Sunday Night in Minnesota

Party Chairman Kris Kobach and others gathered at the reception

before heading out to the first event of the week.

Greetings from Minneapolis, Minnesota. It was a busy day for the staff and volunteers who gathered as the delegates, alternates, and guests from Kansas arrived throughout the day. This evening, everyone gathered in the hotel lobby prior to heading out to a pre-arranged function for a great reception sponsored by Cargill.

As Christian mentioned earlier, there have been substantial changes to Monday's convention schedule as we all try to help the states affected by Hurricane Gustav. In order for the Republican Party to officially exist, and for Senator McCain to qualify for the ballot, we are-by law-required to conduct certain specific business. That is just what Monday will be--conducting the official business. At Senator McCain's direction, all other convention activities for Monday have been cancelled.

The general consensus amongst the delegates is that this is just another example of how Senator McCain puts country first. This is not a time for politics or celebration. It is a time for us to come together as Americans and assist the residents of the Gulf States.

As for other convention events and business, stay tuned. We will keep you updated.

From Minnesota,
Corrie Kangas
KS GOP Political Director

Politics aside, Gulf Coast States need our Help TODAY!

This is bigger than politics.

The Gulf Coast States need our help today!

Here is a statement from Chairman Kobach...

“An abbreviated schedule for the first day of the Convention is the right
thing to do considering the impending landfall of Hurricane Gustav,” said
Kobach. “Senator John McCain has always placed country first – this is yet
another example of Senator McCain’s love of country and that fellow citizens
come before politics.”

“I encourage all Kansans to donate to the charities listed on our Blog, and contact friends and family to donate and to pray for the people of the Gulf Coast.”

Visit the American Red Cross website and contribute anything you can.

More charity listings will come as I get them.

Pray for the folks along the Gulf.

From Minnesota.
Christian Morgan

RNC Convention 101

Over the weekend, thousands of Republicans will gather in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota to nominate Senator John McCain and Governor Sarah Palin as they campaign to become the next President and Vice President of the United States.

The convention planners have been working hard to make this the most technologically accessible convention yet.

Starting on Monday, September 1 you will be able to join Republicans around the country by:

Watching a live stream of the convention here.

Accessing hourly schedules, speech text, press releases, and pictures here.

Watch videos on the official YouTube channel.

Plan a McCain Nation House Party to watch Senator McCain accept the nomination.

Of course, no convention would be complete without the official convention gear. Click here for the online store.

Finally, for a Kansas perspective on the convention, don’t forget to check this blog regularly during the week. We will be posting updates, pictures, and stories of our events.

Governor Palin's Speech in Ohio

What a great pick...

Here is Governor Palin's speech in Ohio...enjoy...



The glass ceiling is no longer cracked, it has been shattered by Governor Palin, John McCain, and the Republican Party.

Oh, Sarah

Sarah Palin. Governor of Alaska.

What a great pick.

More later...

Congratulations, Barack

Senator McCain is running an ad this evening--an ad that displays his character and American spirit.

Even I will put aside negativity for one night in order to show Kansans the leadership John McCain will bring to the White House. A true American hero and leader- John McCain congratulates Barack Obama on this historical night.

So congratulations Barack - we'll get back to it in the morning...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4KIvRTg6KQ

Sebelius: Out of Touch and Out of Rhythm

Oh boy, this is a good one. Funny but sad.

While Kansans mourn the loss of more jobs (see previous posts)...Kathleen Sebelius dances...

Watch the excruciating video of our Governor doing her "job" in Denver.

Thanks for stepping up to the plate and helping Kansans in need Mrs. Sebelius.

We all really appreciate your hard work for the state of Kansas...

Boyda Bought and Sold by New York's Rangel

On Jim Cates's show this morning on cjonline.com Nancy Boyda basically defended her vote to send a $2,000,000 earmark to New York for Charley Rangel's "Monument to Me."

I'm not making this up. Boyda voted in the affirmative to send $1,900,000 of OUR tax-dollars to New York so Charley Rangel's project called the Charles B. Rangel Center for Public Service, a.k.s. Rangel's "Monument to Me."

Gee, thanks Congresswoman.

Nancy likes earmarks; like the earmark for the prison museum:


But, friends, we really shouldn't be surprised. Like other Kansas Democrats (cough, Sebelius, cough), Boyda likes the good-ole Quid Pro Quo.

Rangel got his from Boyda - Boyda got hers from Rangel...

Nancy Boyda got $16,000 from Charlie Rangel for her re-election efforts. A 5-digit campaign contribution for her vote in the affirmative to send our tax-dollars to New York for some monument to one of the most divisive and obstructive members of Congress.

Kansas values? I think not.

$16,000 to Nancy for $2,000,000 to Rangel; courtesy of U.S. taxpayers

That is the real Nancy Boyda



No wonder Lynn Jenkins is closing in on the freshman Congresswoman. Boyda will need a little more than some cute newspaper inserts to cover up her short but soiled record in Washington...

stay tuned...69 days and counting...

Barack Obama’s Weaker America

Today reporters heard from Former Mayor Rudy Giuliani (R-NYC), Rosario Marin, former U.S. Treasurer, and Former Lt. Governor Michael Steele (R-MD) at the RNC’s War Room in Denver.

The theme for the DNC Convention tonight is “Securing America’s Future.” The funny thing is that even Obama’s own Vice-Presidential nominee doesn’t even think he is prepared to be commander in chief. Here are just a couple of the thing Joe Biden has said:

When Obama talked about Iraq, Biden said, "I don't recall hearing a word from Barack about a plan or a tactic."

When Obama said he would meet unconditionally with the leaders of state sponsors of terror, Biden said, "Absolutely, positively no."

When Obama finally became aware of the situation in Afghanistan, Biden called him a "Johnny-Come-Lately."

And it seems the American people agree with Joe Biden. A recent USA Today/Gallup Poll found that 44% of Americans question whether Barack Obama can handle the responsibilities of commander in chief.

In case you have missed them, here are a couple of the most recent John McCain ads.

What Planet is Sebelius On?

It goes from strange to stranger in Denver...

Kathleen Sebelius this morning told Kansas Democrats in Denver that Obama could win Kansas. And no, that is not a typo.

Need I remind the Governor of the polling in Kansas?

15 points, Governor. McCain, over 11 weeks out, is up 15 points. It will get bigger - I promise.

The Governor may trick the press into thinking that she "balanced the budget without a tax increase" - but trying to convince us that Obama can win Kansas?

The mile-high air must be getting to the Governor.

Sebelius True Colors on Display as She Gives a Speech Full of Partisan Rhetoric

Following is a press released issued shortly after Kathleen Sebelius' speech in front of the DNC Convention.

In a speech largely regarded as a concession for not winning the Vice-Presidential lottery pick, Kathleen Sebelius followed her tradition of major speeches by underwhelming the audience.

KS GOP Executive Director Christian Morgan stated, “Tonight in her speech, Kathleen Sebelius tried to address the threat of home foreclosure by taking pot shots at Senator John McCain. The irony was not lost on us. The fact is that Senator McCain actually owns a house and pays property taxes in the state that he represents in the United States Senate. The same can not be said of Kathleen Sebelius who does not currently own property or pay property taxes in Kansas. Perhaps, she should take a closer look at John McCain’s plan for home ownership—he might be able to help her.”

“What was surprising, was hearing a Governor who consistently claims—without any kind of evidence—that she is above partisan politics and cheap attacks, do just that—take a cheap attack.”

Morgan continued, “Also included in her speech tonight was the topic of job creation and growth. But yet the Governor has failed to address the mounting job losses in her own state. In the last 12 months alone, Kansas has lost over 4,000 jobs in key parts of the state like Emporia, Pittsburgh, and Overland Park.”

“At least Sebelius gave lip service to the needs of rural America. In Kansas, she wrote them off when she denied them 2,000 jobs earlier this year. The Governor can lecture all she wants on ‘writing off communities,’ but her actions speak louder than words. While rural Kansas is struggling, she has been jet setting all over the country and the world attending sporting events and fancy sounding conferences.”

“Rural growth and development are important for the Midwest. Unfortunately, the Sebelius Administration is not a good example of this. Instead, she has given lip service to the needs of these small communities while vetoing legislation directly aimed at supporting them.”

“One thing was clear in Sebelius’ speech tonight, she can’t define Barack Obama’s change any better than the rest of us.”

Morgan concluded, “The contrast could not be more clear in the upcoming election. John McCain has an economic plan that will build jobs. Senator McCain believes that every American—not just the one’s politicians choose—should get a tax break. It’s evident that when politicians like Kathleen Sebelius get your money, they use it on trips to sporting events, parties, and appointments for political allies.”

A Mile High, an Inch Deep

Yesterday at the RNC’s war room, a mile from the Democrat National Convention, reporters heard from McCain Victory '08 Chairwoman Carly Fiorina, Colorado Democrats For McCain Chairman Silver Salazar, Former Democratic U.S. Rep. Tim Penny (MN-01), and Wisconsin Hillary Clinton Delegate Debra Bartoshevich.

Today, they heard from Mitt Romney, U.S. Representatives Eric Cantor (R-VA), Lincoln Diaz-Balart (R-FL) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) who discussed Barack Obama’s disastrous economic plan.

At the convention tonight watch for much ado over Obama’s theme “Renewing America’s Promise” and lots of talk about taxing the rich. However, keep in mind that Obama voted to raise taxes on people making just $42,000 per year. That doesn’t seem rich to us.

Also keep in mind that during Obama’s three years, (that’s right 3 years!) in the United States Senate he has either voted against tax cuts or voted for tax increases a whopping 94 times. So far, during his campaign, Obama has proposed higher income taxes, capital gains taxes, dividend taxes and Social Security taxes.

This is not change we can afford.

Also tonight, as you watch Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius keep in mind that Kansas has lost an estimated 4,000 jobs over the last 12 months under her “leadership.”

Finally, the Democrats would like you to believe that they are unified and ready to take on Republicans this November, but recent poll numbers show anything but. In fact, Senator John McCain is proving that his experienced leadership matters to Americans.

To follow the RNC's war room responses, visit http://www.notready08.com/.

Interesting Tid-Bit

Have you been watching the Democrats meet in Denver like I have? Scary stuff.

Anyway, just for the moment, an interesting tidbit from Mark Parkinson from the Dem Convention this morning:

Parkinson had several quips about the anonymity of being lieutenant governor. He noted Kansas University Chancellor Robert Hemenway, Kansas State University president Jon Wefald, and Gov. Kathleen Sebelius have sleek aircraft to get around in. His mode of transportation: a state-issued 1996 Crown Victoria. And, he said, it has been amusing to see the blank stares of the national news photographers wondering who he is as he gets out of his car at the Pepsi Center, the site of the convention. (Thanks to the Lawrence Journal World here.)

Yes, Mr. Lt. Governor, that is interesting that they have a sleek aircraft to get around in. Now, maybe the Governor should show us how many times she has used that state-issued plane for political purposes, and er, trips to sporting events. (psssst, the taxpayers of Kansas pay for this)

Also, just a quick comment: How did Kathleen Sebelius go from being a top contender for VP to an "also-spoke" at the convention tonight? Why, if she is such a prominent Democrat, does she have such a minor speaking role tonight? I have my guesses....zzzzzzzzzzz.

More later....from the Dem Convention...

Join Senator Sam Brownback...

Join the Johnson County Republican Party Elephant Club as they welcome Senator Sam Brownback to their monthly luncheon. Senator Brownback will be giving an inside perspective to the Presidential race as one of Senator John McCain's close advisors and a speaker at the Republican National Convention.

The event will be this Wednesday, August 27, at the Hereford House, 5001 Town Center Dr, Leawood. Things will get underway at 11:45. For more information or to RSVP, contact Marvin Kleeb at (913) 707-4535 or marvink@alliedstaffing.com.

Sebelius: Still Ignoring Kansas

Earlier today Governor Sebelius was on CBS News "Face the Nation," making wild accusations about Senator John McCain.

Here's what Christian Morgan, KS GOP Executive Director had to say about it:
“I find it disturbing that the Governor is taking time away from the issues of Kansas Government to attack John McCain, the next President of the United States. Before she claims that any political leader is ‘out of touch,’ she should take a hard look in the mirror. Just last week Kansas lost another 200 jobs, and yet the Governor has said nothing.”

“Under Sebelius’ so called ‘leadership,’ Kansas poverty rates have risen to record levels, and thousands of jobs have been lost. Kathleen Sebelius is out of touch with what is happening in her own backyard.”

Now, she's on her way to Denver where she is co-chair of the Democrat National Convention. A convention, by the way, that has been plagued with money troubles and delays--not that we are surprised.

Let's just hope she is taking vacation time for this trip, and that Kansas taxpayers are not footing the bill.

O'Biden

Well it's finally done. The Governor didn't make the ticket. It is Joe Biden, Delaware. Yes. Delaware.

What a change candidate! Er, wait, he was elected to the U.S. Sente in 1972? Whoops.

Anyway...Interesting choice by Barack, but instead of having me talk more and more about Biden as the Democratic Vice Presidential nominee, and how he agrees with all of us that Barack Obama is not qualified to be President, allow me to simply show you and important piece by Senator John McCain's campaign.

More Job Losses for Kansas-Sebelius AWOL, Campaigns in Iowa

Wow, another day and another major employer in the state of Kansas cutting jobs. And where is our supposed leader and Governor, Kathleen Sebelius? Iowa, of course, cheerleading for Barack Obama.

This is getting very old. She rejects 0ver 2,000 jobs in western Kansas, and attends San Francisco fundraisers for Barack Obama. Meanwhile, Tyson Foods lays off hundreds, and Kathleen Sebelius poses for Vogue.

Now this, while Sebelius is in Iowa…

California-based Superior Industries will close its Pittsburg plant by Christmas. The manufacturer has had a Pittsburg presence for about 20 years, with a payroll of $27 million…
…Employees at the Pittsburg plant got word of their pending layoffs Tuesday. The cuts will begin in late October, with all 600 jobs to be eliminated by Christmas.

Where is Kathleen Sebelius on this? Why hasn’t she been asked about the thousands of jobs that are being lost in Kansas? Why hasn’t Kathleen Sebelius been challenged on her AWOL Governorship? Inquiring minds want to know…and I know Kansans are getting impatient. It’s time for these questions to be asked – it’s time for Kathleen Sebelius to be challenged on her lack of leadership.

On the eve of the Democratic Convention in Colorado, maybe we can get some answers from this person who wants to be a Vice Presidential nominee.

Breaking News from the Associated Press. Shocking indeed...

Sebelius working today at Statehouse!

Where in the World is Kathleen Sebelius Today?

It has been quite a while since we have discussed Governor Sebelius's travels across the nation and state on behalf of her BFF Barack Obama. So, without going through the long list of states Sebelius has worked in on behalf of the most liberal Senator in Washington, let me just point out on appearance in Michigan this week.

Sebelius, while giving a stirring address to Michigan Democratic women, blurted out a little tidbit about how out of touch she is with Kansans. Here's the nugget from the Associated Press:

At a news conference before the town hall and during the meeting itself, the Kansas governor also spoke of her ties to Michigan. She has a family home in the northern Lower Michigan lakefront community of Leland. “I pay property taxes in Michigan,” she said.

So, Sebelius pays Michigan property taxes, big deal. The funny thing is, records show no property taxes paid by Kathleen Sebelius in the state of Kansas. Maybe this is due to the fact that she lives in government housing, or maybe it's due to the fact that she has no intention of staying in Kansas much longer. Not suprising. She has had one foot out the door for years--just looking for the next opportunity.

Maybe she's got her meal-ticket in Barack Obama. We all know she has wasted enough taxpayer's money traveling across the country talking about "change." Kansans have already begun to grow tired of her absence and overall disregard for the people of this great state. While she has been campaigning around the country for the most liberal senator in the country, Kansas poverty rates have risen to new levels, and Kansas has lost over 2,000 jobs this year alone.

It's time for Kathleen Sebelius to work for Kansans, not her own personal political ambition. Hopefully she will think about that as she travels to Iowa to campaign for Barack Obama.

Boyda's Spinnin' because she ain't winnin'

I just love this Nancy Boyda episode. So I've decided to post it again. Her red-faced explaination of why she stormed out of the briefing and her subsequent running away from a question about storming out.

She isn't running from it anymore...she and her "friends" are spinning hard. I have to say I am impressed by how hard they are working spinning such an error of judgment by Nancy in Congress.

I guess they aren't getting a favorable response from the voters regarding her conduct that day.

Too bad for Nancy and her friends...we won't let the Boyda spin machine twist their way out of this one. The people of the 2nd District will be reminded time and time again of this error. Sorry, it does matter.

Here is the video of Nancy red-faced and upset after storming out of Iraq briefing...




And here is Nancy running away from the question...




76 days until election day.

The contrast is clear. Lynn Jenkins or Nancy Boyda. Respect, honor, and humility v. self-promotion, political posturing, and general disregard for the real priorities of Kansas.

More to come...

Senator Anthony Hensley's Mail Problem

Anthony Hensley is the Minority Leader for the Kansas State Senate. Right now there are 10 Democrat Senators, and Hensley is desperate to win a few more seats. Towards the end of the legislative session, Hensley decided to use a loophole in the law to send franked (taxpayer funded) mail into several legislative districts.

The Topeka Capital Journal had an article highlighting his abuses over the weekend. (You’ll notice the biggest recipient of his mail was Laura Kelly from north Topeka. Kelly is locked in a tight battle for reelection with Jim Zeller. To find out how you can help Jim, email him at zeller1946@cox.net.)

Today, the editorial board published this editorial about Hensley’s problem. Here’s a key excerpt:
“Sen. Anthony Hensley apparently was among the few legislators who weren't aware earlier this year that the revenue forecast for our state government was becoming increasingly gloomy and budget difficulties were visible on the horizon.

What other explanation could there be for the senator's decision to spend thousands of dollars to communicate with voters in Senate districts outside his own at the taxpayers' expense?

... We also can't buy any argument the mailings weren't politically motivated... Hensley contends getting such information to the voters was a legitimate function in his role of minority leader. Somehow, the functions of his leadership role — and that of House Minority Leader Dennis McKinney, of Greensburg — must differ from those of the Republicans in leadership positions...”

Thankfully, when voters in Senate District 19 head to the polls this November, they will be able to vote for a great candidate to replace Hensley, Shari Weber. For more information about Shari and her candidacy, click here.

Nick Jordan embarks on his Energy Solutions for a Stronger Economy Tour

This week, in the wake of inaction by Congress, Nick Jordan, who is running for the House of Representatives in Kansas' 3rd Congressional District, is embarking on his "Energy Solutions for a Stronger Economy Tour."

Jordan will kick off the tour using innovative technology with a Tele-Town Hall meeting on Monday night followed by a visit from Representative Tom Cole, head of the National Republican Congressional Committee on Tuesday.

Over the next three weeks Nick Jordan will be traveling the 3rd Congressional District, visiting businesses, talking with voters, hosting an online town hall, and addressing the energy and pocketbook concerns of Kansas families. The tour will also feature an action summit focused on solutions to address America's energy and economic needs.

Monday, August 18: Tele-Town Hall Meeting at 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, August 19: Tune in to hear Nick on the radio with Chris Stigall on 710 KCMO at 8:15 a.m. The interview will be followed by Nick and NRCC Chairman Tom Cole touring local businesses including Shred-It and Jayhawk Plastics.

Wednesday, August 20: The tour continues with a visit to another local business, Mid-America Fittings.

Thursday, August 21: The tour concludes with an online forum at www.WakingUpWashington.com. This online forum is open to the general public for participation. The forum will start at 12:00 p.m. For more information click here.

John McCain's Leadership Last Week

In case you missed it, Senator McCain earned wide praise for his statement on the crisis between Georgia and Russia last week. Here are a few excerpts:

From Politico
"Less than two years after Democrats finally bridged the decades-long gap between the parties on national security issues, Republicans have opened it right back up — a shift likely tied to the party's new standard-bearer John McCain and the perception of improvements in Iraq. The reemergence of the national security gap comes amid the first headline-grabbing world conflict of the 2008 campaign — the Russian invasion of Georgia that highlights the potential for a dramatic military event to upend the political landscape, and likely aid McCain. July's NBC News/Wall Street Journal Poll found that three in four Americans believe McCain can "handle" the role of commander in chief, while only 19 percent said he "cannot," compared to a 50 percent to 42 percent split for Obama. When asked which party is more capable of "dealing with the war on terrorism," 40 percent of respondents to the latest NBC/WSJ poll said Republican while 29 percent said Democrat. The parties had been effectively tied as recently as January of this year, and the 11-percentage-point gap is the largest since 2004, the last year these numbers shifted so dramatically and, not coincidentally, the last presidential election year."

From The New York Post
"The phone may not have rung at 3 a.m., but when word came of Russia's brutal invasion of neighboring Georgia, one of the two presidential candidates instinctively understood the adventure's long-range implications. And one did not. Indeed, the crisis in the Caucasus is giving voters real insight into how John McCain and Barack Obama might handle a foreign-policy emergency. … Obama's initial reaction was that only Georgia's territorial sovereignty was at stake - and that the way to resolve that issue was to negotiate. But McCain immediately understood that the real issue wasn't just a Georgian territory violation, but Vladimir Putin's premeditated effort to let Eastern Europe know that Russia intends thoroughly to dominate what it terms its 'near abroad.'"

Finally, from Foster's Daily Democrat
"For his part, John McCain made it very clear that such hostilities would threaten long-term relations between the United States and Russia. His language was plain, simple and unmistakable. Speaking from experience, McCain forcefully added his voice to those looking to short circuit Russia's aggression, lest the conflict quickly escalate and spread in the region. Obama, on the other hand, initially offered words that sounded like an analysis on the nightly news rather than words from someone seeking to be the next leader of the free world."

And, check out his newest ad about Barack Obama entitled "Taxman."

Kansas Republican Party Chairman Statement

Below is a letter written by Kansas Republican Party Chairman, Kris Kobach, regarding recent activities during the Kansas Republican Primary.











August 15, 2008

Fellow Republicans,

We have just come through a grueling primary season, and we are now marching together toward victory in November. As is often the case, there were a number of hard-fought primaries around the state in which Republicans said some negative things about each other.

However, there was one attack that was so out-of-line and so indefensible that it must be roundly and publicly condemned by all Republicans in Kansas.

On August 1, the organization “Kansas Traditional Republican Majority,” (KTRM) issued a press release entitled “Kline and Ryun Unmasked: Linked to Klu Klux Klan.” In that release, the KTRM made an absurd attempt to link these two good men to the KKK through a series of implausible connections.

It is a sad day when any organization falsely accuses a Republican candidate of being linked to the KKK. It is inexcusable when an organization that claims to be associated with the Republican Party does so. We expect such despicable smear tactics from Democrats, but not from Republicans.

It is simply unacceptable for any organization that claims to represent the Republican Party to slander fellow Republicans in this way. Falsely accusing someone of being linked to the racism of the KKK is a personal smear that has no place in Republican politics.

This condemnation of KTRM’s press release has nothing to do with its ideological leanings. If a conservative organization stooped to such a disgraceful level, it too would be condemned. Attacks like these have no ideology – just right and wrong. What KTRM did, just days before Republicans across the state voted in the primary election, was just plain wrong. Fortunately, the media realized how baseless this press release was and ignored it.

I hope that KTRM will recognize its mistake and apologize to Jim Ryun and Phill Kline. It is time for all Republicans to reconcile with one another and move forward to victory in November.


Kris Kobach, Chairman, Kansas Republican Party

Ellsworth County Republican Party Event

Join fellow Ellsworth County Republicans as they head towards victory in November. Senator Pat Roberts and other local Republican candidates will be speaking. The event is on Tuesday, August 19 at the Ellsworth Golf Course banquet room. Things will get underway at 6:00 pm. For more information contact Mary Jo Huseman at 785-472-3591.

It's Day 12

It's Day 12 of America being held hostage by foreign oil while Dennis Moore and the Democrat Congress "vacation from energy solutions."

However, there are other countries exploring and developing energy solutions off our shores. For example, only 60 miles from Key West, Florida, Cuba has opened off-shore drilling exploration. Unfortunately, American energy producers aren't allowed to do the same thanks to Representative Moore and Congress.

At a time when oil prices are through the roof and American families are hurting, you'd think Moore would want to encourage American produced energy--but that would be an incorrect assumption. In June of 2007, Moore voted against a bill that would have allowed for natural gas exploration and development 25 miles off our coasts. This is the type of legislation that encourages dependence on foreign oil which in turn threatens our national security and the American pocketbook. This is unacceptable. It's time for real energy solutions to stimulate our economy.

For more information about how you can help wake up Washington and find real solutions to this problem, click here.

Sedgwick County Republican Women's Event

The Sedgwick County Republican Women cordially invite you to dinner and politics! Featuring Republican National Committeeman-Elect, Mr. Michael Pompeo. The event will be on Saturday, August 23 at the Sedgwick County Extension Center (21st Street at North Ridge Road in Wichita.) Things will get underway at 6:00. For more information contact Judy at 316-721-9393.

Boyda Doesn't Get It

This weekend Boyda and her operation were in the press trying to get Lynn Jenkins to refuse 3rd party money in the 2nd Congressional District race. It's amusing to watch the Boyda operation try to spin this "outside party help" issue. Let me summarize a little.

Boyda promises to run an independent campaign, but then she gets $1.2 million in help from the DCCC. The Kansas GOP calls her out for not being (big suprise) "independent," and Boyda says "get the heck out of my race." Then the DCCC says "ok, we don't think you can beat Jenkins anyway," pulls the money, and Kansas GOP is victorious in making sure Boyda sticks to her campaign promise.

Bodya was the one who decided to run a facade in the media and in appearances as an "independent" member of Congress. (Remember, when you say something enough times, you really start to believe it regardless of the truth).

In addition, madam Congresswoman, you were the one who decided to receive $391,004 from Political Action Committees (PACs) and $140,129 from out-of-state individuals. How exactly is that giving "Kansas the opportunity to run our election without Washington interference?" (Check out Boyda's quote in this article.)

It's a pretty simple break down. Boyda is trying to play a game where she is sticking to a campaign promise that she made, and is trying to get Lynn to make the same promise. There is just one other little hang up in this whole plan. Boyda has already said, "I will run my campaign. How Lynn runs hers is her business. I'm not going to tell her what to do..." (Here)

Lynn is getting support from around the country because Americans, not just Kansans, are unhappy with the direction that the Democrat controlled Congress is taking the country. Nancy Boyda is part of this problem. Since getting elected, she has said things in the district, and then voted another way in Congress.

The Week in Review

It’s been a busy week in the news. In case you missed it here are some highlights from Primary Election night.

The Wichita Eagle blog notes that after what happened on Tuesday, Nancy Boyda should be nervous.

This article in the Lawrence Journal World highlights Nick Jordan’s victory.

This article looks at the 2nd District Victory press conference yesterday.

Check out this article about John McCain. He boils down the differences between his opponent, Barack Obama, and his policy positions. Here’s an excerpt:
“McCain told those gathered for a town hall meeting that Obama is a talented orator with an agenda that could be boiled down to simple policies the Arizona Republican opposes.

‘Government is too big, he wants to grow it. Taxes are to high, he wants to raise them,’ McCain said. ‘Congress spends too much and he proposes more. We need more energy and he's against producing it. We're finally winning in Iraq, and he wants to forfeit.’”

And, here is the latest ad by the McCain campaign.

Finally, it was Barack Obama's birthday on Monday. The RNC decided to help him celebrate, by sending newsrooms the official Barack Obama tire gage after Obama said, "There are things that you can do individually though to save energy; making sure your tires are properly inflated, simple thing, but we could save all the oil that they’re talking about getting off drilling, if everybody was just inflating their tires and getting regular tune-ups. You could actually save just as much.” (Barack Obama, Springfield, MO, 7/30/08)

Marching Towards Victory

In Topeka today, Republican elected officials and candidates from around the 2nd District gathered to talk about winning the 2nd District Congressional Race in November.

Senator Sam Brownback had this to say:
Today we congratulate Lynn Jenkins on her victory! There is no doubt that her positive message, and the efforts of Kansas Republicans, will take her to victory in November.

Lynn, I look forward to having you join the Kansas Delegation and am excited to serve with you in Washington representing our great state.

I’d also like to thank my good friend, Jim Ryun, for running a good race. Jim, your past service has made our state and our nation a better place to live, and we thank you for that.

I’m pleased that Republicans have joined together today, recommitting to elect Republicans in November. We know that our Republican Party, the party of smaller government and opportunity for every American, has the message and the will to win this November.

Senator Pat Roberts said this:
Today, I am pleased to offer my enthusiastic support for -- and the endorsement of -- our next U.S. Congresswoman, Lynn Jenkins. As a fellow Holton High Wildcat and longtime friend, I know Lynn has what it takes to win back this congressional seat. She will do an outstanding job as a leader for this state, and I will support Lynn every step of the way. Lynn, saddle up, it’s time to ride in the posse!

In addition, I want to recognize the extraordinary life and career of my colleague, the Honorable Jim Ryun. As a world class athlete, a dedicated public servant, and in his most important calling as a wonderful father and husband, Jim has always made Kansas proud. I am very pleased that Jim has agreed to serve on my statewide campaign steering committee during this election. Thank you, Jim, for your continued commitment and leadership.

We have much to be proud of in this great nation. Over the next 89 days, Kansans will engage in our great civic ritual: A spirited campaign culminating in an election and a peaceful transfer of power. This is the American way. Like Lynn, I look forward to continuing to represent the people of Kansas and working to ensure we preserve the freedoms we hold most dear.

When I announced my candidacy last year, I said I’d be the leader of the posse. I am keeping that promise. Now we’re all mounted up and ready to ride. Together, in partnership, let’s go to work!

For more information about Lynn Jenkins and her vision for the 2nd District, visit her website.

Shockingly Weak

One thing is clear after last night’s primary election. The Slattery name is shockingly weak in Kansas politics.

First, in the Senate primary Jim Slattery saw more than 31% of Democratic voters cast their ballots for Lee Jones.

Remember that Jim Slattery is a former six-term Congressman and gubernatorial nominee with the early support of his party establishment and Jones is a complete unknown. Slattery outspent Jones by an outrageous margin and still lost nearly a third of the vote.

In fact, Slattery barely improved on octogenarian Robert Conroy’s showing against Jones in the last Democratic U.S. Senate primary in Kansas. Conroy got 56% against Jones and didn’t even campaign.

Slattery spent close to half a million dollars and got less than 69%. Shockingly weak.

Second, despite a broadcast and cable advertising blitz in the pricey Kansas City television market by his millionaire lobbyist father, Mike Slattery appears on his way to losing his primary in the 24th State House District in Johnson County.

In this race, as in the Senate contest, the Democratic bosses tried to anoint a carpetbagger thanks to his famous name and fat checkbook and an amazing percentage of Democratic primary voters said “no thanks.”

With all precincts reporting, Mike Slattery actually trails by three votes--that’s with an effective in-kind expenditure of over $150,000 by his father to drive “Slattery” name recognition in that market--$150,000 in a State House Primary!

There’s no doubt people know the Slattery name in Kansas, they just don’t like it.

They haven’t since Jim Slattery left Kansas after losing the 1994 Governor’s race 64-36%. No wonder the most recent independent public poll shows Jim Slattery losing to Pat Roberts by an identical twenty-eight point margin. (Here)

It seems this morning that one Slattery has already lost his election and the other is on his way to doing the same after a shockingly weak showing on primary night.

Don't forget to vote Jim

Earlier today, we sent out a reminder to get out and vote for your favorite Republican today in the Republican Primary. Now we have a follow up. It has come to our attention here at Party Headquarters that the Democrats are voting in their own primary today as well. Honoring this day, we wanted to send Jim Slattery a reminder to vote in his own Primary today.

Jim may not be too familiar with the Kansas Primary system since he hasn't voted in one in a decade. Rather than voting in our primaries and being involved in the state of Kansas, Jim was filling his pockets with cash from his various special interest clients in Washington, DC.

So, the polls are open today from 7 am – 7 pm, Jim. Make sure you get out and cast your ballot in the primary for the first time in 10 years.

After today, you’ll only have one more chance to vote for yourself.

It's Primary Election Day

Don’t forget to vote in the Republican Primary today. If you received an Advanced Ballot, you have until the polls close to turn it in. If you are voting for the 1st time, make sure you bring an ID like a driver’s license, utility bill, paycheck, or other government issued ID.

Polls are open from 7 am – 7 pm.

To contact your local election office and find your polling place, click here.

Once the polls close, come join your candidates at the Election Night watch party.

Johnson County
Sheraton Hotel/Overland Park Convention Center
6100 College Boulevard
Overland Park, Kansas 66211

Doubletree Hotel
10100 College Boulevard
Overland Park, Kansas 66210

Shawnee County
Capitol Plaza Hotel
1717 SW Topeka Blvd
Topeka, KS 66612

Sedgwick County
The Red Barn
24401 W. MacArthur
Goddard, KS 67052

Happy Birthday, Barack Obama

Today is Barack Obama's birthday. This is what the RNC had to say about it:
"In celebration of Barack Obama’s special day, the Republican National Committee (RNC) is sending Washington, D.C., newsrooms and bureaus a special gift in his honor.

"Like so many Americans, members of the media also are struggling to pay upwards of $4 a gallon for gas. But last week, Barack Obama said, 'There are things that you can do individually though to save energy; making sure your tires are properly inflated, simple thing, but we could save all the oil that they’re talking about getting off drilling, if everybody was just inflating their tires and getting regular tune-ups. You could actually save just as much.' (Barack Obama, Springfield, MO, 7/30/08)

"So the RNC is providing members of the media with complimentary tools related to Barack Obama’s energy plan – a brand new tire gauge. Because, instead of actually increasing America’s domestic oil supply, this is how Obama thinks Americans should try to alleviate burdensome pain at the pump."

In case you missed it, here is one of the latest ads from the McCain campaign about Obama's recent travel overseas.

Republicans Standing Up for Lower Gas Prices

Check out this blog from Politico about how Republicans took a stand in Congress earlier today after Nancy Pelosi and the House Democrats adjourned without even bringing up legislation to reduce energy prices for Americans.

Here are a couple of exerpts:
"Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and the Democrats adjourned the House, turned off the lights and killed the microphones, but Republicans are still on the floor talking gas prices...

"...Only about a half-dozen Republicans were on the floor when this began, but the crowd has grown to about 20, according to Patrick O'Connor...

"'This is the people's House,' said Rep. Thaddeus McCotter (R-Mich.). 'This is not Pelosi's politiburo.' Democratic aides were furious at the GOP stunt, and reporters were kicked out of the Speaker's Lobby, the space next to the House floor where they normally interview lawmakers.

"You're not covering this, are you?" complained one senior Democratic aide. Another called the Republicans "morons" for staying on the floor...

"...Republican leaders just sent out a notice looking for a bullhorn, and leadership aides are trying to corral all the members who are still in town to come speak on the floor and sustain this one-sided debate.

Also, Republicans can thank Shadegg for turning on the microphones the first time. Apparently, the fiesty Arizona conservative started typing random codes into the chamber's public address system and accidentally typed the correct code, allowing Republicans brief access to the microphone before it was turned off again...

"...You are not witnessing a revolt," said Rep. Mike Pence. "You are witnessing democracy in action."

Rep. Donald Manzullo also delivered a passionate speech, saying today was his late father's birthday.

After relating how his father, an Italian immigrant, came to live in Illinois and own a little grocery store, Manzullo brought the crowd to its feet with this line: "The people of this country are rising up and saying, 'We want our country back!'"

And, make sure to read the whole thing here.

What Exactly is Boyda doing in Congress?

In the most recent round of Federal Election Commission 48-hour filings Nancy Boyda failed to report in a timely manner contributions over $1,000. (From July 17, 12:01AM until August 5, 2008 (Party Primary), candidates for United States Congress are required to report contributions of $1,000 and higher within 48-hours of receiving the contribution.) On the 48-hour report filed last evening there was over $13,000 of contributions reported late and incorrectly.

We figure that Nancy Boyda will claim that she got caught up in the hectic, last-minute rush of Congress heading into the August recess and just forgot to get the contributions reported. We all know that she sure wasn’t busy passing meaningful pieces of legislation that will benefit Kansans.
What appears to have happened is that Boyda decided it was more fun playing politics with her liberal cohorts in the House. She has been sitting on her hands while Americans and Kansans are hurting. Instead of taking action to reduce high energy prices, she actually voted to block off-shore drilling several times.

The Boyda/Pelosi version of obstructionism in Congress is malarkey. Saying one thing in Kansas and voting another way in Washington is malarkey. Nancy Boyda’s leadership is malarkey. We need leadership in the 2nd District – showing up is not enough.