SHOCKER ? Mindless, Incoherent, Pathetic, Little-Known Far-Right Talk Radio
2009-09-23 06:16:00 Katie Couric Elicits The Ultimate In Shrill, Whiny, Nasaly-Sounding Protests From Struggling Talk Radio Shock Jock In Internets ONLY Interview… ark Levin — pathetic. Struggling, can’t seem to grow his hate-filled, radical talk radio show any faster than [NOW and NEW] Minnestoa... This is only a comment summary. Visit http://guntotingliberal.com to view the lastest content complete with some of the most outrageous original photoshops in the political blogosphere!
(Video) Senator Al Franken (D-MN) Puts On A Clinic On How To Deal With Angr
2009-09-05 02:38:00 Attention To Senator Franken’s 534 Other Congressional Representatives And Senators — THIS Is EXACTLY How We, The People, Expect You To Engage Us And Serve Us This video pull comes directly from DustyTrice.Com (Hat Tip goes to MemeOrandum): This, folks, is a “must see” and... This is only a comment summary. Visit http://guntotingliberal.com to view the lastest content complete with some of the most outrageous original photoshops in the political blogosphere!
Judge Sotomayor, meet (yawn) Al Franken
2009-07-14 02:58:00 Only five days in the Senate and Al Franken (D-Minn.) slides right in comfortably with other blabermouths (of both parties) as he delivers a nine-and-a-half minute opening statement in the Judge Sonia Sotomayor confirmation hearing. Maybe we were expecting something more interesting from the accomplished comedian, but he proves he can drone on and on with the best of them. Here's his full statement, if you can make it through it....
Harry Reid Al Franken:VIDEO
2009-07-06 22:43:00 Reid Statement Following Meeting With Senator-Elect FrankenWashington, DC? Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid made the following statement today after his meeting with Senator-elect Al Franken:?I am pleased to welcome Senator-elect Al Franken to the United States Senate. Senator-elect Franken ran a hard-fought, issues-based campaign and I know he will work hard for the people of Minnesota. But don?t take my word for it. This is what former Republican Congressman Vin Weber had to say about our newest Senator: ??when people find out he's a smart guy who is serious about issues and a hard worker, they will be very pleasantly surprised.??Much has been made of the expectations of Al Franken joining the United States. I expect Al to work hard for the people of Minnesota, who have gone far too long without full representation. I expect him to help deliver the change this country demands as we work to strengthen our economy, ensure all Americans can access and afford quality health care, a...
Congratulations, Senator Al Franken (MN) ? Hopefully You?ll Be A Better Sen
2009-07-01 04:16:00 Former Senator Norm Coleman Concedes Disputed Senate Race To Stuart Smalley… If I hear the phrase “funnyman, Al Franken” again, I swear, I’ll toss my cookies. I’ve made it no secret that I, as a self-professed Liberal (capital “L”) on purpose, have never... This is only a comment summary. Visit http://guntotingliberal.com to view the lastest content complete with some of the most outrageous original photoshops in the political blogosphere!
Did The Dead Put Al Franken Over the Top?
2009-06-05 00:50:00 While current vote totals in the Land of Ten Thousand Lakes for the state’s Senate seat have Al Franken up by 312 votes over Norm Coleman, a recent “review of Minnesota?s statewide database of registered voters revealed at least 2,812 deceased individuals voted in last November?s general election, according to a new report by the ...
By: GayPatriot
Poll: Almost ANYBODY Can Move To Nevada And Defeat Senate Majority Leader H
2009-05-20 05:15:00 Question: Should Russ Feingold, Tom Daschle Or Some Other Strong Democrat Pull A “Hillary Clinton” Or An “Al Franken” And Relocate To Nevada To Sport “I Heart Nevada” Pins In A Quest To Unseat Harry Reid? According to a poll conducted by The Las Vegas... This is only a comment summary. Visit http://guntotingliberal.com to view the lastest content complete with some of the most outrageous original photoshops in the political blogosphere!
Kinky Friedman may run again for Texas governor
2009-02-11 18:16:00 Kinky Friedman may run again for Texas governor AUSTIN, Texas ? Humorist and author Kinky Friedman is toying with another run for Texas governor, but if he does enter the race, he says he’s serious this time. “I’m toning down the one-liners a bit. If I run, it’s going to be a serious run,” Friedman told ...
By: TexasFred's
Al Franken Will Always have Err America
2009-01-18 13:33:00 I admit that I have not been following the Minnesota Senate contest between Norm Coleman and Al Franken too closely. After all the thought of joker like Franken in the Senate is just too depressing.  However of late, there been some hopeful commentary about Coleman’s chances, not the least of which is the fact that Dirty Harry Reid has declared that Coleman has lost.   This is the same Dirty Harry who swore never to seat Roland Burris.  Thus, Ron Carey, Town Hall, on “Why Norm Coleman Will Win:” The reality is Franken’s desperate ploy to get himself seated on the basis of Canvassing Board numbers Minnesota law, the Supreme Court, the Canvassing Board and even Franken’s campaign acknowledge to be inaccurate indicate Franken’s realization that his high water mark has come and gone. Reality is setting in, and the facts will show that Norm Coleman will, in due time, be seated as Minnesota’s United States Senator. It seems to me th...
By: BitsBlog
Al Franken to be certified as Minnesota Senate wiiner
2009-01-05 14:29:00 Al Franken is the winner in the Senate race in Minnesota. If Republicans are smart, they will let him speak as often as possible. Between Obama, Biden and Franken, a Democratic gaffepalooza is about to erupt. We need only capitalize on it.Once Franken is seated, the Democrats will have 58 seats, with the as yet unresolved Illinois seat providing them a potential 59th.Meanwhile, as it looks like Carolyn Kennedy has the inside track on New York's Senate seat, another potential 2012 target is emerging to go along with Amy Klobuchur, Jim Webb, Claire McCasgill, Bob Casey, Jon Tester and the newly opened seat in Delaware.It's still to early to anticipate the GOP taking the Senate back in 2012 but pickups in 2010 and 2012 will be needed at a minimum.~SonlitA Newt One portfolio http://www.anewtone.com http://www.myspace.com/anewtone- http://www.blogtalkradio.com/an-ewtone http://twitter.com/sonlitknight-
By: A NEWT ONE
?Funnyman? Al Franken?s Apparent Senate Victory Over G.O.P. Incumbent Norm
2009-01-04 06:51:00 Republicans Including Former Senator Norm Coleman Rightfully Indignant Over Minnesotans’ Preference For Not-So-Funny Comedian Over Fellow “Good Ole’ Boy” First of all, let’s all take our hats off to the King Of Talk Radio, Al Franken, whose number one syndicated radio... This is only a comment summary. Visit http://guntotingliberal.com to view the lastest content complete with some of the most outrageous original photoshops in the political blogosphere!
Al Franken Angrily Rushes Senator Coleman After Debate, Media Cameras Miss
2008-10-18 01:27:00 -By Warner Todd Huston **Video Below the Fold** Al Franken has shown himself to be an angry, easily enraged man and after the October 16 Minnesota Senatorial candidate’s debate he allowed his overwrought emotional state to send him over the edge once again. After the debate was over and the Media had turned off their microphones and ...
By: Publius Forum
?Funnyman? And Senate Wannabe Al Franken Calls Veteran Summit To Discuss VA
2008-08-10 19:47:00 Al Franken Spends Time “Pressing The Flesh” In Minnesota — Approximately Four Seconds Is All It Took For Him To Complete The Process I’m sorry, dear readers — I just... This is only a comment summary. Visit http://guntotingliberal.com to view the latest rantings of a gun toting liberal with a chip on his shoulder... harsh views, comments expressed.
Al Franken Wins Senate Endorsement
2008-06-08 01:57:00 Funny man Franken is now the Democratic contender for the Minnesota senate seat. w00t. ©2008 Garling Gauge. All Rights Reserved..
By: Garling Gauge
Ad Wars: A Kinder Clinton Message
2008-05-18 20:26:00 Check out our entire video library at Political Realm TV.Hillary ClintonClinton appeals to working class voters with a populist message in her new Kentucky ad, "Right Track."In Oregon, Clinton fights back against the pundit class calling for her to leave the race in her new ad, "What's Right." Like the previous Kentucky spot, this one takes a decidedly more positive tone than ads Clinton ran in earlier contests. The change is perhaps the greatest signal that Clinton realizes her rival is the likely nominee and she does not want to further damage his chances in the general election.John McCainThe McCain camp's latest general election ad, to air in Iowa, gets in a shot about the infighting within the Democratic Party. "Leads" goes on to push McCain's leadership on issues from health care to the gas tax holiday.Barack ObamaObama's new ad in Puerto Rico, "He Understands Us," emphasizes his unique background as a way to reach out to voters there. Michelle Obama campaigned in the i...
By: Political Realm
Ad Wars: Looking Down The Ballot
2008-05-14 19:31:00 Check out our entire video library at Political Realm TV. We now have 360 videos in our archives, with more than 50 subscribers!Gubernatorial Watch: MissouriHouse Republican Kenny Hulshof launched his first ad today with the release of "Blessed." It is generally an introductory spot in which Hulshof talks about his upbringing and values. Hulshof faces off against Treasurer Sarah Steelman for the right to face Democratic Attorney General Jay Nixon in November. The primary is August 5th.Senate Watch: ColoradoDemocratic Congressman Mark Udall has hit the airwaves with the release of his first ad, "Stand." In the ad, Udall talks energy, seeking independence from foreign oil and the development of green jobs.Senate Watch: MinnesotaThe American Future Fund, which has already run ads this cycle supporting Republican Norm Coleman, is up with a new web ad, "Laugh Track," that attacks Democrat Al Franken. The spot hits Franken for supporting amnesty for illegal immigrants and failing to p...
By: Political Realm
GOP Blogger Driving Comedian Candidate Al Franken Mad
2008-05-07 20:35:00 In his effort to unseat GOP Senator Norm Coleman, things were looking really good for comedian turned liberal talk radio host turned politician Al Franken. Fundraising was no problem, thanks to his Hollywood friends, name recognition was high, (hey, the guy was on Saturday Night Live!!), and of course the climate for the GOP is anything ...
Al Franken is a funny guy
2008-04-28 22:09:00 But he's gotten even more funny since he decided to run for the Senate. Check out Ladies Logic for some information on how that Senate bid is going. Franken apparently neglected to pay his corporate taxes in a couple of states for several years.The DFL is at a cross-roads in the Senatorial campaign. They can either find another candidate between now and their state convention, they can find someone to run a primary challenge to Franken (which will no doubt help Senator Coleman perserve campaign funds since he won't have a challenger until September) or they can stay with a Franken campaign that is self destructing at a rapid rate. Note to Democrats: I don't care how good the polls look. You have to vet your candidates before you put them up against somebody with Norm Coleman's street cred. He may be vulnerable, but you've at least got to make the effort to find a candidate who is somewhere in the realm of reality in terms of political viability.
Al Franken: Cheating on taxes?
2008-04-27 05:48:00 The Strib: Al Franken’s career as an entertainer made him famous and rich and positioned him to run for the U.S. Senate. But now, just as he appears on the verge of securing the DFL endorsement to take on Republican Sen. Norm Coleman, Franken could be tripped up by missteps in the way his show business enterprise was run. Republicans, who for more than a year have eagerly unearthed controversial tidbits from Franken’s comedy routines and books, have in recent weeks discovered several slip-ups in the celebrity’s business life. On Thursday, they claimed to have found another possible irregularity, a charge that has yet to be resolved. On Friday, Franken’s campaign manager, Andy Barr, declined to say whether Franken had paid taxes on earnings in California between 2003 and 2007. He said Franken’s accountant is working with California officials to sort things out. Yeah, I can just imagine the conversation on THAT little gem. I’m willing to bet the smi...
By: BitsBlog
Ad Wars: Clinton Hits Obama On Energy
2008-04-16 16:24:00 Check out our video library at Political Realm TV.Hillary ClintonJust a day after attacking Obama's "bitter" remarks in a Pennsylvania ad, the Clinton campaign is on the offensive again, this time attacking Obama on energy. "Pocket" echoes a radio ad that has been running in the state for a while. The ad challenges an earlier Obama ad in which he claimed not to take money from the oil companies. The ad points out that while he doesn't accept money from the oil companies, that would be against the law, he has accepted thousands from oil employees (something Clinton has done as well). It also attacks Obama for voting in favor of the Bush Administration's energy bill.John McCainFriends of the Earth Action, an environmental group, is running a new ad, "Trillions More," which attacks John McCain. The ad accuses McCain of sending pork barrel money to corporate polluters. Barack ObamaThe Obama campaign has produced a new web ad, "Guide," which looks at the influence of lobbyists in...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News & Notes
2008-04-13 00:42:00 Let's take a look at the latest news from Senate races around the country. Click here for our latest Senate rankings--look for a fresh set of rankings next week. AlabamaThe latest polling continues to show Republican Senator Jeff Session (pictured) with a commanding lead in his bid for a third term. Sessions leads state Senator Vivian Figures 57%-36%. Three-fourths of the electorate hold a favorable view of the incumbent, while only 39% view Figures favorably. Figures, who isn't well known outside of her own district, doesn't appear to pose a serious threat to Sessions.AlaskaNew numbers out of Alaska confirm that Republican Senator Ted Stevens, in office since 1970, is facing the toughest challenge of his political career. Elected by landslide margins in every election since he assumed office, Stevens (pictured) holds a narrow 46%-45% lead over Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich. In trouble largely because of a federal corruption investigation, Stevens earns support from just 71% ...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News & Notes
2008-03-29 07:00:00 Let's take a look at the latest news from Senate races around the country. Click here for our latest Senate rankings.AlaskaHow much does Republican Congressman Don Young's political trouble reflect on Ted Stevens' chances for re-election in 2008? Young (pictured), often referred to as the state's third senator because he's been in office since 1973, is in the fight of his political life after becoming embroiled in the same bribery scandal that threatens Stevens. Several polls have shown Young, the state's lone representative, trailing his Democratic challengers and he recently drew a primary challenge from Lt. Governor Sean Parnell. Parnell's candidacy will test the clout of recently elected Republican Governor Sarah Palin, who ousted unpopular Frank Murkowski in a 2006 primary showdown. Republicans have dominated elections in Alaska and the party would probably stand a better chance without Young and Stevens on the ballot in 2008.So far, Stevens has drawn two primary ch...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: Rankings
2008-03-19 05:27:00 Our latest rankings paint a rosy picture for Democrats, who find only one of their incumbents on our list of the ten seats most likely to flip hands in 2008. After picking up six seats and winning a thin 51-49 majority in 2006, they appear poised to expand their holdings, but fall short of a filibuster-proof 60-seat advantage.1. Virginia (Open-R) [1]: As a former business executive and governor, Mark Warner (pictured) simply doesn't come across as a legislative branch kind of guy. Widely considered a potential 2008 presidential candidate before he surprisingly put such speculation to rest in October 2006, Warner does little to scuttle the notion that he has ambitions that lie beyond the Senate. A term in the Senate, which seems all but assured at this point, could help fill out the foreign policy portion of his resume for a presidential run in 2012, 2016, or beyond. At this point in 2006, however, another former governor was also prepping for an apparently easy Senate race befor...
By: Political Realm
Al Franken vs. Norm Coleman
2008-03-11 02:15:00 Anti-Strib is reporting that Mike Cerisi announced in an email today that he is out of the Minnesota Senate Race. It’s now a race between Al Franken and Norm Coleman. Now since Al Franken is the presumptive nominee, lets go over his key issues. These are his stances listed on his website (The spin has been removed ...
By: Tundra Politics
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2008-03-01 00:27:00 Let's take a look at the latest news from Senate races around the country.AlaskaRepublican Ted Stevens (pictured), the 84 year old veteran lawmaker, officially filed for re-election last week. The move puts to rest any speculation that Stevens would step aside in light of an active FBI investigation into his ties to an oil contractor. Ordinarily elected by landslide margins, Stevens faces danger from Democrats and from within his own party in 2008. Jerry Heikes and David Cuddy, who challenged Stevens in 1996, are already in the race. Should Republicans feel Stevens' presence on the ballot endangers their chances to keep the seat, pressure could be increased for him to retire or more prominent challengers could emerge. In 2006, unpopular Republican Governor Frank Murkowski finished third to now-Governor Sarah Palin in the primary. Of course, Murkowski doesn't have the same clout that Stevens carries within the state--he's been in office since 1968, routinely brings pork spe...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2008-02-19 00:18:00 ColoradoPolls continue to show an extremely tight open seat race in Colorado between Democratic Congressman Mark Udall (pictured) and former Republican Congressman Bob Schaffer. The latest numbers show Schaffer with a 44%-43% lead--the very narrow margin is a growing trend in this contest. Though the race was initially pegged a likely Democratic pickup by most observers given the recent evidence (Democrats have picked up a House and Senate seat in recent years, adding the governor's office in 2006), we've rated the race a toss-up in our latest Senate rankings. That the race remains so close suggests that neither candidate has succeeded yet in defining his opponent. Schaffer and the Republicans will attempt to portray Udall as too liberal for the state, while Udall and the Democrats are making the opposite case for Schaffer. Though he trails in this most recent poll, Udall has a slight advantage due to his 2-to-1 edge in cash on hand.KansasAlready facing an uphill challenge in...
By: Political Realm
Declaration of Conservative Independence
2008-02-13 01:06:00 Inspirational conservative speaker, and leader of the famous 1994 Republican Revolution, Newt Gingrich, gave a speech that will forever change the Conservative Movement. While conservative progress was formerly made from within the Republican party, Gingrich advocated a Declaration of Independence for the Conservative Movement. Below is a transcript of his speech. 35th Annual Conservative Political Action ...
By: Tundra Politics
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2008-02-05 06:41:00 ColoradoSlowly, but surely Democratic Congressman Mark Udall (pictured) is increasing his financial advantage over former Republican Congressman Bob Schaffer. Udall raised $1.1 million to end 2007, bringing his cash on hand total to $3.6 million. Schaffer raised $673,000 in the final quarter of the year, with $1.5 million available for the race. A $2 million deficit is not good news for Schaffer, who will likely appeal to national Republicans for support. With several endangered Republicans throughout the country, however, it's unclear how the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) will respond. The group was out raised by its counterpart, the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC), by nearly $25 million last year.IdahoRepublican Lt. Governor Jim Risch (pictured), the favorite for the Republican nomination in a large field, raised $236,000 in the fourth quarter, with $171,000 available. Risch's total bests the $166,000 brought in by Democrat Larry LaRocco, ...
By: Political Realm
Minnesota?s Al Franken is doing well in his campaign for the Senate
2008-02-02 19:46:00 Al Franken is running for Norm Coleman’s seat in Minnesota, and doing well. Franken has opposed the troop surge and has been a vocal critic of the Iraq war for years. He believes that pensions and Social Security should be protected. He wants to cut tax breaks for oil companies, increase money available ...
By: What's Going On
Al Franken?s Mental Disorder Given a Pass by Media?
2008-02-02 00:00:00 -By Warner Todd Huston Comedian Al Franken is running for the U.S. Senate seat from Minnesota, this the media is happy to report. But, for some unexplainable reason, the media isn't so interested in reporting Franken's odd behavior. It seems that an ungovernable rage is always just under the surface with ...
By: Publius Forum
[Interesting] Humorist Al Franken leads in Minnesota Senate race; would be
2008-02-01 22:19:00 (TPM Election Central)
Al Franken?s Mental Disorder Given a Pass by Media?
2008-02-01 14:01:00 Comedian Al Franken is running for the U.S. Senate seat from Minnesota, this the media is happy to report. But, for some unexplainable reason, the media isn’t so interested in reporting Franken’s odd behavior. It seems that an ungovernable rage is always just under the surface with Franken, a rage that has several times broken ...
Senate Watch: Rankings
2008-01-22 22:15:00 Our rankings are supersized this month, with blurbs about all 35 races across the country. Our top ten remains largely unchanged, with the open seat race in Mississippi joining the list for the first time. Mitch McConnell's race in Kentucky fell from the top ten after Democrats failed to get a top tier recruit to face the minority leader.1. Virginia (Open-R) [1]: Former Democratic Governor Mark Warner (pictured) continues to have smooth sailing on his way to the Senate. His likely opponent, former Governor Jim Gilmore, has drawn a challenge from Bob Marshall, that further complicates his chances. Gilmore should survive in a party convention, but Warner has shown no signs of slowing. Most polling gives him a lead of 15-20 points, but the Old Dominion is very much a swing state, so Warner shouldn't get too comfortable. VERDICT: Likely Democratic takeover2. New Mexico (Open-R) [3]: While Representatives Steve Pearce (pictured) and Heather Wilson duke it out in the Republican pr...
By: Political Realm
Ad Wars: Giuliani And 9/11
2008-01-21 18:44:00 Hillary ClintonThe Clinton campaign has released a new radio ad in South Carolina featuring Magic Johnson. Johnson seemingly equates Barack Obama to an NBA rookie, suggesting Clinton has more experience, making her the better choice to lead.Rudy GiulianiThe Giuliani campaign has produced two new ads to begin airing in Florida. The first, "It Matters," discusses Giuliani's leadership on a variety of issues. The spot even includes images from the September 11 attacks on New York City, with the line, "When the world wavered and history hesitated, he never did. Rudy Giuliani: Leadership when it matters most."The second ad, "Un Plan," targets Spanish speaking voters in Florida and focuses on Giuliani's tax cut plan.Mike HuckabeeLeading up to Saturday's primary, the group Americans for the Preservation of American Culture was running ads in South Carolina favoring Mike Huckabee. The ads focus on the Confederate Flag, attacking Mitt Romney and John McCain for opposing its use in t...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2008-01-17 23:12:00 It's time to check in again on the Senate races that are developing around the country. We will be out with new Senate rankings tomorrow. IdahoFormer Congressman Larry LaRocco (pictured) has released his fundraising figures, bringing in $165,000 during the fourth quarter. The Democrat has $172,000 in the bank. LaRocco will likely face Republican Lt. Governor Jim Risch in the race to succeed scandal-plagued Larry Craig. For his part, Craig is continuing to give Idaho Republicans headaches. Craig recently penned an editorial claiming that he remains an effective senator for the state, despite many of his Senate colleagues avoiding him like the plague. Craig, who initially planned to resign last fall, has decided to remain in the body through the end of his term.KentuckyIraq veteran Andrew Horne will have more company in the Democratic primary this May. Businessman Greg Fischer (pictured) announced his candidacy this week via a video posted on his campaign site. Should he be w...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: Ad Wars
2008-01-17 17:07:00 Kentucky: Mitch McConnellMitch McConnell continues to release new campaign ads. The first, "Godfather," suggests McConnell is a champion for the environment.The second ad, "Williams," again notes McConnell's leadership position, focusing on the disposal of weapons in Kentucky.Minnesota: Al FrankenWith fellow Democrat Mike Ciresi hitting the air waves last week, Al Franken launched two new ads this week. The first, "I'm Running," features Franken's reasons for running, noting that he is serious about serving Minnesota.The second, "Mrs. Molin," is a very creative spot from the Franken campaign. The ad features Franken's 4th Grade teacher talking about his background.NRSCThe National Republican Senatorial Committee has released a new web video, "Not Buying It," that chronicles the apparent failures of the Democratically-controlled Senate.Oregon: Steve NovickDemocrat Steve Novick, challenging Jeff Merkley, among others, for the Democratic nomination, has released his first cam...
By: Political Realm
Ad Wars: Giuliani's "Super Bowl"
2008-01-10 21:16:00 Rudy GiulianiThe Giuliani is airing a new ad, "Super Bowl," in Florida. The message of the ad? Ignore the results thus far. Giuliani is trying to convince voters that momentum heading into the Sunshine State doesn't matter. Of course, after Giuliani finished sixth in Iowa and barely edged out Ron Paul for fourth in New Hampshire, forgetting the early results is exactly what he wants everyone to do. Michigan PrimaryHonoring a pledge to campaign only in the original early voting states (Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada, and South Carolina), Barack Obama and John Edwards will not appear on the ballot in Michigan. Hillary Clinton will be the only major candidate on the ballot for state Democrats, so some have started a campaign urging non-Clinton supporters to vote "uncommitted" in next week's primary. A ruling by the Democratic National Committee has stripped the state of all its delegates, making any victory there essentially useless. Mitt RomneyThe Romney campaign is airing a new ...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2008-01-09 22:28:00 Due to the holiday break and the beginning of the primary season, we haven't touched on Senate campaign news for a while. So it's time to catch up.AlaskaRepublican Ted Stevens (pictured) earned a primary challenge this week in the midst of an ethics scandal that could drive the veteran lawmaker from office. Businessman David Cuddy, who challenged Stevens in 1996 and earned 27% of the vote, announced that he will again seek the Republican nomination. Since his appointment in 1968, Stevens has rarely faced a serious challenge, but this year he could be in trouble. Polling already shows him in a tight race against potential Democratic rival Mark Begich. Democrats, however, are likely hoping Stevens makes it through the primary. The scandal that surrounds him could propel them to a surprising win in this Republican state. KentuckyGreg Stumbo (pictured), once considered a likely challenger for Republican incumbent Mitch McConnell has confirmed that he will instead seek his old se...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: Rankings
2007-12-04 17:57:00 It's once again time to review our rankings of the 2008 Senate races. Though Democrats were disappointed by Republican Thad Cochran's decision to seek re-election in Mississippi, it has turned out that they'll get a shot at an open seat there after all. Trent Lott's decision to resign before the end of his term means another seat for Republicans to defend. Tom Udall's decision to run in New Mexico also provided a boost for Democrats this month. As things stand today, Democrats seem almost certain to gain at least two seats, a number that could easily swell to half a dozen depending on how the cards fall.1. Virginia (Open-R) [1]: Democrat Mark Warner (pictured) lost his first Senate try more than a decade ago--a surprisingly strong effort against now-retiring Republican John Warner. Since that time, however, Warner was elected governor, left office with high approval ratings that helped Democrats keep the seat in 2005, his party toppled Republican George Allen in 2006 and won...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-11-13 01:57:00 Polls, polls, and more polls--nearly every competitive 2008 Senate race was polled at least once last week, so today we will focus on those numbers and what they mean going forward.ColoradoPolling gives Democratic Congressman Mark Udall a 48%-41% lead over former Republican Congressman Bob Schaffer in the battle to replace retiring Republican Senator Wayne Allard. The poll also shows that Udall is better known by Colorado voters, with just over half familiar with Schaffer. These numbers should allow Colorado Democrats to breathe a little easier after an earlier poll showed the race neck and neck.KentuckyAnother poll shows that Republican Minority Leader Mitch McConnell will face a serious re-election test in 2008. He leads potential rivals Greg Stumbo 48%-41% and Crit Luallen 49%-39%. McConnell has seen his approval rating fall as he has become the target of several Democratic groups tying him with President Bush and the Iraq War. Kentucky Democrats also had an impressive showin...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: Rankings
2007-11-01 20:14:00 It's once again time to review our rankings of the 2008 Senate races. The top ranked seat is the one we believe most likely to flip control to the other party. The seat's previous ranking is listed in brackets. Democrats have had an up and down month, missing out on major opportunities in Nebraska and North Carolina, while picking up new prospects in New Mexico and Kentucky.1. Virginia (Open-R) [1]: The Virginia seat remains atop our rankings this month, even as Republicans avoided a potential bitter and divisive battle for their nomination. Congressman Tom Davis announced he would not seek the seat, though he had been seen for years as John Warner's preferred successor. Davis' decision, precluded by the party's choice to hold a convention over a primary, essentially gives the Republican nomination to former Governor Jim Gilmore. Though Gilmore has won statewide before, his more conservative views make him perhaps a less potent general election candidate to oppose Democrat...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-10-09 23:38:00 Colorado? Congressman Mark Udall raised more than $1 million during the last quarter and has more than $3 million available for his Senate bid.? The Colorado seat, being vacated by Republican Wayne Allard, is considered one of the top pickup opportunities for Democrats in 2008. A new poll, however, shows that the race is likely to be competitive--both Udall and Republican Bob Schaffer poll in the mid-30s, with over 20% undecided. We hold firm in our belief that Udall is the favorite, though the poll confirms that any suggestions that the race would be a runaway are premature. Idaho? Republican Lt. Governor Jim Risch, the man many believed would be appointed to replace Larry Craig, has announced his intentions to run for the seat in 2008. Despite failing in his attempt to reverse a guilty plea to a sex charge this summer, Craig noted that he will serve out the remainder of his term rather than resign as he had previously suggested.Minnesota? Al Franken narrowly out-raised Republi...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: Rankings
2007-10-01 23:51:00 Welcome to our first rankings of the 2008 Senate contests around the country. These rankings will appear at the beginning of each month through November 2008. The top ranked seat is the one we believe most likely to flip control to the other party. As you will notice, the landscape sets up rather nicely for Democrats looking to increase their small majority. Republicans have more seats to defend and (at least right now) fewer resources to help defend them. Democratic recruiting efforts have yielded strong results, while the jury is still out for Republicans. The bottom line is that Democrats have far more opportunities in 2008 and, while they won't pick up every seat they target, a gain of at least a few seems likely at this point.1. Virginia (Open-R): The retirement of John Warner dealt a devastating blow to Republicans. The seat that would have been easily defended had he opted for re-election has now become the Democrats' best pickup opportunity. Popular former Governo...
By: Political Realm
Newspaper Refunds Ad Money to Franken
2007-09-27 04:40:00 MoveOn.org has proven to be a headache for newspapers. On Sunday, The New York Times said it erred in giving the liberal anti-war group a $77,508 price break on a full-page advertisement attacking Gen. David Petraeus, the commander of U.S. forces in Iraq. Now the Star Tribune, a Minneapolis newspaper, is refunding about $12,000 to Al Franken, ...
By: The Hot Joints
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-09-14 18:58:00 Minnesota? Polling shows Republican incumbent Norm Coleman continues to hold a narrow lead over his two Democratic challengers, Al Franken and Mike Ciresi. Coleman leads Franken 46%-41% and his lead over Ciresi is 46%-42%. Coleman's is viewed favorably by 54% of the population, up slightly from last month. Both challengers have made significant gains on Coleman compared to surveys earlier this year that showed Coleman with a comfortable lead. Ciresi has had to overcome low name recognition, while Franken is seeking to prove he is a serious candidate, despite his background in entertainment. Both have seen their favorable numbers rise as well.Nebraska? Chuck Hagel confirmed Monday what had been widely rumored over the weekend--he would not seek a third term in the Senate. Hagel also will not seek the presidency in 2008. Republicans chances to hold the seat remain strong, though it presents a further challenge to Senate Republicans having to defend another seat once thought sa...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-08-24 19:44:00 Louisiana? Republicans are still searching for a candidate to challenge vulnerable Democrat Mary Landrieu. The incumbent has twice won extremely narrow victories, but the demographics in the state continue to trend Republican, perhaps expedited by the population displacement following Hurricane Katrina.? John Kennedy, the current state treasurer and a Democrat, is being recruited to challenge Landrieu. He recently announced that he would seek re-election to his current post in 2007, send mixed signals about his future plans. Kennedy ran as a Democrat for the Senate in 2004, but lost to David Vitter, the first Republican senator from the state since Reconstruction and who was recently involved in a sex scandal. Minnesota? CQ Politics writes that Al Franken is working hard to prove himself as a serious candidate in the race to challenge Republican Senator Norm Coleman. Franken has proven himself a strong fundraiser already and is airing web ads attacking Norm Coleman's associati...
By: Political Realm
Ad Wars: Interest Groups Hit The Airways
2007-08-23 22:02:00 EnvironmentThe League of Conservation Voters is running two new ads challenging presidential candidates on both sides to become the first green president.Al FrankenAl Franken, seeking the Democratic nomination, is running a new web ad attacking Minnesota's Republican Senator Norm Coleman for his association with President Bush and special interest groups. Bush was in Minnesota this week for a closed-door fundraising for Coleman.Health CareThe California Nurses Association is also running ads in Iowa challenging Hillary Clinton, John Edwards, and Barack Obama to support a single-payer health care plan.Mitt RomneyThe Romney campaign is running a new radio ad in Iowa discussing immigration and taking an indirect swipe at Rudy Giuliani's immigration stance as mayor of New York City.Senate DemocratsThe DSCC is asking users to provide suggesting for a 2008 bumper sticker slogan.
By: Political Realm
"like watching Ann Coulter debate Al Franken"
2007-08-14 00:00:00 Neighbors in the Decatur, Georgia neighborhood of Oakhurst are definitely not agreeing to disagree about a proposal to turn their area into an official historic district. Scott Henry fills us in on... > this is just a sample of our content - please visit the site for the full story, links, pictures, and more!
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-08-01 21:46:00 Alaska? Federal agents raided the home of Republican Senator Ted Stevens on Monday. Stevens, the longest serving Republican in Senate history and a candidate for re-election in 2008, is being investigated for his ties to Bill Allen, a wealthy oil contractor. Allen, who's already admitted to bribing Alaskan government officials, oversaw a renovation project on Stevens' home.? Because the Alaska Democratic Party is in such weak state, it's difficult to believe they will be able to take advantage of the situation. Stevens may opt against a re-election bid, but the seat would likely remain in Republican hands.Kentucky? Attorney General Greg Stumbo has filed papers to challenge Republican Minority Leader Mitch McConnell for the Senate. ? McConnell is considered somewhat vulnerable due to the national mood favoring Democrats and the low approval numbers for both President Bush and the Iraq War. Democrats are hoping for a repeat of 2004, when their Senate leader, Tom Daschle, was up...
By: Political Realm
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