who is emil reichstadt?

We don't know either.

But he's apparently ready to take on Sen. John Cornyn. Reichstadt is the first Democrat to throw his hat in the ring for the 2008 Senate nomination.

Here's a quick run-down of information gathered from Reichstadt's press release: Reichstadt is an Arkansas-born 58-year-old Democrat that once attended Southern Methodist University and knew Willis D. Tate. He is a former Army JAG officer (stationed in Germany during the '70s and '80s) who supports a strong military. He also supports bipartisanship and cleaning up the environment. He currently practices law in Dallas.

Sounds good, right? But who is he? I guess time will tell. Everybody's got to start somewhere, but it does seem odd that this guy's first foray into the political arena is a bid for his party's nomination to the United States Senate.

Could he really pull it off? It's going to take a lot of fundraising! He'll have to edge out bigger names that are being thrown around, if those campaigns come to fruition (i.e. Nick Lampson, Rick Noriega, Bill White). He may also face Barbara Ann Radnofsky, who ran against Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison in 2006, and may have her sights set on Cornyn's seat in 2008.

So, Emil. It's going to take more than an announcement. Show us what you've got.

will radnofsky challenge cornyn in 2008?

Barbara Ann Radnofsky, the Houston Democrat that challenged Republican incumbent Kay Bailey Hutchison for her seat in the U.S. Senate, may be gearing up for another campaign for the same position... in 2008.

Many have speculated that her bid against a popular incumbent was simply a way to gain name recognition while campaigning statewide. Not only would she earn credentials, she would be able to say that she took on the most popular politician in Texas unflinchingly. Then she would be able to challenge the weaker of Texas' two Republican Senators, John Cornyn, who is up for re-election in 2008.

Radnofsky's holiday message to supporters suggests that she might be planning to announce an exploratory committee or an official campaign sometime in 2007.

We've kept the entire professional campaign staff together. Katie Floyd, Communications Director, is busy with our new Art Project (we have become dealers in JapanArt.Org and will be posting on the website soon), visiting her beautiful horse and baking for the holidays. She's also editing the second campaign book, and will plan a book and thank you tour for the spring. Katie planned and executed our successful fundraiser for Ciro and we all rejoiced in his win in the runoff. We're also working on starting a PAC. Your suggestions for names would be appreciated.

Seth Davidson, Campaign Manager, is also a principal in our Japan Art venture and remains with his business, Wildsteps. I'm traveling, thanking folks, spending time with family, doing the occassional mediation, planning the PAC and looking forward to the future. I'm counting my blessings, particularly you who read the newsletters.

I have great hope for the future. Believe.

Warmest regards,
BAR

One thing is for sure: if Radnofsky decides to make a run for Cornyn's seat, she'll have to emerge victorious from what is bound to be a more contentious primary than she faced in 2006, when she was forced into a runoff election against a perennial candidate. There are bound to be several sets of prominent Democratic eyes focusing on Cornyn's floundering approval ratings.

Why You Really Should Have Voted for Radnofsky

Texas, you had your chance. You could have elected an intelligent, intellectually honest lawmaker who was dedicated to ending the conflict in Iraq. Instead, you voted Kay Bailey Hutchison back in office by a wide margin.

As further proof of the folly of that vote, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram offers us reactions from Texas politicians to the much-hailed Iraq Study Group Report. In a sidebar beside an article headlined "Panel concludes Bush's war policies have largely failed," Senator Hutchison offers this assessment:

Republican Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison: "A well-thought-out report. ... Having the Arab countries step up to the plate is a very good suggestion. I do not think it was in any way a repudiation [of the Bush administration's policy]....."

This is the woman that Republicans are kicking around as a possible Vice Presidential nominee. Seriously.

NTL Endorses: Midterms 2006

On Tuesday, North Texas voters have the opportunity to really shake things up. We have a fantastic slate of candidates this year and we are prepared to send them to either Austin or Washington.

Listed below are the endorsements of the staff here at NTL. After some bickering and some persuading, we've agreed that the following candidates are the best in their race. You may notice that our list is decidedly slanted... keep in mind that we embrace our liberal bias, but we really do think that these candidates offer the best vision for Texas.

NTL ENDORSES

For U.S. Senate - Barbara Ann Radnofsky
During the Republican Revolution, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison said that she believed in term limits. She has not honored that and is running for a third term in the U.S. Senate. Democrat Barbara Ann Radnofsky has proven herself a fierce competitor that will serve all Texans in the Senate. She will best Hutchison on veterans' affairs and healthcare if elected.

For Governor - Chris Bell
The biggest criticism against Bell in this campaign has been that he's boring. This argument follows the same logic as those who urged you to vote for Bush because he was the candidate most people would want to have a beer with. How'd that work out? In person, Bell is a dynamic and funny speaker, and he proved his mettle by taking on Tom DeLay. He's run a gutsy and largely error-free campaign. But the best reason to vote for Bell? He recognizes the threat of global warming, and has a plan to deal with it. A serious man for serious times, indeed.

For Lieutenant Governor - Maria Luisa Alvarado
Dewhurst has proven to be an incompetent Republican tool for Governor Perry. If Chris Bell (or Strayhorn or Friedman for that matter) is elected to replace Perry, let's send a strong Democrat to Austin to rule the Texas Senate underneath him. Alvarado has a strong military background and is right on the issues that matter to Texans.

For Attorney General - David Van Os
Van Os has toured every county in the state, stopping at each courthouse on his "Whistlestop Tour." He truly is dedicated to this campaign. Perhaps you've seen his signs: "Notice to Big Oil - I'm coming after you." That right there is message enough. Texas is in desperate need of a strong voice for Texas that will put an end to the corruption that plagues Austin.

For Agriculture Commissioner - Hank Gilbert
A&M graduate Gilbert is a real East Texan farmer and rancher directly involved with livestock. He understands the needs of farmers in this state. His opponent, Todd Staples, will obviously use the position as a stepping stone toward a career as a politician. Why not elect a person that actually wants to do the job? We're voting for Hank Gilbert.

For Land Commissioner - VaLinda Hathcox
As the former Special Assistant Attorney General of Texas, Hathcox is well qualified to hold public office. If elected, she would be the first female to serve in this capacity. Hathcox would lower land taxes and dedicate gaming to public education.

For Railroad Commissioner - Dale Henry
Henry is a Republican convert: he became a Democrat when the Republican Party shifted too far to the right and further away from his ideology. We're excited to endorse him as he plans to protect Texas' natural resources. Henry is well-qualified as a former member of the Region "K" Lower Colorado River Regional Water Planning Group.

For Justice, Texas Supreme Court, Place 2 - Bill Moody
Respected judge from the 34th District Court in El Paso and one of the few Democrats to win the State Bar Poll, Judge Moody deserves to be elected to the Supreme Court. His history of honesty, integrity, good politics and respect as a jurist almost over-qualifies him for the position.

For Presiding Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals - J. R. Molina
Molina has a lot of experience under his belt: 27 years of experience in criminal law and service as a former assistant district attorney in Tarrant County. He is "deeply committed" to due process and respect for the law. In a position as important as this, we recommend Molina's reasonable point of view.

For U.S. Representative, District 3 - Dan Dodd
Vietnam veteran Dan Dodd is ready to serve North Texas constituents. He is right on the economy, education and the environment. As a West Point graduate, he understands the correct approach to national security and promotes diplomacy. Voters should be scrambling to elect an honorable candidate like Dodd.

For U.S. Representative, District 4 - Glenn Melançon
The gap is closing, reports the Glenn Melançon campaign. Sherman is tired of Rep. Ralph Hall and its ready for real change. Melançon is ready to throw out the extreme conservatism of the past in favor of a more moderate view to build our economy and break our addiction to foreign oil.

For U.S. Representative, District 6 - David Harris
Veteran David Harris is opposing Rep. "Smokey" Joe Barton for his seat. Harris hopes to create policy that would foster strong defense, strong families and equal rights for all citizens. Harris is also a strong supporter of Texas Parks & Wildlife.

For U.S. Representative, District 12 - John Morris
If elected, John Morris promises to bring integrity and accountability to the Congress. He believes that we must reduce the demand for foreign oil, we must begin to bring our troops home safely from Iraq and that Tom DeLay's Republicans do not deserve re-election after proving their corruption.

For U.S. Representative, District 13 - Roger Waun
Roger Waun has an impressive military background and an extensive education. He supports ending the war in Iraq responsibly, as well as ending the current culture of corruption in Congress. Wichita Falls deserves Waun in Congress!

For U.S. Representative, District 24 - Gary Page
Gary Page is prepared to break up the Marchant monopoly. Send them a message: they don't own Carrollton or its voters! Gary Page is right on the issues: immigration, Iraq and campaign finance reform. North Texas is ready for change and that change begins with electing someone to Congress that will take the job seriously and vote his conscience.

For U.S. Representative, District 26 - Tim Barnwell
Rep. Michael Burgess has been a a rubber-stamp for the Bush agenda. Denton County voters are ready for a change this year. Elect someone that will stand up to the Republican rhetoric and give North Texas the real representation it deserves.

For U.S. Representative, District 30 - Eddie Bernice Johnson
Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson has proudly served her Dallas constituents for many years. She's ready to go back to Washington and continue fighting for Texans, as well as building bipartisan coalitions to accomplish more in Congress.

For U.S. Representative, District 32 - Will Pryor
The DCCC named this campaign an emerging race - Will Pryor has got the stuff to win. Pryor will vote to make healthcare affordable, fund stem cell research, and protect children from online predators. Dallas voters: if you're sick of Sessions, vote for change.

NTL recommends the following candidates in local Texas Legislature races:
For Texas State Senate, District 12 - Dwight B. Fullingim
For Texas State House, District 62 - Pete Veeck
For Texas State House, District 64 - John McLeod
For Texas State House, District 69 - David Farabee
For Texas State House, District 70 - Rick Koster
For Texas State House, District 89 - Lehman Harris
For Texas State House, District 90 - Lon Burnam
For Texas State House, District 91 - Byron Sibbet
For Texas State House, District 93 - Paula Hightower Pierson
For Texas State House, District 94 - David Pillow
For Texas State House, District 95 - Marc Veasey
For Texas State House, District 96 - Christopher Youngblood
For Texas State House, District 99 - Sheila Ford
For Texas State House, District 100 - Terri Hodge
For Texas State House, District 102 - Harriet Miller
For Texas State House, District 103 - Rafael Anchia
For Texas State House, District 104 - Roberto Alonzo
For Texas State House, District 105 - Bob Romano
For Texas State House, District 106 - Katy Hubener
For Texas State House, District 107 - Allen Vaught
For Texas State House, District 108 - Jack Borden
For Texas State House, District 109 - Helen Giddings
For Texas State House, District 110 - Barbara Mallory Caraway
For Texas State House, District 111 - Yvonne Davis
For Texas State House, District 113 - Eric Brandler
For Texas State House, District 114 - Phillip Shinoda

Hutchison Admits the War Was Unnecessary But Still Doesn't Want a Withdrawal

In yesterday's Senate candidate debate, Kay Bailey Hutchison made a stunning admission.

U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison said in a televised debate with her Democratic and Libertarian opponents Thursday night that she would not have voted for the Iraq war if she had known in 2003 that Saddam Hussein had no weapons of mass destruction.

"If I had known then what I know now about the weapons of mass destruction, I would not have voted to go into Iraq as we did," said Hutchison, a Republican seeking a third term in Washington. "But I don't think the president would have asked us to."

Maybe somebody should get her a copy of Richard Clarke's book before she goes too far with this argument. As Clarke described the aftermath of 9/11:

I expected to go back to a round of meetings [after September 11] examining what the next attacks could be, what our vulnerabilities were, what we could do about them in the short term. Instead, I walked into a series of discussions about Iraq. At first I was incredulous that we were talking about something other than getting Al Qaeda. Then I realized with almost a sharp physical pain that Rumsfeld and Wolfowitz were going to try to take advantage of this national tragedy to promote their agenda about Iraq. Since the beginning of the administration, indeed well before, they had been pressing for a war with Iraq.

Radnofsky was quick to jump all over the "If I'd known then..." theory, too.

The concession drew a sharp rebuke from Democrat Barbara Ann Radnofsky, who said key senators had intelligence reports questioning whether nuclear, chemical and biological weapons were stashed in Iraq. And she questioned whether those reports were read by many in the Senate before they cast their votes.

"Any senator who did not do what their colleagues begged them to do was derelict in their duty," Radnofsky said.

So Hutchison thinks it's finally time to admit the obvious and move on, eh? Well, no, not exactly. Now that we're in Iraq we don't want to "cut and run." Of course, we know that Hutchison has no plan to end the war. (See previous post Senator Hutchison's Plan to Get Out of Iraq.) But it's also no secret that things in Iraq are going very badly, and that President Bush plans on making adjustments to the Iraq plan just as soon as the elections are over. Of course, that's cold comfort to the families of Texans lost so far in this senseless war, or of the 72 U.S. soldiers killed in fighting so far this month.

But, hey, on the upside, Hutchison did broker a deal on the Wright Amendment, so I guess it all evens out.

radnofsky, hutchison prepare to face off

This Thursday, Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate Barbara Ann Radnofsky will face two conservative opponents in a televised debate: Republican incumbent Kay Bailey Hutchison and Libertarian Scott Jameson.

Senator Hutchison, whose latest ad campaign promotes her as "A Senator for All Texans" and touts her thirteen years experience in the U.S. Senate, has polled consistently ahead this election season. Undaunted, Radnofsky plows on, debuting her first television commercials this week. Radnofsky hopes to better serve the constituents of Texas than her opponent, citing Hutchison's anti-veteran and anti-immigrant votes on the floor of the Senate.

Radnofsky has pledged to make her practice session for the debate open to the media. The day before the debate, Radnofsky will stop in San Antonio to prepare.

"We decided to give the media a chance to see unrehearsed, uncensored preparations for the debate. This kind of access is unprecedented, but we think voters deserve to see what a candidate looks like under pressure and unscripted," said Radnofsky.

The only debate between the three senatorial candidates takes place this Thursday, Oct. 19, in San Antonio. The debate is sponsored by the League of Women Voters and will air on select PBS stations at 9 p.m. Check your local listings for more information.

former governor ann richards dies at 73

Tonight, NTL grieves the loss of former Texas Governor Ann Richards, who was diagnosed with cancer in March. Cecile Richards announced her mother's death Wednesday at 7:50 p.m. Richards was 73.

Barbara Ann Radnofsky, the Democratic candidate running for U.S. Senate in Texas, mourned the loss of Ann Richards today. "We mourn the death of a great Texas leader, Ann Richards. She inspired the next generation. She championed vital causes and led with spirit, eloquence, humanity, wisdom and humor. May her memory be a blessing."

Richards was known for her biting wit. Of former President George H. W. Bush's verbal gaffes, she was quoted as saying, "Poor George. He can't help it. He was born with a silver foot in his mouth." She was also a strong supporter of women, especially in politics. A feminist, she once said, "Ginger Rogers did everything that Fred Astaire did. She just did it backwards and in high heels."

Vince Leibowitz of Capitol Annex put it this way: "For the Texas political landscape to be without Ann Richards’ presence is like a field without bluebonnets."

Rest in peace, Ann. You will be sorely missed. Because of you, Texas will never be the same. Thank you for your service to our great state.

How can we fix this party?

Following is a letter I recently sent to the Texas State Democratic Party. I was disgusted about the particular issue of the credit card and the whole industry, but that only sparked my frustration with the whole lot of 'em - county, state, and national. No financial or press support for good candidates such as Radnofsky, whose numbers are better than Bell's? Howard Dean kissing Pat Robertson's ass? Hillary Clinton and flag burning bills? Spurning Feingold and Murtha for actually having some integrity? Disorganization, mixed messages, lies, corporate complicity. Believe me, I hate hearing from the mealy-mouthed moderates that they "...don't like what the Republicans are doing but there are no options..." I will still vote for the obvious lesser of two evils, but I sure as hell wish they'd stop giving the voters rightful pause before they check that "D" box.

Stop overcomplicating it. We're the party of reason. We're the party of the people. Yes, the issues are complex, but trying to woo the wingnuts gets us nothing but disrespect. Withholding criticism of the polluted, corrupt industries destroying the middle class and the whole concept of democracy defeats our entire platform. Republicrats' voting records speak for themselves. I know, we need the money to win. Then we owe the favors. Big vicious cycle. God forbid any Democrats actually grow a pair and push the agenda for a better way. Yep, that's scary. That's hard. Change is hard, you bet. But if we're not the party of change, what are we? Just do it already. Start fighting and we might be surprised at the masses aching to fight with us.

Check out the customer reviews of Juniper, the bank for the Democratic Credit Card. This says it all.

Dear Texas State Democratic Party,

I am a Texas liberal who despises the corrupt Republicans in charge of our state and our nation. I desperately want them gone. I have been working hard volunteering, canvassing, calling, emailing, etc. for local and state Democratic candidates for the last three years. I would love to see the Democratic Party get its act together, but I'm afraid the outlook isn't good. Disorganization and hypocrisy continue to plague the party. Most candidates will get my votes this November, but you will not get a dime from me; a serious loss because I have the money to give and the passion for change.

I do owe thanks to the party for the good laugh this morning when I was denied the Democratic Party credit card. I'm debt-free, with the exception of a mortgage, have a high FICO score, and I save over half of my better-than-modest annual income. My credit history is unblemished. I'm not playing by the big money rules, though. I don't have revolving balances and was therefore denied the opportunity to contribute to the party that supposedly opposes the assault on the middle class. I thought I'd make an exception to my disdain for the credit card industry (I do have a card which I pay off every month) and help out, but your issuing bank wouldn't let me. Hilarious. I don't need the card and I've lost nothing without it; I just thought it would be a good way to help. You won't take money from an affluent, responsible consumer, but I'm sure you have plenty of contributors with the card who are carrying balances at usurious rates while struggling to pay for their children's healthcare, education, etc. You've certainly earned the title Republicrat.

You can all give yourselves a big pat on the back for contributing to the fascists encouraging and rewarding debt among the huddled masses while gorging themselves on the profits. You will probably argue that the bank makes the decisions based on their criteria, etc. and that you cannot control their decisions. No, you can't, but it doesn't matter. You're part of the problem. If you want to encourage a healthy, fair economic system wherein the middle and lower classes are provided equal opportunity for success and financial stability, you'll stop indulging the corporate pirates by joining their manipulation. There is a systemic problem of rewarding debt and punishing financial independence among the citizens and you are encouraging it. You were supposed to part of the solution, but you've finally convinced me to give up on you and look elsewhere. Congratulations.

help texas candidates today

There are two polls you can fill out right now to help bring much-needed contributions to Texas candidates. Two Political Action Committees, one run by former Virginia Governor Mark Warner and the other by California Senator Barbara Boxer, have nominated Texas candidates for the honor of financial contributions and campaign events to help them get elected.

The first is Forward Together PAC, founded by former Democratic Governor of Virginia Mark Warner. He has initiated a Map Changers poll, as many of you know. The finalists include gubernatorial candidate Chris Bell and candidate for U.S. Congress District 21, John Courage. Mr. Courage and Mr. Bell haev worked out a plan to share the earnings and therefore we must recommend that you vote for Mr. Courage to avoid splitting the Texas vote and denying either candidate the contributions.

Vote for John Courage HERE.

The second is PAC For A Change, founded by Senator Barbara Boxer, a California Democrat. Senator Boxer has decided to run a contest to name a Democratic challenger in a U.S. Senate race to become the target of fundraising efforts. One of these challengers is Barbara Ann Radnofsky, the Democrat that is taking Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison of Texas to task in November.

Vote for Barbara Ann Radnofsky HERE.

Senator Hutchison's Plan to Get Out of Iraq

Tonight on Hardball, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison faced off with Senator Dick Durbin on the Iraq war. Senator Durbin was his usual self -- low-key, precise, if lacking passion. Senator Hutchison was a mess. On the key question regarding the Republican plan to end the war, she gave this response.

Norah O'Donnell: What is the plan to get out of Iraq? What's the exit strategy?

Senator Hutchison: The exit strategy is to see their government come together, to continue training their security forces, and to understand that they are victims, too. The Iraqi people - when they blow up a police station - it's those men who are coming in to be a part of the security force that are being tagged again and again and again by the insurgents. The insurgents are trying to keep them from having an economy, by not letting them have the ability to set up shops and start building commerce.

We've got to see it through, so that we can show there is a stable government, that America keeps its word, and that democracy can work with the three factions that are in Iraq. It has not been easy. These three factions have never worked together in the history of the world.

We can end the war by seeing it through to the end. Glad we cleared that up. Apparently, this plan requires nothing more from us than sheer determination. And anyone suggesting a proactive end to the war, you know, by actually having a plan and implementing it, is a "cut and run coward." You can catch the complete debate on video at the Hardball website, "The Senate Debate Over Iraq."

Here's Hutchison's opponent, Barbara Ann Radnofsky, on the war:

I have consistently stated that Congress needs to insist on its right to be informed fully about what’s going on. Congress must not abdicate its responsibility to obtain, analyze, and act on timely military intelligence. Congress must demand accountability from defense leaders, civilian and military. Our military officers are eager to serve the legitimate ends of Congress, are eager to provide more information, and are eager to serve their intelligence role to Congress. Rather than a Texas senator who rubberstamps failed administration policy, who displays an absence of interest in learning about the real military situation from our military leaders and coming up with good solutions, we need an earnest, thinking, committed, and responsible senator.

We should set a timetable and safely withdraw.

There is a reason why Republicans are having such a hard time articulating the administration's exit strategy for Iraq. There is none. And that's all Democrats have to say between now and November. Stop defending the plans for withdrawal. It doesn't matter whether Kerry's plan matches Murtha's plan matches Durbin's plan. The Republicans want to keep the debate on the Democrats' perceived lack of unity to hide their own vulnerability on this issue. What matters is that the Democrats have a plan to end this war and the Republicans do not. Keep it simple and hammer it home.

state convention 2006 - saturday

On the final day of the State Democratic Convention, I arrived just in time to hear Barbara Ann Radnofsky, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, deliver her moving speech. I have had the privilege to hear her speak on another occasion, when she came to Lewisville, Texas, and gave a speech to area Democratic groups. That event was hosted by the Flower Mound Democrats in the summer of 2004. I spoke with Barbara Ann after her speech and she told me that she remembered our group. She said, “You knew me when I was a baby politician!” I told her about our groups efforts to canvass southern Denton County, and she told me to get some copies of her new fliers for any future block-walking. She also informed me that her campaign had distributed over one million leaflets during the State Convention.

We heard from several major candidates, including David Van Os (running for Attorney General), Hank Gilbert (running for Commissioner of Agriculture), and Fred Head (running for Comptroller), and Maria Luisa Alvarado (running for Lieutenant Governor). U.S. Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, a Dallas Democrat representing U.S. Congressional District 30, introduced the Texas delegation to the U.S. Congress as well as the candidates, such as Tim Barnwell, who is running in the 26^th District against Rep. Michael Burgess, and Nick Lampson, who is running in the 22^nd District for Tom DeLay’s old seat. This led into a stirring seat by U.S. Rep. Chet Edwards, who represents George W. Bush’s home district (the 17^th).

After hearing the slate of candidates and office-holders speak, we began to caucus in order to vote for State Chair. We heard speeches from all four candidates: Boyd Richie, Glen Maxey, Charlie Urbina-Jones, and Lakesha Rogers. Each of the candidates designated three of their supporters to second their nomination with a short speech. When one of Rogers's supporters mentioned that Kesha was representing the LaRouche Youth Movement, there was a mixed reaction from the crowd, including some jeers. The Convention Chair stepped in and told the audience shortly that booing would not be accepted and that as Democrats we believed in the right to free speech. That received a great ovation from the crowd, and many Democrats, no matter which candidate they were beholden to, gave Lakesha Rogers a great show of support. Ms. Rogers made some good points, and her slogan - Out of the Bushes and Into the Future - was definitely one that we could all support. Maxey's supporters were the most vocal, shouting "¡YA BASTA!" to show that they had had enough of the way things were going. Because four candidates were running, it was difficult for one candidate to reach 51% of the vote. Richie nearly did, though, with about 47%. The race went into a runoff. Some delegates had wandered off by the time Charlie Urbina-Jones and Lakesha Rogers released their delegates. Neither of them specifically endorsed Maxey or Richie, but Urbina-Jones (who was popular with the Hispanic Caucus) told his supporters to "do what we discussed." I took this to mean that he wanted them to support Maxey. About half of the Urbina-Jones delegates did vote for Maxey, but it wasn't enough. Boyd Richie was elected to retain his new post as State Chair of the Texas Democratic Party.

Overall, I enjoyed myself. It was my first time to attend this sort of thing. I've always been politically active, but getting involved locally has really changed my outlook on things. After becoming a precinct chair and a delegate to the State Convention, I really feel like we have a fighting chance. If we work for it, we can change the status quo in Texas. I look forward to working with the new County Chair here in Denton, John Gossett, and the new State Chair, Boyd Richie, to finally win some elections. If anything, the State Convention ignited a fire under the bellies of the delegates, and we've left united and ready to fight it out until the end. As David Van Os says, "Fight 'em until hell freezes over, then fight 'em on the ice."

blogosphere roundup - april 29 - may 5

Let's take a look at some of the best blogs of the week, both on a local and national level.

1. Burnt Orange Report shares a comprehensive economic profile of the city of Dallas.
2. Capitol Annex features a fantastic guest blog from Barbara Ann Radnofsky, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate.
3. The Huffington Post blogger (and former Dittohead) Jim Derych says that the Republicans are officially out of ideas.
4. Pink Dome reports on former porn star Anna Nicole Smith's victory, booting her case to the California courts, in the U.S. Supreme Court. The justices voted 9-0 in Smith's favor.
5. Chris Bowers at MyDD debunks common myths about the bloggers in his post about "the emerging anti-netroots narrative."
6. Bay Area Houston Blog reports that the Texas Senate has failed Texas teachers yet again, denying a proposed raise and stipend.
7. Rechan at LiveJournal Democrats shows that Bush's criticism of "The Star-Spangled Banner" being sung in Spanish is hypocritical. Read more about flip-flops from Lamar Alexander and Laura Bush.
   
8. Dallas Blog tells us that Texas Democrats are winning the blog war.
9. At the Huffington Post, Arianna Huffington speaks out about Net Neutrality filling us in on why it's important and why it should be renamed.
10. In the Pink Texas explores a possible change in the high school curriculum that's being spearheaded by Sen. Florence Shapiro (R-Plano).
    

blogosphere roundup - april 23-28

Let's take a look at some of the best blogs of the week, both on a local and national level.

1. Capitol Annex reports that Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee was arrested while protesting the genocide in Darfur at the Sudanese Embassy in Washington, D.C. Rep. Jackson Lee is a Democrat representing the Houston area in the U.S. House of Representatives.
2. The College Democrats of North Texas detail the 2006 Texas Young Democrats Convention, during which members met statewide candidates such as Radnofsky and Bell.
3. Burnt Orange Report tells us everything we need to know about the new $1 cigarette tax, including Rep. Chisum's failed amendment that would lower said tax to a mere 65 cents. In the Pink Texas also has a great post on this subject.
   
4. Over at The Huffington Post, Arianna Huffington blogs about "fearlessness, courage," and the controversial new 9/11 movie, United 93.
5. Also reported by The Huffington Post, right-wing ideologue Rush Limbaugh has been arrested on drug charges and released on bail. Pink Dome goes in depth on the story.
   
6. In the Pink Texas comments on Fox News commentator Tony Snow succeeding Scott McClellan as White House Press Secretary.
7. Pink Dome has an open thread soliciting freshman legislators that could be candidates for the far-away 2010 gubernatorial showdown.
8. TexasKos, a local spinoff of the ever-popular DailyKos, made its big launch on Monday. Be sure to register for a free membership over there to stay up to date on progressive politics in Texas.
9. MyDD reminds us that the historic fifty-state canvass, initiated by Howard Dean and the DNC, takes place tomorrow. There are several local events coinciding with this initiative, including canvasses in Dallas, Denton, Frisco, Irving, and the Flower Mound/Lewisville area. For a full list of Dallas area block-walks, visit the DNC listing.
10. South Texas Chisme reports on the gasoline shortage in the Dallas and Houston metropolitan areas.
    

congratulations, barbara ann!

First and foremost, congratulations are due to the newly-anointed Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate Barbara Ann Radnofsky. The Dallas Morning News and the Associated Press are calling the U.S. Senate runoff in her favor. About 60% of voters cast their ballots for Barbara Ann; 100% of precincts have reported their votes and there has been an average turnout in the Democratic runoff of 1.63%, higher than the March 7 primary.

Gene Kelly, Radnofsky's failed opponent, ran for United States Senate in 2000 after emerging victorious over Charles Gandy in a similar runoff election. He was stomped in the general election by incumbent Republican Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison.

Radnofsky overcame an election day obstacle when it was discovered that her name was left off of the ballot in Maverick County. Volunteers began writing her name on the ballot to benefit voters by giving them a full ballot to vote with, but this does not account for those that voted early and only had one candidate for the picking: Gene Kelly. Kelly received 70% of the vote in Maverick County back in 2000, but he barely edged out Radnofsky by a fraction of a percent in the March primary. The Maverick County Democratic Party obviously made an egregious error when validating the ballots. The Secretary of State Roger Williams (recently accused of an inability to conduct non-partisan elections by none other than gubernatorial hopeful Carole Keeton Strayhorn) is dragging his feet on this issue, but Radnofsky handily won the runoff despite these setbacks.

Barbara Ann will face Senator Hutchison on November 7, 2006, for her coveted seat in the United States Senate. You can learn more about her campaign by visiting her website and reading her article on Wikipedia.

For comprehensive election results and analysis of other runoff races, visit Burnt Orange Report. The good folks at BOR are keeping the blogosphere aware of the returns as they are made available.

election day

Well, the long-awaited day has arrived. Today we will know who the Democrats will present as their candidates for Lt. Governor and United States Senator. We at NTL have endorsed Barbara Ann Radnofsky for U.S. Senate and María Luisa Alvarado for Lieutenant Governor.

You are eligible to vote in the Democratic runoff if you are a registered voter and did not vote in the Republican primary on March 7. You may vote in the runoff regardless of whether or not you voted in the Democratic primary on March 7. If you vote in the Democratic runoff, you will be ineligible to vote in the Republican runoff which is also held today. You will also be ineligible to sign ballot petitions for independent candidates such as gubernatorial hopefuls Carole Keeton Strayhorn and Kinky Friedman.

Vote today! Click the following links for voting information and locations: Denton County, Dallas County, Tarrant County, or Collin County.

early voting - primary runoff

Early voting has begun for the Democratic and Republican primary runoff elections here in Texas. If no single candidate earned a clear majority (50% +1) in the March primary, he or she will face the next highest vote-earner in that primary.

This runoff will cover two statewide races for the Democrats. First, Democrats will decide who will face incumbent David Dewhurst in November for the coveted position of Lt. Governor. Maria Luisa Alvarado and Ben Z. Grant are the Democratic nominees.

The highly-publicized race will be that for the chance to face Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison for her seat in the United States Senate. Hutchison is up for re-election this November and will face one of the following Democrats in the general election: Gene Kelly or Barbara Ann Radnofsky. Kelly is an 80-year-old retired Air Force lawyer from Universal City. He was the nominee against Kay Bailey Hutchison in 2000 and lost miserably. He refused to campaign... he has never accepted campaign contributions and refuses to speak at public events. He is what we call a "perennial candidate," or someone that puts their name on the ballot every election without giving any real effort to their campaign. Kelly has become a statewide joke. He beat an energetic Charles Gandy in the 2000 Democratic Primary on name recognition alone. Some speculate that Republicans may have crossed over in 2000 to ensure Gandy's defeat. Perhaps the same thing is happening this year. Republicans would not want Radnofsky on the campaign trail because she stands for a stronger Texas. Radnofsky is in clear opposition to Senator Hutchison's corruption and would make a refreshing change in the Republican-controlled Senate. Let's not let fools and fanatics take away our hope of putting a real Democratic voice in the U.S. Senate: vote for Barbara Ann Radnofsky! She has received endorsements from every major newspaper statewide as well as countless Democratic organizations. She is our best bet in November.

Early voting will continue through Friday. Click the following links for voting information and locations: Denton County, Dallas County, Tarrant County, or Collin County. Election day is April 11.

radnofsky mailers

Please refer to this blog at Burnt Orange Report for more information on the new mail ads from Barbara Ann's campaign. Remember to tell your friends about this great candidate and encourage them to vote for Radnofsky in the April runoff election. Gene Kelly has lost time and again and it's about time the Democrats presented a real candidate to the U.S. Senate race.

denton county democratic convention

This past Saturday, I was a delegate to the Denton County Democratic Convention. The convention was opened with a speech from Lt. Governor candidate Maria Luisa Alvarado. She expressed her desire for a stronger Texas for every Texan and promised to bring her Democratic values to the very important post in Texas government. She asked that all Texans vote for her in the runoff on April 11 and beyond that in November.

After Alvarado's address, Denton County Party Chair Edra Bogle addressed her last convention. In May, she will be succeeded by John Gossett, who served as secretary to the convention. Mrs. Bogle called the convention to order and implemented some parliamentary procedures and then we were under way.

Some key speeches included a rousing address from candidate for U.S. Congress, District 26, Tim Barnwell. He talked about how the constituents in his district range greatly; some live in a gated community in Flower Mound and others live in a rough area of Fort Worth. He's running on principles, though, principles that should extend past those barriers. Rep. Michael Burgess has outstayed his welcome in the 26th District and it's time for a change.

Amy Manuel, running for Denton County Commissioner Precinct 2, gave a speech, as well as the Democrat running for State House, District 64, John McLeod. McLeod faces stiff competition from popular Republican Myra Crownover in November.

Some candidates sent representatives to speak in their stead. One of your NTL bloggers proudly spoke on behalf of Barbara Ann Radnofsky, candidate for U.S. Senate. The crowd overwhelmingly showed support for Radnofsky as Jennifer urged the delegates not to vote for perennial loser Gene Kelly on April 11.

Another candidate represented by a campaign worker was Glen Maxey. Maxey ran the No Nonsense in November campaign last year against Prop 2. This year, he is running for State Party Chair. The representative urged all delegates that would go on to the State Convention to cast their vote for Maxey.

After candidate speeches, delegates were chosen for the State Convention. Yours truly will represent Senate District 9 and Denton County this June at the State Convention in Fort Worth. I'm very excited about it and will definitely come back bearing many reports, endorsements, etc.

After a short recess, Edra reconvened the convention to vote on resolutions. The Denton County Party will send several resolutions, including national healthcare and anti-war messages to the State Convention. At the state level, they will have the chance to be embedded within the party platform.

The convention ended with a speech from Lt. Governor candidate Ben Z. Grant. Grant will face Alvarado in an April 11 runoff. Grant famously rode a horse to the Constitutional Convention in the 1970s and is a former Texas lawmaker that was considered a member of the "Dirty Thirty." He asked the delegates for their vote in the primary so he could get back down to Austin and sort out the Republican corruption.

The convention, overall, was a huge success. I was proud to be a part of politics in action and felt like I was really doing something to help better the Democratic Party here in Texas. I can't wait till June when the State Convention will convene. It will be a huge honor to participate. A large number of area Democrats have been elected as delegates to attend, and Denton County will be well-represented.

radnofsky event in flower mound

Let's get this (Democratic) Party started! With Barbara Ann Radnofsky going into a runoff election against perennial loser Gene Kelly, it's time to really get excited about her campaign. You can start by attending a fundraising house party for Barbara on Saturday, March 18th at 7:00.

Food, drink, and entertainment provided. Just bring your open mind and your open wallet to ensure Barbara's win in the run-off on April 11th!

When: Saturday, March 18th 7:00 PM
Where: Home of Jennifer Giles (Flower Mound, Texas)
Contact: jenngeoff@comcast.net

radnofsky prepared for runoff

US Senate hopeful Barbara Ann Radnofsky, a Democrat from the Houston area that represents the best chance of beating incumbent Kay Bailey Hutchison in November, is still going strong after yesterday's primary. She didn't lose, but she didn't exactly win. She'll face Gene Kelly in the April 11 runoff election. Her campaign is remaining positive about the future.

Barbara Ann won the primary, garnering 43.5% of the vote versus Kelly's 37.4%. Hunter scored a distant third. Barbara Ann faces Kelly in a runoff election on April 11.

A reclusive candidate who doesn't talk to the media and who avoids voters, Kelly has massive name recognition after ten failed attempts in fourteen years, and runs solely off his name similarity with deceased Hollywood dancer Gene Kelly, whose moniker pulls up 19 million hits on Google.

Barbara decisively beat Kelly in the primary, despite the fact that he was the party nominee against Hutchison in 2000. Running as a first time candidate without primary polling, without direct mail, and without paid media, Barbara still took first place by a clear margin against a hunter in Texas and a Hollywood icon.

She has carefully managed money, staff, and a statewide grass-roots volunteer effort, and is well positioned to use her resources to win the runoff--with your help.

Karl Rove of course would love to clone Eugene Kelly. He has run numerous races against Democrats, and his name recognition is high enough to cause multiple run-offs and to even win the Senate nomination in 2000.

Once he makes the final cut, however, Kelly keeps playing dead--to the glory and glee of the people he supposedly runs against. Against Republicans, he does no campaigning, avoids the media and Democratic events, and gives up without so much as a whimper. In his race against Hutchison he made no appearances, received no endorsements and only granted one interview. "I'm not doing anything different, to be honest with you," Kelly said in the runup to this year's primary, indicating that he plans to keep losing even as he tries to keep others from making a positive difference.

Texas Democrats need a fighter to take our state back and to keep fakers like Kelly from ruining our party. Barbara Ann Radnofsky has made 328 campaign appearances and received the endorsement of every major newspaper in Texas. And Kelly? Commentators describe him as a clown, a perennial joke, and an embarrassment to the party.

The dancer is dead, folks...please don't let him kill the Party.

It's time to get behind Barbara Ann. Support her today by visiting her website and donating what you can. She's going to need all the resources she can get for her runoff campaign and hopefully for her general election campaign after that. Stay tuned to NTL and we'll keep you updated on parties and events that will benefit Barbara Ann's campaign. Most importantly, get out and vote on April 11 and bring all of your friends with you.