in time Bill will bring our great party together and that the process of rebirth begins as soon as Bill is installed as our new Chairman.

It is my sincere pleasure to endorse Bill Aniskovich for the position of Chairman of the Republican Party in our great state of Connecticut. I encourage my supporters to vote for Bill on June 28th.

Sincerely,

Rick

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

Help Peter Schiff to get on the Republican Ballot

The Republican Party is supposed to be the party of ideas. The understood, often toted phrase is that the Republican Party is the Government Of the People. So given that our recent Connecticut Republican Convention seemed to be much less about ideals and substance, and more about backroom politics and last minute deals to make name recognition far more important than political positions and historic donating and voting records (with a few notable exceptions which I will get to in later posts), that its high time to work toward reminding our Republican State Party Chairman Chris Healy and his cronies that just because he and a select few have lost their way, doesn't mean the rest of us are unprincipled.

The Linda McMahon campaign is nothing more than a farce. Which isn't to say that its not a well-run, well-financed operation - managed in part by ideologically empty people like our own State Chairman, Chris Healy, and his wife - both who are already on track to make six figures from this venture. Linda McMahon is nothing more than a Pro Wrestling promoter who has donated lots of cash to Democrats (including liberal Democrat Joe Courtney who unseated Rob Simmons during the last election). She has also donated to Rahm Emmanual and other Democrat Kingpins. You can learn a lot about people by who they support and donate to. And then you can get into the background of the culture contamination that Linda McMahon's business, the WWE. See this article here by National Review's Rich Lowry for a clear picture on what kind of nonsense Linda McMahon claims gives her the right to represent Connecticut Residents in the U.S. Senate.

So with Rob Simmons dropping out, the Connecticut State Party would love you to think that its game over and you don't have anywhere else to turn. Well, I suppose they are temporarily correct since they worked so hard at making certain the rules for getting on the primary ballot worked against Party-outsiders who were a threat to their end game: McMahon standing alone unchallenged to face Richard Blumenthal.

So despite the hurdle manufactured by State Central, Republicans and conservative activists are working around the clock to get Businessman Peter Schiff on the Republican Primary ballot. The desire is to collect 12,000 names - much more than the reported 8,000 which are needed to formally be certified to allow Peter to enter the Republican race. The energy around the Schiff campaign has been a breath of fresh air to watch. It's good to see a candidate excited about the issues, and not just run ads about their opponents. It's great to see a candidate who understands economics and the issues without requiring a political hack whispering in their ear to tell them what to say or think on every issue. Peter is energetic, educated and ready to go. No on the job training needed.

From a converted Simmons supporter's standpoint, I think the move to Peter Schiff is a logical one on so many levels. First you have to take into account the fact that above all else, we do know a great deal about Peter Schiff's economic positions through his commentaries on YouTube and dozens of appearances on a large number of cable television business shows - which took place long before he announced as a Senatorial Candidate. So, there is no self-invention or new conversion to his principles. Peter's positions are are out there on the web for you to view and digest, and judge on their own merit. (And in fairness, make sure you search Linda McMahon on YouTube so you contrast the difference for yourself).

Second, Peter has run an issue-based campaign from the start of his bid, unlike Linda McMahon who has sent out very derogatory and misleading pieces on Rob Simmons voting record - mostly limited to the Cap and Trade issue. McMahon's campaign, unlike Schiff's has been devoid of her political positions on most issues and has offered little if nothing in the way of substance for voters to judge her by. "Something Different" and wanting to create jobs for Connecticut are taglines from just about every politician regardless of position sought or party affiliation. Linda has spent $16 million dollars telling us plenty about how Rob Simmons voted, and not much about how she intends to vote or change Washington.

Peter Schiff is a well respected economist with little baggage except that his positions are well known, whereas Linda McMahon has lots of baggage (much of it left to be exposed) and is the preferred opposition candidate of Richard Blumenthal and the Democrat Party - this is evidenced by the large number of Democrat pollsters, general polls, and public comments by Democrat officials. Clear evidence of this, is that after Linda McMahon captured the Republican Nomination, Richard Blumenthal's approval ratings shot up and he overtook Linda McMahon in a head-on comparison by a much larger margin than anyone expected.

Fact is that as an unknown, unqualified entity, a Linda McMahon election to the U.S. Senate might be considered counter-beneficial to Connecticut's interests at large. McMahon, who has never held elected office would be wandering aimlessly around the halls of Congress trying to get herself acclimated with the climate and Government process whereas - even Richard Blumenthal would be better positioned to advocate for Connecticut given his relationships and comprehension of Governmental process. This isn't to say I'm supporting Blumenthal, but simply pointing out the facts as they stand, and those understood by Connecticut residents. Being a complete outsider as Linda refers to herself, is not all that in a serious role such as U.S. Senator where qualification and navigation matter to get things accomplished.

I recognize that this article is rather late considering that all signatures must be certified by June 8th. But its not too late to get up and do something, even if it means adding your own name to the required 8,000 that Peter Schiff needs to be part of our Republican process. I've sought to collect about a dozen names by petition, so I feel that I've done my part to the extent possible - surely a drop in a bucket, but its a bucket where every drop counts.

You can go here to learn more about Peter Schiff. And if you'd like to find out how to add your name to a petition in your area, call the Schiff campaign at 203-874-6880.

Please don't let Chris Healy, State Central, and Linda McMahon limit the open process. Let's put Peter Schiff on the ballot, and see a few issue-based debates, and then decide who is best qualified to represent Connecticut Republicans in the general election against Richard Blumenthal. Please give Peter Schiff the support he needs.

Aniskovich Melt-Down

Less than 24-hours after Wild Bill Aniskovich anointed himself the front-runner in the CTGOP Chairman's race, he finds himself dangling by a thread - an inch from being forced to withdraw due to public exposure of his numerous past improprieties. And he's likely never to recover. 

This is the sign placed just down
the street from Aniskovich's home
No radiation suit can protect even
his closest friends

And you know what's worse?  He's caused his new-found friends serious collateral damage to their reputations and respectability within the Connecticut Republican Party.  The five candidates who were conned to withdraw (Scialabba, Torres, Clark, Campbell, and Hageman) all drafted letters to their supporters begging them to support Aniskovich.  Bill Aniskovich is a great leader... Let's all come together for the good of the Party. Yadda Yadda. So tell us boys - how's it working out so far?  Everybody feelin' good?  You guys still cranking "Don't Stop Believing" on your CD Players? 

Before I get into the details, I need to point out that all of this embarrassment could have have been avoided if people took a step back and looked at Bill Aniskovich's background, and didn't buy his I found the Lord shtick.  Last week I posted a number of links to Aniskovich articles cited his scandalous background which were raised by the mainstream media late this afternoon.  "It's just Inside Baseball!" You cried, and now some of you are crying your eyes out - thinking what could have been if you only stayed in the race and didn't buy into the phony hype.

Earlier last week (I'm told), Joe Visconti posted a note to all State Representatives who signed Aniskovich's letter of endorsement, warning them to retract their endorsement before the media picked up on Aniskovich's checkered past.  In humor, du-Count Visconti posted a picture of a nuclear bomb, and ironically, that's exactly what Republicans are experiencing today.  The problem is that its not just about his past, but pattern of distrust continues - he also lied to a reporter last week during an interview claiming that he wasn't a State Contractor.  Luckily, the savvy reporter, Kevin Rennie, wasn't easily fooled having served with Wild Bill in the Legislature, and conducted an investigation of his own.  Not that it was too hard to pick up the telephone and the Connecticut State Election Official.

I can hear it now:  "The Lord told me to lie to Kevin Rennie"

For those who haven't caught up, here are few links for you to read.  I posted these via twitter earlier today:

Here is the article dealing with Wild Bill's Stonington debacle.

Here is an article from the Hartford Courant which basically calls on Aniskovich to quit his job at the Stonington Institute or resign from the State Senate based on his improprieties and conflicts.


Wild Bill's damage control center.
Doh!!!

Read Jon Lender's article on the Stonington Institute as is relates to Wild Bill.

And finally here is Kevin Rennie's piece that pretty much incorporated the detail from the articles tweeted earlier today.

The situation is so bad that Aniskovich got shelled by the Democrats today in this Press Release. Normally, I wouldn't quote the Democrats but this goes to show you exactly what we would be in for under an Aniskovich Chairmanship.  The ballots aren't even cast and they're ready and waiting to put the Republican's through the political wood-chipper.  Enough is enough.

There are two other losers from this misadventure.  First, Justin Clark has been telling everyone that he's supporting Aniskovich for the benefit of Tom Foley - "I don't want to screw this up for Tom", he told State Central Members. Yeah well Good Old Tom has egg on his face today after learning who he's really making deals with now.

And the second loser is Rob Simmons.  While Simmons cracked a deal with Aniskovich over  Shrimp and fish sticks in Mystic this week, I wonder if any of the controversies surrounding the Stonington Institute (the hometown of Simmons) ever crossed his mind.  Or was he simply worried about getting a fair hearing for his next Senatorial bid?  Not that it will matter.  Simmons is now tainted, and his prospect of ever surviving the convention process is bleak.  Linda McMahon outplayed Simmons once again, this time by keeping quiet and staying out of the limelight.  Tough luck there.

Once Aniskovish leaves (or is abandoned by his supporters), Republicans will have the opportunity to choose a legitimate leader who is both ethical and can set a vision for Connecticut's Republican Party.  The five fools who pledged allegiance to Bill Aniskovich should NOT be given a second chance.  Instead Republicans should look at the courageous few who didn't bow to the pressure and cronyism  - Al Alper, Catherine Marx, Pauline Kezer, and of course - Rich Olivastro.  State Central Members:  Don't allow the wrong people to decide who the next Chairman is going to be. Make up your own minds for your constituents.

Lastly State Central Members: If one of Aniskovich's goons call you and plead for you to stay in or join his fold, save your energy - and just HANG UP.  Those who advocate for Aniskovich (even after all they have read and seen) have expended lots of personal capital on this corrupt candidate - and to them they have nothing left to go back to should Wild Bill exit the race.  And that's - they're problem, not ours!!  We have a Party to build!  And a State to take back for the Taxpayers of Connecticut!!

I AM

THE KING

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

2012: The Look Ahead

The future is hard to see

Happy New Year! 

I hope everyone had the chance to get out and enjoy themselves with friends and family over the Christmas holiday, and found a nice place to raise a glass of sparkly and ring in the new year.  From The King's perspective, this past holiday season was clearly more about enjoying the moment and the people we really care about - I'd say, even more so than in previous years.  This holiday season served as a sort of escape from the reality of the hardships of our present day situations - which sad to say - we will all be returning to in a day or so.   So hopefully, you've all made the most of it, and take some great memories with you into 2012.

I'm not a socialite.  I can't stand crowds of people, or large public gatherings. It's just not my thing. There is nothing worse than a room full of unacquainted people wearing name tags, gawking at each other with phony smiles while offering each other their germ-covered hands. For me, there is something nauseating about a room full of strangers making small talk about nothing.  I'm past the age of wanting to meet new people and make new friends.  I guess I would make a horrific politician.  But I was finished from political consideration when I mentioned I don't believe in winning through patronage or collusion.

However, I do enjoy gathering with small group of people to chat, nurse a cocktail, and enjoy meaningful conversation.  Last night I was lucky to share the moment with a bunch of friends in West Hartford Town.  We watched the various bands on TV, and cheered the return of Dick Clark - who in The King's View is modern day heroic figure who sets the best example of personal perseverance to overcome disability from stroke  that the world has to offer - kudos to ABC for bringing him back every year.  God Bless Dick Clark.

So we frolicked and laughed over personal stories of daily lunacy.  We counted down with Mr. Clark, sort of missed the ball dropping (did they even show it?) and sang the one line of Auld Lang Syne that we all could remember - or knew. Then shortly after the celebrated stroke of midnight, a friend of mine burst my bubble of excitement. He grabbed me by the arm, and spoke into my ear in a serious tone: "Why are you so excited about 2012? You know, it's going to be **itty year. Ringing in 2013 will be something really worth celebrating!"  I sort of waived him off, but deep down I knew he was right. But at this moment, contemplating the act of mourning for our nation for additional 365 more days wasn't something I wanted to think about.  I took another sip from my drink.

Seems that most people agree that 2011 was a year that most of us would simply like to forget.  To describe last year as dismal is the ultimate understatement.  Unfortunately for us, watching a ball drop in Times Square, or flipping a page on a calendar won't automatically re-energize the national economy, or disperse the dark clouds that float above Catastrophic Connecticut.  In the final analysis, all the players are the same, most of our candidates are shallow and uninspiring, attitudes remain indifferent, and in all likelihood - things will likely worsen, not improve on the whole.

With that rather glum look on things, I thought I'd borrow Merlyn's crystal ball and try my hand at predicting the future.  Merlyn warned me that forecasting future events is always difficult because the future is constantly in motion; hence other magic and unforetold variables are always introduced at a later date which cannot be accounted for today. These predictions are only a snapshot in time given the current state of things, other factors not yet introduced into the equation will certainly alter future events as they appear today.

Remember, as is The King so is the Land. - Merlyn

(Note: Predictions made are not endorsements of support for any course of action, outcome, or person mentioned):

Mitt Romney will win the Republican Nomination, and unseat Barack Obama to become the 45th President of the United States. The margin of victory will be larger than expected

• Linda McMahon will become the CTGOPs endorsed candidate for U.S. Senate but will lose to Christopher Shays in the Primary after Shay's receives the endorsements of Joseph Lieberman, Rob Simmons, and Lowell Weicker setting the stage for a permanent divide within the CTGOP.  The end of the road for McMahon will come after media revelations of payoffs to convention delegates and prominent Republican insiders are exposed, a shady personal business scandal is uncovered, and a morbid performance during her debate against Mr. Shays.
• Another World Wrestling Entertainment employee working for Linda McMahon will pass away due to drug related use. Linda McMahon will distance herself from the death.
• Based on integrity alone, G-Man Mike Clark should be the shoe-in candidate in the 5th Connecticut Congressional District, however at this point in time, Merlyn's crystal ball shows Andrew Roraback winning the Republican nomination.
• Infighting and bad feelings within a broken Connecticut Republican Party will guarantee that Democrats capture all five Congressional seats, and the U.S. Senate Seat.
• Jerry Labriola, Jr. will be unfairly blamed for the entire CTGOPs electoral failure, and will resign from the Chairmanship.  He will be replaced by a prominent Republican woman in Connecticut politics who currently holds political office. Labriola's leaving may be in 2012 or 2013.
• Connecticut Democrats will pass an anti-Death Penalty Bill, and Governor Dan Malloy will sign it into law knowing that citizen outrage will be as short-lived as it was with the income tax.
• Connecticut Democrats will follow Mayor John Destefano's media trial balloon and will pass legislation extending voting rights to undocumented residents.  The legislation will eventually be overturned by The Supreme Court.
• Four major companies, and several minor companies will announce plans close up shop in Connecticut and move south and west for better business climates.
• North Korea's new dictator Kim Jong un will engage in a murderous witch hunt of disloyal followers, and will be assassinated by his own military.
• The Supreme Court will overturn Obamacare, but only in part, setting up further complications around a collapsing American health care system.
• Iran will collapse from within, but implications will be disastrous and will give rise to an eventual takeover by religious zealots within the country.
• Vladimir Putin will re-emerge as Russia's leader, and will start a mini-Cold War with the West
• Great Britain's liberal policies in refusing to deal with Islamic Fundamentalism on its own soil will spell trouble, possibly dangerous calamity for the Summer Olympics.

Other Assorted Predictions:

• The world will not end in 2012 as predicted by the Mayans, but to many it will seem like it has - particularly after Connecticut taxes are filed on March 17th.

If you see these items combined,
you'll likely find Joe Markely close behind

• The three giant spaceships detected by SETI will not arrive in December 2012 as reported, they will turn-around upon hearing that we are out of Dylythium Crystals. As a result, Joe Markley will have to seek an alternative route back home. He'll be seen on moonlit night, on a hilltop in Southington trying to communicate with aliens using a Speak-n-Spell, record player, round saw blade, coffee can, coat hanger, and wires. As with most things - he will fail.
• CTGOP will close it's doors in New Britain due to bankruptcy, and erect tents where Hartford's Occupy Movement once stood. The result will be a stand-off between Tea Party members and the Police which eventually turns bloody. The majority of the Party including its Chairman remains neutral watching events unfold on television.  The Police win.  After the event, the Chairman sends a hand-written note by carrier pigeon to the Hartford Courant expressing outrage - and demanding the Party be reimbursed by HPD for the damaged tents.
• CBS will air a special 9 week Survivor Show beginning in September which will be shot in an Al Queda training camp in sunny Saudi Arabia and feature contestants:  Larry Cafero, Tom Foley, Daria Novak, Peter Schiff, Bill Aniskovich, Joe Visconti, Doug Hageman, Tom Scott, and Chris Healy against Pedro Segarra, Chris Donovan, Nancy DiNardo, Rosa DeLauro, Jim Himes, Martin Looney, John Destefano, Beth Bye, and Bruce Zalaski (free on bond).  Spoiler alert: The winner will be the audience. As scripted, none of the contestants survive except Joe Visconti who steals a camel after killing two terroritsts with his guitar, and makes way for the Peninsula. But he is ultimately disqualified for leaving the compound.
• Kevin Rennie will write at least 4 columns that include taking a cheap shot at former Governor John G. Rowland. (Yeah, I know. Not really comic, but likely true)
• Mark Boughton will be arrested for shoplifting a bright yellow suit, boots, and a big yellow hat from L.L. Bean.  He will try to put the blame on a monkey named "George" who is nowhere to be found when authorities arrive.  Rick Green will be the first to publish the story because he'll be hiding in the bushes outside of Danbury Fair Mall on the day of the crime. But he will later recant the story not trusting the credibility of the evidence, telling friends, "I can't believe my own eyes."

Simmons discusses evidence of a
cover-up with special agent Scully
in his new TV Series

• Rob Simmons will land a part in the upcoming Reality Television Show: X Files: The CTGOP Convention.  Simmons will play himself (unbeknownst to him) working along side special agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully looking for a connection between the 2010 Connecticut Republican Convention, a government cover-up, and an alien conspiracy involving Linda McMahon, and George Soros. In the opening sequence, Simmons asks Mulder: "If coincidences are coincidences, why do they feel so damn contrived?"
• And last but not least - Chris Healy will run another Republican's campaign into the ground which will spawn the global conspiracy theory that he is truly a Democratic operative being paid by Nancy DiNardo.  Healy will move to Utah and embrace Mormonism.  He will also have several guest appearances on the Simmons X-Files show; he'll play the mirror role of original Smoking Man and following Rob Simmons around and offering him bits of cryptic advice throughout the series to throw him off in his quest for the truth.

Believe all of what you read at your own peril.  The Truth is out there!

I AM

THE KING

This original 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.

Christopher Shays interview on Face the State

On Sunday we had our first chance to see former Connecticut Congressman turned U.S. Senate Candidate Christopher Shays participate in an interview on WFSB's Face The State with Dennis House.  It's was refreshing to listen to a candidate respond coherently and clearly when asked a question. There is a world of difference between the shallow rhetoric of pro-wrestling promoter Linda McMahon, and the informed words of Christopher Shays. Shays, unlike McMahon, has actually balanced a Federal budget and has successfully served on several Presidential Commissions.

Dennis House seemed relieved to have a guest on his program who didn't provide the usual canned, scripted answers.  And I found that Shays showed a bit of personality and came across quite funny at times.  We need more of this plain, conversational talk from politicians, and less talking points.

Part I: Christopher Shays on Face the State:


Part II: Christopher Shays on Face the State can be found here.


Here are a few comments from the Shays interview that were interesting (The King's comments in yellow):

On what he's been doing:  "[I] co-chaired the Commission on Wartime Contracting... for the last two years and half years my opportunity was to help root out waste, fraud and abuse in Govt Contracting in theatre.  We determined there was between 21 billion and 61 billion in Government waste and came up with major reforms."
Translation: Yep, I lost the election but since then I haven't been moping around, I've been working productively to help reduce waste at the Federal Level. And my colleagues thought enough of me that they appointed me to a bi-partisan commission to get it done.

On Rob Simmons: "I thought Rob Simmons might choose to run again, and if he had jumped in, I wouldn't have ... I have immense respect for him. This guy served our country as an American Hero three times in Vietnam. He helped save the base... and just lost by 83 votes."
Translation:  Rob Simmons is a patriot who deserves respect, I'm in it because he's not, and neither of us want Linda McMahon representing us as a Republican in this race. Note that he also praises Joe Lieberman.  Hmmm? Interesting.

On the State of our Country:  "I think our country is in deep, deep trouble.  I want my country back.  I want my fellow Americans to have their country back.  And I think I can help them get their country back."
Translation: I'm ticked off about how Democrats are running the show, and want to do something about it.  And that's a straight answer in comparison to Linda McMahon's BS story about how she's afraid her Grandchildren won't have what she has.  Yeah, right - everyone of Linda's grandchildren be trustfund babies who won't have to work a day in their lives.

On Republicans lining up early to support McMahon:  "I'm almost in a dead heat with Democratic candidates...[and].. I haven't even been a candidate for more than a week.  And I've got 10 months until August 14th, 2012 when there's a primary. And I can't wait for that opportunity... That's what happens when you are an insider. She's an insider...  I'm one, surprised they would do it in the midst of municipal elections. I would never want to get in the way of municipal elections. Secondly, that's the old style politics - how many political people can you get to endorse you. The race is going to be August 14th and its not going to be politicians endorsing you, it's going to be people deciding whether or not they're going to the polls.
Translation:  It's not the corrupt convention that matters, its the Primary; its the people (someone please tell The King why we are going to waste $30K+ on this charade of a convention anyway). The goons at state central can run around all day long taking bribes and payments from Linda McMahon but in the end its a big waste of time.

On Linda McMahon as a Candidate:  "I do know that elections aren't an auction.  And I do know that you have to know what you're going to do once elected.  I don't need any handlers. I don't need anyone to tell me what to do on day one... I'm going to run on my experience, I'm going to run on my knowledge, I'm going to run on my record. I balanced the Federal Budget for four years.  Linda McMahon says, "we need a jobs program" - No. We need to get people back to work and an economy that's conducive to jobs. I think I created over 20 million jobs when we helped balance the budget - not 500."
Translation: The election is not an auction.  I can't wait to debate Linda on her knowledge and experience.  Can we have the debate tomorrow?

On Linda McMahon's spending during the last campaign described as "reckless":  "It was $50 million dollars just thrown away.  That's reckless.  And if you're going to spend money that way, your own money, how are you going to spend the taxpayers' money?"

On the Primary:  "There will be a primary... the people of this state, Republicans in this state are going to decide who their candidate is... I don't think about losing... I'm running as a Republican. And that's what I've always done. I have always been a Republican, never been on another line.  Always helping my fellow Republicans - working hard for those I believe in. Being respectful for those that maybe I'm not as excited about.  I can't image doing that [running as an Independent]."

If McMahon wins the Primary would you support her:  "It depends on how she wins it.  Depends on if she runs an honest and fair race. If she attempts to do what she did to Rob Simmons - good luck.  What she did to Rob Simmons was outrageous!  ... What she did was outrageous. Accusing him of being a big spender, this guy wasn't a big spender. Accusing him of a lot of things that he wasn't. Not recognizing that he was a good and honorable man who served his country with incredible distinction... the question will be - how do you conduct a race."
Translation: I've been around a long time.  If you think you are going twist the rules and play silly games, you'll be exposed publicly.  Go ahead and try me.  I like Rob Simmons, but you'll find quickly that I'm not going to fold my cards and go away and place Mr. Nice guy if you cheat and lie. If you go nasty, I'll go nasty - and you Linda have lots of baggage and buried bodies to explain. 

On President Obama and Democrats:  "I think the job that the President has done and the Democratic Congress - has been outrageous. We had the opportunity to elect someone for President and we chose someone with no experience.  And we are paying the price. That's the bottom line.  We have a Congress that is not facing up to what we need to do. And I put Chris Murphy in there along with others.. Tell us your plan, have the courage to talk about it. Fight for it.  Listen, Learn, Help, and Lead. And I'm not seeing hardly any leadership down there."
Translation: Barack and his Party have run the ship aground.  Chris Murphy is part of the problem.  Since he's been there, he hasn't offered one idea on how to get us out of this mess - except defend the President.  And this guy thinks he's promotable?  He helped get us into this mess. Also, note that the phrase: "Listen, Learn, Help, and Lead" is a theme that Newt Gingrich has used for years. He used it often during his advocacy for the Contract with America.

On Connecticut moving to far left:  "This state doesn't understand economics. The [State] Legislature just doesn't get it. They don't understand that they are chasing away wealth. They don't understand they are chasing away employers. We have not had a net job increase in 20 years. That we have the worst record in the country.  And so, increased taxes on wealthy people and job providers - it's going to have the opposite result, they are just going to leave. So instead of getting that incremental plus from increasing the taxes on the wealthy, you're going to lose all the rest because they're going to Wyoming, they are going to Florida, they're going to other places."
Translation: Governor Malloy and the Democrats in the Legislature are bumbling idiots. They are killing businesses and taxpayers and spending like thieves. They don't have a clue what they are doing, and its been the same story for 20 years.

On Democrats making a big deal about him living in Maryland, and being called a 'carpet-bagger": "Well first off, I think I've lived here, and live here longer than any of the candidates running. So I was gone for two and half years, serving my country at the request of the two legislative leaders and with the appreciation of Democrats in Congress, coming forward with a major undertaking that was never partisan.  We did our job as they asked.  And now I'm back home. I'm thrilled to be back home. "
Translation: Yeah, I lost my job and took one in Washington.  Big f'n deal. Now I'm back. Want to compare resident records?  Hey Joe Markley -STFU! You're an idiot too!

On Jerry Labriola: "What he's told me and what's he's proved is that he'll be fair. He'll be fair to Linda, he'll be fair to the other two candidates, he'll be fair to me.  All I want is to have a contest that I know will be fair."
Translation: Jerry Labriola knows his reputation is on the line. He says he can't be bought. Let's have a convention that's open and fair to all.

On Chris Healy and how Republicans conducted themselves during the last convention:  "I know that his [Jerry Labriola's] wife isn't being paid by Linda McMahon [reference to Chris Healy's wife working for Linda during the last State Convention]. That's comforting. How outrageous is that, how outrageous is that? And how outrageous [is it] that other Republicans accepted it? That's not going to happen this time. We not going to accept things like that."
Translation: I'm so glad that corrupt piece of garbage Chris Healy is gone.  What he and Linda did to Rob Simmons is OUTRAGEOUS.  We aren't go to let State Central, Republican Delegates or anyone else pull that again.  How Republicans in Connecticut allowed that charade to go on - is beyond me.  They should hang their heads in shame.

This was a fantastic appearance by Christopher Shays.  I can't wait to hear more.  Looks like he's put the folks at Connecticut's Republican State Central on notice.  Let's hope everyone heeds the warning, and plays by the rules.

I AM

THE KING

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

Chris Healy not running makes it seem like its the 4th of July!

As I sit here beaming, I'm trying very hard to determine whether the best news of the year so far was the capture and killing of Osama Bin Laden, or the demise of Connecticut State Republican Chairman Christopher Healy. Well obviously, the crimes of Healy do not compare with the crimes of an evil Bin Laden, but from my castle perch, I can tell you that over the last four months, I heard far more derogatory discussion about Healy than I had Bin Laden.

Crowds celebrated with Fireworks
when Chris Healy announced
he wasn't running for CTGOP Chair

I have another article that I've been putting together for the upcoming Republican Chairman's race - but thanks to Healy, it will take a bit of rework now that he's FORMALLY withdrawn from the race. The word on the street up until last Thursday afternoon was that Healy was still making calls telling people that he was planning on running thus the piece I drafted actually gave Healy a reasonable chance of winning election for the spot. But watching the goings on between opposition camps I actually held the piece because I had the sense that with the fortitude and general conspiracy of activists hell-bent on ridding themselves of Healy, that things might not look so good. So for my part, I opted to withhold the essay in the event that Healy would "see the light" or -- better said, chicken out at the last minute. And he did! 

The point being, Healy isn't stupid, he can do much more than rig Political Conventions - he can count votes like the next guy. Had he actually had the votes to win a majority, he would have certainly ran. But the total number of members who appeared locked up for Justin Clark, Art Scialabba, Doug Hageman, along with the other remaining darkhorse candidates like Bill Aniskovich, Rob Simmons, and Al Alper would have formed some alliance, and struck a deal keeping Healy from his throne in New Britain.

 And I have to say, I spoke to a number of people over the last five days, but I heard more about the pathetic article today written at The Hartford Courant run Capitol Watch Blog written by Christopher Keating. The whole thing was written like a eulogy to a fallen war hero. You have to be kidding me! Never have a bunch of liberal Democrats gotten together to draft a more lopsided commentary praising their enemy, and allowing him to dismiss his corrupt practices as nothing more than partisan politics. Well if that isn't a bunch of bull, I don't know what is. In the final analysis The Courant's writers act as if the members of the CT GOP were like a hateful Baseball owner ousting a World Series winning manager the day after winning the Trophy. Get real, Hartford Courant! In truth, they were using Healy and his so-called brilliant quips to attack Republicans once again.  Like a fool, Healy took the bait.

The Courant inaccurately awards credit to Chris Healy for the newly acquired 14 seats in the House of Representatives as if he had anything to do with it (the article actually mentions this TWICE). And they indirectly try to give him credit for the special election win which was the work of Len Suzio, and his team, and had nothing to do with Mr. Healy. When the article finally gets around to discussing the failures in what they deem the "major elections", they use a quote from Healy just prior saying, "The bottom line is that Candidates have to win Races." So in other words, Healy is leaving the Party in a better place - at least in areas where he can take the credit. In all other areas I guess the candidates just stunk to Hell.  How classy!

What irks readers the most is later in the article, The Courant brings up the collusion against Rob Simmons, specifically pointing to the rigged convention and the fact that Healy got his wife a high paying job on Linda McMahon's campaign. Sadly, instead of choosing an apologetic tone for what was clearly unethical behavior, he goes into a tirade about picking on a politician's wife. Oh Please, Healy! You are nothing more than an opportunist creep! He goes onto to say that he checked with THE ENTIRE STATE CENTRAL COMMITTEE and they HAD NO PROBLEM with Susan Bibisi as a paid Communication's Director on Linda's campaign. Yeah, well he missed about 50 people when he went to check. But I'm sure all of his loyal minions gave him the green light, particularly those down at his local bank taking in that six figure paycheck.

What's most disappointing is his dismissal of people with a sense of ethics and decency. Healy told The Courant: "People, when they lose, see conspiracy theories. They see sort of a grassy knoll mentality. If I had that kind of power over that many people, I would be running a satanic cult.'' No, Chris. What we see is a corrupt political leader lining his pockets with cold, hard cash to advance his own personal agenda and aims at increasing his personal wealth and power. We also saw how you stabbed your friends like Rob Simmons in the back, and threw dozens of people under the bus when it all blew up in your face. You weren't running a cult, but a machine that functioned for the sole purpose of serving your self-interest.

And as for your short-lived bid to be Republican National Chairman. We've got one word for that whole episode: HAAAAAAAAAAHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA! The biggest loser Chairman who lost every key race from Governor's Office to every House seat thinking they need him to build some Republican Army. Yeah right. An Army of total losers. We think it was your ego telling you to run, as no one in the National GOP would consider you a prospect for GOP Dog Catcher with your pathetic record. And as for bringing the Connecticut GOP into the Internet age? You and Al Gore invented the Internet, did you?  Hapless Peter Schiff brought in more money his single campaign via the Internet - $2 million bucks to your $20K. Give us a break, Healy. The exaggerations just keep coming.

When I see articles like this  on written by The Courant, and Healy's step on the gas when I'm wrong mentality its thrills me because it just goes to prove how ineffective and dishonest he is as a leader and there is no reason to shed a solitary tear about his leaving.  His legacy is a lot of work to be had, an empty bank account, and a fractured Party to boot.  Thanks, a lot buddy.

And a final word on old Healy - his classless attack against Heidi Simmons, the wife of former Congressman Rob Simmons, violates the 11th Commandment that he is always so fond of lecturing others about.  What a vindictive creature.  He couldn't even leave on a positive note; instead he opted to throw dirt on former friend who he hosed over at convention time, and his wife - who unlike Susan Bibisi, isn't a failed career political hack.

The biggest loser of all of this is probably not Chris Healy. If you didn't know, Healy has plenty of money to roll around in, and will likely land on his feet working for Phelps or some other lobby firm where he can put his swindling, bullying, and conniving talents to use. The biggest loser by far is likely Catherine Marx. Marx started making calls seeking support of State Central members early on, but her short-lived campaign went over like a rock. Members see her as a nice lady, but a relative novice in all areas of politics. She means well, but her tenure proved that she doesn't have the talent or charisma to move the GOP forward; its all likely she'd end up losing ground on most fronts if she ever took the reigns.

But this is what happens when you ride someone's coattails and don't make use of the opportunity to prove yourself to the organization you represent. Catherine will likely go back to her Town Committee in Hebron, or find a nice spot on the Hebron Sewer Commission where her limited talents can be put to good use. Ok, that was harsh. In truth, my issue with Catherine is not what she did (she didn't actually do much), its what she didn't do - she didn't challenge the status quo when things were being seen as less than ethical out of CT GOP Headquarters. So she leaves heads down, shamed and embarrassed.

So we have a real live contest now in the making - and its sure to have a lot of interesting twists and turns - enough to keep you all captivated. And lest you forget, Chris Healy is going to still be sitting in the saddle pulling the strings and jockeying his picks along the way (a fair warning to you fools who think he's going to sit on the backbench and just spectate from afar). This is almost a much more dangerous situation for the likes of Doug Hageman who was the first to stand up and challenge the sitting Chairman and publicly expose elements of his financial corruption. Healy is in the perfect position to exact revenge on his enemies by using his position and power to influence the outcome of the Chairman election. For those who don't know, Healy has a bumper sticker on his car that reads: What Would Nixon Do? I suggest a few wanna-be Chairman are about to find out.

I'm not going to get into a full blown analysis on the contestants in this short essay (I've already gone longer than anticipated). I expect a very nasty month. With Healy no longer running, I see the short-lived alliances starting to disintegrate. I see people like Justin Clark withdrawing from dialogue with the other candidates and trying to emerge on his own - with Tom Foley pulling his strings. I see Doug Hageman stabilizing and looking to go after Aniskovich who has been courting Hageman's supporters, and I also see several darkhorse (unannounced candidates) waiting for the right time to enter the race. Yes, I know their names, but I'm not going to spill the beans just yet.

You'll have to speculate for now. Oh boy, its about to get interesting!

But for now, go outside and light some sparklers, and drink some champagne. Old Chris Healy is being put out to pasture. And Connecticut's Republican Party is going to be a lot better for it.  And all credit is due to those brave people who stood up to Healy, and worked to challenge his unethical and inept behavior - people like Doug Hageman, Tom Foley, Al Alper, Joe Visconti, Rob Simmons, and many unsung heroes from the Republican Party who are better off being unnamed so they can carry forth their work through the next stage, and of course - don't forget to give credit to yours truly - THE KING.

I AM

THE KING

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

The Great Connecticut Chairman's Race: 20-Day Tally

With only three weeks left in the Great Connecticut Chairman’s Race there are only a few major players left in the game who appear to be holding the majority of cards. First, let’s start with the raw numbers based upon actual known counts derived from discussions with representatives of the various camps who are in touch with The King.

We've coming
down to the wire

The vote totals look like this: Wild Bill Aniskovich leads the pack with approximately 22 votes, Art Scialabba and Justin Clark are tied with 12 votes apiece, Catherine Marx has about 8 votes, Doug Hageman clings to 6 votes, Al Alper has 5 votes, and Jim Campbell and Rick Torres have 3 votes apiece, and taking up the rear in last position is Rich Olivastro who has managed to secure at least one vote. (Margin is +/- 3 votes).

The candidates and their minions are telling members (and others) that they have a much greater total of votes than they really do. Of course, this is merely a political tactic to get others to switch to their winning team. A more entertaining fact is that I know that some State Central members are telling more than one candidate that they are supporting them so that “they get off my damn phone.” 

It’s true that the vote counts will fluctuate over the next week or so as calls are made and the real wheeling and dealing begins. Remember that the numbers above do not reflect the entry of possible dark-horse candidate(s) who are still sizing up the situation and trying to determine whether or not there is an opportunity to jump in at the last minute and take the prize (if you really want to call it that).

Last time around I floated two dark-horse candidates. The first was Rob Simmons. From the looks of things, Rob Simmons is telling people that he’s flattered to be considered, but would much rather focus on another bid for U.S. Senate. This is unfortunate on so many levels. But we respect his decision to seek glory elsewhere, and go back to the mat with Linda McMahon for Poli-Wrestlemania II. Let’s hope Rob has amassed a good size war chest this time – because he’s going to need it.

The second dark-horse candidate is Jerry Labriola. Labriola is said to be considering a run, but would only make the leap if he knew for certain that he would have high double-digit support before giving up the Treasurer's post. What is absolutely known is that State Central members are excited about the prospect of a Labriola chairmanship because he represents one of the few opportunities to elect a Chairman who could unite all the bitter factions and reunify the CTGOP because he’s the only guy who doesn’t appear on anyone’s enemy list.

It’s my personal belief that if the process lends to installing another corrupt Chairman to carry forth the failed legacy of the Healy years, then Labriola may not find it within his best interest to serve another term as Treasurer.  It doesn’t make sense to under utilize his talent and stick him in an powerless accountant’s role.  No glory there – particularly when you’re handcuffed by the Chairman, and his hand-picked finance committee.

Playmakers Involved

We touched on the some of the kingpins who are behind the scenes pulling strings, twisting arms, and making payoffs to secure votes. It’s worth taking a look at the reported alliances being formed which may likely influence the end result anyway. Obviously, above all else this is a numbers game.

It’s clear to The King that the main driving force in the formation of the present two coalitions in play is the Republican U.S. Senate Nomination. It’s no secret that Linda McMahon intends to make a second run for U.S. Senate against the likely-Democratic candidate Chris Murphy in 2012. For her purposes, it would be extremely beneficial to have friendly partisan in the Chairman’s seat who would orchestrate a perfect replay of the 2010 Republican State Convention which would ensure her victory through another round of political convention rigging, and filthy shenanigans. To this aim, a new coalition has emerged which includes Jim Campbell, Justin Clark, and Catherine Marx. Roughly, this coalition has a healthy 24 votes. Reportedly, the sitting Chairman Chris Healy is also fronting this power coalition, as is Tom Foley, who the likely front runner in the nomination for Connecticut Governor in 2014.

Given what's at stake, we see Rob Simmons working to form his own coalition to help him secure a path to the same goal. It’s obviously not in his interest to see a Pro-McMahon Chairman emerge (he's been through that hell before), so naturally – he has reached out to the remaining pool of candidates, attempting to establish a coalition of his own. Reportedly, this coalition includes Bill Aniskovich, Doug Hageman, and possibly Rick Torres. This coalition has 31 votes which gives them a slight edge over the McMahon-Foley alliance.

The one problem with this coalition is that its very hard to accept a coalition between a squeaky clean Rob Simmons and a corrupt character like Bill Aniskovich.

The Missing Piece

As I’ve said before, the two remaining candidates of consequence – Art Scialabba and Al Alper could, if persuaded – play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of the Chairman’s race. Between them they have about 17 votes – not enough to win, or formulate a winning coalition of their own, but enough to put either of the two main coalitions over the top to win the Chairmanship.

Bill Aniskovich: The
Simon Bar Sinister of
CTGOP. Just what we
need - a crook at the helm

For Alper and Scialabba the choices are rather grim. Both coalitions have extreme negatives, and will cause a backlash in one form or the other.  Moreover, these two candidates have a high level of integrity, and are in the race for the noble purpose of rebuilding the Party; neither is seeking personal wealth or has the goal of paving the way for the next millionaire's adventure.  Perhaps they would offer to simply release their supporters to vote their conscious, and let the chips fall where they may instead of helping to install either a puppet of the Foley-McMahon camp, or sinister opportunist in Bill Aniskovich. 

Regardless of either of these choices - the Connecticut Republican Party will remain as divided as it does today.  You can read the tea leaves to see what I mean; I don’t think I need to spell it out here in detail once again.

For my dithers, I guess I still hope a dark-horse candidate has the courage to enter the race and give us a leader that EVERYONE can admire and feel proud of. With so much at stake for Connecticut’s taxpayers, Connecticut cannot afford a fractured Party, or two years of sworn vendettas – one camp against another, and the possibility of the emergence of a third party which no one will be able to control which will kill opportunities for us to take valuable seats statewide and at the Federal level.

Democrats are watching this very carefully. And by the way, as of right now, they LOVE what they see.

I AM

THE KING

This entry can be found at www.thekingsview.blogspot.com