------ POLITICS ROCKS ------

Joe Biden

2007-08-29T20:53:00.000-04:00

"Whether You Like It Or Not, Learn To Love It, Because Joe Biden Is The Best Thing Going!" Woooooo

2007-07-30T00:01:00.000-04:00

Greatest Wrestler of AllTime Ric Flair - Our Next President Sen. Joe Biden-Link

While Obama and Hillary continue to attack each other, Joe Biden gets back to the two issues that has really been destroying and brainwashing our country for the last 6 years ....... the Iraq war and Republican talking points. As I see Fox News become more and more irrelevant everyday with their war and terrorism rhetoric, the more I watch and listen to every Republican Presidential Candidate, the more irrelevant they become as well. Geeze, it's almost like the Republicans aren't even trying anymore. When is the last time a Republican candidate spoke about ending poverty, or fixing healthcare, or figuring out how to end discrimination against minorities in this country? It's very laughable I know. Yesterday Republican Presidential Candidate Rudy Giuliani stepped up his rhetorical attacks on the Democratic Presidential Candidates saying that the whole Democratic field are a bunch of "losers" with their heads in the sand when it comes to "Islamic Terrorism." This was Joe Biden's response to that statement: "Rudy Giuliani just doesn't get it. Tough talk and cheap shots won't make America any safer or get mine resistant vehicles to our troops any faster. It is absurd for Rudy Giuliani to call Democrats ‘losers' after five years of failed Republican policies in Iraq. "It is outrageous that three years after the 9/11 Commission made its recommendations virtually nothing has been funded by this White House and yet Giuliani continues to make the pathetic case that his party has provided leadership fighting terrorism. As everyone knows, until we end the war in Iraq, we are distracted from the main agenda of combating terrorism in Afghanistan and strengthening our homeland security. Giuliani and the rest of the Republican candidates continue to cling to this Administration's failed policy that a strong central government can be propped up in Iraq. If these are the positions he wants to defend, I invite him to debate me on these important topics."

I'm sorry Rudy but ..... is this the best you can do? Tell me again, what is your plan to fight poverty? Rudy, what are you going to do about racial disparities in this country? Rudy, when you're done writing letters for Scooter Libby, will you ever get around to writing a healthcare plan? In the words of Ric Flair, if you're gonna talk the talk, you got to walk the walk - and Joe Biden is doing just that ...... Wooooooo!

The New Smashing Pumpkins

2007-07-27T22:36:00.000-04:00

For those of you who know me best and what I really enjoy, you know that Music and Sports are my two favorite things ever. Back on July 3rd, three friends and I were able to go see Smashing Pumpkins at the Orange Peel up in Asheville, N.C. This was one of nine shows that they performed while being up there. The Orange Peel only holds around 900 people so as you can imagine we were about 10 feet from the stage the entire time. This is the first time I think the Pumpkins have played since Dec. 2000. Lead singer Billy Corgan and drummer Jimmy Chamberlein are the only two original members who are still with the band. They have added a new electric guitar player, female bass player (and yes she is hotter than the last), and a female keyboardist. They went on around 10:00 and got done right at 1:00am. Corgan blew an amp out in the first hour that took about 20 minutes to correct but other than that, the show was incredible! This is one of the best 10 bands to come out from the 90's era and it's great seeing them back on the road making music. The song below is a brand new song that won't even be on their new cd. He wrote it while in Asheville about a week before this show. He opened the concert with this one and while it doesn't have a name yet, for now we'll just call it "I Don't Mind." Enjoy!

Memo To Gov. Sanford and S.C. Legislators: Make The Call To The Bullpen, We Need John Rainey

2007-06-20T00:01:00.000-04:00

John Rainey is a practicing attorney, chairman of the board of Easlan Capital Inc., and Chairman of the SC Board of Economic Advisors. Mr. Rainey received his undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia and holds law degrees from the University of South Carolina and Georgetown University.

Sometimes I find myself writing the most obvious things. You won't catch me endorsing a Conservative too often, especially one who wears a Seersucker suit 24/7, but there's no question who Mark Sanford and the Legislators should get to be the next SC Treasurer ....... John Rainey. Not only would he be the best man for the job, but he warned us of Ravenel 10 months ago. There aren't three people in this state more conservative than Rainey, but if there is one Republican who will show common sense and integrity as State Treasurer, it's him. It would be easy to sit here as a Democrat and pout and say "but he's a Republican and he's going to vote in line with Mark Sanford on the B&C Board." Yes and No.

We can't make up for our mistake that we made back in November, but since we do have a new start and it's still early into the term, let's go ahead and get him warming up in the bullpen. Let's face it, Rainey is someone who Mark Sanford, the Senate, and the House can all agree on. My gosh! We should be begging John Rainey to accept this position. If I was Governor, as soon as I suspended T-Rav from his position, I would have immediately placed a call to John Rainey's log cabin in Colorado and made it clear that we desperately need him. I'm supporting Rainey because he is the most qualified and he was dead right 10 months ago! Exactly right. He also made us more aware on the real problems of our schools - Corridor of Shame

Everyone remembers the Q&A that Rainey had with Ravenel back in August. Everyone saw first hand how much he cares for this state and how familiar he is with the Treasurer's position. This "Rocky Mountain Liberal" may or may not take the job if offered, but damnit, he would be the best man for it. Whether its education, economics, anything ..... this man is way ahead of the game. No offense to these guys, but trying to appoint Rick Quinn, Greg Ryberg, or anyone else over Rainey would be absolutely insane! Just because they ran for the Treasurer's position doesn't mean that they had any business being in the race. I thought the entire field of (R) Candidates were extremely unqualified but unfortunately if you have a R beside your name and pronounce your love for Dale Earnhardt, you will get elected in this state. No need to get a left and a righty going, just make the call to the bullpen and get John Rainey warming up.

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Gov. Sanford Names Wingate Interim Treasurer - Link
I'm fine with this for now, it's only temporary, but starting in January, I want John Rainey to be the Treasurer till the term ends.

Purdue Pharmaceutical

2007-05-22T00:01:00.000-04:00

Contributor Jeff P.

Purdue Pharma Pleads Guilty To Oxycontin Misbranding - Link

Imagine this…There is a drug dealer in your neighborhood. He’s been there over the past dozen years. He deals a drug that is as dangerous as heroin. He was warned of the dangers. People told him that over a five year period, deaths resulting from the use of this drug that he distributed jumped over 400%! Despite these dangerous revelations, that information was pushed under the table and this dealer continued to sell. He made millions upon millions. He told people that the drug was safer, less addictive, and was meant to feel good without having to worry about abuse becoming a problem. This despite all the evidence. And then finally after twelve plus years of marketing and selling and making money hand over fist, it all comes crashing down…

If I gave you this scenario about your neighborhood, as a good law abiding American, you would demand justice. Significant jail time. Throw away the key. The more adamant people against crime might be screaming for the death penalty. And who could blame any of these people for suggesting these easures? Unfortunately, the scenario that I provided for you did not happen on the hard streets of some urban city. The decisions to sell were not made in back alleys. And money was not exchanged on some dark street where the street lights had been knocked out to conceal identities. These decisions were instead make in corporate boardrooms, with coat and tie executives hiding the ill effects of Oxycontin in order to protect their growing stock options and second homes in the hills. The money passed through pharmacies and doctor’s offices across the nation, with misinformation being distributed to the people we trust our well-being with so that a couple of fat cats could get rich. And the sentence for this … no prison time, no throwing away the keys, locking them under the jail. A fine, a large one at that, but still nothing more than a fine. Welcome to America!

Last week, Purdue Pharmaceutical pled guilty to misleading the public and misbranding their drug, despite almost a decade’s worth of information that pointed out the potentially devastating effects of their drugs. Today, the FDA estimates that Oxycontin could be the most abused prescription drug in the United States. For the blatant disregard for the public’s well being, three top Purdue executives who deliberately hid the information from the public will be fined $600 million. Now, I know that $600 million sounds like a lot …and it is. There is no disputing that. However, when you take into account that these top executives probably have millions of dollars tied up in stock options, 401K’s, potential interviews, and other financially lucrative opportunities, $600 million isn’t that bad of a price to pay to avoid prison time. Aside from the numbers and figures, how likely is it that these suits pay anyway?

What I think we really see happening here is a number of problems that need to be addressed … and they aren’t partisan to Republican or Democrats. First of all, there is a double standard in America. If you are a black heroin dealer in Gary, Indiana, you are going to prison. If you are sleek, white executive, who deals Oxycontin, you pay a fine. Secondly, our government is held hostage by special interests. As Americans, we should be outraged that white collar coat and ties are able to get away with this. However, since pharmaceutical companies accounted for over $100 million in campaign contributions in 2000 alone, Congress typically turns a blind eye towards the actions of the pharmaceutical industry. Finally, as our country focuses on murder, rape, and your more traditional forms of drug abuse, we have ignored the white collar improprieties of Halliburton, Enron, and now Purdue Pharmaceuticals.

Isn’t it time that we hold everyone (person and business alike) to the same level of accountability?

YES!!!! HE'S BACK

2007-05-18T00:01:00.000-04:00

Barbecue & Politics - Lifting The Bun On The Two

Messiest Things In South Carolina

Politics Rocks Statement To Rep. Kris Krawford: "I Don't Believe A Word You're Saying"

2007-05-14T00:01:00.000-04:00

If you are unfamiliar with what took place last week, to follow the storyline in the right order, read this first (Sen. Leatherman vs. Kris Krawford), then read this second (Krawford's response), before reading this current blog.

"Yea ........ Right......"

The panicky statement issued by Rep. Kris Crawford last Wednesday proved why the freshman Representative of Florence cannot be trusted. Of all the people who hang around the SC Statehouse, there is no possible way any of them could have read his press release with a straight face. It would have been too hard for at least one of them to not hysterically bust out with laughter falling to the floor. You know, the kind of hard laughter that makes the side of your stomach start to hurt when someone makes an outrageous and hilarious statement!

It was fortunate reading Rep. Crawford proclaim his heavy support for Sen. Leatherman. But a week from now, behind the scenes, will Rep. Crawford call Mr. Leatherman Senator Pork? or Dirty Dealer Leatherman? No one is buying what Kris Crawford is selling. We confirmed this from the very beginning of his statement when he said that "he has no intentions of opposing Leatherman in a future race for the S.C. Senate." My gosh, if you are not going to run against Leatherman then just come out and say "I am 100% sure I will not run against Sen. Leatherman." In my opinion, his statement was an attempt to give himself the opportunity to "flip-flop." He better be careful though. Voters love strength and hate wishy-washy politicians, especially SC Republican voters.

I had my suspicions about this man from the start, and now they have been confirmed. From now on, every time I see him speak on TV, or read any of Rep. Crawford's quotes in the paper, I'm sure there will be one thing that will keep running through my head, "I don't believe a word you're saying. I don't believe a word you're saying. I don't believe ..."

It's Official: Representative Crawford Is Scared Of Senator Leatherman .... So He Says

2007-05-10T00:01:00.000-04:00

Crawford Says He Won't Run Against Leatherman - Link

Wednesday - May 9 - BY Morning News Staff Reports Morning News

Rep. Kris Crawford of Florence issued a statement Wednesday emphasizing his strong support of Sen. Hugh Leatherman of Florence and that he has no intentions of opposing Leatherman in a future race for the S.C. Senate. Crawford sent out a press release to state his strong support of Leatherman in response to a “recent internet blog report that erroneously reported that I intend to run for the State Senate against Sen. Hugh Leatherman.”

In a phone interview from the State House with the Morning News, Crawford said the report had created such a buzz there that he felt the need to issue the statment. He said that he and Leatherman are working closely on a number of key issues and the report could not be further from the truth. Crawford’s statement went on to say: “ ... during Sen. Leatherman’s last campaign I appeared in a TV commercial for him. I have donated money to his campagin fund, and I have most recently been a host for a reception that was held for Sen. Leatherman in Florence. “Sen. Leatherman and I are friends, and we have assembled a great legislative team for Florence County and the Pee Dee. “We are working together closelyon several important issues that affect our region, and I am proud to be his colleague. “Not only will I not run for the Senate, I encourage Sen. Leatherman to run for re-election and wish to be the first to publicly endorse him.”

Rep. Kristopher "Kris(sy)" Crawford vs. Sen. Hugh Leatherman

2007-05-08T00:01:00.000-04:00

Sen. Hugh Leatherman - Rep. Kris Crawford

We are sitting around 13 months away from next year's primary election in Florence, SC. Word on the street has it that (R) Rep. Kris Crawford is planning a sneak attack against (R) Sen. Hugh Leatherman. Kris is a new and very wealthy House member. It is no surprise to anyone who is around the SC Statehouse, that Kris is a "yes man" or "thank you sir, may I have another" new house pledge to Mark Sanford. Word on the street also says that Sanford is planning on using his leftover out of state campaign cash to help Crawford defeat Leatherman. (Let's not forget, Crawford is a physician in Florence who probably has the capability to spend a lot of his own money as well)

Back on March 2, 2005, Senator Leatherman introduced Dr. Kristopher Crawford of Florence, S.C., as Doctor of the Day. If Crawford immediately turns around and runs against the legend, Senator Leatherman, then he has no spine whatsoever. The way I see it, Cris Crawford is jeopardizing his career by latching on to Sanford. Yes, Sanford did take 55% of the vote 6 months ago, but he's such a lameduck Governor. Unemployment and economic growth will continue to sit at a stand still. The public will get tired hearing the same ole samle ole 5 years in a row in the next few weeks. There will be tons and tons of negative press against him on the Coastal Insurance Crisis to begin with, followed by many other blunders that will probably come out. Also, keep in mind, Crawford will be running against a sitting Senator of 115 years who has performed great service for the people of Florence.

If Crawford runs against Sen. Leatherman and ruins his political career a year from now, I just hope that he doesn't act like a sore loser. You know, kind of like a kid that loses a game to 11 and insists that you play up to 15 instead. Next time I write This Blog again, I'll be sure to include him in the list.

--------

Bill Self (Kansas Basketball Coach) --------------------- Rep. Kris Crawford

Warm Up The Bus, Warm Up The Bus!

2007-02-28T00:01:00.000-05:00

Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney - Michael Landon (Little House on The Prairie)

This blog in no way is meant to bash Gov. Mitt Romney. According to the most recent poll among Republican voters, - Poll Link - Romney is polling at 4%. I'm not one who puts a huge deal of stock in polls, but trust me, if you're only polling at 4% right now, that basically means that you have just a few more months left until you have to pull out of this race. I don't care how well he speaks, I don't care how well he looks, and I don't care how tall he is ...... he is done!

What I find amazing is that according to the poll, 3 out of 10 Republican voters won't vote for him simply because he is Morman. Only 2 out of 10 Republican voters won't vote for Guiliani because of his stance on abortion and gay marriage. The former New York mayor Guliani led among Republicans with 44 percent to McCain's 21 percent. Former House speaker Newt Gingrich of Georgia ran third in the latest poll with 15 percent, while former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney was fourth with 4 percent. Someone please tell the driver for the Romney campaign to warm up the bus, because this Republican Presidential game is about to come to an end for the Romney Team!

This really is of no surprise to me. I knew he was done as soon as I watched this video below.

Our Blog Has Officially Come To An End! Politics Rocks Wishes Everyone A Very Merry Christmas And A Happy New Year!

2006-12-20T00:01:00.000-05:00

What you see below is real. No photoshopping was used on the picture below!

"Like many South Carolinians, Karen and her husband are avid hunters," Floyd Spokesman Hogan Gidley said.

So long and farewell from Politics Rocks. Thanks to all the readers, anonymous comments, and just everyone who participated, read, liked, and hated my blog! It's been since the middle of November 2005 when I started this thing and it's time it comes to an end! Who knows, I may start up a Doughnuts & Politics blog next, but as of right now, I will take a break. Feel free to check out my Sports Talk Rocks blog and comment on there, but for now, the 2 blogs below will be my last ones on here. Also, scroll down and learn who your Senators are! (Thanks to everyone who helped out and gave me suggestions for the look alikes)

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Top Ten List: Top Ten Biggest Losers In The Mark Sanford Fanclub (**Updated)

Pearl Jam's First Record And My All Time Favorite CD -"Ten"

1. Mark Sanford - SC Governor
2. The Herald Journal Editorial Staff- Spartanburg, SC Newspaper
3. Richard Eckstrom - SC Comptroller General
4. Katon Dawson- SC GOP Chair

5. Jason Miller - Sanford's Deputy Chief of Staff For Coalitions/Strategic Planning
6. Joshua Gross - Director of SC Club 4 Growth
7. Joel Sawyer - Current Press Secretary to Mark Sanford

8. Ralph Norman - Former Candidate for U.S. House District 5

9. Karen Floyd - Former Candidate for SC Superintendent of Education

10. Sunny Phillips - SC GOP Fundraiser

There's been some changes to this Top Ten List from a few months ago, but still, you know these are some bad losers when Former Press Secretary Will Folks can't even crack the Top Ten. He normally would finish in the top two of almost any other list such as this, but with some of the rising stars that have popped up in the Mark Sanford FanClub, he still remains off the list. The Herald-Journal Editorial Staff was at the #10 spot, but now has been moved up and cruising along just fine at the #2 spot. Thanks to their 1,027th makeout session over the last year with Mark Sanford in this editorial story from last week, it's safe to say their #2 spot is nowhere near in jeopardy. Jason Miller is a newcomer just recently added to the list. If there has ever been a public official more unequipped to be Governor ... Mark Sanford is your man. If there ever has been someone as clueless to support that, Joshua Gross fits that description. He got bumped and is sitting comfortably in the #6 spot. I won't get into the other recieving vote names or honorable mention names, but I will inform you on one more change in the Top Ten List. Sunny Phillips! Yes, I know her heart was crushed 3 months ago when she didn't make this list but now she can go home, pop open a beer and party on! Sunny, you were an honorable mention last time, this time you made the list! Congratulations! I present to you the Top Ten: Biggest Losers In The Mark Sanford Fanclub starting off the year 2007!

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3 Possible Outcomes For Mark Sanford's Next 4 Years As South Carolina's Governor

Scott Baio from "Charles In Charge" -------- SC Governor Mark Sanford

After reading dumb idea # 1,587 from Mark Sanford the other week, I would love to ask for a recall of his position as Governor, but since that won't happen .... I'm going to predict 3 possible outcomes that will take place over the next 4 years, and which one I would like to see happen.

1. He stays the Libertarian course and just drives the Governor's office into the ground and proves why the Legislature should have the amount power that it does. This could involve continued income tax cuts for the super wealthy, continued pushing school vouchers to help you guessed it ..... , and/or trying to shrink government to the size of a borderline dictatorship.

2. He could do all those things in option number one, plus fight strongly against the Legislature even going as far as helping opposing candidates campaign against the elected Senators in their re-election primaries in 2008. If he is really able to get Katon Dawson and some others on his side, it could potentially swing some R's to switch parties. Don't think that's not a possibility, because it def. is.

3. (This is the one I would like to see) Sanford could change course, he could work with the Legislature, he could learn that investing is important, and he could really focus on bringing jobs to South Carolina! If Sanford could pull this off, then every sentence about his political career years later would start off with, "But no matter what, he was the one who helped make South Carolina ............"

Now, I know that seems so improbable as to be near impossible for that to happen, but it's his only chance to be remembered as a great Governor. If he could pull it off, he could still be remember as a Carroll Campbell . Think about it, as of right now, he will be remembered as the Governor that brought pigs into the Statehouse! No one wants to be remembered for that! No matter how bad he screws up things for the rest of his time as Governor, if he can compromise and get the Legislature to rally behind him and land a couple of solid deals bringing some industry into this state, he would be forever remembered as a great Governor! What does he have to lose? Why not give it a shot? This is a genuine outreach to try and help the Governor. This is our state and I still care! And you should too!

Dear Abby,

2006-12-19T00:01:00.000-05:00

Dear Abby,
I never thought I would write to you, but I need some advice. A few months ago, www.SCHotline.com removed Politics Rocks from their "Blogs and Websites" list on their website and have not placed it back on there ever since. I really don't feel bad at all for challenging Karen Floyd and making fun of her campaign manager/SCHotline owner's, Mike Green on a regular basis, but I wish I wouldn't have been removed from the site.

I consider my website smart enough, good looking enough, and doggone it .... people just like it. Granted, I'm not as smart as some of the other bloggers on here, and I don't use big words in my blogs. However, as I like to say, it's not the size of your words that count, but how loud the people scream in reaction to them! I really want to continue fighting the good fight, but I just don't know if I can do it anymore. If www.SCHotline.com wouldn't have damaged my heart like the way they did, I wouldn't even be thinking about retiring!

Abby, why did www.SCHotline.com remove me from their list? Did they have someone better come along to replace me? Did they just get super mad at me for supporting Jim Rex in the Superintendent of Education Race? Even though the boys running SCHotline are gutless and spineless, I'm still embarrassed to admit that I only lasted 2 months with them! Was it my fault or was it theirs?

Please help:
Signed Michael Reese from SC,

2006 Blogger Of The Year Award - Gervais Bridges

2006-12-14T00:01:00.000-05:00

Monday, January 16, 2006

Campbell Adds Acute Accent Mark To Campaign Signs; Bauer Responds With Umlaut
Violation of time-honored language rules upsets some

B & P News - Columbia - In a new brand of political gamesmanship, Lt. Governor-candidate Mike Campbell this week added an acute accent mark to his Campbell’s Soup-style campaign signs. Lt. Governor Andre Bauer responded with his own new diacritical mark -- a prominent umlaut.“This is clearly a case of accent-mark envy,” said Bauer in a telephone interview with B & P News. “We saw this last election when Leventis put a tilde over his N. It wasn’t even pronounceable.” Campbell responded to the claim of diacritic envy by saying, "Is not," and then offering, "He started it."While the exchange between the Bauer and Campbell camps seems to have stalemated for now, some people -- including Governor Mark Sanford -- worry that political candidates are using too much discretion with their signs.“What is up with the ‘V’ in Lovelace? It’s a weird blue shape, like maybe a slice of pizza," noted Sanford. "He’s a doctor -- what if he goes to administer an IV and he inserts an ‘I-blue pizza’ instead? Sounds like malpractice to me.”Some South Carolina voters are also wary of the trend, and prefer candidates who opt for more traditional signs."I've always liked Jakie Knotts 'cause he sticks with plain ol' letters," said Lexington resident Duke Murray. "Not all them fancy vowels and whatnots."Educators agree that the signs could send the wrong message, especially to our schoolchildren.“I’ve always worried about politicians taking our liberty,” said Dreher High English teacher Jessamine Flowers. “But now, they’re taking liberties with the language I love to teach.”

This Is Interesting ....

2006-12-12T00:01:00.001-05:00

Herald Journal: It's Time To Remove Michael Smith

2004, November Elections: The Herald-Journal Editorial Page endorsed all Republicans running for political office.
2006, November Elections: Endorsed 1 Democrat out of 7 Statewide Races (even endorsed Karen Floyd and Mark Sanford)

With a majority of the population currently placing vast amounts of confidence in newspapers and their editorial opinions, as citizens, we cannot allow these newspapers to mislead and be deceptive. We, the undersigned, ask the Herald-Journal Newspaper (Spartanburg, S.C.) to get a new Editorial Page Editor. Unfortunately, Michael Smith has been and still maintains a big delusional and extreme conservative view. His radical stance should come to an end now, and the Herald-Journal Editorial Page should get back to the sensible center.

You Know, This Sounds Like The Kind Of Stuff People Think Up While .....

2006-12-11T00:01:00.000-05:00

r
TV Actor Dylan McDermott ---- SC Governor Mark Sanford

Truckers Say Sanford Idea To Back Up Traffic 'Silly' - Greenville News

After reading the article from the link above, it really makes you scratch your head asking yourself ...... was Mark Sanford smoking weed when coming up with that idea, or was it his new Strategic Planner who he hired for $106,000, Jason Miller that came up with it (while smoking weed)? I mean COME ON! Setting up weighing Stations on hwy 17 to back up traffic! It's been over a month since you guys won re-election and this is the best idea you could come up with? I've come to a conclusion .....

They've given up before ever starting the new term. The Mark Sanford team look and act like a losing basketball team with an 0-25 record, and they have to play the best team in the state with a 25-0 record. They know they're not going to win before the game even starts, they've given up before the jumpball ever takes place so what do they do instead ...... they don't take the game seriously and do everything in their power to put on a circus show! They rant and rave at the officials when they're down 80-30 in the 4th quarter, they do dumb things to try and get technical fouls, they yell and probably even tell the reporters after the game that they could have won if they just didn't keep putting the score up on the scoreboard. And yea, I'm sure they probably "accidentally" have water jug tip over behind the bench too at some point.

We should be sick to our stomachs every day for re-electing Mark Sanford to a 2nd term as Governor. The man is simply not up to the job. Even if he really wanted to be or cared to be an effective Governor, he ... could ... not ... do ... it. There's really no reason for me to even talk about his "idea" that he came up with. Jake Knotts warned us back in July on here when I interviewed him, he told us it would be a sad day for South Carolina if Mark Sanford was re-elected. He told us it would be nothing but crazy and absurd political stunts. Mark, you're losing 80-30 in the 4th quarter, stop attempting tomahawk jams from the 3point line and stop shooting half-court shots, they're almost impossible to do and it's not going to get you back in the ballgame. Please put the subs on the bench in and see if they will display good sportsmanship and make a few good plays in the remaining minutes!

Here's what Sen. Jake Knotts told us back in July!

"The P in my vocabulary, stands for people! Not politics, not party, and not partisanship. It stands for people and their problems and problem solving. And when we get a Governor in the Governor’s office that says that I’m going to listen to the people and I’m going to be there for the people, then we will have a good Governor in South Carolina!" - Jake Knotts

I Present To You The 2007 SC State Senators

2006-12-07T00:01:00.000-05:00

South Carolina State Senators

Richland, SC - John Courson --- Joe Don Baker (TV Actor)

Williamsburg, SC - Yancey McGill - Edwin McCain (Singer from Greenville, SC)

Richland, SC - Joel Lourie ----- Bob McGrath (Sesame Street)

Berkeley, SC - William Mescher ------- Sitting Bull

Chester, SC - Linda Short - Molly Shannon (Saturday Night Live)

Abbeville, SC - Billy O'dell - Frank Perdue (Famous Chicken Manufacturer)

Clarendon, SC - John Land - Foghorn Leghorn (Cartoon Favorite)

Pickens, SC - Thomas Alexander - Ray Bolger (The Wizard of Oz)

Spartanburg, SC - John Hawkins - Dan Patrick (ESPN)

Rock Hill, SC - Wes Hayes - Dennis Haskins (Saved By The Bell)

Jasper, SC - Clementa Pinckney -------- Samuel L. Jackson

Greer, SC - Lewis Vaughn ------- George Lindsey (Goober Pyle)

Myrtle Beach - Dick Elliot ----- Ted Knight (CaddyShack)

Charleston, SC - Robert Ford ------ Ossie Davis (TV Actor)

Dorchester, SC - Randy Scott ---------- Donald Rumsfeld

Newberry, SC - Ronnie Cromer - Tom Tancredo (Congressman from Colorado)

Georgetown, SC - Ray Cleary - Charlie Gibson (ABC News Anchor)

Charleston, SC - Glenn McConnell -------- Buddy Holly

Horry, SC - Luke Rankin --------- Will Proctor (ClemsonQB)

Greenville, SC - Mike Fair - Paul Gleason (TV Actor, "Breakfast Club)

Florence, SC - Hugh Leatherman - Yoda (Star Wars)

Orangeburg, SC - John Matthews - Sherman Hensley (The Jefferson's)

Greenville, SC - David Thomas - Dan Lauria (The Wonder Years)

Orangeburg, SC - Brad Hutto - Russell Crowe (TV Actor)

Spartanburg, SC - Glenn Reese - Troy Donahue (TV Actor)

Gaffney, SC - Harvey Peeler - Chuck Connors (The Rifleman)

Lexington, SC - Nikki Setzler --- Jack Nicholson (The Joker)

Marion, SC - Kent Williams - Laurence Fishburne (Morpheus, The Matrix)

Laurens, SC - Danny Verdin --------- Roger Moore (007)

Greenwood, SC - John Drummond ----- Lou Holtz (Football Coach)

Darlington, SC - Gerald Malloy - Steve Harris (ABC's "The Practice")

Greenville, SC - Ralph Anderson --- Richard Pryor (Comedian)

Sumter, SC - Old School Phil Leventis - Tucker Carlson

Aiken, SC - Greg Ryberg -- Jed Clampett (Beverly Hillbillies)

Charleston, SC - Chip Campsen -- Paulie Walnuts

Hilton Head, SC- Scott Richardson - Ed Harris (TV Actor)

Lexington, SC - Jake Knotts -- Boss Hog (Dukes of Hazzard)

Spartanburg, SC - Jim Ritchie ----- Wayne Rogers (M.A.S.H.)

Richland, SC - Kay Patterson -- Steven Urkel (Family Matters)

Kershaw, SC - Vincent Sheehen -- Matthew Broderick (Ferris Bueller)

Berkeley, SC - Larry Grooms ---- Curly Howard (3 Stooges)

Pickens, SC - Larry Martin ----------- Granny Clampett

Anderson, SC - Kevin Bryant --- John Cessarich (WYFF News)

Aiken, SC - Tommy Moore ----- Bill Parcells (Dallas Cowboys)

Richland, SC- Darryl Jackson -------- Cartoon Favorite, Droopy

Lancaster, SC - Chauncey Gregory ------ Woody Harrelson

Guest Contributor Cackalacky Candidate: TO THE WOOD SHED ON THE HILL WITH THEM ALL

2006-11-27T00:01:00.000-05:00

OUR CHILDREN ARE NOT LAB RATS

What exactly is it about the above statement that they do not understand? We have concluded an election. In this election, the citizens of South Carolina have seen the workings of out of state, political ideologues who have too much money, too much time on their hands, and no consideration for those children and their families who would bear the consequences of their failed social experiments. These meddlesome and moneyed interests have come into our state, quite unwelcome. We shall call them Vouchers, Incorporated.

Vouchers, Inc., each and every one of them, should be taken to the wood shed on the Hill and given the good, hard, butt whippin' that they all deserve. And where is this wood shed, and on which Hill does it stand? The wood shed resides in the halls of the United States Congress. The Hill is Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

It is suggested that one of the first items of business for our newly elected Congress to be a series of Congressional hearings to investigate the activities of Vouchers, Inc. The efforts of Vouchers,Inc. to defund, and thereby destabilized, public education are national in scope. They are connected in a subterranean, opaque web of influence across the country. They flaunt and circumvent our campaign finance laws, and make a mockery of our democratic election process. What they are attempting to pass for education reform is analogous to kicking the crutches out from under the handicapped......for sport. The social policy of Voucher's, Inc. can best be summed up in three, simple words: Sink or Swim.

For an entity that is comprised of people who are business leaders, it is truly amazing to see how little those individuals, the ones who are driving Vouchers, Inc., really know about applying common business principles to reforming a social program such a public education. It is very apparent that their goal is to cut and eliminate resources without providing better alternatives for our children. It is ironic that it is business leaders who are driving policies that will result in schools producing a future workforce that will be less qualified to meet the needs of businesses.

As part of the leadership of the new Congress, it is suggested that South Carolina U.S. Congressmen Clyburn and Spratt invite Vouchers, Inc. to the wood shed on the Hill to testify before members of Congress and the American people. Invite them all. Let us see and hear Howard Rich, Dennis Sinned, Randy Page, Joshua Gross, and others in monologueon C-SPAN. Invite them all. Let us see and hear them explain how the destabilization of the public school system in America serves the needs of our country. If you would like to send them to the wood shed on the Hill, then contact the Congressmen:
U.S. CONGRESSMAN JAMES CLYBURN
Washington Office: 2135 Rayburn House Office BuildingWashington, 20515
Phone: (202)225-3315 - Fax: (202) 225-2313
Columbia Office: 1703 Gervais Street - Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: (803)799-1100 - Fax: (803) 799-9060
Florence Office: Business & Technology Center181 East Evans St., 314Florence, SC 29506
Phone: (843)662-1212 - Fax: (843) 662-8474
Santee Office: 8833 Old Number Six Highway Santee, SC 29142
Phone: (803)854-4700 - Fax: (803) 854-4900

U.S. CONGRESSMAN JOHN SPRATT
Washington Office: 1401 Longworth Bldg.Washington, DC 20515
Phone (202) 225-5501 - Fax: (202) 225-0464
Rock Hill Office: 201 E. Main Street, Suite 305 Rock Hill, SC 29730
Phone (803) 327-1114 - Fax: (803) 327-4330
Sumter Office: 707 Bultman Drive Sumter, SC 29150
Phone (803) 773-3362 - Fax: (803) 773-7662
Darlington Office: 88 Public SquareDarlington, SC 29532
Phone (843) 393-3998 - Fax: (843) 393-8060

As Of Today ...... South Carolina's Very Own Mickey Mouse Club Officially Lost 3 Members This Year And Possibly 1 More

2006-11-21T17:30:00.000-05:00

Now's the time to say goodbye
To Karen Floyd, Howard Rich & company
Through the years we'll all be friends
Wherever we may be
M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E Mickey Mouse, Mickey Mouse
Forever let us hold our banner high
M-I-C - See ya real soon! K-E-Y - Why? Because we like you! M-O-U-S-E!!

I honestly thought Thomas Ravenel was going to strike out for good this time, but with Rod Shealy's evilpowers and the "ABC," I mean the beautiful Lisa's campaign managing , he pulled it out. Not too sure if we're stuck here with Joshua Gross for another 2 more years or not? Does anyone have the answer to that question?

Since We Don't Have To Worry About A Protest, Let's Go Ahead And Give The Hurricane Karen Floyd Campaign A Stack Of These

2006-11-15T00:01:00.000-05:00

Loveable dog named "Oscar," Tissues, and Baby Wipes

Jim Rex - 514,382 to Karen Floyd - 513,818

You know what I'm about to say next - The good guys lead by 564 votes now

Why We Don't Have To Worry About A Protest

Once this recount gets over with, and Jim Rex still holds a mandated lead, the Hurricane Floyd campaign will have till December 15th to protest. If you talk to Spartanburg County Republican Party Chairman Rick Beltram, he'll tell you that he would "highly recommend" a protest to the candidate that came up short in the recount. If you talk to Spartanburg County Democratic Party Chairwoman Liz Patterson, she'll tell you that she's hopeful that there won't be a need for a protest.

Liz got it right! If the recount takes place and Jim Rex still holds the mandated lead, there won't be a need for a protest. Why? Because the State Republican Party won't allow Hurricane Floyd to protest. If it wasn't embarrasing enough that they already ended up going with a super terrible candidate for this position before they realized it was too late, now it's even more embarrasing that Hurricane Floyd almost got whipped in her very own super red Spartanburg County backyard. I would like to think that the State GOP would like for the SC voters to forget this woman as soon as possible and forget all the (insert adjective here) who ran her campaign as well.

I Told Everyone This 4 Months Ago - Part of Politics Rocks Blog On - July 11, 2006

Thank goodness someone like Jim Rex came to the rescue and entered this race! Not yet, but pretty soon over half of South Carolina will let a big sigh of relief out once they get to know more about Dr. Rex and his plan and accountability!

Contributor Jeff Parks: So Maybe This Country Is Not Quite As Red As We Once Thought ....

2006-11-09T17:30:00.000-05:00

Contributor Jeff Parks

I kept my expectations tempered Tuesday. As a loyal Democrat, I have much too often been disappointed on Election Day (2000, 2002, and 2004 all still come to mind). However, I think that the midterm elections on Tuesday proved that this country might not be as conservative as we once thought (like two years ago). Here are some of my observations from Tuesday’s elections:

South Dakota had a referendum on the table that would have banned all abortions in the state, regardless of circumstance. South Dakota, considered one of the more conservative states in the Union, defeated the referendum by a vote of 55-45%. Maybe this nation is not quite as conservative as we thought.
A mandate on the Iraq war was delivered … and if you were a Republican, that was not a good thing. Even moderate Republicans who opposed the war and even opposed President Bush, like Lincoln Chaffee of Rhode Island, were defeated. It isn’t that the United States is sick of Republican leadership, it is just that they are looking for a change.
South Carolina finally showed some sense. I think it was a forgone conclusion that Mark Sanford would roll to victory. Even I predicted that back in April. However, Jim Rex showed that the job of the top dog in education is better left to those with experience in education. What does it say about Karen Floyd that she barely won her home county (Spartanburg)? Remember, Spartanburg County is probably one of the more conservative counties in the state, and they failed to support their own.
The Democrats are sitting pretty for the 2008 elections. Right now, it is obvious that the clout of the Republican Party rests in the South. A large reason why the Republicans are winning that support is because of the Evangelical base here in the South. That Evangelical base is not going to turn out for Mitt Romney, the Mormon who was governor of Massachusetts. That base is not going to turn out for Rudy Giuliani, a Republican who has some liberal viewpoints on certain social issues. That base will also not come out considering that many state initiated referendums like gay marriage are now off of the table. I think that 2008 would be a perfect opportunity for the Democrats to run a Populist, southern candidate like John Edwards, Mark Warner, or even Joe Biden or Tom Vilsack to win a southern state or two.
My last observation: Bush will see his numbers rebound now that he has a Democratic Congress. Democrats will offer new solutions on Iraq that President Bush might end up actually listening to. When this happens, Bush will see his numbers respond positively. Bush may also see his numbers rise with changes to his No Child Left Behind policy (unpopular with teachers) and with his immigration bill that a Republican Congress would not pass.

Keep Those Fingers Crossed

2006-11-08T17:30:00.000-05:00

UPDATE

South Carolina Superintendent of Education Race
Karen Floyd - 510,819 - 47.46%
Jim Rex - 511,211 - 47.52%

Mark Sanford: Wear These Goggles Next Time, And Don't Try And Cover It Up

2006-11-06T12:45:00.000-05:00

S.C. Gov. Mark Sanford injures eyes, misses campaign event
JIM DAVENPORT- Associated Press
COLUMBIA, S.C. - South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford injured both of his eyes while under stage lights for about an hour, his wife said Monday as he missed a campaign event. The Republican seeking re-election was injured while under the lights at a groundbreaking ceremony Sunday afternoon, his wife Jenny Sanford said. He was resting, taking eye drop medication and received temporary contact lenses to help with discomfort, she said. He hoped to rejoin his campaign later in the day. "I'm assuming that if he rests them, rests this morning, he'll have a full recovery," the first lady said Monday. Sanford began having problems with his eyes after a groundbreaking ceremony for City of Light, the new headquarters and production facilities for Inspiration Networks, led by televangelist David Cerullo. The event was held in Fort Mill, about 15 miles south of Charlotte, N.C.
After the event, the governor complained about feeling sunburned and his eyes hurt, his wife said. He went to the doctor Monday morning and returned to the Gov.'s Mansion, telling his wife he had burned his corneas.
"I can attest that he was in great pain last night," the first lady said. "He's feeling better now ... a couple of more hours of keeping his eyes closed might help." Dr. Steve Masone, president-elect of the South Carolina Optometric Association, explained that an "intensely bright light source can dry out the surface of the eye."
It's "equivalent of a sunburn on the surface of your eyes," Masone said. That surface tissue, the cornea, regenerates more quickly than the retina, although a severe cornea burn could cause permanent damage, he said. Richard Davis, chairman of University of South Carolina School of Medicine's ophthalmology department, said it was unusual the lights alone would cause the injury. "Stage lighting doesn't typically cause corneal injury," Davis said.Davis said Sanford could have an "underlying dry-eye condition" that might have worsened by the stage lights. Typically, ultraviolet light, like the sun, causes corneal injuries, Davis said.
John Roos, the senior vice president for communications and research for Inspiration Networks said studio lighting was used for the live broadcast.
"There's nothing out of the ordinary," Roos said. "There was no special anything, just normal television lights."
About 300 people attended the broadcast, which featured music and speeches by televangelists Pat Robertson and Rex Humbard. Humbard wore sunglasses during the roughly two-hour show.
Sanford missed his first campaign event at a Columbia airport Monday. He was scheduled to speak and begin flying around the state in a last-minute campaign effort before Tuesday's election. Sanford faces Democrat Tommy Moore, an Aiken County senator, in the election. The City of Light event was an economic development investment for the state, worth about $100 million and 260 jobs, Sanford said Sunday.
Inspiration has four channels with programs in English and Spanish and employs 320 people spread out in nine buildings in the Charlotte area. The new campus will bring workers into one location.

Yes! Finally An Educator Standing Up For What Is Right!

2006-11-02T00:03:00.000-05:00

Letter From Superintendent Dr. Jim Ray - For More Information On Dr. Ray, Check out this website

Dear Public Education Supporter:

In the 1960's television series "Dragnet," detective Joe Friday was fond of asking for "just the facts." This letter is a Joe Friday view of the upcoming race for State Superintendent of Education.

Fact One - Jim Rex is the only candidate who has worked a day in our public schools. How could anyone effectively lead an enterprise about which they know nothing?
Fact Two - Jim Rex believes that schools for all children of all people are the only hope for a healthy democracy. His major opponent believes that public tax dollars should be spent for private schooling. This election is for the State Superintendent of public, not private, education.
Fact Three - Jim Rex is not seeking the position of State Superintendent of Education as a stepping stone to higher office. He is willing to shoulder the toughest agency head position in state government simply to serve our children. Our schools deserve a leader who has no other agenda.
Fact Four - Jim Rex believes that the State Superintendent of Education should be chosen in a non-partisan election. Like me, he believes that the education of our children is not a partisan matter.
Fact Five - Research says that each of us can influence 11 other people's views. Please vote for Jim Rex and ask your colleagues, friends and family to do likewise.

When we do not stand up for what is right, we stand for nothing. Stand up for school children by voting for people who care about their future.

Sincerely,

Jim Ray

Spartanburg GOP Chairman Rick Beltram's Response:

This needs to be brought of your School board , TODAY! (District 3) I am shocked that ANY superintendent would blatantly get involved in political influence. I would be appalled if any Superintendent used his name like this to support Karen. I know others have had contracts cancelled for similar involvement! Please advise. Thank you.
-Rick Beltram

Spartanburg Democratic Chairwoman Liz Patterson's Response:

Seems that Rick Beltram is continuing the Republican attack on our constitutional rights. Jim Ray has every right to express himself.

Audio Interview: Grady Patterson Campaign Manager - Trav Robertson

2006-11-01T12:02:00.000-05:00

Part 1 - 4:52

Part 2 - 3:44

Part 3 - 4:12

Unlike Thomas Ravenel And Rod Shealy, Billy Idol Gives A Thumbs Up For An American Hero

2006-11-01T00:01:00.000-05:00

Candidate and Current S.C. Treasurer - Grady Patterson

Grady Patterson has spent his life serving our State and Country. Grady served his country in World War II and joined the Army Air Corps as a second lieutenant and as a fighter pilot, Grady escorted bombers from the island of Iwo Jima where he saw significant action in the skies over Japan. Grady has been elected 9 times to the South Carolina Treasurer's office and has upheld all the values of being an American. So of course, Thomas Ravenel and Rod Shealy are trying to bring him down. What else is new?

Of course Mr. Patterson, being a strong voice for fiscal responsibility and being the architect of the Constitutional Amendment mandating a balanced budget, surely would be endorsed by conservatives such as Ravenel and Shealy right? Well, obviously I was wrong. These black sheep are out to get him and quickly move on to the next office. In this state, I guess the price for doing a good job throughout the years is always high and always career threatening. Whether you cave into them or stand up for what is right, you're going to pay for it and possibly get crushed.

Everytime I hear Thomas Ravenel speak, whether it's with his hands or his mouth, I know ahead of time to go ahead and pop an aspirin in first. After the first 5 minutes of listening to his economic lecture theories, I know I'm going to need it. While it's perfectly understandable to do the less noble thing and endorse a guy who is not an American hero, I will say this: I would rather elect Grady Patterson, than someone who will be a puppet for Mark Sanford on the Budget & Control Board.

Will The Directors Of The Laurinline, Devinely Southern, NotVeryBright, and Whoever Is A Fan Of Jim Rex - Please Post This

2006-10-17T20:17:00.000-04:00

Here is the link to the YouTube format.

An Exclusive - Jim Rex Commercial

2006-10-16T17:31:00.000-04:00

Hooky - Unjustifiable Absence From School, Work, Etc. - Example: On October 19th, Karen Floyd Will Stop Playing Hooky And Debate Jim Rex

2006-10-16T17:30:00.000-04:00

3 Stooges-Larry, Curly, and Moe - 3 Slicksters-Mike Green, Jeff Sewell, Karen Floyd

TV Actor - Ed Harris ------ Candidate for SC Superintendent of Education - Jim Rex

The Karen Floyd hooky game will finally come to a screeching hault this Thursday night. If we can all go back to just a couple of weeks ago and remember Politics Rocks questioning the Karen Floyd campaign for backing out of the October 19th forum in Greenville, SC. Her campaign said they had a scheduling conflict on October 19th - her e-mail newsletter titled "Calendar Events" didn't have anything scheduled for that night.

I was reading the Greenville Newspaper yesterday and believe it or not, read that Karen Floyd will be attending the forum this Thursday night at Wade Hampton High School. With ESPN this Thursday night broadcasting what will be a terrible and unexciting game between North Carolina and Virginia, which will give me no reason to stay at home and watch it, I'll probably attend this event and get a recording out of it. No pressure Karen.

I Am So Throwing A Tommy Moore Victory Party At This Beach House On Nov. 7th

2006-10-12T00:01:00.000-04:00

I present to you: Mark Sanford's Rental Home Beach House!

#### ________ Avenue - Sullivan's Island, SC

6 Bedrooms - 5 Bathrooms - 12 Maximum Guests - Ocean Front - 3500 Sq.Ft. - Linens included
Second Floor: Large open kitchen, living room and dining room. Kitchen table for eight, cook island for four, separate dining table for eight. Screen porch of living room with sun deck off dining area. Master bedroom has 1 Queen bed with private bath and 3rd level bonus room with TV/VCR and patio. Second bedroom has 1 Queen bed with private bath and Ocean view. Third bedroom has 2 Twin beds with full bath.
First Floor Basement:One den with with TV. Living area with TV/DVD, refrigerator. Beer Pong Table. Two bathrooms each with shower. Bedroom 4-6 each have two twin beds.

http://www.eastislandsrentals.com/properties/new/1725-atlantic/#form

------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yes, this is the same rental property house that Mark Sanford was refusing to pay rental property taxes on a few months ago. And yes, the website listed above is for real. Mark Sanford acting arrogantly and rudely about this is reason #1857, to not vote for him. Since the poll numbers are looking in Tommy's favor now, I figure this will be a great place to throw a huge blowout party

The South Carolina Mickey Mouse Club Adds Another Member

2006-10-10T17:30:00.000-04:00

Latest Richard Eckstrom Strategy - Blame The Media

As posted back in June, we saw where the SC Mickey Mouse Club lost a member when Mike Campbell was defeated by Andre Bauer in the Republican run-off. The man to take his place should be of no surprise to anyone who follows politics.The new guy above, Richard Eckstrom, really doesn't have too many friends, so I don't anticipate anyone to come to his rescue on this piece anyways. But the latest news in the South Carolina Comptroller General's race, incumbent Richard Eckstrom said that Republican candidates have to abide by a higher standard by the media than Democrats. He went on to say that he will continue to be a puppet and vote in line with Mark Sanford on virtually everything.

I often wind up having the urge to tell people that I'm not kidding when I report the absurd tactics and absurd beliefs from some of the right these days, but taking his little Minnesota trip in a state owned vehicle and his failure to be honest with the voters is the media's fault? It's hard to imagine that anyone from the libertarian right could sink that low, but in this case, we don't have to imagine it. Just as we see the blame game taking place up in Washington amongst Republicans, here in South Carolina we have Richard Eckstrom saying that he was a victim of a liberal bias. I know, don't laugh too hard, try and stay calm.

The debate between Theodore and Eckstrom ended pretty strong with Theodore getting the last word in stating “It’s also a lie about my family. He hired a fellow who was arrested and charged with domestic violence to do nothing but attack my family.” Theodore was referring to former spokesman for Gov. Sanford, Will Folks. If you like these tactics that some of the candidates from the right are using against Theodore, keep supporting some of these Republicans and their hatchet men. Now, at least you know what you signed up for.

What If All The Democrats In The Senate and All The Republicans In The Senate Do What Verne Smith Did

2006-09-28T00:01:00.000-04:00

Of all the Senators here in South Carolina who read the Sen. Verne Smith endorsing Sen. Tommy Moore article from the Greenville News , I wonder how many of them, after reading it, did not cheer? Of all the Senators, besides Greg Ryberg, Chip Campsen, and Kevin Bryant, was there anyone who thought, "Wow, that's seems like a bad idea. I wouldn't want to do that?" I can guarantee you almost all of the Senators loved it! Why don't all the Democrats in the Senate, and all the Republicans in the Senate aggresively come out and endorse Tommy Moore? There is no excuse for not taking this guy on. What are they afraid of? They have the facts on their side, they have the unemployment numbers on their side, and they have the uncaring vetoes on their side. With their support towards Sen. Tommy Moore, 41 days left - discount Verne Smith, Greg Ryberg, Chip Campsen, Tommy Moore, and Kevin Bryant, we have 41 Senators out there who do not like Sanford. That's 1 Senator a day, everyday from now to the election who could come out and endorse Tommy Moore! I guarantee you Sanford would lose, and they wouldn't have to worry about a retaliation from him. My gosh, they should be crushing Sanford like this on a daily basis, so why aren't they? Help Tommy Moore put this guy away so South Carolina can move forward with progress ........ instead of backwards.

No matter what Mark Sanford's little undercover sidekick says about it in his blog, Sen. Verne Smith's endorsement will help Tommy Moore. Now that Sen. Smith has led the way, Senators, don't be afraid, please pick up on his cue. In fact, as Marsellus Wallace would say in Pulp Fiction, "let's pick up a lead pipe and a blowtorch and let's go to work on this guy!"

SCHotline: Do Your Job And Cover This

2006-09-27T00:01:00.000-04:00

Columbia City Paper - Blonde Ambition

This story is really picking up across the State. It's good to see the truth finally come out .... from a source other than my website. The word we received last week was that the Floyd Campaign invaded the upstate bars and restaurants, taking all the copies of last week's Metrobeat. I wonder if they will be doing the same in Columbia today and tomorrow? If she does end up winning, then I'm just glad that I purchased these websites 6 months ago:

http://www.karenfloydforgovernor.com

http://www.floydforgovernor.com

http://www.floyd2010.com

http://www.karenfloyd2010.com

I Wonder If This Story Will Make SCHotline.com

2006-09-20T00:01:00.000-04:00

The Blonde Ambitions - The Real Karen Kanes Rogers, Armour, & Floyd

Top Ten List: Top Ten Biggest Losers In The Mark Sanford FanClub

2006-09-19T00:01:00.000-04:00

Pearl Jam's First Record And My All Time Favorite CD -"Ten"

1. Mark Sanford - SC Governor
2. Katon Dawson - SCGOP Chairman
3. Richard Eckstrom - SC Comptroller General
4. Tom Davis - Beaufort, SC Attorney
5. Jenny Sanford - Mark's Wife
6. Karen Floyd - Candidate for SC Superintendent of Education
7. Joel Sawyer - Current Press Secretary to Mark Sanford

8. Ralph Norman - Candidate for U.S. House District 5

9. Joshua Gross - Director of SC Club 4 Growth

10. The Herald Journal Editorial Staff- Spartanburg Newspaper

You know these are some bad losers when Former Press Secretary Will Folks can't even crack the Top Ten. He normally would finish in the top two of almost any other list such as this, but this slate of buffoons are just full of improper behaviors and ignorant loyalty to Sanford. Other receiving votes include Dell Isham, executive director of the Sierra Club's South Carolina chapter, Sunny Phillips -GOP Fundraiser, and every person working with the Mark Sanford Campaign.

The real question I struggled with was who deserved the number 2 spot. For the most part over the past 3 1/2 years, Richard Eckstrom has voted in line with Mark Sanford 97% of the time on the Budget & Control Board, but the remarks SCGOP Chairman Katon Dawson has made towards Sen. Tommy Moore, and the unsurmountable loyalty that he has shown for Mark Sanford, it's safe to say he surpassed Eckstrom and is now sitting nicely in the number two spot. In this tough field, people who didn't even merit votes but should get honorable mentions are: Sen. Kevin Bryant, Sen. Greg Ryberg, Former House Speaker David Wilkins, and one of my best friends Joshua Richards (who has a Masters degree since May 06, still hasn't found a job, but is still a loyal Sanford supporter).

The Herald-Journal made this list because if you have read any of their editorials over the past 3 1/2 years, you would be sickened to death with the lovefest that these guys have with Sanford! Joshua Gross made this list because of his whacked out thinking that follows Sanford. Ralph Norman made the list because of his true following right behind Sanford in all of his uncaring budget vetos. Joel Sawyer, Sanford's press secretary, let's face it ...... his job is to mislead, that's all he does (he use to work for the Herald Journa). Karen Floyd, the wannabe successor of Mark Sanford and Mark Sanford's tag team partner in the assault on public education, she probably should have made the top 5 but I gave her the benefit of the doubt. I think we're all familiar with Jenny Sanford and her Mike Campbell endorsement and her behind the scenes show of running the Governor's office so I'll skip to the next one. Tom Davis, the attorney from Beaufort who made all of those ruthless and misleading remarks towards Tommy Moore about his record, and Richard Eckstrom, who is Mark Sanford's little sidekick. Congratulations Katon Dawson, you are #2 in the list: Top Ten Losers in the Mark Sanford FanClub!

The Remaining Mark Sanford Fans - Tribute To Sen. Jake Knotts

2006-09-18T00:01:00.000-04:00

I was wondering why any voter would still back this loser Governor Mark Sanford. I have come across a few lines from some friends and people I have run into that summed it all up for me.
1. "He fights with the Legislature because he's fighting for my tax dollars."
2. "I believe that his philoshophy could work if the Legislature would just work with him."
3. "I don't care how he governs, I will support him. I'm a Republican through and through."

That just might be my favorite quote of all time. "I don't care how he governs." There it is. "I'm a Republican through and through." You said it! I understand every party has a couple of bad apples and all, but how anyone can still remain a Mark Sanford supporter is beyond me! I have gained a lot of respect for the Democrats and Republicans who have stepped up and said "No Mr. Governor, you're wrong, we need a new leader to take us in a new direction." Thankgosh Oscar Lovelace and Sen. Jake Knotts stood up for our State! I'm not saying to the Sanford supporters today that I want you all to turn into a Democrats. If (D)Dennis Aughtry would have won the nomination for the Governor's race representing the Democrats, I wouldn't want you to ask me to become a Republican.

One Republican who stood up and put his state above his party was Sen. Jake Knotts. I interviewed Sen. Knotts back in July after he collected his 13,000 petition signatures and decided not to run for Governor. Here are some highlights from the interview that every voter in SC should hear.

August 24th - Spartanburg, South Carolina - Emile Defelice

2006-09-12T00:01:00.001-04:00

Rod Shealy.....That's A Technical Foul! One More And You Will Be Out Of The Ballgame

2006-09-11T00:01:00.000-04:00

Oops! Rod, You Cannot Be Doing That

FYI - Political Strategist Rod Shealy is known to the SC political community for being rough, tough, and just downright dirty. He represents candidates from the Republican Party: Thomas Ravenel, Andre Bauer (and possibly a few more that I don't know). Not only does Rod Shealy go at it with fellow Republicans opposing his candidate in the primaries, but he really unleashes ugly pit bull tactics against Democrats facing his candidate in the November elections. Before you read anymore on here, check out the Dan Hoover column with the Greenville News. After reading the letter that was sent from the Andre Bauer Campaign to Robert Barber's mom, it's safe to say Bauer's political strategist Rod Shealy definitely deserves a technical foul.

For those of you who did not check out the article, Robert Barber's mom received a letter in the mail asking for “a much-needed financial contribution,” to the Andre Bauer campaign (Her son Robert Barber is Andre Bauer's opponent). The letter went on to say that Robert Barber “As you might recall, waged a very negative campaign against Mark Sanford for Congress in 1994.” The letter contended that Barber is at it again with “dishonorable push-polling” phone calls. Lachlan McIntosh, Barber’s campaign manager, said the allegations are “yet another immature stunt.” “It’s bad enough to make up false attacks about a good person like Robert Barber — they had to take it to another level and mail it to his 75-year-old mother and then ask her for money,” McIntosh said.

Today I am issuing Rod Shealy my first ever Technical Foul here on Politics Rocks. I understand that the referee most times should give a warning first before delivering a technical, but this dirty campaign tactic went above and beyond receiving a warning and should not be tolerated by anyone. You're calling Robert Barber, a former minister of two Laurens County churches, a liberal lobbyist who has a history of waging negative campaigns! I let you slide with a personal foul when you called GOP Heavyweight John Rainey a Rocky Mountain Liberal, but now you have 1 Technical Foul - 3 Personal Fouls total. You're allowed 1 more personal foul, and 0 more technicals or you will be out of the ballgame - Keep it Classy Rod, we are watching!

Rod Shealy Foul Count/Stats:

1. “He's using taxpayers' own money to buy votes. It's common for governments to send checks after disasters, and three years of Mark Sanford is a disaster.” - Slamdunk

2. “Enough is enough. I think the voters are going to make Mark Sanford an unemployment statistic in June.” - Three Pointer Good & 1

3. “I hope she wasn't upset to learn that her son, Robert, was a liberal lobbyist, or that he has a history of waging negative campaigns.” - Technical Foul

4. Ravenel did not return calls requesting comment. Rod Shealy, his political strategist, called GOP Heavyweight John Rainey a "Rocky Mountain liberal." - Personal Foul

5. John Rainey challenges Thomas Ravenel to a Q&A. Rod Shealy, told The Greenville News, "Hell, yeah, we'll do it." - Personal Foul

Whichever Way You Look At It ....... They're All Sidekicks! Including Richard Eckstrom

2006-09-08T00:01:00.000-04:00

Tattoo(Fantasy Island)-----------SC Comptroller General Richard Eckstrom

Martial Arts Sidekick-----------------Robin (From Old School Batman Series)

Being Batman's sidekick is definitely cool. Being Mr. Roarke's sidekick like Tattoo in Fantasy Island was kind of cool as well, but being Mark Sanford's sidekick is just plain ignorant and dumb. Why be a "sidekick" to someone who is a total negative? When I say negative I mean against government! Mark Sanford's six years in Congress were a disgrace! He voted "no" on everything! If you look a little closer into Sanford's Congressional record, thanks to him it took a lot longer to get the Ravenel bridge built in Charleston, SC. If he wouldn't have been against everything and would have taken the money that Fritz Hollings lined up for South Carolina for the Ravenel Bridge, that bridge today would probably be called the Mark Sanford bridge. Nice job blowing that one Mark.

Let me back up a bit first and do a fill in for the ones who are not following me. The person who holds the Comptroller General position sits on the Budget & Control Board (and the Governor sits on this as well). This is a very important position because the 5 people on this board run the state when our Legislators are not in Columbia. These 5 people are the decision makers. Basically what I'm saying is this........we shouldn't let someone have a little sidekick on this board, especially when 95% of the other elected officials disagree with Mark Sanford because of his anti-government beliefs. Over the past 3 1/2 years, Richard Eckstrom has voted 97% of the time with Governor Mark Sanford. 97%!!!! That's insane!!

Mark Sanford doesn’t believe in government structure, so I think it is safe to say Richard Eckstrom doesn't as well. Mark Sanford doesn't believe in allowing everyone to have a fair chance. I think it's safe to say Richard Eckstrom believes the same. Sanford votes "no" on everything and he gets his little sidekick Richard Eckstrom to vote "no" with him because he tries to stop every productive piece that the B and C board tries to pass. I'm not going to get into Thomas Ravenel today, but the SC Treasurer position sits on this board as well, heaven forbid if T-Rav gets elected along with Eckstrom, that will give Sanford 2 little sidekicks.

This isn't my formal endorsement, that will come at a later date, but vote Drew Theodore for SC Comptroller General. Drew won’t be a puppet for the Governor. He won't vote in line with a loser Governor that is against everything!

Politics Rocks Endorsement

2006-08-29T00:01:00.000-04:00

Just like in sports, bigtime programs or bigtime head coaching jobs that come open, athletic directors or owners hire experienced, successful, and proven leaders in their respective sport. They understand that their school or program cannot afford to take the big risk of hiring someone without experience and without a proven track record. This man has experience, he has a proven track record. He knows there is a better way to improve public education than resorting to vouchers. In my opinion, if you vote for Rex this Nov. 7th, you won't regret it. It's safe to say that Jim Rex is the Larry Brown, Coach K, and Dean Smith of Education, he's not some towel boy or towel girl from some other sport who doesn't have a clue.

Rod Shealy ..... You Should Have Used Your Bullpen

2006-08-28T00:01:00.000-04:00

Thoughts On The Rainey vs. Ravenel Match

As I painfully watched the bloodbath between Thomas Ravenel and John Rainey this past Thursday, I couldn't help but feel bad for T-Rav. After the first 30 minutes I wanted to call Rod Shealy and say "Rod, make the call dude, Ravenel's out of gas, get a righty and a lefty warming up in the bullpen right now." Rod Shealy, Thomas Ravenel's Political Strategist, he was the one who got Ravenel into this mess and he should have had got him out of it! By the way, why was Rod Shealy not in attendance at this Q & A?

I felt like I was watching a game where the manager didn't want to sacrifice any more pitchers, so he's left this poor guy out there to get creamed. Honestly, after the first 30 minutes, it got very uncomfortable to watch. I'm not even a Republican, but I was begging the skipper Rod Shealy to pull him! Make the call to the bullpen Rod, bring in the lefty, bring in the righty, anybody, but get this guy off the mound. Please, someone call the bullpen!

As I was watching and listening to this, I was thinking "Does someone not have the smarts to pull him already?" For every minute that went by, it became a little more uncomfortable to watch than the one before. If you disagree with me and you thought that Ravenel was holding is own for the first half of the meeting, then surely we will agree that we all knew he was out of gas about halfway through it. This was when Ravenel stated "I read the other day that our founding father George Washington, had more in common with people who lived 2000 years before him than he does with us." I'm sorry, but if this guy was a pitcher, people would be yelling at the manager to get him off the mound. My gosh, why is this guy even in this race? I hope that T-Rav learned a lot from this Economics 900 level class that he attended last Thursday. Will the Republican Party please get a better candidate next time for this race? Somebody, please call the bullpen!

Tribute To Dr. Oscar Lovelace

2006-08-17T00:01:00.000-04:00

Dr. Lovelace ran a very inspiring campaign this past year against Governor Mark Sanford. You could feel his enthusiasm, desire, and love for South Carolina everytime you heard him speak. Even though he lost in the primary, he may have just very well saved this State from the disasterous road that our Governor has us heading down. He really damaged Mark Sanford in the primary and because of it, I guarantee you today that Sen. Tommy Moore will defeat Sanford.

I was very impressed with Dr. Lovelace and the campaign that he ran. Today, this video consists of the highlights of the interview that I had with Dr. Lovelace back in June, just two weeks before the primary. I hope to see Dr. Lovelace in the political scene again someday!

Note To The Jim Rex Campaign & The Karen Floyd Campaign

2006-08-16T00:01:00.001-04:00

Random Frat Boy--------Karen Floyd---------Ellen DeGeneres

Note To Jim Rex Campaign

I've been thinking about all the areas and points that the Jim Rex campaign should use to target Karen Floyd on. If you're thinking I'm going to advise Rex to use "my opponent has not put kids all the way through a school system yet," then your wrong. If you think I'm going to advise Jim Rex to go a route in which I don't like, and get personal, and target his opponent for being married to 3 different men in a span of 11 years, then you are wrong again! If you think I'm going to advise Jim Rex to target Karen Floyd on formerly being a big Pro-Choice Democrat woman and attending a Bill Clinton Rally with Inez T. back in 92' in Columbia, SC.......well, you are still wrong! Here below is what I would go after her at.

Floyd airs new education initiative - Outside managers would help problem schools

The link above is an article which dates back to November 24, 2005 in the Greenville News. If you don't feel like reading the article then here is a quick summary:

The Spartanburg lawyer-business executive said her "Diverse Provider Model" is built around utilization of outside education managers with proven track records of turning around poorly performing schools.
The objective would be "to infuse troubled districts and schools with new thinking, innovative techniques and a heightened focus on improving academic performance," she said in a press release.

First off, I'm not a big believer at all in these "outside private contracts." A lot of times these "Outsiders" are just people who put out pie in the sky ideas. If we're just going to hire outside private contractors, then anybody can be and hold the position of Superintendent of Education. Honestly, we shouldn't even bother having an election for it right now if this is whats to come. She's admitting in that statement that she does not know what to do. She's admitting before she ever gets elected that she doesn't know what to do and that she will cost us a fortune to hire these people. I feel like as voters, we should know before we vote which "outsiders" she plans on bringing in. One way to avoid that future big mess is to bring in somebody that knows what to do, and that is Jim Rex.

Note to the Karen Floyd Campaign

If you're just going to hire "outsiders" to come in and do the work for you, then don't tell us right now because this will impact you getting beat in November. By the way, I'm still laughing hysterically at what I read 2 paragraphs ago ........ Diverse Provider Model!!! haha

Politics Rocks Goes Back In Time 17 Months Ago ......

2006-08-15T00:01:00.000-04:00

With all the fuss last week between Thomas Ravenel and John Rainey, it's really made me think how off base some Republicans have come to be in South Carolina Politics. Just like Lindsey Graham most of the time speaks from his heart, John Rainey last week spoke from his heart. Whether you like it or not, Rainey is 100% right and 0% wrong when he said that our State economic team should be composed of stable and committed people for the long run.

The speculation that T-Rav will challenge incumbent U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham in 08' has really been building up. Below are audio clips from two interviews when T-Rav went on the Ralph Bristol Show back on March 30, 2005 and the other..... I haven't found the date for it, but I am guessing it's around early 2005. The first interview is around 9 minutes long, and the 2nd interview is around 5-6 minutes long. I cut out a lot of the long answering and sometimes long dialogue out and pretty much piled together all the Lindsey Graham bashing comments that came out of T-Rav's mouth 17 months ago. I think after you watch and listen to the video below, you will see that T-Rav isn't committed to the SC State Treasurer position. What are your thoughts?

Anyone Ever Watched This Movie Before? By The Way, What Was T-Rav Thinking When He Said ..........

2006-08-11T00:01:00.000-04:00

http://www.corridorofshame.com/index.php

“CORRIDOR OF SHAME: the neglect of South Carolina's rural schools" is a 58 minute documentary that tells the story of the challenges faced in funding an adequate education in South Carolina's rural school districts.The documentary, supported by many of South Carolina's leading foundations and community leaders, tracks the evidence presented on behalf of eight school districts in Abbeville County School District v. The State of South Carolina.

I have never seen this movie before so if there is anyone out there who has, please tell me about it. I did see something very interesting though. When viewing the credits, I came across a name that I think after keeping up with SC politics over the past week, we would all recognize - Executive Producer, John S. Rainey

Mr. Rainey is in the August 2006 edition, Living in SC Magazine . It really seems to me that John Rainey truly cares about this State, and in his words, doesn't want to see a "Dilettante" mess it up.

I have not written anything in regards to Thomas Ravenel simply due to not knowing enough about him yet. I can say, even though I don't know much about T-Rav, and even though I don't know much at all about John Rainey (I have no clue whether he inherited a dime or a billion dollars) I would like to point out this T-Rav's statement in yesterday's press release - "Mr. Rainey, I am offering you some unsolicited advice, from someone who actually worked to earn success in business, rather than inheriting a fortune as you did."

Oh no ...... no, he really didn't just say that did he?! Is this really acceptable? I tell you what, I'm not going to go any further with this. I just got off the phone with Mr. Rainey about 30 minutes ago. Right now it's 9:10 in the pm, I don't feel like screaming, yelling, or ranting tonight. I'm going to go out with some friends in a little while, have a good time, and I'm going to cross my fingers that Mr. Rainey accepts my invitation to do an audio interview with me at somepoint in the very near future.

"Rocky Mountain Liberal?" or "Rocky Mountain High?"

2006-08-07T00:01:00.000-04:00

John Denver ----------------------------------Random Rocky Mountain Liberal

After viewing this article in the Greenville Newspaper yesterday, and reading Rod Shealy call GOP heavyweight John Rainey a "Rocky Mountain Liberal," it has to make one think ........ was Mr. Shealy "Rocky Mountain HIGH" when he said that? I don't know if ole Rod was Rocky Mountain High off of you know what when he said it, or was just listening to the John Denver classic in his car before it but ...... "Rocky Mountain Liberal" is creative and a new one in my book.

To sum up the article, longtime Republican and chairman of the Board of Economic Advisers John Rainey said that GOP state treasurer nominee Thomas Ravenel is a "dilettante" whose election would financially damage the state. By the way, if you are wondering what the word "dilettante" means, don't get out a dictionary, I've done that leg work for you.

Dilettante - adj : showing frivolous or superficial interest; amateurish - n : an amateur who engages in an activity without serious intentions and who pretends to have knowledge.

Rainey said he rejected Ravenel's overture to join his steering committee because "he would not commit to me to stay there for four years" and not challenge Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham in 2008. "As chairman of the BEA, I am concerned about the state's financial and economic team being composed of stable and committed people for the long run," Rainey told The Greenville News in a telephone interview from his summer home in Colorado. (ahhh....Coloroado, so that's where Shealy got the idea from)

Later on in the article Rod Shealy dropped in and said a few words for Mr. Rainey. - Rod Shealy, his political strategist, called Rainey a "Rocky Mountain liberal" and said Ravenel would "complete the job of stabilizing our state's finances." He did not say Ravenel would serve a full term. Keep in mind everyone, this is the same John Rainey who said this - "As late as two days ago BEA Chairman John Rainey said South Carolina's unemployment figure doesn't make sense because it does not accurately reflect the state's robust level of revenue growth and economic momentum. His exact words were 'There is no way to have this huge of an increase (in state revenues) and still have unemployment where it is.'

I understand that calling someone a "liberal" damages a persons reputation in this state, but calling Mr. Rainey a "Rocky Mountain Liberal" is absolutely ludicrous and should be ignored. Not sure whether Rod was "Rocky Mountain High" off of you know what, or just off of the song, but this name calling is getting very old and I am absolutely tired of it.

Listen to this 10 second audio clip

Now.......what creative name calling words did you come up with?

In Honor Of BBQ & Politics - The Mark Sanford Spelling Song

2006-08-03T00:01:00.000-04:00

Most of the pictures in the slideshow are from Gervais Bridges at Barbecue & Politics. Unfortunately, Gervais retired his blog the other week. In honor of his legacy, the slideshow and song below are dedicated to him. The blog posted underneath comes from BBQ & Politics on June 28, 2006, the day after Andre Bauer defeated Mike Campbell in the run-off. My personal favorite and an instant classic. For the History of the Song, click here- DOT Official's Song Hits Sour Note

Wednesday, June 28, 2006 - Bauer endorses Dale Moore for First Lady

Endorsement not actually an endorsement except it is, says Lt. Governor

B & P News - Columbia
In a surprise move yesterday, South Carolina Lt. Governor and recent primary runoff victor Andre Bauer endorsed Dale Moore, wife of Senator Tommy Moore (D-Clearwater) for the office of First Lady of South Carolina.

“She’s the right person for the job,” said Bauer in an interview Tuesday evening at his victory celebration at an Irmo restaurant. “I don’t do endorsements, so don’t take this as an endorsement, but I endorse Dale Moore for First Lady of South Carolina.” Bauer was pulled over – but not ticketed – for driving 101 mph on Interstate 77 in February.As the news of Bauer’s endorsement spread throughout the state’s political circles, not everyone was pleased.

Some think the Lt. Governor overstepped his bounds by endorsing Mrs. Moore.“It’s just tacky is all it is,” said Jenny Sanford, the incumbent First Lady of South Carolina. “What business does the Lt. Governor have chiming in on who should be First Lady?”

Some political analysts agree that the endorsement of Dale Moore was inappropriate.“Popularly elected public servants should hold their tongues rather than meddling with the ceremonial positions in South Carolina’s not-really-government,” said USC political science professor Savannah Rivers. “Plus, you never know when endorsements like this can backfire.”Governor Sanford said he had no comment on the Dale Moore endorsement, but will contact reporters with his opinion “as soon as it is given to [him].”

Politics Rocks Audio Interview: (D) Candidate for SC Lieutenant Governor Robert Barber

2006-08-02T00:01:00.000-04:00

Robert Barber's Campaign Website

Click the Play (>) button below to listen to the 2-part interview with (D) Candidate for SC Lieutenant Governor Robert Barber

Part 1

Part 2

Message From Robert Barber

Dear Fellow South Carolinians,

From my visits around the state, it's clear to me that the citizens of South Carolina are ready for change. After four years of gridlock, you're looking for new, dependable leadership and are ready to turn our state around by putting experienced, hard-working citizens into office. You're looking for an optimistic, forward-looking vision for the future of our state rooted strong values and genuine compassion.

But above all, voters will be choosing our state's direction. We face many serious challenges, including our embarrassingly high unemployment rate, our poorly supported public schools, our struggling health care system, and our state's crumbling rural infrastructure. I believe our state is ready to turn itself around. We just need the right leaders – leaders who will put politics aside, roll up their sleeves, and get to work. I am ready to take on these challenges. While I don't pretend to have all of the answers, I do have ideas on where we should start. Together, we can turn South Carolina around.

Best wishes,

Robert Barber

Optical illusion of Success

2006-07-31T00:01:00.000-04:00

Click on the Picture to enlarge

This is one of several charts Sanford handed out to the press after his cabinet meeting last week. After BLS announced SC has the second highest unemployment rate in the nation, the Sanford economic team went into high spin gear, trying to come up with statistics that refuted what everyone knows: South Carolina’s economy is in trouble.

One of their most touted pieces of evidence was that SC’s personal income grew by more than the national average in the first quarter of 2006. Here’s the chart they passed out on this, and it sure looks impressive! Wow! Our personal income looks like it grew three times more than the rest of the country!

Until you look at the actual numbers. (Look especially at the numbers on the left – notice anything unusual?) The other thing, all members of the Sanford team began saying was that the unemployment numbers must be wrong. Maybe it’s because they’re all using the same new math they used for this chart! (This was said at different times by Gillespie, Taylor and Rainey, and Sanford said he would request that a review be done on them, but not until after the election because otherwise it would be political fodder. They already requested a review a year or two ago; it was done and the conclusion was that the numbers are correct.)

This deceptive chart was actually distributed by our Governor and his economic team. Of course only a couple of days later, The State reported on yet more discouraging numbers (Wages drop in most of S.C.; http://www.thestate.com/mld/thestate/15131891.htm)

Audio Interview: SC Superintendent of Education Candidate Jim Rex (Karen Floyd ....... Take Notes)

2006-07-29T13:22:00.000-04:00

Friday July 28, 2006 at The Beacon Restaurant in Spartanburg, SC

Chairman of the Spartanburg Democratic Party in South Carolina, Liz Patterson interviews SC State Superintendent of Education Candidate Jim Rex

For Audio Only - Liz Patterson Audio Interview With Jim Rex Link

Audio Interview: South Carolina Superintendent of Education Inez Tenenbaum

2006-07-27T00:01:00.000-04:00

South Carolina Department of Education

Click the Play (>) button below to listen to the 4-part interview with SC Superintendent of Education Inez Tenenbaum

Part 1 - 4:12

Part 2 - 4:01

Part 3 - 2:55

Part 4 - 2:08

Audio Interview: South Carolina Sen. Jake Knotts

2006-07-24T00:01:00.000-04:00

Senator John M. "Jake" Knotts, Jr. District 23 - Lexington Co.

Click the Play (>) button below to listen to the 4-part interview with SC Senator Jake Knotts.

Part 1 - 3:57

Part 2 - 4:45

Part 3 - 4:24

Part 4 - 4:59

* Part 5 was recorded, but unable to be posted. I do apologize.

A Tale of Two Carolinas

2006-07-21T00:01:00.001-04:00

South Carolina Senate Democratic Caucus - July 21, 2006
Contact: Phil Bailey, Caucus Pol. Dir. 803.318.2763 phil@scsenatedems.org

SEN. LAND CALLS ON THE VOTERS TO ‘PRIVATIZE’ MARK SANFORD
COLUMBIA, SC – State Senate Democratic Leader, John C. Land, III (D-Manning) reacted today to the latest unemployment statistics from the United States Department of Labor showing South Carolina’s jobless rate has increased to 6.7%, and remains one of the highest in the nation. Hurricane-ravaged Mississippi was the only other state to have a higher unemployment rate.
Sen. Land issued the following statement in reaction to today’s news:
“Here we go again. Mark Sanford is leading our state down a pathway to poverty. Sanford’s do-nothing administration has produced disastrous results and regular folks are hurting. “It has become clear that the only way to get us out of this job crisis is to privatize Mark Sanford this November and elect Tommy Moore.” - U.S. Department of LaborBureau of Labor Statistics

Audio Interview: South Carolina Democratic Party Chairman Joe Erwin

2006-07-20T00:02:00.000-04:00

SC Democratic Party Website -SC Democratic Party Blogsite - Joe Erwin's Website
Click Play (>) to listen to the 3-part interview with SC Democratic Party Chairman Joe Erwin

Part 1 5:00

Part 2 4:37

Part 3 3:29

HONORS AND AWARDS
2003 --- Clemson University Alumni Fellow
2002 --- Recipient, Ernest F. Hollings Business/Government Partnership Award
2002 --- South Carolina's 25 Fastest-Growing Companies, S.C. Chamber/Elliott, Davis
2001 --- "Greenville's 25 Most Influential," The Greenville News
2000 --- Inductee, Greenville Technical College's Entrepreneur's Forum
1999 --- Inductee, Clemson University's Entrepreneur's Roundtable
1998 --- "Communicator of the Year" Matrix Award, Women in Communications/Greenville
1994 --- Silver Medal for Lifetime Achievement, Advertising Federation of Greenville
1986 --- Profiled in inaugural edition of Who's Who in American Advertising
1985-1994 --- Profiled in inaugural edition of Who's Who in American Advertising Numerous ADDY Awards for Creative Excellence in Advertising

The Ugly Truth: Our South Carolina Governor Is A

2006-07-19T00:01:00.000-04:00

You know it, I know it and the SC voters know it. But everyone is afraid to say it. They say it privately, but people are afraid of saying it publicly because they think they'll be branded as a liberal snob. But believe me, in my opinion, you don't have to be an intellectual to see how big of a ______ our Governor is. Just look at every one of his TV commercials. He's seriously trying to buy your vote!

I thought it was ridiculous that people made fun of Mark Sanford when he carried 2 pigs into the Statehouse and messed all over him. What was he going to do? The pigs had to go....... so they went. It could have happened to any one of us. In all seriousness though, Mark Sanford bringing pigs into the Statehouse was ridiculous action #1829 that he has made since becoming Governor. Leaders don't display actions such as these. Mark Sanford is not a leader, he pretends to be one but he's not. The pigs messing on him isn't the reason why Sanford is not a leader though. Sanford is not a leader because of his own mess that he has created and I feel as if his mess will never allow him to have the ability to lead our State. If Mark Sanford gets re-elected and you think all the sudden the Legislature will start agreeing with his Libertarian ideas and political gimmicks, then you are so painfully nieve it hurts.

To some people, Mark Sanford sounds like a leader in his commercials when he says he's going to cut your taxes and cut government. To me he doesn't sound like a leader at all, but rather he sounds like a third grader running for political office. I have seen a lot of politicians campaign on lowering your taxes and etc., but this guy takes it way too far. When it comes down to it, he's basically trying to buy your vote. He is becoming more and more like one of those aging rock bands that hasn't had a hit -- or a fresh idea -- in years but keeps on touring, playing all the same old songs, the political equivalent of Motley Crue. I just hope voters will open up their eyes and see that we have a third grader trying to buy votes who just REFUSES to stop playing "Dr. Feelgood."

What Do You Think? Coastal Carolina Nixes Jim Rex Invitation

2006-07-17T00:01:00.000-04:00

I didn't make it to this show in Charlotte this past Saturday Night, did you?

Click here for article - Coastal Carolina Nixes Jim Rex Invitation. If you don't feel like reading the whole article, here is a quick summary of it:

Dr. Jim Rex was originally invited to be the keynote speaker at a meeting of first-year principals being held at Coastal Carolina University next week. The invitation was extended on the basis of Dr. Rex’s ties to Coastal Carolina University and the integral role he played in the development of the “principal induction” program at Winthrop University. Of course, Dr. Rex is also the Democratic nominee to replace Inez Tenenbaum as South Carolina Superintendent of Education. This prompted Coastal Carolina University President Ronald R. Ingle to raise the issue of equal time for Republican nominee Karen Floyd. When organizers were unable to contact the Floyd campaign on Wednesday, they rescinded the invitation to Dr. Rex. New principals from 31 school districts will attend the five-day academy, which was to begin with Rex's speech Sunday. It is the 21st year for the institute, which focuses on topics of school governance, accountability, finance, professional development and ethical administration, according to a news release.
University Vice President and Counsel Edgar Dyer said he did not know whether officials had a backup speaker lined up. "We probably should find one, because there's 50 new South Carolina principals who are going to a banquet this Sunday," he said.

Politics Rocks Update

2006-07-14T00:01:00.000-04:00

Even Gary Coleman doesn't know if SC Republican Party Chairman Katon Dawson will do an interview or not!

WhoIsMarkSanford.com:
I talked to Jay W. Ragley the other day over the telephone (congratulations Jay on being named SC State Director to The Nat’l Federation of Independent Business ) about www.WhoIsMarkSanford.com and what all I was going to do with it. I told him I wasn't going to do anything but I've actually changed my mind. www.WhoIsMarkSanford.com is now under construction and will be up and running within the next week or week and a half.

Audio Interviews:
I have audio interviews lined up with SC Democratic Party Chairman Joe Erwin, and SC Superintendent of Education Inez Tenenbaum. And of course ....... I'm going to try my best to get Jake Knotts. Robert Barber and Jim Rex have agreed to interviews, it's just a matter of when we do them. I would like to get Thomas Ravenel on here just like I had Lovelace and Bob Staton. I'm not sure if this guy will do another interview with me again or not, I would really like to have Andre Bauer back on. I have called Katon Dawson twice leaving messages in regards to doing an interview with him and he has not got back to me yet (in his defense he has been out of town for business and pleasure). I figured though, just to be like Fox News says "Fair and Balanced," since I'm having the SC Democratic Chairman on, I would like to have the Republican Chairman on as well. Katon doesn't realize this but for every person who I do an interview with, they receive up to 10 coupons of free Krispy Kreme Doughnuts! Maybe that will get him on? I would also like to of course ask Katon about his list of candidates this fall but ...... I would also like to ask him to explain his comments in this article: "Coastal Carolina rescinds invitation to have candidate speak"

Jim Rex --- A "Real" Educator

2006-07-11T00:01:00.000-04:00

"Our schools need a champion. They need an independent, objective, and proven leader. The stakes are too high to turn our public education system over to partisan politicians, who care more about advancing a political agenda than they do about moving our schools forward." - Jim Rex (Jim's Blog)

Jim Rex Website -------------------------Actor Ed Harris (Apollo 13, Radio)

What a relief it is having a candidate stick up for Public Education in this state! What a relief it is to have a candidate in contention for SC Superintendent of Education and ACTUALLY possess teaching experience! Our State has been searching for answers in regards to Education for a while now and the only thing that we keep hearing is not an answer at all, but sounds of out of state dollars flowing into his opponent's campaign from groups who support VOUCHERS!

Thank goodness someone like Jim Rex came to the rescue and entered this race! Not yet, but pretty soon over half of South Carolina will let a big sigh of relief out once they get to know more about Dr. Rex and his plan and accountability......... And yes, he is accountable, one quick example: he proves this by standing firm on not putting public resources into private education. Unlike his opponent, he doesn't dance around like Jackie Chan on the issue of school vouchers. He states here, "I do not support any system of vouchers or tax credits that takes resources away from our public schools in favor of an unfair, unproven, unaccountable, and ultimately unaffordable dual school system in this State. I do not understand why we continue to waste time arguing about an issue that has been rejected repeatedly, including by the Republican legislature, as too expensive and unworkable. We need to move on to new ideas for the future."

Not all, but some of the Republican party members and groups like _______ and ________ will yell, scream, and call you names. They'll say that you don't know the facts, they'll say public schools spend money like drunken sailors, they'll say that your plan will hurt the taxpayers pocket, etc., etc. Their whole purpose is to try to intimidate you into stopping your gameplan. Realize this and keep moving forward. Your Candidacy in this race isn't about appealing to the party's base or about appeasing the left wing. This is about sticking up for SC Public Education and SC Students. This is the one thing we all agree on. So, whatever you do keep going forward. Go forward!

It's Time To Fight Fire With Fire

2006-07-07T00:02:00.000-04:00

This dog is pissed and you should be too

We are sitting around 4 months away from Election Day and the hardcore Sanford (insert whatever adjective here you would like) have already kicked it into high gear with the (dare I say UnChristian like) Negative Campaign tactics! - http://www.whoistommymoore.com/ - Paid for by the South Carolina Republican Party. Katon Dawson, Chairman.

Dangit.....we're not playing badminton here! We are playing a political game against some pretty (insert whatever adjective here you would like) political clowns! The end goal is to win and to get our State back on the right track, but if you think we're going to get there by politely asking the Republicans to be nice and step aside, let me have a slice of your pepperoni pizza, you're so naive it hurts!

This is just the beginning of it though. Sad thing is, if the Democrats don't block these punches, I guarantee you the SC Media and Voters will not only buy into these Sanfordite talking points, they will hook, line and sinker into them. The Sanfordites will make their campaign so negative and nasty, it'll make the mess that the Mark Sanford pigs made in the Statehouse look clean! If Democrats in this State don't strike back soon and stand up for themselves, they are pathetically weak and hopeless. It's crazy to have Republicans blast blast blast/negative negative negative campaign against the Democrats, and the Democrats not do ANYTHING about it. I understand its hard for a Democrat to stoop to their level because Democrats don't know how to think that negativley and irrationaly towards people but geeze louise ....... it is time to get back to the drawing board and start fighting fire with fire!

I'm not going to blast Katon Dawson. I'm going to give him the opportunity to come on here and get his opinion on his candidates and the election and ask him to give an explanation about this website. I (cross your fingers), hopefully next week if his schedule permits, will have SC Democratic Party Chairman Joe Erwin on.

Anyone ever read this book before?

2006-07-06T00:05:00.000-04:00

CONTENTS:
ix - Term Limits Make A Difference
by Robert D. Novak
xii - Acknowledgments

Chapters - 124 Pages
One: Revolutionaries
Two: The Candidate
Three: Dr. No
Four: Cincinnatus Next Door

Appendix: National Taxpayer Union Foundation Study
About Mark Sanford
Aoubt U.S. Term Limits Foundation

New Floyd Platform: I present to you "The Karen Floyd Center For Kids Who Can't Read Good And Want To Learn To Do Other Stuff Good Too"

2006-07-05T00:01:00.000-04:00

Press Release

Floyd is running for SC Superintendent of Education this November 7th. This is the first time that she has ever pursued State office and first time that she's ever had anything to do with Education besides attending K-12. "Karen is pretty sure there's a lot more to life than being really, really good looking and smart. And she plans on finding out what that is, that's why she's in this race," stated Floyd Campaign Manager M. Green.

With the fundraising numbers up, and a lot of momentum on her side, the Floyd supporters are extremely happy and can't wait to start making a difference . "Well I guess it all started the first time she went through the second grade. She caught her reflection in a spoon while she was eating her cereal, and she remembered thinking wow, I'm ridiculously good looking, and I'm ridiculously smart too, maybe I can use these two things to make a career," said Floyd Campaign Manager M. Green.

Floyd had a solid victory over Wood, Ryan, Staton, and Moffley just 3 weeks ago in the SC Republican Primary receiving 51% of the vote avoiding a run-off. This is what Floyd had to say about it. "I wasn't like every other kid, you know, who dreams about being an astronaut, I was always more interested in what bark was made out of on a tree. Richard Gere's a real hero of mine. Sting. Sting would be another person who's a hero. The music he's created over the years, I don't really listen to it, but the fact that he's making it, I respect that. I care desperately about what I do."

Politics Rocks, a local SC Blog, has really been very critical of the Floyd campaign even going as far to saying to the Floyd camp, "You think that you're too cool for school, but I have a newsflash for you Walter Cronkite... you aren't," stated by Mike Reese. "The Karen Floyd Center For Kids Who Can't Read Good And Want To Learn To Do Other Stuff Good Too is a new Floyd platform that is sure to put Politics Rocks into Silent Mode," stated Floyd Campaign Manager M. Green.

Karen Floyd vs. Jim Rex for Superintendent of Education, Tuesday, November 7th.

The 3 Most Awful People on Cable TV

2006-07-03T16:00:00.000-04:00

Rita Cosby--------------------------Nancy Grace------------------Sean Hannity

Just look at those faces! And just to be "Fair and Balanced" we have one horrible example from each cable network. A couple months ago, I didn't think television could ever go any lower than Nancy Grace. Everything about her was offensive. But, somehow, like looking at a car crash, I just had to watch. Those arched eyebrows, those huffs, those sighs of disgust. Surely she has to be a network creation. A joke. Like Jiminy Glick or something.

But then I became aware of Rita Cosby. I guess I had always been aware of her, but never really bothered to notice before. But after she moved to MSNBC immediately after the best of the cable news shows, Keith Olbermann's Countdown, I can't get to the remote fast enough to shut her off. If I can't find the remote or something, I go into a panic that I'm going to hear that voice before I get it shut off. Unlike Nancy Grace, I've never gotten more than 30 seconds into the show. That's all that is needed.

What can I say about Sean Hannity, except he's just a stooge. Not one ounce of anything going on there except blind Republican propaganda. And you may wonder why no Bill O'Reilly? Yes, he's pretty horrible too. Most pompous TV personality going without a doubt. But there is almost some comedy there, if you listen enough. "That's a great question, Chris. Stay on the line, and we'll get you a free pair of Haeger slacks."

MSNBC Execs Cancel "Rita Cosby: Live & Direct"-- From Last Week
MSNBC personality Rita Cosby yesterday went from the floodwaters of Pennsylvania into the fire of 30 Rock.
After a grueling nine-hour meeting involving Cosby, her agent and top NBC News and MSNBC execs, the third-rated cable news network announced that her weeknight show, "Rita Cosby: Live & Direct," will be canceled in early July.

Contributor Bozo Knows: I Know What I Was Feeling, What Was I Thinking?

2006-06-29T00:01:00.001-04:00

The What Was I Thinking Sympathy Award

Hey Hey Hey! I guess this is the beginning of what I like to affectionately refer to as the "What was I thinking" Award. That's not the real title, just a suggestion so if anybody has a suggestion as to what to call the segment officially, please feel free to let me know. Well, with out further adieu, the first recipient is ... (add your own drum roll, you know you're doing it anyway) Mrs. Jenny Sanford! Congratulations Mrs. First Lady and don't forget your bouquet of cotton candy and Blue Ribbon.

It seems that we had a small problem this week when we (ok, just Mrs. Sanford) came out and officially "unofficially" endorsed my favorite circus midget Mike Campbell in his race for Lt. Governor while the incumbent Lt. Governor Andre Bauer was still in the run-off and campaigning his heart out. Now we had all seen the Lt. Governor come back from being down in a race before (see last election cycle) to win . Follow me Mrs. Sanford, that's why they call him the "comeback kid". Now it seems it was about as premature to call Lt. Governor Bauer out as buying tickets to a Gubernatorial Debate, one I'm very certain the Governor may attend... ok I didn't even believe that. Just a piece of advice for the future if you would allow me some lattitude; your name is not Hillary Clinton, Eleanor Roosevelt nor any first lady entrusted with policy or decision making in any capacity. While I'm certain you are a very sweet, lovely lady, please let your husband screw up the race on his own. He has enough trouble with it on his own, he doesn't need you making prognostications on issues outside your arena. Coming out in support of Mr. Campbell might not have been the smartest move, especially looking back on it now, since he is now out of the race. How do you expect the Governor to work with Andre now?

It was much better when you were seen and not heard. I have one question, is the Sanford '06 crew going to jump on the dre' train now that he's the nominee? I'm sure Andre would like to thank you for your support if you would give it; well on second thought, maybe not. Until the next screw up. Keep it real, I'm watching you ---------- Bozo Knows

South Carolina's very own Mickey Mouse Club lost a member last night!

2006-06-28T00:01:00.000-04:00

Now's the time to say goodbye

To Mike Campbell & company

Through the years we'll all be friends

Wherever we may be

M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E Mickey Mouse, Mickey Mouse

Forever let us hold our banner high

M-I-C - See ya real soon! K-E-Y - Why? Because we like you! M-O-U-S-E!!

The Real Reason Why Jenny Sanford "Unofficially" Endorsed Mike Campbell

2006-06-26T00:01:00.000-04:00

Mark Sanford using his wife Jenny to "unofficially endorse" Mike Campbell is nothing new. This is the same move that Mark Sanford used against Sen. Kuhn 2 years ago. He sent his wife Jenny down to support Chip Campsen. It obviously worked that time, for Chip Campsen defeated Sen. Kuhn, and they would not be doing it this time if they were not 100% sure that it would work/help for Mike Campbell. If I'm not mistaken, I think Sen. Kuhn went down to Columbia and had some words with ole Jenny!

Thing is, lets view this "unofficial" endorsement from another angle. The real question here is this: is there another reason why Sanford did this? YES THERE IS! Their stats/polls are obviously showing that there is a very high percentage that Campbell will win next week, and win in November, with or without Sanford’s help.

The Sanford people are not too enamored with Campbell being Lt. Governor because of his family’s high profile in the past and his father being an ex Governor. In my opinion, Campbell will not allow himself to be run over and he will want to be a big time player in the administration. I think Campbell being Lt. Governor puts extreme pressure on Sanford rather than Andre Bauer being Lt. Gov. Mark Sanford realizes this and made this endorsement to help “himself” out. Bottom line is this: the Sanford’s are trying to position themselves to be able to control Campbell so that he will be a puppet for them under the thumb of Sanford at least for a couple of years. If they would not have done this move, and Campbell wins, Campbell would be considered a free agent. Without a doubt Campbell would end up outshining Sanford because of his name and heritage and would be doing it “without being affiliated with Sanford.”

A group of people in Columbia still remain, old Campbell regime that are determined to make Mike Campbell Governor someday, and once he makes it to Lt. Gov, they will slowly regain control of the Statehouse. Sanford wants to keep this Campbell regime at bay.

Campbell regime: Warren Thompkins, Robert McAlister, and Graham Tew. They were all on Carroll Campbell’s staff.

The Campbell regime are using Mike for his last name. Using him as a magnet to recreate this regime to take control of the State House. As 2009 rolls around, Campbell will step more and more to the forefront towards positioning himself to the 2010 Governors race, and Sanford will slowly fade and be a lame duck governor. In my opinion, these guys are ruthless, tough, and will do anything to win. If you don’t believe that statement, ask Andre Bauer!

Mr. Neil Cavuto, Take this cup into the bathroom and fill it up to the line?

2006-06-21T00:01:00.000-04:00

I've made fun of (say the word Fox really really quick) Fox News a lot here on Politics Rocks, but now it's time to stop making fun of them and seriously make them take a cup into the bathroom and fill it up to the line. Does the Fox News organization not have a drug policy for all of their employees? Sit down with Neil Cavuto for 2 minutes and he'll make you think invading Iran is a Lovely idea!

CAVUTO: "But what if I told you it is too late, that we’re already probably at war with Iran and most of us don’t even know it. Welcome everybody, I’m Neil Cavuto, and this is Your World."

Notice how Cavuto skips past the “should the United States go to war with Iran” debate and informs us we already have. Basically what they are trying to say is "Sorry, it's too late, support America, and let's get this war started properly." Honestly, of all the Fox News anchors, how many of them do you think could take a cup into the bathroom, fill it up, and pass the drug tests?

Contributor Jeff Parks: Doctor, This Party Has Flatlined........

2006-06-15T00:02:00.000-04:00

Jeff Parks

The South Carolina Democratic Party is on life support...and that is putting it nicely right now. If this were one of those made-for-TV hospital dramas, the doctors would be leaving the SCDP to die, moving on to the patient in the bed next door. And for the record, this is not something I want. I'm a Democrat, and proud to be one at that. And yes, I am liberal on a lot of issues, and I don't look at that word as naughty either. I'm proud of the accomplishments of my party over the last seventy-five years. Were there rough times? Of course, but all in all, I am still a very proud Donkey (does that sound bad?) Right now though, I am embarrassed. And no...it is not for my party! I am embarrassed for the state of South Carolina and the referndum the voters delivered on Tuesday night. So sadly I come to you to deliver the Last Rites for the South Carolina Democratic Party...at least temporarily this Donkey hopes. Let's face some facts here that show that November will be a very disappointing time for the Dems in South Carolina:

· Mark Sanford broke tradition. He came out and openly supported a candidate in a PRIMARY. And that candidate won 51% of the vote in a field that included five candidates. I am not a Karen Floyd fan (or school choice fan either for that matter), but that is impressive. Jim Rex, your resume is impressive, but you had better be worried.
· Andre Bauer and Mark Sanford clashed. Mike Campbell, who has nothing to run on but his Daddy's name (sounds kind of like an important national figure), beat Bauer. Even though there will still be a runoff, Andre is going to be lucky to get 40% of the vote come two weeks from now.
· Tommy Moore won a convincing victory in the Democratic primary. However, the loser in the Republican primary, Oscar Lovelace, still finished with nearly as many raw votes as Moore did. I know, the Republican races were more highlighted and were going to draw more voters. Still though, that would be a bit discouraging to me.
· The State newspaper came out with an article that supposedly says Sanford is weak. I am not buying it. Winthrop Political Scientist Scott Huffmon said, "Democrats will take the opportunity to draw moderates over to their side" when he was presented with how Oscar took over a 1/3 of the vote against Sanford. That is the problem Mr. Huffmon. As 2002 showed me when I clearly thought Alex Sanders was the better candidate for the US Senate over Lindsay Graham, as 2004 showed me when I clearly thought that Inez was better that Jim DeMint, as 2002 showed me when I thought we had a very productive four years under Jim Hodges...there are not that many moderates in South Carolina...just Republicans, and well, more Republicans.

I hope I am wrong. I hope that the Dems are competitive in November, however I fear that we will see a triumverate of Sanford, Campbell, and Floyd come the first Tuesday in November. And then I might be returning...this time to deliver the Last Rites to the state of South Carolina.

Who Is More Qualified? - After You Read This, Place Your Right Index Finger On Your Chin And Look Up

2006-06-14T00:01:00.000-04:00

Karen Floyd-----------------------Michael Reese

I wish I was running in the race for SC Superintendent of Education, let's take a look at 2 resume's and decide which candidate has the best qualifications of the two.
Candidate A - Michael Reese
Father was a school teacher for 19 years, mother was a school teacher as well. Brother and sister-in-law are both current school teachers. Attended public school for 12 years, 4 year college degree, currently works at a college.
Candidate B - Karen Floyd
A lawyer and businessperson who served four years on the Spartanburg County Council. Former Prosectuor. Sent his/her kids to private school until a year and a half ago. Attended a 4 year college and law school. Became the first female Chairman of County Council in Spartanburg

Now, while you're trying to decide between Karen Floyd and Michael Reese, Go ahead and take a look at Jim Rex's resume. He will be going up against Karen Floyd this November, so it's not Michael Reese vs. Karen Floyd, its Karen Floyd vs. Jim Rex.

Jim Rex has spent most of his adult life making a difference for the children, families, schools, and communities of South Carolina. As a high school English teacher, football coach, and higher education leader, he has made public education his life's mission. Now, Jim is poised to take his leadership to the Office of State Superintendent of Education on a platform of innovation, competitiveness, and common sense solutions to the challenges our public schools face. Having served as Dean of Education at Winthrop University, as well as Coastal Carolina University, Jim knows what it takes to create a teaching force for South Carolina that is second to none. As the former President of Columbia College, he also knows the importance of preparing South Carolina's students, not just for higher education, but for the real world they face as working adults. As State Superintendent of Education, he will work to make sure that every student in South Carolina receives an education that will prepare them, not just for competition within our own borders, but for competing in a global market place with others from throughout the world.In addition to those posts, Jim is also the former Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations at the University of South Carolina, where he retired in 1999 after serving his final tenure there as Vice President of University Advancement. He is a published author and has served as a top consultant to education advocacy organizations like the National Institute of Education and Governor Dick Riley's South Carolina Educator Improvement Task Force. But his work extends beyond the education realm. Jim has also lent his time and talents to a variety of community organizations, including serving as Chair of Clean Water South Carolina; a member of the Palmetto Conservation Foundation board of directors; and chair of the Palmetto Trail. He is also the former chair of the board of the Nurturing Center, a facility created to help abused children.Along with his list of work and accomplishments, Jim's family and his faith remain the cornerstones of his life. The grandson of a Methodist minister, Jim has worked to instill the traditional values he learned from his upbringing in the four children he shares with his wife, Sue: Adam, Jeff, Nathan, and Siri.

This is when you place your right index finger on your chin, look up and say: (I'll let you fill in the blank space here yourself )

Mark Sanford ........ Pull Over, Please Pull The Car Over! (Reason #1827 to fire Mark Sanford)

2006-06-09T00:01:00.000-04:00

- Unfortunately Mark Sanford has not done this yet

In regards to Mark Sanford leading South Carolina in this direction, it's just...... I feel like I'm in a car with with a drunk driver, and there's nothing I can do about it, and I just can't wait for him to stop driving. Mark Sanford, please, please slow down, pull over, pull the car aside! It's like we don't have a seatbelt on, and we have a drunk driver at the helm driving this car (South Carolina) to GOSH knows where!
Mark Sanford's veto to H. 4965 is reason # 1827 to fire him. This arrogant (whatever adjective you would like to use), this ______ guy is out of control! And I thought I had bad hand writing! What word(s) do YOU think he spelled out in his signature? It almost looks like he spelled the word VETO!

New Contributor Kat Burglar: I've got an "Inconvenient Truth" for Al Gore

2006-06-07T08:00:00.000-04:00

Al, you've already been knocked down once, please don't get back up!

As many of you may know, former VP Al Gore and Presidential candidate in 2000 released a book last month titled "An Inconvenient Truth" which discusses research from scientists that explains the negatives of global warming - duh - like we needed a book from Al Gore saying global warming is a bad thing. I wonder if Al included in his book that global warming has fried his brain cells, because it appears that he is holding out hope (albeit a slim one) that he will be a successful candidate for president in 2008. In an interview this past Sunday on ABC's "This Week" Al indicated that he had "all but ruled out" running for president in 08 but he stopped short of ruling it out entirely. Due to statements like this and Al's re-emergence in the national spotlight at a time when other presidential hopefuls are starting their campaigns, tounges are wagging and speculating that AG will make another go of it.

Can you believe this nonsense? I mean really, are you kidding me? Here's my "inconvenient truth" for you Al Gore - IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN. You had your chance and blew it!!!! Al Gore, you let the Democratic party and the country down in 2000. If you had been a better candidate then (let's remember that AG did not even win his home state of Tennessee) and defeated Bush maybe our country would not be in such a mess today. Please, AG, I beg you to take yourself out of the race once and for all. Your time in national politics is over.

Contributor Jeff Parks: Would POTUS Please Start To Focus on Something Worthwhile???

2006-06-06T00:01:00.000-04:00

When is the Bush Administration going to release this do you think?
There is still a war in Iraq that takes the lives of several American soldiers every day. As we look at Iran, the situation is about as solid as a chocolate bar left outside on an early June day (we're talking Georgia heat here folks). Suddenly, our country's problems are not limited to just the border to the south, but also with our neighbor to the north (who would have thought??? Terrorists in Canada?). White House staffers are dropping about as quickly as teams in the NBA playoffs. And yet in spite of all of these SIGNIFICANT problems, I open up my newspaper over the weekend to find that our wonderful President is focused on something as equally insignificant...GAY MARRIAGE! Yes people, election time must be near.

If you want to talk about hijacking an issue, this is it! With his approval ratings lower than the batting average of the most average major league baseball players and with the Republican Party feeling the heat being turned up faster than the grill for those summer cook-outs, the Elephants, and in particular the Head Elephant Bush, have resorted to an issue that they find comfort in. Much like the four hundred pound man who drowns his sorrows in a carton of ice cream each night, the Republicans and Baby Bush are attempting to drown their woes in a nice, hearty carton of gay bashing.

To be very honest with you, I could care less what happens to the issue of gay marriage. I feel that is probably the opinion of most of the American people. We don't really worry about what our gay neighbors might be doing (or in this case, not doing). Instead, we worry about ten tons of ammonium nitrate crossing the border. Instead, we worry about car bombings knocking off American soliders. Instead, we wonder about how our country is going to combat illegal immigration. We may be even playing a real life game of Clue in trying to figure "What exactly has happened to all those White House staffers?" My message to the President is to get off your butt, quit worrying about your political numbers, quit worrying about getting a Republican Congress back in place in November (how has that worked out for you by the way?) Quit hijakcing the political process in order to protect your precious legacy. Instead, get to work on the REAL problems of the American people.

And just in case you do want my opinion Mr. President, only one consitutional amendment (the 18th) was ever used to take away rights from the American people, and it was reversed (21st). And by the way, since when did the federal government begin licensing marriages in our country? Yeah Mr. President, get back to the issues (if that is even possible with this Adminstration).

Audio Interview: Politics Rocks talks with (D) Candidate for SC Governor, Senator Tommy Moore

2006-06-05T14:39:00.000-04:00

Senator Tommy Moore For Governor - Website
Click Play (>) to listen to the 2-part interview with (D) Candidate for SC Governor, Senator Tommy Moore.

Part 1

Part 2

Message from Senator Tommy Moore

“Wow!” The overwhelming response I received from so many delegates at the state Democratic Party Convention was incredibly energizing. Thanks to all of you who showed such strong and enthusiastic support. And thanks to the thousands of you—from the Low Country to the Upstate and everywhere in between—who have given me such a warm welcome and listened to me as I’ve traveled all over our state this past year.
Now it’s crunch time. The primary is only weeks away; weeks during which I will continue to bring my message of change and hope to the people of South Carolina. Please join me. Together we can and will bring prosperity, health and a real chance at a better life to all of our hard-working citizens. - Tommy Moore

Audio Interview: Politics Rocks talks with (R) Candidate for SC Governor Dr. Oscar Lovelace

2006-06-02T00:01:00.000-04:00

Republican Oscar Lovelace for Governor - Website

Click Play (>) below to listen to the 2-part interview with Dr. Oscar Lovelace.

Part 1

Part 2

Dear Friends,
Many people have asked why I would leave my rural family medical practice to run for governor. After serving as Governor Sanford's Health Care Task Force chairman in 2003, I realized he was missing three critical qualities of leadership: communication, cooperation and common sense.
The latest article by Cindi Ross Scoppe outlines the most poignant recent example of these leadership flaws. With the Republican primary election looming on June 13, 2006, I hope you will agree that South Carolina must move ahead to a brighter future with real world experience and hands-on leadership that listens to others.

Oscar Lovelace, MD

Let's All Relax Today! Go Home, Crack Open A Beer If You Wish, Prop Your Legs Up, And Turn It To FOX NEWS And Enjoy The Political Comedy!

2006-06-01T00:01:00.000-04:00

1. Which person do you dislike the most? Bill O' Reilly or Sean Hannity
2. Or ....... if you feel like you are a member of the very very far right, which one do you feel like is your hero? Bill O' Reilly or Sean Hannity

Karen Floyd, forget Mike Green, I want to be your Campaign Manager, I would make a great one, and I'll show you why....

2006-05-26T08:16:00.000-04:00

That's right Karen, you tell em' (fist in the air)

The other day I talked with Mike Green, Mike Green IS Karen Floyd's campaign manager, Mike Green IS www.schotline.com or as most of us have come to know it as www.looneytune.com , to discuss with him the possibility of having Karen Floyd come on and do an interview on Politics Rocks. He pretty much just gave me the run around. Mike, you should want your candidate to come on Politics Rocks and get her some good exposure. We told you it would be a 100% positive interview. Since K. Floyd's campaign is obviously being run lazy and not so smart, I figured that I would take his job eventually. Let me explain.
A lot of my sources around the state of South Carolina have been telling me that ....... if Karen Kanes Floyd wins the SC Superintendent of Education election this year, she will run for Governor here in South Carolina in 2010. Basically, just using the position as Spt. of Education as a pedestal to the Governor's Mansion. Well, Karen, if this is all true about you running for Governor in 2010, I want to be your Campaign Manager. I have already begun working hard for you Karen, and I'll show you.
Yesterday, Politics Rocks went to www.godaddy.com and looked up some possible website domain names that she might use for this Governor's race come 2010. She already owns www.KarenFloyd2006 , which obviously cannot be used after this year. She owns www.KarenFloyd.com , that could be used again in 2010 possibly but that's not too glamorous. And we all know how you just love to be Glamorous Karen! Well what we have done today, to make sure no political clown gets a hold of some possible domain web addresses first to play games with her campaign, Politics Rocks bought these domain web addresses for Karen:
---www.KarenFloyd2010.com
--- www.KarenFloydForGovernor.com
---www.FloydForGovernor.com
--- www.Floyd2010.com
Karen, I'm working hard, I believe in you I promise! Let's make this happen, and let's make me your Campaign Manager for the 2010 Governor's Race! (that is, if you survive June 13th, 2006 primary and November 7th, 2006 general election)

Statement from Lt. Governor Andre Bauer

2006-05-25T08:20:00.000-04:00

Statement from Lt. Governor Andre Bauer:

First and foremost, I am concerned for the well-being of my friend and co-pilot, John Leonhardt. I have spoken to him by phone, and am happy to report that he is recovering.

I would like to thank the EMS, public safety, and law enforcement officers for their very professional and courageous response. I am especially grateful to two individuals -- Mr. Elliott and Mr. White -- for their heroic assistance in helping us after the crash.

I am deeply humbled by the outpouring of concern I have received from the people of South Carolina. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you all for your support and your prayers.

But most of all, I am thankful for a merciful Lord, who for some reason, has seen fit for this humbled servant to continue his journey on this earth. Please continue to pray for me that I may be worthy of His blessings.

Thank you.

Andre Bauer

Audio Interview: Politics Rocks Talks With SC Lieutenant Governor Andre Bauer

2006-05-17T21:27:00.000-04:00

For more information on Andre Bauer click here for his website.
Click play (>) below and enjoy the short interview with SC Lieutenant Governor Andre Bauer.

- Elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives in 1996

- In 1999, Bauer was elected to the South Carolina State Senate in a special election. He was re-elected in the 2000 general election and served in the Senate until his inauguration.

- Elected in 2002 to SC Lieutenant Governor

It's official, SC Lieutenant Governor Andre Bauer is a Clemson Tiger Fan!

"Clowns to the Left of me, Jokers to the Right"

2006-05-11T15:00:00.000-04:00

The Clown, Joshua Gross--------Michael Reese--------The Joker, Mark Sanford

As the song goes, "I got the feeling that something ain't right ... Clowns to the left of me. Jokers to the right. Here I am, stuck in the middle with you." That's the feeling I get everyday as I listen to The Body Politic (Joshua Gross)/SCC4G and Mark Sanford/Karen Floyd.

The whole state of South Carolina must feel like they are stuck in the middle as Sanford/Floyd plays the jokers on one side, and The Body Politic/SCC4G plays the clowns on the other, I know I feel stuck. The Body Politic/SCC4G are either crazy, or don't realize how crazy Mark Sanford and Karen Floyd are! Either The Body Politic/SCC4G think that they can help accomplish one of the biggest con-artists jobs ever in SC Politics, or either they amazingly somehow believe that Karen Floyd is qualified for SC Spt. of Education and that Mark Sanford is actually a good Governor! (Time Magazine)

The Body Politic just recently stated this when referring to me, "As to the nature of the comments you make about Karen/SCRG/Sanford, etc..., again, why would we listen and give credence to the son of a Democrat Senator trying to come up with moonbat theories about our party's politics?"------------This is only the 189th irrational comment that he has made toward Democrats over the last few weeks. So tell me, just because I pick Bob Staton over Karen Floyd because of these reasons: Karen Floyd is not qualified, Karen Floyd is a quitter, Karen Floyd is uncredible, and Karen Floyd is only using this race as a stepping stone to get to the Governor's Mansion , and just because I point out all of the critical downfalls of Gov. Mark Sanford: Dumb Mistakes, Laziness , and No Common Sense, in your eyes these are all Moonbat Theories?

The fact that we are having a serious discussion right now determining whether or not Mark Sanford is a reasonable/smart Governor and determining whether or not Karen Floyd is the right fit for Spt. of Education should sicken us to our core. Yet, some people are unfazed. With some of these very far right clowns to the left of us (The Body Politic/SCC4G) and Mark Sanford / Karen Floyd jokers to the right, I feel like we are all stuck in the middle together. No one might not be able to stop Mark Sanford and Karen Floyd from running for political office, but we can stop them from getting elected, I just wish The Body Politic/SCC4G would jump on board with the more common sense approach!

Oh gosh ...... what was Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack doing hanging out with these hoodlums?

2006-05-07T17:21:00.000-04:00

Left to Right - M. Reese, Lauren Manning, Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack, and Frank
It's official, if Tom Vilsack is our next president, Frank, Lauren, and myself will all have jobs in Washington, let me give you a little sneak peak of what we will be doing .........

Frank (Devinely Southern) will serve as the President's Chief of Staff! Salary for this job is still yet to be determined..... Vilsack may not be able to afford Frank.

Lauren Manning (LaurenLine) will serve as Press Secretary for the President! Due to all of the Student Loans that she has racked up for Law School, and undergrad at Wofford College, Vilsack recognizes this and will forfeit his salary to go toward hers.
M. Reese (Politics Rocks) will serve as Chief Coordinator of FUN! He will make $50,000 a year off of taxpayer expense and will accompany Vilsack on all trips!

Please Everybody, This Is Going To Be Hard, But Let's Try Our Best To Remember Mark Sanford In A Positive Way!

2006-05-02T12:46:00.000-04:00

This picture was taken when Mark Sanford was still a happy Governor. He is no longer happy and hopes to lose his seat come June 13th. Not only was Charles not in charge, Sanford won't be in charge much longer.

My thinking and theory today is that Governor Mark Sanford is trying to lose his job. He's tired and he just wants to go home ...... to his plantation. His bed on the coast seems so enticing now. All this governing has worn him out. He's finally come to the conclusion that he won't be able to make a decent run for the Presidency in 2008. So, he's subconsciously is trying to get kicked out of school so he doesn't have to do the homework anymore. He doesn't have a Republican Guard sticking up for him like he thought he would have, and his incompetent acts just haven't worked the way he thought they would. Don't worry Mark, we can make your problems go away. We'll be sure to vote you out of office either on June 13th, or on November 7th. I know you've been trying hard to get relieved of your command because it's just too much homework.
1. Who wants the opportunity of tackling SC Public Education? He sure doesn't, he wants to abandon it.
2. Who wants the hassle of improving SC Job Unemployment? He obviously doesn't on this one, thanks to him being so slack, he lost "Air Bus".
3. Who wants the opportunity to let our Legislators do their job? He doesn't, he just wants to change the rules so he has all power.
4. Who wants the opportunity to come up with a clean, but thought out and sensible budget? He doesn't, he just wants to cut everything. Mark Sanford needs a nap, a power nap for that!
He's dying to get voted out of office, will someone put this guy out of his misery and vote him out of office come June 13th? Believe me, you'd be doing him a favor.

By the way, Latest Governor Sign Count (Statewide): Oscar Lovelace 357, Mark Sanford Still Zero -----see, he really is trying to lose this race. http://www.time.com/time/archive/preview/0,10987,1129549,00.html

Contributor Jeff Parks: Spratt Will Not Lose In 2006, But......

2006-05-01T09:06:00.000-04:00

Goober Pyle off of the Andy Griffith Show----US House of Rep. John Spratt

In the Sunday edition of The Spartanburg Herald-Journal, better known to some of you as the official guidebook to the South Carolina Republican Party, the online section was highlighted by an article musing the political future of John Spratt, the Congressman from the 5th district of South Carolina. Spratt is somewhat of a political ibis in South Carolina. In a state where Democrats are disappearing faster than Bush staffers, Spratt has been able to continually win re-election, often times by significant margins. However, it seems that this time Spratt might be vulnerable. He won easily in 2004, however his challenger garnered almost 40% of the vote while only spending a couple of grand. While the moderate Democrat Spratt won fairly easily, George W. Bush also won fairly easily over John Kerry in Spratt's district.

Spratt will not lose in 2006 and here is why:

1. The Republican Party is reeling: The Republicans in any other year might have been able to provide the resources to defeat Spratt, however with the Elephants getting the better part of the blame for high oil prices, the war in Iraq, and a series of policy blunders by Dubya, they are going to have fight hard to retain some seats in more competitive districts.
2. Early Money is Like Yeast - Yes, Spratt's challenger does have $600,000 on hand, however Spratt has well over a million bucks on hand. If you are a challenger, you have to at the very least be even with the incumbent to have a shot at overcoming the disadvantage of people not knowing you.
3. South Carolina General Election Has Little Appeal - If Mark Sanford were the type of governor who rallied the Republican base, then Spratt's challenger might have a shot. However, Sanford is a controversial figure. He will win re-election in 2006, however he will not turn out people to the polls in huge numbers to vote for him, thus bringing a trickle down effect on the rest of the ballot.

My prediction is that Spratt wins comfortably in 2006, BUT loses in 2008. In 2008, a presidential election year, the Republicans will have a candidate on the national ticket who is not as divisive as a George W. Bush. People will turn out to vote for that figure, and the trickle down effect will end up defeating John Spratt.

Audio Interview: Politics Rocks gets 5 minutes with SC Senator Kevin Bryant

2006-04-27T21:33:00.000-04:00

Please check out Sen. Bryant's blogsite, http://kevinbryant.blogspot.com

Kevin L. Bryant [R] Pharmacist Dist. No. 3 - Anderson Co.(H) 104-A North Ave., Anderson, 29625 Bus. (864) 202-8394 Home (864) 225-0990(C) 501 Gressette Bldg., Columbia, 29202 Bus. (803) 212-6100 Home

I'm Sorry, But After Bob Staton Defeats Karen Floyd In The SC Superintendent Of Education Primary, He Will Be Invited To The Playboy Mansion To Party!

2006-04-25T10:05:00.000-04:00

(R) Candidate Bob Staton----------------Playboy Founder, Hugh Hefner

First off, if Bob Staton defeats Karen Floyd in the (R) Primary, and he indeed does have a party or get an invite to a party at the Playboy Mansion for defeating her, I better get asked to tag along!
I would not be surprised one bit to see the Karen Floyd campaign start getting extremely nasty very soon. It's kind of like when I played basketball, if the player I was guarding was much better than I was in all areas of the game, then I would start playing dirty to make it even. Well in this race, Bob Staton is obviously better in all areas of the game vs. Karen Floyd. When should we expect to see the first negative tv ad? or campaign flyer? Or......has the mudslinging already begun? Either way, know this, not only does Bob Staton have a law degree like Karen Floyd, he also has:
----President, Chairman, and CEO of Colonial Life & Accident Insurance Company.
----President of the United Way Association of South Carolina and Chairman of the Board of Carolina National Bank.
----1998 South Carolina Chamber of Commerce Business Leader of the Year
----Ambassador of the Year by the Greater Columbia Chamber of Commerce in 2000
----Humanitarian of the Year Award from the United Way of the Midlands
----Awarded the Order of the Silver Crescent by Governor Mark Sanford for his service and leadership to South Carolina's education system
----Appointed by Governor Beasley to the PASS commission in 1997, which developed the recommendations for the Education Accountability Act of 1998.
----Business appointee of the Education Oversight Committee since its inception.
----Chairman of the Education Oversight Committee for the last four years.
----Mentor in Richland School District 1.
----Member of the Governor's Workforce Education Planning Committee, which created Pathways to Prosperity in 2002 and led to the development of the Education and Economic Development Act in 2005

"It's something unpredictable, but in the end its right. I hope you had the time of your life"

2006-04-20T08:54:00.000-04:00

FORMER White House Press Sec. Scott McClellan-----Music Group Green Day

As of yesterday, White House Press Sec. Scott McClellan resigned from his position. It's a sad day for him temporarily, if I had to guess what he does next, he will probably get a job with (say the word Fox really really quick) Fox News sometime very very soon. Think about it, he's had a job for over 3 years now having to lie to reporters in the White House Press Room, if he can do that, he can def. get on Fox News in front of live audiences and do that as well. However, I am very very sad for Scott, he is soon to be a number in the unemployment market. I shall sing for him today a song by Green Day called Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)

"Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life)"
Another turning point, a fork stuck in the road, time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go
So make the best of this test, and don't ask why, It's not a question, but a lesson learned in time
It's something unpredictable,but in the end it's right.I hope you had the time of your life.

So take the photographs, and still frames in your mind, Hang it on a shelf in good health and good time
Tattoos of memories and dead skin on trial, For what it's worth it was worth all the while,
It's something unpredictable, but in the end it's right. I hope you had the time of your life.
It's something unpredictable, but in the end it's right. I hope you had the time of your life.

It's something unpredictable, but in the end it's right. I hope you had the time of your life.

Even Flounder Feels Nervous About Huntin' With SC Rep. Thad Viers! Camouflage hat,Check! Wallet,Check! Water Bottle,Check! AK-47 Assault Rifle, Check

2006-04-09T17:53:00.000-04:00

Flounder, from the movie Animal House-------SC House of Rep. Thad Viers

Myrtle Beach lawmaker takes home assault rifle prize
Associated Press
CLEMSON, S.C. - And the winner of the AK-47 assault rifle given away by Clemson University's conservative newspaper is ... state Rep. Thad Viers, R-Myrtle Beach.Viers was in the woods near the Anderson-Greenville county line on Friday getting the required range training that came with the prize."It was great today," Viers said. "I got the NRA-certified instructor, he showed me how to use it. I never shot one before."It was one of those guns that you've heard a lot about in movies and stuff and now they're legal to own. This is going to be my sixth gun."The 28-year-old lawmaker didn't actually win the drawing for the rifle. Rather the first two winners rejected the prize, and the third winner gave it to Viers, who had to pay sales tax on the gun valued at $550.
Viers plans to add the AK-47 to his collection of pistols and shot guns."You're not exercising your Second Amendment (rights) unless you own a gun," Viers said. "I think some of the movies like 'Rambo' and some of the other ones have given (the AK-47) a bad name."Andrew Davis, editor of The Tiger Town Observer, has said the gun was offered in the giveaway to bring attention to the Second Amendment right to bear arms and to raise money for the paper and other charitable causes.The newspaper is a free monthly publication distributed on campus. It receives no financial support from the university but does have office space on the Hendrix Student Center.

Which one would you vote for? Which years did you like better? The 1996-02 years when the boy bands ruled, or the 02-06 years when Mark Sanford ruled?

2006-04-02T19:11:00.000-04:00

Top Left- Nick Lachey (98 Degrees) Top Right- Kevin Richardson (Backstreet Boys)
Bottom Left- Mark Sanford (SC Governor) Bottom Right- Justin Timberlake (N'Sync)

I was listening to my satellite radio today on my way back into town from Atlanta, a N'Sync song came on and I slowly remembered how awful those 7-8 years were when N'Sync, Backstreet Boys, and 98 Degrees basicly ruled everything and ruled everybody. It was just so bad. When they all came out and hit it big around 1996 or so, Rock music died for about 7 years there.
I got to thinking about how bad things have been in SC for the last 3 1/2 years and how things have been dead under Gov. Mark Sanford. We as voters of this great state have an opportunity come Nov., to not let this drag on 7-8 years and continue to kill SC like the Boy Bands killed rock music.
What did we Learn Today:
1. The guy who cuts hair at the Mill Hill Village Salon in Columbia, SC told me that Mark Sanford has good hair.......but he is no Backstreet Boy!
2. I think if these 4 guys above were the only ones running for governor, I wouldn't know who to pick, Who would you vote for?
3. 4 years ago when we elected Mark Sanford, this was his resume.
---------- Mark Sanford was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1994. Prior to that, Mark had no political experience. Mark was #1 in the 1995 and 1997 Citizens Against Government Waste's ranking of Congressmen according to their votes to cut spending. He also received top honors from the Concord Coalition -- a deficit watch group which listed him on their honor roll. In 1996, the National Taxpayers Union Foundation listed him as the 7th most frugal spender (out of all 435 members of Congress) regarding how he voted to disburse hard-earned taxpayer dollars in Washington. For the past decade, prior to his service in Congress, Mark worked in real estate finance and investment in New York City and Charleston, SC. Mark graduated from high school there in Beaufort, went on to Furman University, and then received an MBA from the Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia.

Go Ahead Keith Olberman ........Maybe Now We'll Get Some More "Common Sense" Thinking Political Talk Show Hosts On Our News Channels

2006-03-29T08:54:00.000-05:00

In the first quarter of 2006, MSNBC's Countdown with Keith Olbermann beat CNN's Paula Zahn Now in the 25-54 demographic. "This marks MSNBC's first quarterly primetime victory over CNN in the demo in almost five years (2Q01 MSNBC Investigates beat CNN at 8 p.m. ET)," MSNBC's press release said today. Countdown averaged 164,000 total viewers in the quarter, up 41% from Q1 2005. Zahn averaged 158,000 demo viewers (down 33 percent), according to MSNBC. Bill O'Reilly averaged 450,000 in the demo (down 24 percent).Olbermann also beat Headline News star Nancy Grace in the demo. According to program ranker data, Grace averaged 154,000 demo viewers...

Do you know what this means?
Keith Olbermann just made everyone's job easier and more simple. It wont be near as hard now to criticize the Bush administration on TV anymore. The TV Executives will have an easier time making decisions on their programming from now on. Plus, it will be easier now to get the truth to the American People without a doubt.
Remember the blog on Conservative Media from back in January, it was said then that TV execs are crazy not to put counter programming on cable news by putting an opposite alternative to all the hard hard right conservative talk shows on TV. Should I even mention that most of the country can't stand this Republican President now, what is his approval rating at ....34%?
Let's face it, the reason why Fox News became so popular was by opposing a President! Clinton was a way more popular leader than Bush! I can see TV Programmers trying to copy this now.
Olbermann isn't anyone's definition of a flaming liberal. He's just a reasonable voice of opposition to the insanity and incompetence of this administration. He doesn't make a big point about being a Democrat or a liberal (to my knowledge, he doesn't make this point at all, partly because it might not be true). From time to time he takes on the administration and the conservative talk show hosts. And, will you look at that? What do we see now, but much, much better ratings? His ratings have gone up 41% in the last year while O'Reilly's have gone down 24%. And he has just passed Paula Zahn.
Olbermann's ratings are the tip of the iceberg. TV execs are going to start rushing to the lifeboats soon and try to find liberal shows (if you're still uncomfortable with the word "liberal" because you have been brainwashed by the right into believing it is a dirty word, then use some other word to describe the majority of the country that does not support this administration -- but a rose by any other name smells just as sweet when the ratings come in).

Let me introduce to you a guy who has not always worn a shirt with an aligator, crocodile, or some kind of animal on the front of it. Jeff Parks

2006-03-23T09:07:00.000-05:00

Below this is my good friend Jeff Parks's thinking and solution to improving S.C. Public Education. He is a S.C. native, graduate from Clemson University, and a Georgia school teacher.
Jeff last year arguably taught in the worst public school system in Metro Atlanta, and following that, teaching school in the richest zip code in Metro Atlanta. Yes, this is true, I've been down there quite a few times to visit him and have seen this for myself. This was his response to "Power Girl" and "Whitney", it was so good, I decided to make it a guest blog, So here it is----------

I want you to keep in mind that before you read this, I cannot run for South Carolina Superintendant of Education. I am a resident of the state of Georgia, therefore some residency requirements get in the way.

#1 A CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT---------As I have previously stated, South Carolina is a perfect example of the have's and the have not's. Spartanburg and Greenville County thrive. They are located on I-85. They have an international airport at their service. They are the only major stopping point between Atlanta and Charlotte. They have a nice middle class, relatively educated population that serves many new industries that come to the area. Their tax base is fantastic and it shows in many of their schools.Marlboro County is nowhere near an airport. They have a poorly education citizen base. They are not located near an interstate. In all honestly, it is not a place where business leaders want to flock. Now, I know what you are going to say..."If Marlboro County had better _____" or "If the people in Marlboro County would leave..." But it is not that simple. Let's stop the blame game and fix the problem.Let's pass a Constitutional amendment that takes some of that tax base from the richest segments of South Carolina, and help out the poorer counties. Get them the resources that they need. Get them the technology that they need. 1st graders cannot help what district they go to school in. So let's start helping out these kids.

#2 - INVEST EARLY-------Invest early, particularly in programs that are going to help kids before they turn 4 years old. And yes...this is (gasp) WELFARE. People do stupid things. They get pregnant when they are 16 years old. They spend all their money on drugs. They divorce. They don't go to college. But to be honest with you, I am not sure that I want to make the innocent kid pay dearly for the mistakes that his/her stupid parents made. The single biggest problem we have in education is that when some kids get to 1st grade, they pale in comparision to their counterparts. To correct this problem, we need to make sure that when they enter 1st grade, they are on par. Then they succeed at that same level, instead of trying to catch up and becoming discouraged.

#3 - BE PROACTIVE, NOT REACTIVE------We too often times try to be reactive. We wait until a problem occurs, and then we say..."Here is the solution." My proposal is that we start to anticipate problems, and be proactive instead of reactive to those problems. This is very general, but should be easily accomplished.I've got other ideas, but for the sake of your eyes, I will hold off on those.

- JP

I have a question for Dick Cheney, what are our soldiers gonna do when Civil War breaks out in Iraq?

2006-02-24T10:52:00.000-05:00

VP-- Dick Cheney, and Biff Henderson- Stage Mgr. on David Letterman Show

What's the plan for protecting our troops when a civil war breaks out in Iraq? Does anybody have any confidence that this administration has planned for this contingency? I sures heck dont, and I doubt very much that you do either. I can hear Bush now, "No one could have anticipated a civil war in Iraq." Like all the people who didn't anticipate the levees being breached in New Orleans, or an al-Qaeda attack inside the United States or an Iraqi insurgency in the first place. These guys don't plan for anything except for what issue they can use next to spin against the Democrats. And now that the Iraqi civil war has snuck up on them, even though many of us have been warning them for quite sometime now... they will be caught just like Bill Clinton was, with their pants down yet again. And just like all the other disasters they didn't plan for, they won't get hurt - someone else will, and this time it will be our troops.
In a gathering of the top war planners and intelligence officials in South Carolina before the Iraq war started, there was a slide presentation from the Pentagon. It explained the different stages of the war. The last stage was post-war occupation. It had only one slide; it read, "To Be Provided." Do you really believe these guys have prepared for the Iraqi civil war any better? God help our men and women over there, because surely this administration won't.

U.S. House of Rep (R) Jean "Full of" Schmidt ....... The Wicked Witch From Ohio

2006-02-21T10:18:00.000-05:00

To the left is U.S. House of Rep (R) Jean Schmidt, to the right is the witch from Wizard of Oz.

Can I start this blog off by saying this woman makes me want to "throw up?" It's people like her that have made the concept of being a republican not acceptable anymore in this day in age. Back in November, Jean "Full of" Schmidt was booed off the floor of the U.S. House after she criticized Rep. John Murtha, D-Pa., saying that "cowards cut and run, Marines never do."
I tell you what Ms. Jean "Full of" Schmidt, since your so freaking tough, how about you march right on over their to Iraq and put your money where your mouth is. Just take your little broomstick and go over there and take down a few Iraqis for Murtha please will ya. I mean just for one minute can you put the politics aside and try and be a Patriot for our Country?
While Jean "Full of" Schmidt sat there and criticized a war hero, new heroes were and are still out in the trenches fighting and dying. Schmidt seems to not realize the magnitude of war. She is more concerned about being a rubber stamp to the alienated administration of Bush. Congressman Schmidt, you barely defeated (D) Paul Hacket back in August 2, 2005 in a very extremely republican based congressional seat, keep up with these crazy crazy crazy remarks and stunts and you will be defeated pretty soon.

Ann Coulter Votes... In The Wrong Precinct...

2006-02-20T11:04:00.000-05:00

Whose hotter.....Ann Coulter or the Dog, and be honest, I know this one might be a toss up?

"She may be smart enough to earn millions from her acidic political barbs, but when it comes to something as simple as voting in her tiny hometown, hard-core conservative pundit Ann Coulter is a tad confused.
Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections records show Coulter voted last week in Palm Beach's council election. Problem is: She cast her ballot in a precinct 4 miles north of the precinct where she owns a home — and that could be a big no-no."
Palm Beach Post Jose Lambiet - Posted February 15, 2006 03:05 PM

Will Folks ...........I Want An Answer! Does This Guy Have The Hardest Job In America?

2006-02-15T08:21:00.000-05:00

The man on the left is one of America's most lovable TV Characters. The man on the Right is a man named Scott McClellan (Bush's Press Secretary)

After watching the news for 3 nights and all the clips, talk shows, etc. in regards to the Dick Cheney shooting, I have come to a conclusion that White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan has the hardest job in America! Think about all the stupid ......... that Bush and Cheney have done over the last 6 years. And this has been the man to come out and answer questions to them all and defend their incompetence. On top of it, think about this....there is possibly a whole heck of a lot left to come out on this administration that Scott will have to answer to as well.

Question for Will Folks, do you agree with me when I say that Scott McClellan has the hardest job in America and on top of that, this next question is optional, do you feel as if you could, will, or would have handled the last few days better than Scott?
(Will Folks is a former Press Secretary for our current S.C. governor)
Tuesday, February 1st, 2005
Mokhiber: Scott, last night, in an amicus brief filed before the U.S. Supreme Court, the Justice Department came down in favor of displaying the Ten Commandments at courthouses and statehouses around the country. My question is - does the President believe in Commandment Number Six - thou shalt not kill - as it applies to the U.S. invasion of Iraq?
Scott McClellan: Go ahead, next question

Aerosmith renames Song from "Janie's got a gun" to "Cheney's got a Gun"

2006-02-14T16:54:00.000-05:00

Cheney's got a gun Cheney's got a gun
Run away, run away, run, run away
Cheney's got a gun Cheney's got a gun
Everybody is on the run
Cheney's got a gun Her dog day's just begun
Now everybody is on the run Because
Cheney's got a gun

A "Voice of Reason" and "Billy Idol" says Thumbs Up for Sen. Kevin Bryant

2006-02-13T10:53:00.000-05:00

"Grow up, Peter Pan! When are you going to jump off the Republican Bandwagon and realize that your party stands for nothing but corruption?"

Obviously the above phraseology resonates with those of you who frequent our friend M. Reese’s little section of the World-Wide Web. Whether it makes your heart sing or your blood boil, you’ve heard his admonition many times. During just one such recent exchange, Michael stunned me by inviting me to be a guest columnist on his ‘blog. Since this is my first post, I’ll start with some common ground. (And, since this is Michael’s ‘blog, I’ll stick to the subject he asked me to address.)
For those of you who aren’t familiar with http://www.scgopsenator.blogspot.com/, meet Senator Kevin Bryant. Elected in 2004 from Anderson County, Senator Bryant is at least one member of our backwards state legislature that understands and utilizes computers. The fact that he’s unafraid to use an un-PC term like "shanghai" puts him solidly in my ‘good people’ column. Frankly, I’m a little stumped as to why Michael likes him, since he supports the statewide charter school district, property tax reform, and the taxpayer empowerment amendment (obviously a smart guy).
However, I do take issue with the Good Senator’s take on Jessica’s Law. Bryant aims to strengthen the penalties for repeat sex offenses of against children – a worthy goal. But this amendment would allow the death penalty as a punishment for repeat offenders. I’m not entirely comfortable with capital punishment in general, and I certainly don’t think it’s an appropriate response for any crime but murder. I wasn’t raised Baptist so I am a little rusty on my Scripture, but I seem to remember something about ‘an eye for an eye; a tooth for a tooth’ – I just don’t think this punishment fits the crime. I’m certain Bryant won’t find a lot of opposition to his amendment, since advocating the rights of child molesters doesn’t help with fundraising or re-election efforts. Despite the horrendous nature of the crime, I think we all do ourselves a disservice to rubber stamp this legislation just because punishing perverts sounds like a good idea.
Hm… I didn’t mean to get on that soapbox. What I meant to say is that K-Bry is a good guy, and I like him. I think Michael likes him too. And, for the opinion that REALLY counts… Billy Idol thinks he’s excellent.

~~The Voice of Reason~~

Who Would You Rather Have A Picture Of---- Jim DeMint Or Screech?

2006-01-29T17:24:00.000-05:00

Today's blog really is not a blog. I just wanted to pay tribute to one of our U.S. Senators here from South Carolina. I do have a one question though.
If you go to http://demint.senate.gov/ , you will find Sen. Jim Demint's homepage. I was scrolling through checking it out and came across something. On the left hand side, place your mouse on the words "About Jim." You will then see a link to click on that says "Photo Request."

I clicked on this and went to the "Photo Request" page and it says the following......"If you would like a full color printed photo of Senator DeMint, please fill out the form below. "
Then below there is a long form that you have to fill out, name, location, phone, and etc. Now the question that I have today for you is this: Who would you rather receive a full color printed photo of, U.S. Senator Jim DeMint or U.S. Role Model Dustin Diamond (aka Screech from Saved By the Bell)? I don't know about you, but I think I would rather have the Screech poster!