My dear old friends and colleagues, Kevin & Julie, are visiting from Iowa this week. I was so happy to see them again; if it weren't for Julie I'd never understand the caucus system. Naturally, I couldn't wait to corner Julie ask her if any presidential potentials have been showing up at small GOP events around the state, like Rudy's surprise visit-gimmick at the PHS graduation in June. From what she has seen, nothing yet. Of course, no one in the room knew that anyone was showing up in NH either, so I am still wondering about Iowa.
But there's no doubt action is picking up in NH: Santorum is coming to NH to fundraise, supposedly, and tour TURBOCAM International in Barrington (a very successful, Christian-based tech business next door to Dover NH). If they have a Google Alert on their name, well, howdy neighbors! Welcome to my blog.
Half way through Game Change, still enjoying it. Stay tuned for a full review.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Palin: The Gift That Keeps Giving
This is so TOTALLY New Hampshire...
I'm no fan of the Manchester Union Leader, but today I actually got a good laugh out of it. Seems that the editors don't take kindly to Governor Palin poking her head into our business, telling Granite Staters who to vote for, when she's only been here once. And on page one, above the fold no less! Butt out, basically.
So, 2012 contenders on both sides of the aisle should take note. That's just how it works here. Don't get all chummy and act like you know New Hampshirites. You don't, especially if you are a candidate who hasn't spent much time here. We are very full of ourselves, but I would like to think that most voters wouldn't like to be told by out-of-state pols what to do. Ayotte's entire campaign seems to have been managed by outsiders from the start, and I'm guessing that the message was intended to tell her that the opponents aren't the only ones who think this is not cool.
Confession: I am finally getting around to reading Game Change. I started it today while at the beach (not this beach). I'm loving it so far, and reliving some fond memories. It reminded me how much I love NH Primary Politics, and how much I am looking forward to 2012. But it's also serving to remind me how crucial NH & Iowa really are, whether you like it or not.
(Note on the link: I'd rather not link to the MUL if I don't have to, and HuffPo was my first source, so they get the link.)
I'm no fan of the Manchester Union Leader, but today I actually got a good laugh out of it. Seems that the editors don't take kindly to Governor Palin poking her head into our business, telling Granite Staters who to vote for, when she's only been here once. And on page one, above the fold no less! Butt out, basically.
So, 2012 contenders on both sides of the aisle should take note. That's just how it works here. Don't get all chummy and act like you know New Hampshirites. You don't, especially if you are a candidate who hasn't spent much time here. We are very full of ourselves, but I would like to think that most voters wouldn't like to be told by out-of-state pols what to do. Ayotte's entire campaign seems to have been managed by outsiders from the start, and I'm guessing that the message was intended to tell her that the opponents aren't the only ones who think this is not cool.
Confession: I am finally getting around to reading Game Change. I started it today while at the beach (not this beach). I'm loving it so far, and reliving some fond memories. It reminded me how much I love NH Primary Politics, and how much I am looking forward to 2012. But it's also serving to remind me how crucial NH & Iowa really are, whether you like it or not.
(Note on the link: I'd rather not link to the MUL if I don't have to, and HuffPo was my first source, so they get the link.)
Monday, July 19, 2010
Palin Endorses Ayotte in NH Senate Race!
Sarah says Kelly is a "Granite Grizzly". Please tell me this means she's going to come to NH. Pretty please!
The comments on Blue Hampshire regarding this are rather humorous. But one linked to a new site I hadn't heard of, so I had to click. Check it out: Miscellany Blue. Looks like my kinda blog! Enjoy.
The comments on Blue Hampshire regarding this are rather humorous. But one linked to a new site I hadn't heard of, so I had to click. Check it out: Miscellany Blue. Looks like my kinda blog! Enjoy.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Told Ya...
I love how this always seems to work out for me. I post a random rambling, something that has been stewing around in my head but I have absolutely no facts to support it, other than my gut, to make the case.
Then voila, the interwebs provide me with plenty of support to prove I'm not just making things up. Two cases in point:
Then voila, the interwebs provide me with plenty of support to prove I'm not just making things up. Two cases in point:
- Further evidence that New Hampshire Republicans are not to be confused with Bible Belt Repubs. Turns out that NH is the least god-fearing state in the union. Drop dead last. Add this to my growing list of things for which NH is either #1 or #50. And furthering the argument that we just cannot be mediocre; we always have to be best or worst, FIRST or dead last! (For the record, you will also see at this link that NH is #1 in alcohol sales, which may or may not be related to our godlessness. Personally, I think it has more to do with our state run liquor outlet stores on the borders with MA and ME.)
- Then, folks in Iowa make the same point I made a few days ago, about feeling entitled to some face time with potential candidates. Being first may be a privelige, but it's also a huge responsibility. Granite Staters and Iowans do not take this task lightly. Sarah Palin, beware!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Hello, Blogosphere...remember me?
I have been MIA on FRS, but I'm still here in the Granite State, waiting for 2012 to kick into high gear. Every once in a while, something small pops on my radar screen, like Rudy showing up at Portsmouth High School's graduation, or Dante being quoted making some speculations. A few names have been bubbling around, and a few appearances at small town events are sure to pop up this summer. But it's really not enough to get my heart pumping just yet.
What I am really waiting for is a visit from Sarah Palin. Loyal readers will know I am no fan of the former Governor of Alaska, but I am oddly fascinated with her career, and her popularity (fascinated like the way people stare at train wrecks). I fully intend to see her in person if the opportunity presents itself, and will be sure to report on everything from her shoes to her sentence structure.
I'm going to put out my prediction for Sarah now, just to have it on the record so I can hopefully say I TOLD YOU SO! She will NOT do well in New Hampshire, and if she's smart (ha!) or her staff does their homework (ha ha!) she will not even attempt to enter the primary. No, it's not wishful thinking because truthfully, it would be a whole lot more fun for me if she does run.
My number one reason for predicting her failure in NH is this: every candidate's staff spends a lot of time on the ground trying to gain endorsements--aka grovelling--from our 400+ citizen legislators, state senators, local newspaper editorial boards, local party organizations, unions, non-profits, and grass-roots organizations. If the staff is successful, then the next step is some quality candidate access. Seriously, can you see her sitting down with the editorial board of Portsmouth Herald or Concord Monitor to answer policy questions?? She'd need to have house parties that are somewhat public, or policy forums, or town halls. And she's have to take questions, both from the public AND the press...and ANSWER THEM. And not just questions about dressing moose or being a hockey mom. May the gods help her if she tries to plant questions at a New Hampshire town hall meeting!
My other reason, though secondary, is still a very strong one. Her brand of conservatism is not the same as that of what's left of the NH GOP. NH Republicans are not part of the religious right, and they are fairly well educated.
So, who DOES stand a chance in NH? It think Mitt will be back and will be stronger, if only because he the benefit of name recognition (meaning he may be the least of all evils). Barbour, Jindal, Huckabee, Pawlenty?? Fourth of July parades are coming up, followed closely by Labor Day events. I expect to get a bit busier as the summer of 2010 progresses.
I have been MIA on FRS, but I'm still here in the Granite State, waiting for 2012 to kick into high gear. Every once in a while, something small pops on my radar screen, like Rudy showing up at Portsmouth High School's graduation, or Dante being quoted making some speculations. A few names have been bubbling around, and a few appearances at small town events are sure to pop up this summer. But it's really not enough to get my heart pumping just yet.
What I am really waiting for is a visit from Sarah Palin. Loyal readers will know I am no fan of the former Governor of Alaska, but I am oddly fascinated with her career, and her popularity (fascinated like the way people stare at train wrecks). I fully intend to see her in person if the opportunity presents itself, and will be sure to report on everything from her shoes to her sentence structure.
I'm going to put out my prediction for Sarah now, just to have it on the record so I can hopefully say I TOLD YOU SO! She will NOT do well in New Hampshire, and if she's smart (ha!) or her staff does their homework (ha ha!) she will not even attempt to enter the primary. No, it's not wishful thinking because truthfully, it would be a whole lot more fun for me if she does run.
My number one reason for predicting her failure in NH is this: every candidate's staff spends a lot of time on the ground trying to gain endorsements--aka grovelling--from our 400+ citizen legislators, state senators, local newspaper editorial boards, local party organizations, unions, non-profits, and grass-roots organizations. If the staff is successful, then the next step is some quality candidate access. Seriously, can you see her sitting down with the editorial board of Portsmouth Herald or Concord Monitor to answer policy questions?? She'd need to have house parties that are somewhat public, or policy forums, or town halls. And she's have to take questions, both from the public AND the press...and ANSWER THEM. And not just questions about dressing moose or being a hockey mom. May the gods help her if she tries to plant questions at a New Hampshire town hall meeting!
My other reason, though secondary, is still a very strong one. Her brand of conservatism is not the same as that of what's left of the NH GOP. NH Republicans are not part of the religious right, and they are fairly well educated.
So, who DOES stand a chance in NH? It think Mitt will be back and will be stronger, if only because he the benefit of name recognition (meaning he may be the least of all evils). Barbour, Jindal, Huckabee, Pawlenty?? Fourth of July parades are coming up, followed closely by Labor Day events. I expect to get a bit busier as the summer of 2010 progresses.
Monday, October 26, 2009
2010 is in Full Swing
A few weeks ago, I was in the parking lot of a WalMart when a cell phone call came in from an unknown number. It was a Facebook-friend Jack, and since I only friend people I know, I was really curious about what he wanted. Jack is a fellow poster on Blue Hampshire, and he is much more active than I am. turns out he was calling to invite me to a blogger get-together with Congressman Paul Hodes, who is running for Judd Gregg's Senate seat in 2010. Sure, why not.
Although it was a rainy fall day and the event was moved inside, it was still wonderful. I left the kids at home and went alone--a bigger undertaking for me than it should be, but I am after all an introvert. Incidentally, I think most new media types are. We can be all "out there" on our own terms, without having to expend the energy to open our mouths or make eye contact. It was nice to recognize a few friendly faces when I pulled in, none-the-less.
Anyway I was expecting this to be somewhat like the blogger/new media shin-dig I participated in with Elizabeth Edwards, back in the day (Nov. 2007), so I prepped myself for conversations about the blogosphere (not that I ever really ask questions). But it ended up being more like a plain old house party, with good food, a quick stump speech by the candidate, and a little entertainment. I was relieved and a bit proud of myself that I can at least follow along quite well now; the wonky stuff doesn't go over my head nearly as much as it might have two or three years ago. Funny...when I decided to start this blog, I wanted to demonstrate how accessible politics were in New Hampshire for the average voter who seeks to be more engaged. That, and I had the goal of getting into a house party. Now, I guess, I need to set higher goals for myself.
The stump speech hit all the right notes: his support of the "robust" public option being the most important. I liked Paul Hodes immediately and he had a good handshake. It was clear that he was among friends, as he could be as direct and blunt as he wanted. I can see why he works for NH CD 2; he was dressed casually and looked like this is his preferred mode. He's a regular guy. He doesn't have to try to be folksy. New Hampshire likes that. I like that he has a law degree, too, and is still "regular."
The frosting on this cake came in the end. Congressman Paul Hodes, as promised, picked up a guitar, and his wife "Peggo" started singing. I was digging around for my camera, so I heard her before I saw her. What a voice! And, I have to add, what fabulous shoes!
I learned the next day that, Kelly Ayotte (R), our former State Attorney General, made it official that she is running for the same Senate seat. While the NH GOP will have a primary, it seems like she has been annointed by the RNSC and NH GOP establishment as their next best great white hope.
The battle has been joined.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Warming Up for 2010
Howdy, Strangers! Have you been wondering where I went? Well, nowhere, but I'm back.
Like everyone, ordinary folks in NH were happy to take a year off from heavy duty state politics for 2009, but that doesn't mean anyone has been asleep at the wheel, by any means. The state is getting used to its new declaration as "solidly blue," and candidates are exploring and filing, one by one. Like everywhere else, the state GOP is rutterless and idealess, but the Dems are organized and ready for the next campaign.
Things are already heating up here for 2010, and by extension, 2012.
A few weeks ago, my Primary Pal Laurie McCray invited me to a small fundraiser for Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter. It was held in Laurie's gorgeous home in Portsmouth, NH, and was just a little coffee and muffin get-together with Carol, with a special plea for donations. Her new opponent is the current Mayor of Mancherster NH, but the bigger worry is really Sununu the Elder who using what connections he has from his past to smear Carol whenever he can. That plus our own fair share of right wing nut jobs & so-called Tea Baggers are making things a bit challenging these days for the rational, reasonable person.
In case I have never made it clear: My Congresswoman is amazing. I don't expect to agree 100% with any elected official, and I pick the ones I want to support based not only on how close they get to 100%, but also on their personalities & style. She scores pretty darn close to 100% all the time. She's darn near perfect for me: supports a public option for health care, wants to repeal DOMA, believes in choice. She's a dream come true for those of us who suffered under Jeb for too long! And she's so gosh darn real. I will be working very hard this election cycle to make sure Carol still represents me and CD#1 in the future.
Some fun things are coming up in the near future, too. First is a family/work trip to Washington DC. I am attending the Liaison Advisory Board meeting of The Washington Center, and plan to do a site visits of my awesome UNH students now interning in DC. But before that, we've got some family fun planned at the National Zoo, and the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History.
In the distant future--well, December--I have tickets for the NHDP Jefferson/Jackson Dinner, which is featuring a keynote by President Bill Clinton! My polical junkie pal Colleen and I are going together, and I can't wait. Maybe I will get to see some of the Blue Hampshire folks whom I know by screenname only, in person. In my head, this will be the kick-off, rally the troops event for the 2010 cycle. Bring it on!
Like everyone, ordinary folks in NH were happy to take a year off from heavy duty state politics for 2009, but that doesn't mean anyone has been asleep at the wheel, by any means. The state is getting used to its new declaration as "solidly blue," and candidates are exploring and filing, one by one. Like everywhere else, the state GOP is rutterless and idealess, but the Dems are organized and ready for the next campaign.
Things are already heating up here for 2010, and by extension, 2012.
A few weeks ago, my Primary Pal Laurie McCray invited me to a small fundraiser for Congresswoman Carol Shea-Porter. It was held in Laurie's gorgeous home in Portsmouth, NH, and was just a little coffee and muffin get-together with Carol, with a special plea for donations. Her new opponent is the current Mayor of Mancherster NH, but the bigger worry is really Sununu the Elder who using what connections he has from his past to smear Carol whenever he can. That plus our own fair share of right wing nut jobs & so-called Tea Baggers are making things a bit challenging these days for the rational, reasonable person.
In case I have never made it clear: My Congresswoman is amazing. I don't expect to agree 100% with any elected official, and I pick the ones I want to support based not only on how close they get to 100%, but also on their personalities & style. She scores pretty darn close to 100% all the time. She's darn near perfect for me: supports a public option for health care, wants to repeal DOMA, believes in choice. She's a dream come true for those of us who suffered under Jeb for too long! And she's so gosh darn real. I will be working very hard this election cycle to make sure Carol still represents me and CD#1 in the future.
Some fun things are coming up in the near future, too. First is a family/work trip to Washington DC. I am attending the Liaison Advisory Board meeting of The Washington Center, and plan to do a site visits of my awesome UNH students now interning in DC. But before that, we've got some family fun planned at the National Zoo, and the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History.
In the distant future--well, December--I have tickets for the NHDP Jefferson/Jackson Dinner, which is featuring a keynote by President Bill Clinton! My polical junkie pal Colleen and I are going together, and I can't wait. Maybe I will get to see some of the Blue Hampshire folks whom I know by screenname only, in person. In my head, this will be the kick-off, rally the troops event for the 2010 cycle. Bring it on!
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