Flag City Politico

Election 2008: Bradley L. Griffin, candidate for Hancock County Commissioner

On February 8, I sent letters to the candidates running for Hancock County Commissioner. I asked them a series of questions, and offered to publish their answers, unedited. Below are the responses I received from commissioner candidate Bradley L. Griffin; I offer no comment or interpretation about what appears...that is up to you, the voter!

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Why do you want to be a Hancock County commissioner?

no response


Why are you a better candidate for commissioner than your opponent?

no response


If elected, what would be the primary goal you would like to achieve within the first...100 days?...year?

no response


With all of the focus on flooding, what steps can the county take that have not been proposed or thought of yet?

no response


There have been ideas to combine city and government offices, such as the health department. Do you support this type of merging between city and county services?

no response


In troubled economic times, would you choose to raise taxes or fees or choose to cut services to balance the budget? If you choose to cut services, what would you cut?

no response


What do you see as the biggest issue the county faces, and how would you resolve it?

no response 


How would you respond to community members who are critical of country services and programs?

no response


What unique ideas would you like to implement that would help the citizens of the county?

no response


Is there anything else you would like to share with the FCPolitico community?

no response


Next up, Stephen F. Oman, candidate for Hancock County Commissioner.

-RSKnopfJr

A Day In The Spotlight

I'm taking a two-minute break from the local candidate responses because of what happened today. An event like a Presidential visit deserves some comment, but it will be featured for only a brief amount of time in order to make sure that all the local candidates get the same amount (or close to it) of 'airtime' (I would hate for anyone to accuse me of being biased - - next stop, SNL).

Before today, some of my friends and colleagues asked me what I was going to say about President Clinton's visit, and I told them "not much". At this point in the primary season, I could recite most of the points he was going to raise (although mentioning flooding and students loans could be considered as smart politics or pandering to the audience - depending whether you like him or not). I really don't have many comments about the President's message, not because I don't have anything to say (if you've read this blog before, you know better), but because I had other things to worry about.

As part of my job at the University, I was on the team responsible for making sure the event was recorded from every possible angle. Specifically, we had two video cameras and one photographer doing their best to make sure we did not miss anything...and let me tell you, my team did an OUTSTANDING job!

It was great watching my group stand alongside the media outlets from Findlay, Toledo and a few national organizations. The Clinton campaign organizers treated our group the same way they did traditional media outlets, and it was nice to see students excited about this unique opportunity.

No matter your politics, there is something special about a President visiting your city...double special because it was happening where I work. But ultimately, for me at least, it was more exciting to stand there and watch the event unfold than listen to the words being spoken.

Knowing how this was pulled together, it is a credit to all parties involved that these events occur. The logistics are mind-numbing, and when you factor in that this happens from city-to-city-to-city, it is a small miracle (and a credit to organizers, hosts and media) that everything comes off without a hitch.

Watching the crowd waiting outside in the snow, just itching to come in...seeing how the stage is set and cables are run...seeing how the media get ready...seeing VIPs restless with anticipation...the small rumblings in the crowd as the clock nears the announced time...the building excitement as the introductory speakers get through their remarks...the roar from the crowd that crashes down on you when the President comes into view...it was great to see how it came to be.

Now, I admit that I did not vote for the President in either election, but that did not stop me from appreciating the history of the event. My wife and I made sure that our daughters would attend (only my youngest came because the other had important school work to complete) because it is not every day a (former) President comes to Findlay (and even rarer for a Democrat).The bottom line...it was a great event.

If you want to find out more about this visit, it is bound to be in all the papers, and there is this little thing called the Internet that has places to find out more

• The Courier's on-line photo album
• WTOL's video (this is about an hour long)
• The University of Findlay's article on the event
• The Pulse (UF student newspaper)

If you have any stories or photos you would like to share with others, either add your comments below or send me your story and photos, and I will publish them. All voices heard.

Now, back to our regular programming.

-RSKnopfJr

Melissa Andrews - thanks for the autograph you gave my daughter! It is already framed, and you made an 11 year-old girl extremely happy (and her Dad a hero).

Election 2008: Robert J. Kuhlman, candidate for Hancock County Commissioner

On February 8, I sent letters to the candidates running for Hancock County Commissioner. I asked them a series of questions, and offered to publish their answers, unedited. Below are the responses I received from commissioner candidate Robert J. Kuhlman; I offer no comment or interpretation about what appears...that is up to you, the voter!

---

Why do you want to be a Hancock County commissioner?

I desire to bring my no nonsense approach to decision making to the Hancock County Commissioner's office. For the past 25 years, I have been an active advocate for responsible fiscal decisions that affect the current and future issues of our county. I have seen the county commissioners making decisions in a reactive rather than proactive mode. A perfect example is the past and now current planning to raise the sales tax. As we have seen this temporary tax was fruitful in the short term. Our commissioners pledged they would not come back to the well, but did not do the saving and planning they needed to do for a "rainy day". Well, we are now in that rainy day.


Why are you a better candidate for commissioner than your opponent?

My opponent when faced with decision making stalls and has to consider far too many what ifs. It is as if he is afraid to be decisive, so won't decide until he is convinced he has absolutely every rock uncovered. Well, waiting to gather increasing input means that no decisions are made and opportunities for service pass by. I am very knowledgeable about both city and county government and desire to work in concert for the betterment of this community. I was on City Council when we were able to build the Municipal Building and a new water plant without raising taxes. Success like this is only possible through goal setting, cooperative action, and connecting with others. This is my track record I plan to bring to the Commissioner's office.


If elected, what would be the primary goal you would like to achieve within the first...100 days?...year?

The first priority is to reign in the after the flood spending that has resulted from being a tenant when we could have fixed the offices that were flooded for far less than renting scattered offices all over town. In the six months following the flood we can see that this Commissioner Board has absolutely no plan to be fiscally responsible to recover county government offices. Instead they are operating in a passive aggressive manner by renting space for the next two years at a much higher cost than repairing the current buildings, by watching the deserted buildings fall down from lack of maintenance and then going to the voters to ask - no demand- higher taxes to build a new government center. At that point the citizens of Hancock County will have no choice but to be reactive. I intend to provide a plan to not only recover government offices and stabilize the budget, but to save for future capital expenditures.


With all of the focus on flooding, what steps can the county take that have not been proposed or thought of yet?

There is a need for all governmental entities, townships, villages, cities, counties, state and federal to agree to collaborate in addressing the problem of flooding across the Blanchard Watershed. The business sector has made a positive step to create a nonprofit entity supported financially by them to work with the federal and state government to create a plan for alleviating or diminishing the flood problem in the entire watershed. The county must continue to be at the table to bring the best interests of the citizens to bear in being part of the solution.


There have been ideas to combine city and government offices, such as the health department. Do you support this type of merging between city and county services?

To be fiscally conservative means to carefully look at economic ways to deliver services expected from government within the means government has - to operate within the budget. The August flood destroyed both the city and county health department buildings. This is an opportunity to co-locate these offices, not to merge them. They each perform a different function under the governmental code. However, they could share the costs of a building, a single conference room, a single phone system, and other economies of scale. In actual fact, the Commissioner Board has no vote here.


In troubled economic times, would you choose to raise taxes or fees or choose to cut services to balance the budget? If you choose to cut services, what would you cut?

As in a household budget, both sides of the ledger must be looked at. The Commissioner Board must listen to the facts presented by the County Auditor (CFO) and adjust the budget accordingly. I have observed my opponent dismissing the advice of the County Auditor. He and the other commissioners tried to figure out a way to lower the reserves (designated to carry county government into a new calendar year until the fiscal year begins) thus increasing the risk for a financial meltdown of county government. I have already said that being a tenant for an extended period of time is more costly than repairing the flooded buildings. So, the first thing I would do is begin the process of fixing the properties we own and moving our offices back into them. We have more pressing matters to address like supporting flood mitigation than to build a government edifice. I would always prioritize the services expected by and important to citizens, such as safety - sanitary - security - then look at other things county government supports. Just as in a household tightening the belt may mean some recreational things are postponed, so it is with government tightening its belt.


What do you see as the biggest issue the county faces, and how would you resolve it?

MONEY - this county needs a fiscally sound budget for operations based on the facts from the County Auditor and a long range planning budget for capital expenditures. There are challenges due to timing of the inflow of tax revenues and the requirements of the Ohio Revised Code, however, this Commissioner Board has never truly grasped the concept of how to operate within the timing issues, saving for extraordinary expenditures and planning for long range capital needs. I would do all of the above in cooperation with the various county departments that submit their budgets for approval. 


How would you respond to community members who are critical of country services and programs?

My observation is that communication is the key. I believe that misinformation is at the root of criticism. Although Commissioner meetings are open and announced, many citizens are not able to avail themselves of the opportunity to attend these meetings. So, using current technology, I propose to make the flow of information more easily accessible. This could be through an interactive web town hall meeting or chat. Just as the radio was used in its early days to inform, I believe we can use technology to keep the citizens engaged.


What unique ideas would you like to implement that would help the citizens of the county?

Within the first year, I would bring the county into the conversation with the varied interests in the downtown of our county seat, especially concerning the public library, the judicial system needs, and other county services that are located downtown. I would begin to project the costs to do what needs to be done after so many citizen committees have already met and made recommendations, prioritize the projects on a timeline and a cost benefit line, then take it to the voters for their opinion on the recommended direction. I would provide the much needed leadership to move us in a positive direction out of chaos.


Is there anything else you would like to share with the FCPolitico community?

All of us have been affected by the worst floods in our county in such a short time. We have experienced 5 floods in 14 months; the last two were only six months apart. I truly believe that the citizens are suffering from "flood fatigue" and that our city and county leaders have good ideas, but unless there is a catalyst to put them in action, they are only talked about or put on a shelf until "the time is right". Well, the time is right now and I have the experience and ability to provide the much needed leadership to move forward rather than slide backward. I have the knowledge, the ability, the desire and the energy to stay focused on the community needs while staying fiscally responsible. I will bring Better Decisions…For a Change. 

I am Bob Kuhlman  and I ask for your vote on March 4, 2008.


Next up, Bradley L. Griffin, candidate for Hancock County Commissioner.

-RSKnopfJr

Election 2008: Edward D. Ingold, candidate for Hancock County Commissioner

On February 8, I sent letters to the candidates running for Hancock County Commissioner. I asked them a series of questions, and offered to publish their answers, unedited. Below are the responses I received from commissioner candidate Edward D. Ingold; I offer no comment or interpretation about what appears...that is up to you, the voter!

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Why do you want to be a Hancock County commissioner?

No disrespect and with no prejudice I am going to decline your offer to be a part of your blog.  Number one I really do not have the time to keep monitoring it and two I am a creature more of email and the phone.  Blogs I believe are still an unknown and I don't know whether they are for entertainment or serious discussions.  Certainly if anyone wants to discuss an issue with me I am available on email and by phone.


Why are you a better candidate for commissioner than your opponent?

see previous response


If elected, what would be the primary goal you would like to achieve within the first...100 days?...year?

see previous response


With all of the focus on flooding, what steps can the county take that have not been proposed or thought of yet?

see previous response


There have been ideas to combine city and government offices, such as the health department. Do you support this type of merging between city and county services?

see previous response


In troubled economic times, would you choose to raise taxes or fees or choose to cut services to balance the budget? If you choose to cut services, what would you cut?

see previous response


What do you see as the biggest issue the county faces, and how would you resolve it?

see previous response


How would you respond to community members who are critical of country services and programs?

see previous response


What unique ideas would you like to implement that would help the citizens of the county?

see previous response


Is there anything else you would like to share with the FCPolitico community?

see previous response


Next up, Robert J. Kuhlman, candidate for Hancock County Commissioner.

-RSKnopfJr

Election 2008: Candidates for Hancock County Sheriff

On February 8, I sent letters to the candidates running for Hancock County Sheriff. I asked them a series of questions, and offered to publish their answers, unedited. Below are the responses I received; I offer no comment or interpretation about what appears...that is up to you, the voter!

---

Why do you want to be Hancock County sheriff?

MICHAEL E. HELDMAN - no response

THOMAS L. RENNINGER - In 2003 Sheriff Heldman was talking about making budget cuts along with the other county agencies. Some employees were laid off and allegedly services were reduced. I stepped up as the Findlay Police Chief and took the unprecedented measure to send City Police Officers anywhere they were needed within Hancock County to ensure the Deputy’s safety but we never had to do so.

The Commissioners placed a sales tax increase on the ballot. During the tax campaign Sheriff Heldman repeatedly spoke of cuts in services, lay offs and that he would close sections of the jail and release prisoners. His statements regarding closing sections of the jail were disingenuous. The public called his bluff by defeating the sales tax increase. As a result the jail remained status quo. Sheriff Heldman betrayed the community’s trust, including his employees who placed their personal credibility on the line in support of him. It was demoralizing when the truth played out. 

Shortly after that sales tax defeat, I was contacted about running for the Office of Sheriff. Due to the timing in November of 2004, I was unable to put the necessary infrastructure in place to conduct a campaign and I sat out the election cycle. However, since that time I have positioned myself for this campaign and I have spent the last three years speaking with citizens throughout Hancock County and listening to what they think.

I am qualified to be the next Sheriff of Hancock County because I am an experienced Law Enforcement Administrator whose methodology is tested, proven and successful. I am ready to work for the people of Hancock County as a fiscally responsible Sheriff.


Why are you a better candidate for sheriff than your opponent?

MICHAEL E. HELDMAN - no response

THOMAS L. RENNINGER - Michael Heldman and I are different in many ways, yet we share commonalities. When discussing our differences I am reluctant to use the word “better”. Our differences stem from our experience. 

Michael Heldman has specialized in the Crime Prevention field and worked in Corrections. He directed his focus to Community Oriented Policing. As Sheriff, Michael Heldman has also spent a considerable amount of time in Columbus participating with the Buckeye State Sheriff’s Association and it’s political lobby. Proof of this is supported by his endorsement from the former State of Ohio Attorney General, Betty Montgomery. Normally a local race does not garner this level of support from a professional politician.

In contrast, I have worked extensively in criminal investigation and enforcement.

As a criminal investigator I have a wide range of first hand experience investigating crimes including but not limited to drugs, felonious assaults, kidnappings, robberies, burglaries, arsons, bombings, death investigation (suicides and homicides) and more.

I am comfortable conducting an interrogation with a suspect who has committed the most heinous crime. 

As an administrator, I am a graduate of the North Western University - Center For Public Safety – School of Staff and Command. I have nineteen years of first hand management experience. I have instructed many levels of criminal justice training including the collegiate level. As the Chief of Police I formed a strong and effective crime fighting team. We increased the number of sworn police officers bringing the force strength to seventy-four sworn officers. Findlay purchased and installed a 800 MHZ radio communication system, built a new Dispatch Center, implemented wireless mobile data with in car computers, upgraded the Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) and implemented a new computerized Records Management System (RMS). I also expanded, equipped and trained the Emergency Response Team (ERT) to a level that would rival many metropolitan police agencies. This was done while operating within my means and maintaining a yearly budget carry over.


If elected, what would be the primary goal you would like to achieve within the first...100 days?...year?

MICHAEL E. HELDMAN - no response

THOMAS L. RENNINGER - Within the first 100 days I will ask for an external audit to be conducted. I will personally meet with the employees, review personnel files, become familiar with all work unit contracts, meet with union officials, review policy and procedures and establish an educational and training base line. 

Within the first year I will study the corrections operation and facility. I will design a plan to address the four thousand (4000) plus outstanding warrants that currently exist. I will use the audit to see where cuts can be made. I will review the current projects and see them through to their respective conclusions. 


There have been ideas to combine city and government offices. Do you support this type of merging between city and county services, and what challenges does this present to the sheriff’s department?

MICHAEL E. HELDMAN - no response

THOMAS L. RENNINGER - Over the years there have been various attempts to address the consolidation of City and County Government operations. There have been small successes such as the former Community Development Foundation (CDF), a small operation with one employee and in kind donations from both government and the private sector. In law enforcement I have personally participated with several drug task forces that combined City and County personnel over the years. Until joining the METRICH task force, the two previous attempts, one in 70’s and one in the 80’s both collapsed because of political influences and a turf war for control occurred when leadership changes happened. 

Currently there is an effort combine the City and County Health Departments within one building. Since both office spaces were destroyed by the flood this appears like the right time for a beta test. Time will tell if this works out. The physical movement is the easy part, but combining employees who have different job requirements, benefits and pay will be difficult. I can see blended employees frequently saying, “It’s not my job”.

While the prospect of combining service sounds like a good idea, the reality is that I do not foresee it in the future. I do not think the County can afford the enormous cost involved in such a venture.


In troubled economic times, would you choose to eliminate staff or services to balance the budget? If you choose to cut services, what would you cut?

MICHAEL E. HELDMAN - no response

THOMAS L. RENNINGER - In the criminal justice system the majority of the employees must obtain and maintain state certifications (professional licenses) to continue their employment. For the most part the employer pays for training, clothing, and equipping employees. In the City’s case, a non-certified employee who needed training cost about $7,500.00 to get them started, and this figure did not include their salary while receiving training. Civilian employees (Dispatchers, Clerks, Parking persons) were substantially less because we did not have to clothe or equip them. Before eliminating certified employees I would look at reductions in services to see if it would achieve the savings needed. Once employees are lost either by layoff and/or attrition replacing them takes an extremely long time. So I would look to reduce service first and employees only as a last resort even though employees represent the largest savings. 

I cannot answer the second part of this question “what service”, I do not have the necessary information and any answer would be nothing more then a guess.


What do you see as the biggest issue the county faces, and how would you resolve it?

MICHAEL E. HELDMAN - no response

THOMAS L. RENNINGER - The one word answer is MONEY. There are many important issues facing Hancock County and most involve money. The August 2007 flood inflicted much more than physical damage to structures. This County is in dire financial straights and it seems the only way is to increase revenue at a time when we are in an economic recession. The prospect of the public supporting any type of tax increase is unlikely. Therefore, in order to resolve this crisis we must figure out a way to adapt, improvise and overcome the obstacles before they overwhelm us. It will take tough leadership to see us out of this crisis and it is no place for politicians who have a weak constitution and are concerned about maintaining a politically correct posture. 


What unique ideas would you like to implement at the sheriff’s department?

MICHAEL E. HELDMAN - no response

THOMAS L. RENNINGER - The idea that I believe is “unique” is simple. I work for the people! The residents of this County will provide my direction. The Revised Code instructs me as to what I am required to do. I could care less about receiving glowing reports from bureaucratic State agencies. As long as we meet the standards for human decency and dignity I can live with that. That’s a new and unique idea!


How would you respond to community members who are critical of country services and programs?

MICHAEL E. HELDMAN - no response

THOMAS L. RENNINGER - It is an American right to criticize. There is an old saying in law enforcement that if you are not making people mad then you’re not doing your job. When someone is critical of services and programs I simply listen to the issues and challenge them to find ways to improve the program. What I have experienced is that some things that occur are unpopular among a few, but normally the majority remains silent.

My entire professional life I have lived by and practiced a few simple rules:

• First, my word is my bond. I will not promise something that I have no intention of doing.
•  Second, I do not lie. You can tell the public anything, as long as it is truthful.
• Third, everyone is treated the same. I hold the line even when doing so is uncomfortable. I do not cater to special interest nor am I easily influenced. What you see is what you get nothing more or anything less!

Is there anything else you would like to share with the FCPolitico community?

MICHAEL E. HELDMAN - no response

THOMAS L. RENNINGER - I was recruited to enter this race. A common theme that has been reiterated is that the public wants a change. Michael Heldman’s record is clear, he has been the most expensive Sheriff in the history of Hancock County. While telling the public he was making cuts, he has continued to expand rather than reduce. His goal has been to be the head of the largest Law Enforcement operation within Hancock County, Why, because he is the elected official not appointed, as is the Chief of Police. I do not share his ideological vision.

I posses a strong background in planning and I have supervised multi million dollar projects. I have administered the County’s largest police agency. I posses sound leadership qualities and I am passionate about my work. I will develop a strong team. My methodology is tested and I am ready to work.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to participate in your forum.


Next up, Edward D. Ingold, candidate for Hancock County Commissioner.

-RSKnopfJr

Election 2008: Candidates for Hancock County Treasurer

On February 8, I sent letters to the candidates running for Hancock County Treasurer. I asked them a series of questions, and offered to publish their answers, unedited. Below are the responses I received; I offer no comment or interpretation about what appears...that is up to you, the voter!

---

Why do you want to be Hancock County treasurer?

CARL MOSES - no response

LARRY SETTLEMIRE - There seams to be a lot of unhappy residents with regard to the way that the current Treasures office is being run. It makes no sense to have the office closed during the lunch hour, as it is the most convenient time of the day for most people to utilize its services. I realize that since Mr. Welton found that he had competition in this election, he chose to reopen the office for now????? I will make the treasures office a more user friendly place to visit. I believe that I have gotten great success while living in Findlay, and now it is my time to give back.

J. STEVE WELTON - no response


Why are you a better candidate for treasurer than your opponents?

CARL MOSES - no response

LARRY SETTLEMIRE - I will run the treasurers office like I would my business. I am a results oriented individual that will not play the political games.

J. STEVE WELTON - no response


If elected, what would be the primary goal you would like to achieve within the first...100 days?...year?

CARL MOSES - no response

LARRY SETTLEMIRE - Get to know the people that I will be working with and structure an office that will be both enjoyable to work at as well as productive and comfortable for the tax payers.

J. STEVE WELTON - no response


There have been ideas to combine city and government offices. Do you support this type of merging between city and county services, and what challenges does this present to the treasurer’s office?

CARL MOSES - no response

LARRY SETTLEMIRE - I don’t believe that there are any plans to combine the Treasurers office at this time. As to the other offices like the Health Departments, as long as they don’t increase cost I would support it. 

J. STEVE WELTON - no response


In troubled economic times, what can you do to balance the budget? If you choose to cut services, what would you cut?

CARL MOSES - no response

LARRY SETTLEMIRE - No comment.

J. STEVE WELTON - no response


What do you see as the biggest issue the county faces, and how would you resolve it?

CARL MOSES - no response

LARRY SETTLEMIRE - We must find a way to fix the flooding problem; I would do whatever is necessary to help the Commissioners and the Mayor to find a solution.

J. STEVE WELTON - no response


How would you respond to community members who are critical of country services and programs?

CARL MOSES - no response

LARRY SETTLEMIRE - Lately our community members have good reason to be critical of our county services and programs. I honestly believe that some of our currently elected officials should be reminded that we voters put them where they are today yet some continue to do little or nothing to enhance the offices that they represent.

WE NEED NEW IDEAS AND NEW ATTITUDES.
WE NEED ELECTED OFFICIALS THAT WILL DO WHAT THEY PROMISIED.
WE NEED TO REEVALUATE THE DIRECTION THAT WE ARE HEADING AS A COMMUNITY.
WE NEED THE VOTERS TO STAND UP ON MARCH 4TH AND CAST THEIR VOTES TO MAKE THIS HAPPEN.

J. STEVE WELTON - no response
 

Is there anything else you would like to share with the FCPolitico community?

CARL MOSES - no response

LARRY SETTLEMIRE - I have been a resident of Findlay, Hancock Co for most of my life. I have been involved with many community organizations in the past, but this will be my first attempt at public office. I am excited about running for Hancock Co Treasurer. I have been an Entrepreneur, and a successful business owner in Findlay for many years and I truly believe that my past business experience qualifies me for the position of County Treasurer.

Help me make a difference in the County Treasures office. VOTE FOR LARRY SETTLEMIRE ON MARCH 4th Thank You.

J. STEVE WELTON - no response
 

Next up, the candidates for Hancock County Sheriff.

-RSKnopfJr

Election 2008: Candidates for Hancock County Coroner

On February 8, I sent letters to the candidates running for Hancock County Coroner. I asked them a series of questions, and offered to publish their answers, unedited. Below are the responses I received; I offer no comment or interpretation about what appears...that is up to you, the voter!

---

Why do you want to be Hancock County coroner?
 
MARK R. FOX - no response

JOHN P. ZIEGLER - no response

 
Why are you a better candidate for coroner than your opponent?
 
MARK R. FOX - no response

JOHN P. ZIEGLER - no response

 
If elected, what would be the primary goal you would like to achieve within the first...100 days?...year?
 
MARK R. FOX - no response

JOHN P. ZIEGLER - no response


There have been ideas to combine city and government offices. Do you support this type of merging between city and county services, and what challenges does this present to the coroner’s office?
 
MARK R. FOX - no response

JOHN P. ZIEGLER - no response

 
In troubled economic times, what can you do to balance the budget? If you choose to cut services, what would you cut?
 
MARK R. FOX - no response

JOHN P. ZIEGLER - no response

 
What do you see as the biggest issue the county faces, and how would you resolve it?
 
MARK R. FOX - no response

JOHN P. ZIEGLER - no response


How would you respond to community members who are critical of country services and programs?
 
MARK R. FOX - no response

JOHN P. ZIEGLER - no response

 
Is there anything else you would like to share with the FCPolitico community?
 
MARK R. FOX - no response

JOHN P. ZIEGLER - no response


Next up, the candidates for Hancock County Treasurer.

-RSKnopfJr

If the election were held today, which candidate for commissioner would you vote for?

poll conducted February 18-24, 2008

-RSKnopfJr

He's Baa-aack!

With Michael Bloomberg dominating the headlines regarding his on-again/off-again interest in running for President as an Independent (doesn't look like that is going to happen if Obama and his campaign for change ends up beating Clinton), many people have forgotten about the man who has already 'been there' and 'done that'.

"In this corner, representing organized citizen power facing off against corporate power...the man putting together a ground force of citizens who are informed, committed, tenacious advocates for a just future...the candidate inviting you to join in a mass push back against the corporate powers that are dictating our future, heeeeeeerrrrre's.....Ralph Nader!!"

<blink>(applause)<blink>

With everyone concentrating on the race for the major party nominations, Nader has very quietly launched an exploratory committee (www.naderexplore08.org), and is seeking contributions. It is no coincidence that on an open Sunday with no primary/caucus coming up the following week, Nader is going to be headlining the 02-24-08 edition of NBC's Meet the Press. Who else thinks that the first question Tim Russert asks him is a foregone conclusion?

Oh yeah, when Nader announced he was running for President in 2004, he did it on Meet the Press. Have you ever had deja vu? ('Didn't you just ask me that?'  :-)  How about, 'No, but I can ask the chef'? - it is strange what seems funny when the Nyquil starts to kick in before bed).

If anyone doesn't think that a Nader campaign would not make a difference, remember Florida in 2000 - Nader got 96,837 votes. Remember by how many Bush won the state, and the election? It was 537. Remember how a Perot candidacy helped contribute to George HW Bush's loss to Clinton in 1992? Please, do not underestimate the power or third party and independent candidates.

Isn't it appropriate, however, that in this wacky year of political happenings, an Independent may have an opportunity to really have their voice heard and their agenda advanced? I am not saying that his chances are better than Obanton (I need to get that trademarked) or McCain...or even Bloomberg.

I'm just saying if ever there was a year (and the time in our history) for America to allow Nader (and others) to enter the national discussion, it is now. Sometimes those lone voices, calling for change in the wilderness, make a little more sense than we want to give them credit for (or allow ourselves to believe).

-RSKnopfJr

Some Straight Talk

Whatever the cliche you want to pull out to describe the situation he is in, McCain needs to realize that payback is a bummer (edited because this is a family blog).

So what happened? Accusations of a romantic relationship between McCain and a female lobbyist...but even worse, the intervention by McCain to provide political favors for this person. The New York Times published the story (the timing depends on who you believe) before The New Republic came out with a story about the NYT article.

McCain voted guilty on both the perjury and obstruction of justice charges that were filed against President Clinton in 1998 (wow, has that really been ten years?), and you have to think that Clinton's supporters will have long memories. Even if McCain did not do anything wrong, the appearance of impropriety is there, and the Democrats would feel justified to go after him just as hard as Republicans went after Clinton a decade ago.

In response to the NYT allegations, McCain's campaign issued the following statement:
"It is a shame that the New York Times has lowered its standards to engage in a hit and run smear campaign. John McCain has a 24-year record of serving our country with honor and integrity. He has never violated the public trust, never done favors for special interests or lobbyists, and he will not allow a smear campaign to distract from the issues at stake in this election. Americans are sick and tired of this kind of gutter politics, and there is nothing in this story to suggest that John McCain has ever violated the principles that have guided his career."

The saving grace for McCain? This happened after he (pretty much) secured the Republican nomination for President, and has happened early enough that it can be dealt with in advance of the general election. Something like this can be the story of the moment, hurt him now and not be an issue by the time we head into the conventions.

No matter whether you believe him or not, this puts a little tarnish on the idealistic theme McCain has cultivated with his 'straight talk express'. With a tight race between Obama and Clinton, and a few debates coming up, this story may be off the front pages soon...but you can see how anti-McCain foes will want to keep this front and center as long as possible.

When this election cycle is over, this may be nothing more than a blip in the stories that will be coming out about both nominees. With the Internet, cell phone cameras, and citizen journalists, candidates cannot do something without an entire country knowing about it in a matter of minutes. This is now a 24/7/365 world, and nothing (unfortunately) shocks me anymore...and that's some straight talk.

-RSKnopfJr

20160 minutes

Two weeks.

14 days.

336 hours.

When the clock hits zero on March 4, we will know who the Republican nominee for President will be, and we may be closer to knowing the identity of his opponent.

Watching the results from last night (between fits of coughing), it is amazing how far these races have come over the past few months. Clinton was supposed to be the nominee, and McCain was very close to being out of the race.

Listening to Obama and McCain give their victory speeches last night, you could not help but notice the differences that are sure to offer a clear choice between now and November: younger versus older, fresh candidate versus experienced candidate, new generation versus greatest generation.

It is still possible that Clinton could pull this out, but not probable, and last night, you saw McCain and Obama address each other during their speeches, giving us an early look at how their national campaigns will be.

Obama's speech (which was over 40 minutes) provided a laundry list of substantive issues that he believes (I didn't want to use the word 'hope') will be appealing to voters. McCain touched on patriotism, national defense and experience...not the sort of thing that might work in a campaign against Obama, considering this is what Clinton has been trying to rally around over the past few months.

My youngest daughter keeps asking me who I am going to vote for in the primary, so I used an old trainer's tool by asking her who she would vote for. She started telling me that they are talking about this in school now, and they started developing study packets on the candidates and issues. She had to write who she would vote for, and why.

To her credit, she must be paying attention to me at home because she wrote that she would vote for Mike Huckabee. Reading her paper, she tried to write about Huckabee's fair tax...pretty astute for a sixth grader (my goodness, they grow up quickly), making me proud that she is tuning in to current events, and taking an interest in something that her Dad has a passion about.

The most important thing about March 4th is not who is going to win the primary, or even if a candidate will clinch a nomination. I wish that people would just vote. We keep hearing about all of the other states breaking records in the number of voters coming to the polls, and it would be nice to have Ohio (or at least Hancock County) be part of this.

We have a few weeks for the yard signs to pop up, people to wear the buttons, and for neighbors to talk to each other about who (and why) they will vote for. I would really enjoy seeing long lines at the polls that day, and everyone taking, not only an interest, but an investment in our democracy and our future.

If you want to share your election stories with others, e-mail me and I will post them here. Send me pictures of what is going on in your neighborhood, or at your polling place, and I will make sure they get on-line so others can see the spirit and enthusiasm that is out there.

In the meantime, the clock is running.

-RSKnopfJr

Preview

Happy Presidents Day!!

We've been in a holding pattern for a week now. With the flurry of activity since the first of the year, it seems strange to be waiting for the next round of primaries to be held...but the wait will soon be over.

Tomorrow, Wisconsin and Washington hold primary elections, and Democrats in Hawaii will be caucusing. With every delegate counting more and more, these races are more important than everyone thought they would be at this point a year ago. I really enjoy that this election cycle is playing out as it is. We are experiencing something that hasn't happened for decades, and it is fascinating to watch and live through.

Just to get everyone up to speed, here are the latest delegate counts...

Obama - 1262
Clinton - 1213
Gravel - 0
needed to clinch - 2025

McCain - 830
Huckabee - 217
Paul - 16
needed to clinch - 1191

Since everyone believes that McCain is inevitable (that is a different topic for a different time), let's look at the numbers for the Democratic nomination. And when looking at poll numbers, remember how reliable they have been in the past. These numbers are for Wisconsin (92 delegates). Remember, Washington had a caucus on Feb 9, so this primary election is non-binding (and somewhat confusing). It is generally considered that Hawaii (29 delegates) will be for Obama.

Clinton - 49%
Obama - 43%
American Research Group - 02/15-16

Obama - 47%
Clinton - 42%
Research 2000 - 02/13-14

Obama - 47%
Clinton - 43%
Rasmussen - 02/13

In a race this close, let's see what's going on up north.

Winter Storm Detours Democratic Candidates
Politics took a back seat to the weather Sunday as two Democratic campaign events had to be canceled. >>
WBAY

Candidates gear up for the big day
The two Democratic candidates for president appeared at the same dinner in Milwaukee Saturday, targeting the important Wisconsin delegation leading up to Tuesday’s primary. >>
The Badger Herald

Republicans for Obama
Arizona Sen. John McCain is going to be the party's nominee. That's good for Republicans, because for all his flaws, the Arizona senator is the most appealing prospect their party has to offer this year. >>
The Capital Times

Refusing to cry 'uncle,' Huckabee out-campaigns Republican rival
He can pick up a spare, but can he pick up the state? >>
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

The pick? Obama makes it 10 in a row, narrowly edging Clinton in Wisconsin by 3%, winning Hawaii by over 30%, and...well, who knows why Washington is having a primary, but we'll say Obama by 22%.

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I received the first reply to the letter I sent out last week. You'll have to wait to see who responded, but to give you a hint, this person has the same initials as me. Make sure you have your comments ready to go for when I post everything.

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Reminder...tonight is the 2008 Candidate Forum sponsored by The Courier, WFIN and UFTV. The forum, featuring candidates for Hancock County commissioner and sheriff, can be heard on 1330-AM or seen on Findlay TimeWarner channel 20 starting at 6p. I'll be there...will you?

-RSKnopfJr

If the election were held today, which candidate for sheriff would you vote for?

poll conducted February 6-17, 2008

-RSKnopfJr

Greetings Candidate!

Between a tremendous work load, and my continuing fight with a serious cold (thank goodness I got a flu shot last October), I have just been out of it by the time I get home at night. I apologize to everyone that I have not had the gumption to write something every evening, but then, the Presidential campaign goes on without my wit.

I started seeing Obama commercials on local TV this morning, and expect to see A LOT more from both him and Clinton until March 4. We have a little time to get back to national politics, but for now, let's focus on what is happening locally.

On March 4, Republican voters in Hancock County will be going to the polls to select two county commissioners, a sheriff, coroner and treasurer. These races are being contested by just Republicans (no Democrats are running), so if no Independents enter the race before March 4, the winner of the primary will run unopposed in November.

Once again, I sent a copy of the following letter to the candidates running for those races. Go ahead and read it...I'll see you on the other side.

I sent each candidate less than 10 questions (to hopefully get a better response), and invited them to respond to as many or as few as they deemed appropriate. Before we get into March, YOU will see their unedited answers and YOU will be able to add your comments.

I want you to prepare in advance so you can share your opinions with everyone else. Make sure you keep an open mind going into all of these. But more than anything, make sure you participate! As the saying goes around here..."All Voices Heard"!!

BTW - did you see Uno win last night at Westminster? A tremendous win for everyone who grew up loving Snoopy and beagles. Count me as one of those who was cheering along. Uno was truly #1!

-RSKnopfJr

Crunching the Numbers

I hope you're ready for some television commercials from the Presidential candidates (especially Democrat), because Ohio and our March 4 primary are definitely on everyone's calendar. I did some quick math last night, and it appears that both parties nominees could be locked up on Decision Tuesday (that's the name I am giving to the March 4 primaries...if you have a better suggestion, leave a comment).

McCain has 720 delegates out of the 1191 he needs for the nomination. Even if he runs the table for the rest of February, he will still only be at 1005. With only two of the upcoming contests being winner take all (w), RHP (RomneyHuckabeePaul) have an opportunity to sneak a few delegates into their column.

On Decision Tuesday, McCain could secure the nomination because of the four states that day

• Ohio - 88 delegates
• Rhode Island - 20 delegates
• Texas - 140 delegates
• Vermont - 17 delegates (w)

On the Democratic side, things are the same...yet different. Clinton has 1056 delegates out of the 2025 she needs for the nomination. Even is she runs the table for the rest of February, she will still only be at 1643. We know that there is no possibility of her getting every delegate in the contests between now and March, but agree to suspend reality for a moment.

On Decision Tuesday, Clinton could secure the nomination because of the four states that day

• Ohio - 161 delegates
• Rhode Island - 32 delegates
• Texas - 228 delegates
• Vermont - 23 delegates

Looking ahead, let's be more realistic and say that Clinton and Obama split delegates for the time being. After the 4th, there are two small contests remaining in March (Wyoming, Mississippi), and then the only one in April is Pennsylvania with 188 delegates. IF things are not settled by then, there are five contests in May and two in June...and then..and then...to the convention in Denver (admit it, you would love to see it come to that).

No matter whether clinching on the 4th is practical (McCain), or if there is a fierce contest for delegates (Clinton/Obama), Ohio is going to receiver a fair amount of attention over the next three weeks. Don't say I didn't warn you.

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Some of the biggest news after Tuesday came from, once again, the Democrats...

Hillary Clinton will go for broke
Hillary Rodham Clinton personally lent her cash-strapped campaign $5 million late last month, and some top staffers are now going without pay, officials acknowledged yesterday. >>>
New York Post

Obama on pace to raise $30 mil in Feb
Barack Obama’s campaign is on track to raise another $30 million in February, sources close to the Illinois senator say, while Hillary Rodham Clinton’s spokesman revealed Wednesday that she had loaned her campaign $5 million. >>>
Politico

Democratic dead-heat 'not good news' says Dean
Democratic National Committee chairman Howard Dean on Wednesday voiced concern over the prospect of a brokered convention at the end of the party's White House nominating contests. >>>
Breitbart

Dem caucuses in Michigan, Florida suggested
The increasing possibility of a divisive battle over whether to seat Michigan's delegation to the Democratic National Convention has party officials looking for a compromise. >>>
The Detroit News

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I hope that you're staying dry. Keep smilin'!  :-)

-RSKnopfJr

Who will be ahead in delegates after 'Super Tuesday'?

poll conducted January 30 - February 5, 2008

-RSKnopfJr

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious Tuesday Results

updated 02/06/08 2:00a

What a night! In such an unpredictable political season, what we saw this evening (and early this morning) was just as exciting as the college football season we just experienced.

There will be more time later today to discuss the results, and a look at how the delegate race shakes out. New Mexico (D) and Alaska (R) have still not been called, but it is late and I need to get some sleep. With everything going on today, and the historical ramifications of what happened, here's a little something to think about as you lay your head down on your pillow tonight...

Both Clinton and Obama can claim momentum out of tonight. Obama won more states, but Clinton won the big states of California and New York. A quick look at the delegates shows that things are almost even, and the fight now continues on to the next round of states this weekend.

For the GOP, despite not running away and winning convincingly, McCain won enough to start distancing himself from Romney and Huckabee in the delegate count. With so many winner-take-all contests, McCain won the right ones (i.e., New York, New Jersey, Missouri) and is now building a commanding lead.

Huckabee is developing into a serious contender for the Republican VP slot. With doing so well in the 'Bible Belt' states, Huckabee is presenting himself as the strong conservative ally that McCain is probably going to need to shore up the Republican base that he will need in November if he is the nominee.

Does Romney continue on? Winning six states tonight, I think he will...but he really needed to do well in California, and not winning there really hurt his chances to stop the 'Straight Talk Express'. We will discuss this more over the next few days, but for now, it is time to get some sleep and dream of how cool it would be if both races came down to the convention.

Until tomorrow...er, I mean later today...

-RSKnopfJr

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious Tuesday

24 states...1 day!

No, today is not the next version of 'The Amazing Race', it is the political version of 'Survivor'. LOL!

Clinton and McCain look to take commanding leads in delegates, but Obama and Romney/Huckabee are not going to go away that easily. Obama has come so close to Clinton in the national polls, they are virtually tied. And despite the win in Florida and endorsements from Giuliani and Schwarzenegger, he has not wrapped up the Republican nomination...yet.

So, what do we look for today? Honestly, no one knows. This is the largest one-day primary in our electoral history, so all bets are off when it comes to predicting. It wouldn't matter anyway, because no one has been able to accurately measure what the voters are thinking.

Today, however, will be a good test to see how candidates are able to organize a national campaign. With so many states in play, we not only see how far numerous resources can get someone (cough, Obama, cough), but if the Clinton machine is in full gear, and if McCain's endorsements and publicity from free media will translate into votes.

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To find out who is currently ahead in the polls, not that they mean anything as of this morning, check out Real Clear Politics here or USA Today here for very comprehensive lists.

Since it is too much to cover in this blog, let me point out that The New York Times has an outstanding preview of all the states, what is at stake, and how the delegates are to be distributed.

Republicans and Democrats.

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Here is a list of when the polls close for the states (all times ET):

9a
West Virginia convention (R)

7p
Georgia primaries

8p
Alabama primaries
Connecticut primaries
Delaware primaries
Illinois primaries
Massachusetts primaries
Missouri primaries
New Jersey primaries
Oklahoma primaries
Tennessee primaries

8:30p
Arkansas primaries

9p
Kansas caucuses (D)
Arizona primaries
Colorado caucuses
Minnesota primaries
New Mexico primary (D)
New York primaries

10p
Idaho caucuses (D)
Montana caucuses (R)
North Dakota caucuses
Utah primaries

11p
California primaries

1:30a
Alaska primaries

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There are plenty of options when watching for the results tonight...first, check out Flag City Politico, but I suppose you could look at one of these as well (courtesy of MediaBistro):

ABC
five hours of coverage beginning at 8pm

CBS
two-hour special at 9pm

NBC
special report at 10p, plus one-hour Nightly News

PBS
three hours of coverage at 9p

CNN
40 hours of non-stop political programming begins at 6a

FOX
24-hours straight of live coverage, starting at 5a

MSNBC
from 6a until 2a Wednesday morning

Not sure what to watch for? The Wall Street Journal has you covered here.

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I hope the title of this post didn't bother you. As long as everyone is coming up with superlatives for today's national primary, I thought I would throw in my choice. I hope you like it.

It's times like tonight that I wish I had a wall of TVs. If I am still married tomorrow morning, you will know how much my wife truly loves me.  ;-)

-RSKnopfJr

Maine Caucus Results (R)

While t