Jeff Rosenberg at MNCR (the actual snarky one) reports today that Ash Madia has raised somewhere in the neighborhood of 350K — a number we’ve gotten confirmation on as well.
This blistering fundraising pace might allow Ash to surpass his impressive second quarter take — but what’s more important that simple fundraising totals is what the cash has allowed Madia to do; namely get on the air before Erik Paulsen. See the thing is no matter how much replaced Paulsen spokester Michael Brodkorb and the GOP try, Madia is already defining himself to the voting public in the biggest venue he’s got, without any response from the GooPers.
Matt was right in his post about Madia’s ad — that it’s only a matter of time before Erik “Hey, what’s your opinion on Iraq?” Paulsen rolls out his ads. But by then Madia will have already had some time to define himself to the voters of the 3rd — and any negligible COH (cash on hand) advantage Paulsen has over Madia will be neutralized by the Scrooge McDuck sized advantage the DCCC has over the woefully underperforming NRCC — and the DCCC has shown they’re willing to devote those resources to candidates who work dilligently.
Something Madia has obviously done.
Great first ad….it is wonderfully done and makes a solid point….while Paulsen was playing partisan political games as the House leader, Madia was serving his country in Iraq! Wait till the next ad hits the airwaves. The Patriot has hit a home run with this one!
Because serving the nation in itself qualifies a person for political office. I assume you are also supporting McCain since he too served his country.
Sitting in a cage for five years because you got shot down while disobeying orders is hardly serving your country!!! OH SNAP!
Some class you have.
The conversation is about Madia, not McCain (I’ll happily comment on him another time). Madia understands that the failed Bush policies cannot continue, and Paulsen is just another GOP rubber stamp of those same old failed policies. At least McCain has stated his position on Iraq (although misguided…this is not a war we can ever win), whereas Paulsen still runs away from even mentioning Iraq. At least next week he may finally have to admit he’s a Republican, not the Moderate he’s been trying to sell us. Madia is a fiscal conservative and social moderate….a perfect fit for the 3rd. His type of experience is what this country needs! By the way, I respect his 4 years of Marine service not just because he served, but why he served…He wanted to give something back to this country that gave his family the chance to achieve the American dream. How many people can you think of that enlisted in the Marines or any other branch of the military AFTER law school. Madia understands what being a Patriot really is!
“Madia is a fiscal conservative and social moderate….a perfect fit for the 3rd.”
If he is a fiscal conservative and social moderate, he’ll be voting like a Republican, and the 3rd district Dems will hate that.
If he is a fiscal moderate and a social liberal, which I think is a more apt description, the 3rd CD Dems will be OK but the district at large won’t be so excited.
The Republicans may have been social conservatives at one time, but it’s hard to say that now. More like borrow and spend and mortgage our children’s and grandchildren’s future to line their own pockets. Madia is not afraid to tell it like it is and the voters of this district certainly aren’t better off today than 8 years ago. More right wing ultra conservative agendas are not what any of us needs. Is there any doubt why Paulsen is trying to run away from his Republican roots and call himself a moderate? If being a liberal means that all people should be treated equally, then give me that…not Paulsen’s ideology that gay’s are sinners and women that choose abortion should be considered criminals! The number of independents and moderate Republicans supporting Madia is growing daily, and I know a number of “strong” Republicans that will be crossing over the ballot to vote for Madia…they all wish he was still in their party.
My sources put the figgure closer to 375k.
But it’s going to be a impressive haul, that’s for sure.
Methinks Madia will hit well over 1 million in Q3. His Q2+Q3 takes might be more than 2 million alone.
http://www.swingstateproject.com/showDiary.do?diaryId=2894
NRCC is buying $675,000 worth of ad time to slime Madia.
I will give you that it is a well executed ad. Visuals, subtext, etc are terrific. Anyone know who did it?
rainman: “By the way, I respect his 4 years of Marine service not just because he served, but why he served…He wanted to give something back to this country that gave his family the chance to achieve the American dream. How many people can you think of that enlisted in the Marines or any other branch of the military AFTER law school. Madia understands what being a Patriot really is!”
He did not go to Law School (notice that he didn’t mention where in his ad [NYU], even though he mentioned Osseo HS and U of MN undergrad) and then after that decide to join the Marine Corps. In fact, he was in the Marine Corps during law school. This was a very calculated move by a very calculating wanna be politician, just as much of the rest of his resume is.
This has been his plan all along: get involved in student gov’t at the U on a ‘fiscal conservative’ and pragmatic ‘get results’ platform (easy to switch things up a bit down the road to suit whichever party can best get him what he wants), join the Marine Corps (help pay for law school), go to law school, be a JAG (looks good that you’ve served your country), figure out which party and where he can most quickly get elected (avoid buying a house that would tie him down). See the thing is, the GOP is more of a big tent than the Dems and Madia knows it. In the right district (maybe even this one if there weren’t so many other Congressmen in Waiting), he could have conceivably run as Republican. But now, as a Dem, I have a feeling he’s going to have a hard time swallowing some of the liberal social positions he has ended up taking. And it’s going to cost him down the road when he tries to run for something else, especially if he tries to do so in this part of the state.
In everything I’ve seen, I honestly don’t think Madia knows who he is or what he stands for. I almost feel sorry for him … almost. In the meantime, Erik Paulsen is a known quantity. He has a voting record. He can relate to the concerns/issues that families in the 3rd have to deal with, simply because he HAS a family, he owns a home (and hasn’t been living with his mom and dad because that would just be weird), he HAS A JOB.
Pattie,
You are the one who is off track here, frankly. Why don’t you actually speak with Ash Madia? You’d know that he truly understands and is passionate about his personal stances on issues of import to many people. I love your insinuation that you know that he is a calculating person. When you were 19 did you actually plan out your life? I’d be amazed if you did. I know I certainly didn’t - nor have my two children.
Your last paragraph lauding Paulsen is laughable, honestly. Paulsen is a known quantity. I’ll give you that. As soon as others know him, too, they’ll never consider voting for him. He has an abysmal record on voting with the GOP only. He touts that line of bipartisanship and reaching across the aisle…..right. He was one of the most partisan people around as majority leader and just wait until people realize he was one of those who shut down the government. He also didn’t squawk at all when the transportation 6 were ousted for voting with the Dems….nor did he vote with them either - even though the Chamber of Commerce supported the transportation bill! So….you believe that working for a top notch law firm and quitting to run for Congress is “unemployed” while working as a “business analyst” at Target is? I say it shows commitment and persistence and dedication to a cause. Paulsen can’t relate to families in the 3rd….he has no idea who they are and they don’t know him either. He has made absolutely NO effort in all of his years in the Minnesota house to actually speak to constituents - you know, those people who he supposedly serves. He only shows up at GOP events, all invitation only. Are we to laud Paulsen because he has children? Is that the requirement for office? Then, how on earth did the voters of the 3rd send Ramstad to Washington all these years? He wasn’t married nor did he have kids to show off in parades? Is home ownership a requirement? Isn’t renting an apartment and living in the district enough? Who sets these rules? You? The person I feel sorry for is you. You have drunk the GOP kool aid hook line and sinker. You should make an effort to step outside the GOP line and meet Ash Madia. You’ll be amazed, pleased and thrilled with the opportunity. He’s a fabulous candidate who fits our district very well and will serve us well in Congress for years to come.
Patti:
“He can relate to the concerns/issues that families in the 3rd have”
Has he taking a position on Irag yet?
Everytime that question is asked to supporters of Paulsen nobody has an answer…
My goodness people…How can someone vote for Paulsen when he can not express his views!
I’ve met him. When he was 19. And he had it all figured out.
Ramstad has a daughter.
Pattie raised some valid questions.
WOW — Patti sounds like a very bitter person. My husband went to college on an ROTC scholarship and served our country for almost 15 years. Here is a little education for you — you might
SORRY — HIT THE WRONG KEY AND IT SUBMITTED….anyway, you might THINK when you sign on the dotted line that you have control of your life when you go to school on the military dime, but THEY ASSIGN YOU TO WHAT THEY WANT YOU TO DO AND WHERE YOU WILL DO IT. Trust me, my husband did not want to go to Iceland in the winter!
Anyway, Madia might have been full of himself in college when he was 19 years old — so are all of us. And I couldn’t tell my college bound kids ANYTHING when they went off to school. Oh how things change with a little time and experience.
Ashwin Madia did not get into law school by luck, it was by good grades and test scores. Even if he went to law school courtesy of the marines, he had to EARN THE PRIVILEGE. And he had to pay back the debt. Every Marine is A Marine first, regardless of job or assignment.
You must really hate Norm Coleman, lifelong Democrat who changed parties when he realized he could never run for governor here as a Democrat. So, he siezed the opportunity and ran for the senate as a “new found republican”. Al Franken will be happy to hear that!
Ramstad was single for years. Didn’t seem to be an issue for the 3rd. If he has a daughter, I have never heard about her or seen any pictures of her. And I am a DEM who voted for Ramstad, so I am not trashing him here.
Ashwin Madia will be a great Congressman for us! He works very hard! His campaign is very well organized, and he has great people on board! It is one of the most inspiring campaigns I have seen in a lot of years. I believe he is the real deal. If he’s not, then trust me, he will be voted out in 2 years.
But I don’t think that will happen. I think he is going to hold this job as long as he wants it.
As for Paulsen, a career politician who doesn’t respond to email, a former GOP leader who thought reaching across the aisle meant to SHUT DOWN GOVERNMENT, and most recently a partisan who voted against the transportation bill and voted for the largest cuts in education in the history of our state, I do not believe that is the kind of person we want to send to Washington.
To be honest Patti, sounds like some sour grapes on your part because you see a fellow classmate becoming more successful. Hard work, getting up earlier, going to bed later and personal sacrifice. Try it.
Oh — sorry for going on here- but I believe the first time Erik Paulsen knocked on my door to run for office he was about 24 years old. So, if you want to talk about careers….
Pattie
“In fact, he was in the Marine Corps during law school. This was a very calculated move by a very calculating wanna be politician, just as much of the rest of his resume is.”
What bullshit are you spewing. Go the Madia Web site. He joined the Marines AFTER law school. Check it out for yourself dear Pattie…..
“After law school, Madia joined the U.S. Marine Corps and moved to Quantico, Virginia for six months of basic training.”
http://www.madiaforcongress.com/bio
“join the Marine Corps (help pay for law school), ”
More bullshit from Pattie ….how did the Marines “pay for law school” when he joined the Marines AFTER law school
“In everything I’ve seen, I honestly don’t think Madia knows who he is or what he stands for. I almost feel sorry for him … almost. In the meantime, Erik Paulsen is a known quantity. He has a voting record. He can relate to the concerns/issues that families in the 3rd have to deal with, simply because he HAS a family, he owns a home (and hasn’t been living with his mom and dad because that would just be weird), he HAS A JOB.”
What exactly is “known” about Erik Paulsen. All we know is that he is a right wing politician. I guess unless you are married, one cannot relate to issues like Iraq, the deficit etc. Oh i forgot, this is the usual canned “motherhood and apple pie” bullshit that Pattie is trying to spew.
DTM always has “concerns” about Madia.
When Madia was running agains Bonoff, he was “concerned” about Madia lack of acheivements. Because after all he knew a friend of a friend of friend who vouched for what a wunderbar job Bonoff was doing on edcuation and other stuff.
Now he still has concerns about Madia…
B.T.W when I asked DTM if Target hires executives who had side gigs like Paulsen, he went silent. I guess concerns about Paulsen and his crony set up at Target are non-existant ?
“See the thing is, the GOP is more of a big tent than the Dems…”
ROFLMAO!!!!
Pattie, thanks for proving - once again - that reasonable people reasonably cannot believe anything a republiCon says.
I have to disagree with you about about your statement that “the GOP is more of a big tent than the Dems.” and I point to the new Republican Platform that has recently been ratified as evidence. The platform states opposition to any plan that would provide amnesty for people in the country illegally when it states, “The rule of law suffers if government policies encourage or reward illegal activity,” Hardly a big tent! This year’s platform text opposes the use of embryonic stem cells for medical research even though John McCain supports such research and has said he would reverse Bush’s ban on federal funding to develop treatments using embryonic stem cells. Inclusive? Furthermore, the platform committee was unwilling to compromise on its abortion plank to accommodate McCain’s views. One can envision McCain slowly inching his way out of this “big tent.” Finally, Republicans caution against the doomsday climate-change scenarios. Still, for the first time it uses the term “global warming” and acknowledges the effect of “increased atmospheric carbon.” Compromise? Big tent? Au contraire mon fraire!
Instead of a “big tent” it seems the Republicans adhere to Ms. Phyllis Shafley, titular head of the Eagle Forum, when she said in reference to the Republican platform, “When we didn’t do what Bob Dole wanted he just went out and said he wasn’t going to pay attention to it anyway…”And we know what happened to Bob Dole.” Prophetic?
Pattie:
If the only requirements for being a qualified Representative (by virtue of being able to relate to the concerns/issues of folks in the 3rd) were that a person has a house, a job, kids, and a voting record, we’d be looking at a huge field of candidates ranging from the remarkably talented to the pitifully inept.
Certainly, while there are lots of folks in the district who have families, houses and jobs, there are many whose family lives, houses, and jobs are teetering on the edge of stability right now because of the failed policies of folks who think (and vote) like Erik Paulsen.
I’m prepared to give a guy who doesn’t necessarily have those arbitrary criteria a chance… There are a whole lot of people in CD3 who don’t fit nicely into the cookie-cutter nuclear household of the 50s (that, incidentally, was pretty much a sham anyway). If our incoming representative has to have a house, job, and kids, who’ll represent the interests of those people? I’m betting on Ashwin Madia.
Going to try to address several things here (out of order, sorry)…
CherylP said: “So….you believe that working for a top notch law firm and quitting to run for Congress is “unemployed” while working as a “business analyst” at Target is? I say it shows commitment and persistence and dedication to a cause. ”
Actually, I think the fact that Madia quit working demonstrates that he doesn’t have a clue what it’s like to be an average voter in the 3rd. (On a side note, it’s also curious that the firm didn’t allow him to take a leave of absence, but I’m sure that’s been explained somewhere so you can eduate me on that.) Sure, if you want to call it “dedication to a cause” go ahead and do that — but it’s dedication to the egocentric Madia cause of being a politician, not to the altruistic cause of being a DFL Congressman from the 3rd.
southwestdem said: “Anyway, Madia might have been full of himself in college when he was 19 years old — so are all of us. And I couldn’t tell my college bound kids ANYTHING when they went off to school. Oh how things change with a little time and experience.”
The thing is, with a little time and experience, things haven’t changed for Jigar … er, I mean Ashwin (he WAS Jigar to all of us who knew him before he decided to run for office … another political calculation on his part). Ask others who knew him in his U of MN days and they’ll agree: He had a very calculated plan, and he has stuck to it. I admire his ability to do so and the fact that’s he’s gotten to this point, but that doesn’t mean it will make him a good congressman. In fact, I would say the opposite. It shows him to be quite calculating and willing to do whatever he can to get elected.
rm: I didn’t say that “unless you are married, one cannot relate to issues like Iraq, the deficit etc.” I do, however, believe that Paulsen has a lot more life experiences then Madia. Life experiences that make him able to better relate to the voters in the 3rd.
southwestdem: “you might THINK when you sign on the dotted line that you have control of your life when you go to school on the military dime, but THEY ASSIGN YOU TO WHAT THEY WANT YOU TO DO AND WHERE YOU WILL DO IT.”
Not sure what this has to do with anything … Madia made the calculation that serving in the USMC was a worthwhile investment of his time, given that he wanted to run for office as quickly as possible. This gives him credibility, in your eyes and that of the DFL, so it seems to have been an investment that’s paying off!
southewstdem: “To be honest Patti, sounds like some sour grapes on your part because you see a fellow classmate becoming more successful. Hard work, getting up earlier, going to bed later and personal sacrifice. Try it.”
To be honest southewstdem, no sour grapes at all here — I am, in fact, very happy with the life I’ve chosen for myself. I do, however, think that some of the stuff being spewed by the Madia campaign is really disingenuos and I’m disappointed in him.
rm asks “What exactly is “known” about Erik Paulsen.” Paulsen is a known quantity because he has a voting record — years and years worth of recorded positions on issues. You deny this? I’ve just started paying attention to this race, so I’m not sure of the ins and outs of various issues, but there is a voting record there.
southwestdem said “He works very hard! His campaign is very well organized, and he has great people on board! It is one of the most inspiring campaigns I have seen in a lot of years. I believe he is the real deal.”
I’m guessing you must have really liked the inspirational campaigns of Howard Dean and Dennis Kucinich, too? I would expect that Madia would work hard, seeing as how it’s his only job right now. A campaign, the enthusiasm level, and how it is run isn’t necessarily a reflection of how the candidate will perform at the ballot box or once in office. Every campaign and its volunteers worth anything should say the same thing that you’re saying about the Madia campaign. But it matters most what the voters think and I don’t think they’ll have the same enthusiasm come election day.
CherylP — is the “government shutdown” attack one of the most recent talking point from the Madia campaign? Pinning this on one individual is irresponsible. The ability (or lack thereof) of state government to get its work done on time is contingent upon several decision makers to steer things along. It’s simply not fair to blame Paulsen for this and not mention the DFL lawmakers who are just as responsible. It takes two to tango… (or in this case, seven or so: Governor, Senate Maj Leader and Pogemiller, Senate Min Leader, Speaker, House Maj Leader, House Min Leader)
That’s all for now…
Pattie
I thought u accused Madia of joining the Marines to get them to fork out his law school tuition. What happenned ? Need to check back with the Paulsen campaign ?
I guess getting a cushy part time job at Target is “comittment and dedication to a cause”. So, what “cause” is this committment to ? The cause of self preservation of Eric Paulsen ?
Working in Iraq and around the world does not count for life experiences. I guess not according to your book. A rather narrow minded view of the world. But then, what else can one expect from a Republican appartchik.
Now regarding the “government shutdown” you dont want Eric Paulsen as the Minority Leader to take responsibility for. So what exactly is his role as a Minority Leader , when you take the Leader role out of it ? Cheerleader for the right wing hacks ?
As far as the ‘big tent’ criticisms go, Jim Ramstad represented this district for a long time. In my mind, nothing more needs to be said. But I will anyway…
I didn’t watch it all, because I like to think that I’m an average American and not too wrapped up in politics, but here’s the people I saw on TV last night at the DNC Convention: Nancy Pelosi, Hilary Clinton, Harry Reid, John Kerrey.
Here are some of the names I’ve heard in terms of speakers at the RNC convention: Joe Lieberman, Rudy Giuliani, Tom Ridge, John McCain.
Sure, you can pick each of the RNC speakers apart for various reasons and on various issues, but the GOPers represent a much wider range of viewpoints on many topics — a range that is much more palatable to the majority of the American public (maybe not to you liberals in the blogosphere, but honestly, do you think you represent the average voter???).
Pattie…..you are kidding, aren’t you? Your comments on speakers don’t even deserve a response. If you think the GOP has a larger tent, you’re delusional and nothing will change that.
Ramstad did represent this district for years…many Dems voted for him - me included. But, I can guarantee you, Paulsen’s no Ramstad and people who find out what he stands for won’t be voting for him either. This district is moderate and Paulsen’s a Pawlenty Republican, not a Ramstad Republican.
As a matter of fact, Patti, I was a Wesley Clark supporter. I do not care for Kusinich, and although I did not support Howard Dean, I respect the level of organization he has brought to the Democratic Party.
Paulsen IS a known commodity. I know, because I have lived in his district for as long as he has been in office. He is an EXTREME RIGHT WING FUNDAMENTAL CHRISTIAN REPUBLICAN. He attends a Missouri Synod Church, in fact he is on the board of that Church, so he not only follows their precepts, he helps to set them. I am not critiquing his beliefs here, simply stating what they are. He publicly told families of gay children to pray for them, that he did not believe that they should openly be allowed to serve our country in our military.
Erik Paulsen also has extreme views on Women’s Rights and Stem Cell Research, and that is proven by his votes.
He was the MAJORITY LEADER when government was shut down, so since you republicans love to blame congressional shortfalls on Pelosi and Reid, guess what — it must have been his doing and his responsibility. You can’t have it both ways.
I am sorry you don’t like Ashwin Madia. He grew up, obviously you haven’t. I challenge you to call him and meet with him and air whatever 10 year old college grievance you are holding on to, and give him a chance to make things right. I think the 30 year old Ashwin Madia would be more than willing to do that.
Finally, I do believe that the way a campaign is run, and who works on that campaign, and how volunteers are treated on that campaign DOES tell us a lot about the candidate and how he will treat people and do his job once elected. An organized campaign with lots of volunteers show support, which translates into votes. The Madia campaign office is always busy, active and feels positive when you go in. The people there look happy. The vibe is a good one. The Paulsen office, on the other hand, seems to be almost empty. The first time I visited, there was no literature, no posters, no position papers to read, and only one volunteer who said there might be lit pieces in a week. Most recently, there were 3 people, one lit piece, no position papers, no feeling of a vibrant campaign happening, and no feeling of support.
So, Ashwin Madia is organized — GOOD. Ashwin Madia sets goals and achieves them — GOOD. Ashwin Madia works very hard — GOOD. Ashwim Madia has a large campaign full of energized workers — GOOD. Ashwin Madia is going to win this election — GOOD.
Pattie:
Since you are answering questions on here. Can you answer my question then? What is Paulsen’s position on the Iraq war? I do believe that this question represents the average voter.
I challenge Patti to name even 1 Democrat she has voted for! I can name several republicans I voted for, so pony up Patti! Republicans are constantly talking about the big tent, but none of them have ever voted for Democrats!
Yet they always want Democrats to be bipartisan.
Finally — all of those republicans you mentioned are NEOCONS. Very similar views!
My ultimate point here is that Madia has very carefully calculated all of this in an effort to run for office as quickly as he could. And now, he has had to become an Obama Democrat in order to get the support of the DFL. I think it will come back to bite him in this more moderate district.
Please understand that I’m not personally attacking you. I’m glad there are still passionate people out there. I just don’t think Madia is as passionate about the issues you care about as you think he is.
On a sidenote, based on poll I heard about on MPR recently, do voters really think it’s a bad thing to be a “Pawlenty Republican” in Minnesota?
Patti:
Since you did not answer my question…”What is Paulsen’s position on the Iraq war?” I would like to know your position of the Iraq war? I am quite sure if I where to ask the Dems on here they would quickly respond.
Pattie……do voters really think it’s a bad thing to be a “Pawlenty Republican”? No, they don’t. But there is a huge difference between Pawlenty (member of Wooddale Church in Eden Prairie) and working class roots and Paulsen (board member of Victory Lutheran of the Missouri Synod) and a total unknown except inside the GOP. People may not agree with Pawlenty but they like him. They also feel they know him - for better or worse. No one can say that about Paulsen other than the GOP.
Since this post is about fundraising totals, how about those expenditures that Paulsen has listed in his report? Wish I were Michael Brodkorb
Michael B. Brodkorb
08/05/2008
Consulting
$6,000.00
07/07/2008
Consulting
$3,000.00
and just made $9,000 dollars as a “part time consultant”. The most interesting post is the money SPENT for POLLING:
Tarrance Group
201 N. Union Street Suite 410
Alexandria, Virginia 223142649
07/29/2008
Polling
$11,505.00
Gosh, looks like a quacking duck….remember all of those posts about push polling and all of you good republicans who couldn’t believe that Erik Paulsen would ever do that? You’ve been CONNED.
Well, they spent over $11k on polling in early July, but didn’t release it, nor even leak it - tells ya that the numbers might not have been favorin’ The Hustler, don’t it?
The Tarrance Group
“I guess getting a cushy part time job at Target is “comittment and dedication to a cause”. So, what “cause” is this committment to ? The cause of self preservation of Eric Paulsen ?”
rm - give us all a break. Would you say the same thing about the dozens of DFL legislators who do the exact same thing? I’d say that taking care of a family’s financial needs when the legislative session is out is a good thing. Very few - like Pogemiller - can afford to be a full-time legislator. Instead of spending his “off season” as a lawyer or conflicted-interest-lobbyist, he goes to work for one of Minnesota’s strongest companies. I respect that.
Pattie - it is taboo around here to talk about Madia’s lack of experience in the 3rd CD. The fact he has really only lived in the 3rd for maybe 4 years, most of that being before he was old enough to vote, is completely off-limits with this crowd. It touches a nerve with them when you fail to say that his time served in Iraq replaces any type of experience needed being a citizen, resident, and taxpayer of the 3rd.
DantheMan:
What touches a nerve is no response on the frequently posted question, “What is Erik Paulsen’s position on Iraq?” I have seen this question posted many, many times in the last few months and still no answer. Do you not think it is a relevant question? Why do you and Erik’s supporters have no response. Is it taboo to answer?
Madia doesn’t just have a lack of experience in the 3rd, it’s lack of life experience overall (sound anything like a certain Presidential candidate?). As a middle-of-the-road voter, this matters to me! (And yes, I have voted for GOPers and Dems, thank you very much.)
I know plenty of people who have served or are still serving in the military. And just because they’ve done a deployment or lived abroad due to the military, it doesn’t make them qualified to relate to the things that the voters in the 3rd care about. In fact, a case could be made that they have even less of a chance of relating to the voters in this district.
Serving in the military is just one piece of a person’s life experience. With Madia, the rest of the pieces just aren’t there yet. You can disagree as much as you want on this blog, but in the end, it’s voters like me that will decide.
Gosh, no one touches the push polling question either. Proof is in the campaign filing. Can’t run away from that. I would rather give my vote to a patriot that is new to politics than a partisan career politician who is spending money in ways I do not approve to try and get the job.
Boy, I started quite the debate! Speaking of debates, I can’t wait till the next 6-7 happen so we can finally get to hear Paulsen’s platforms on a variety of topics…he hasn’t given us much as yet, but there’s still 2 months left and anything can happen. The thing is, back in November when the Dem’s had their first debate about Iraq (Paulsen was invited, but declined..I wonder why) nobody really knew Ash and he pummelled both Bonoff and Hovland on that issue. Every debate after that, Bonoff and Hovland improved (to their credit), but Ash still won them all handily and no matter what the topic, his grasp of both the big picture and the small details is incredible. If Ash in fact was planning his life so efficiently as a 19 year old, then one can only imagine how well he’ll do as a worldly Congressman who actually cares about everyone he meets no matter what color their skin, the sexual orientation, or their social or economic status. This sounds like the 3rd district I’ve lived in for 34 of the last 36 years. Patti and the rest of the doubters should be grateful that Ashwin will represent ALL of us!
DanTheMan
Can u tell me “the dozens of DFL legislators” who have part time jobs a major corporations. Try to name 2 or 3.
IMO, this is nothing but a payoff by Target to have the Senate Majority Leader on their payroll. How convenient. I work in a large company and cannot fathom how an executive could take off a number of mths each year and still hold a job.
Deny it all you want, but apple pie statements like “taking care of a family’s financial needs” sounds good, but it is how he is taking care of it sounds outright fishy.
Pattie - “it is taboo around here to talk about Madia’s lack of experience in the 3rd CD. ”
How convenient. DTM crafts the “lack of experience” to include only the 3rd CD. Else he would have to acknowledge Madias experience in the millitary around the world. Experience that manifested itself in Madias performance in debates and other appearances.
What exactly is so great about Eric Paulsens experice. He is nothing more than a party appartchik who knows how to spew out the right wing pap. What experience does he have to deal with national and international issues in Congress. Could it be none ? No wonder he is in hiding regarding his views on Iraq.
rm - It is “fishy” to have a job to pay the bills?
You must be a real liberal.
Madia has tons of experience on 1 issue. The issue of our role in Iraq. He has experience on that 1 issue that Paulsen just doesn’t have. I admit it.
Oooh…but the problem is that as our Congressman in DC, that is 1 of about 150 issues he’ll need to handle. And of the big issues of the day that will affect the future of our kids, it is 1 of probably 20.
On the other 19, he is light. Very light.
Minnesota Republican blogger DantheMan, I agree 100%,
Everybody knows Liberals do not like to work for a living, or contribute to society. It is common knowledge that all they believe in are Government handouts.
Now, these Liberals we disagree with know where they stand with Republican bloggers.
Great Job Minnesota Republican blogger DanteheMan
Thanks for summing up my point, TFRWG. Based on rm’s loathing of corporations and people who would have the nerve to work for them, that is the only thing I can infer.
DanTheMan
This was my statement
“Deny it all you want, but apple pie statements like “taking care of a family’s financial needs” sounds good, but it is how he is taking care of it sounds outright fishy.”
This is your reading of my statement statement
“rm - It is “fishy” to have a job to pay the bills?”
Have a problem comprehending English, Dan ?
Lets see 1 issue is Iraq, the other could be defense authorizations, the other could be National Security warrants (FISA), the other could be protecting intellectual properties of American companies, the other could be overseas treaties…
And the count for Paulsen on these is….yup a big fat 0.
Say DanTheMan, I thought u knew of a few Dems who had the same sweetheart deal of a “work when i want ” job like Paulsen at Target. I asked u for some names ? Did u miss that or was it convenient amnesia.
“Can u tell me “the dozens of DFL legislators” who have part time jobs a major corporations. Try to name 2 or 3.”
Actually, when I went into the State Legislator website and pulled up the bios on the first 40 or so legislators as listed by district, the breakout what something like this:
60% listed an active occupation which they engage in when not in session
35% were retired or listed an occupation that wasn’t with an employer of any type (e.g. farmer)
2 were legislators and only legislators — Rukavina and Jaros
So are you implying that those 60% who work when not in session all have some sort of sweetheart deal with their employer? I’ll add that it is an even split betwee Dems and Reps.
dtm…the only thing Madia is light on is his feet…did you see his nice stride in his “running” commercial? Actually, I’m looking forward to Madia, Dillon, and Paulsen in the next 6-7 debates….then you can see who’s light. I predict a sweep for the Captain, just like in the DFL endorsing debates. You must have no idea how bright and articulate he is…his grasp of both the big picture and the minutes details is impressive. The more the voters of the 3rd get to know him, the better they will like him and vote for him.
60% listed an active occupation which they engage in when not in session
A bunch of these guys are lawyers, not “i’ll work when i want” jobs in corporations. You stated that u knew a few DFLers who had such sweetheart deals in corporations. Name them Dan.
Lets not confuse capitalism with crony capitalism. The right wing has no problem with the later as long as it serves their purpose. Paulsen has a sweetheart deal at Target by parlaying his Minority Leader position. Deal with it Dan.
No, rm. I stated that many DFL’ers have part time arrangements so they can work when not in session. YOu are the one who injected the corporation point. Because we all know that big, bad corporations are inheretly evil. I had forgotten hat. Give me a break.
So it would be fine for Paulsen to have an arrangement with an employer to come back and work while the legisltaure is not in session, but only not with a corporation?
rm - you’ve been watching too many movies.
rainman -
There was one debate already. I recall that Madia said two things that struck me:
1) He got very sensitive when Dillon and Paulsen suggested any kind of legal tort reform as part of a 5 or 7 point plan. Madia felt like they were picking on the lawyaers. It was humerous.
2) He defends getting rid of the secret ballot for union organizaton.
Not coincidentally, 3 of his top 5 contributors are 2 unions and the Robins / Miller/ Kaplan “non-corporate-but-business” PAC
DTM, Very interesting that we went to the same debate and came away with very different memories. I did not feel that Madia was ‘sensitive” over the lawyers comment but actually chuckled somewhat. I do believe most people would be a little concerned over their chosen professional professions being slammed as they know that the negative view is not the case most of the time. Doctors don’t like to hear people slam doctors even though they are aware there are some horrible doctors out there. Same with lawyers. I was more struck by Paulsen’s non-existence. I had heard that he was this amazing campaigner and had this great connection with people. I hadn’t seen it for the past years I’ve lived in his community but held my opinion. This was my first time seeing him in action and I was singularly unimpressed.
I like David Dillon but can’t really figure out his reason for running. He doesn’t seem to have a clue how congress works by his statements at the debate. I wanted there to be an open mike for q&a, frankly. I wanted to ask him precisely who he was going to caucus with in DC? I wanted to know who he was going to go to for committee assignments? I wanted to know how his caucus of one (because Bernie Sanders caucuses with the Dems, as does Joe Lieberman) would “serve” us effectively?
I was very impressed with Madia. He needs to clarify his position on union balloting. For a first debate, not bad to come away with one question remaining.
DanTheMan
Here is your statement
rm - give us all a break. Would you say the same thing about the dozens of DFL legislators who do the exact same thing?
So what exactly is “the exact same thing”. A puff job at a corporation that i was accusing Pauslen of lining himself .
Lets see Dan, I work in the real work, and can smell this sweetheart deal a mile away. A leading corporation employing someone with a side gig going. Read a normal employment contracts one signs when they join a corporation and see how fishy this smells.
Dan, I guess for you crony capitalism is A-OK. But then why am i surprised.
DTM,
I do know other state legislators who work real jobs when session is not on. They aren’t cushy, that’s for sure. Their employers have tight demands on them, long hours, nothing special. Paulsen’s job seems too cushy and too cuddly by half.
rm -
I sense a theme.
You wrote ad nauseum in the spring about how Bonoff got her job through croneyism. You could stand that people referred to her as a businesswoman.
Now, you ar hung up on the fact that Paulsen got a job through what you label croneyism. How laughable.
When in doubt, call it croneyism. What an easy scapegoat, and the best part is when you insert the word “corporation”, you can give it a negative connotation and not back it up with any fact. Everybody knows that corporations that built America are out there to stick it to the little guy, right? You’re sounding a bit like Obamas speech last night.
Cherly - valid points, and thanks for raising the dialogue up a notch from the worn rhetoric that rm spews. I guess my issue was not that Madia defended trail lawyers — that is typically a DFL position. My issue was that when Dillon or Paulsen (don’t recall which) brought up their 5 point plan on how to deal with rising healthcare costs, all points having merit can cost-savings behind them, Madia was quick to jump on the tort reform point as attempting to have a “boogeyman”. No, it wasn’t them trying to find a boogeyman, it was them trying to fix the issue of healthcare costs in a very pragmatic approach.
It was just telling to me that Madia knows where his base is, and it certainly affects his policy views.
“You wrote ad nauseum in the spring about how Bonoff got her job through croneyism. You could stand that people referred to her as a businesswoman.”
I guess you did not read the part where her own ex admitted that she joined Navarre Corp as a PR gal. I guess not, because u where too busy defending her “accomplishements” that u heard thru a friend of a friend of a friend.
Her folks tried to trash my assertions for months together but could not provide a scinitlla of evidence that she was a business execu at Tonka Toys. Now why was that Dan ?
“Now, you ar hung up on the fact that Paulsen got a job through what you label croneyism. How laughable.”
What is laughable is you trying to defend it. I guess the truth hurts. Say DTM, some of us lefties have real jobs after a real education. I guess that helps in spotting these crony deals that you are busy trying to cover for your man Paulsen.
“Everybody knows that corporations that built America are out there to stick it to the little guy, right? You’re sounding a bit like Obamas speech last night.”
You sound like McCain and Bush. Trying to justify the crony empire they have built in Washington. Try for a moment to discover competence of the real kind. It helps.
“You wrote ad nauseum in the spring about how Bonoff got her job through croneyism. You could stand that people referred to her as a businesswoman”
I asked the Bonoff people to prove that she was an “executive” at Tonka Toys and they could not. Wonder why ? So, here we have a person who claimed who was an “executive” at a major corp like Tonka Toys and could not prove it. Her own ex-husband and major supporter admitted she was nothing more than a P.R gal.
How much more direct a question regarding someones “executive” experience do you need Dan. What is laughable is your ability to stand up for the “crony” establishment. You must be clearly worried that questioning Paulsens “crony ” job at Target is going to get more play as the campaign rolls along.
DtM, for GOPers, it IS about a bogeyman, and Madia was correct to point it out. You want to lower health costs? Make the board of directors that give guys like Bill McGuire 100’s of millions a YEAR, do their jobs.
Executives screw employees and stockholders, but you jerks blame lawyers.
You should be ashamed, but you’re a repbuliCon so you’re quite capable of cheerfully lying through your teeth.
There’s nothing special about Madia or Paulsen in raising money. They could be anybody, and they are, simply Blue Guy and Red Guy.
They are whoring for money like it is going out of style. At some point in the campaign they will be exposed for the special interest empty suits that they are.
The only man of substance in this campaign, David Dillon, has refused special interest contibutions. How impressed would you if Red Guy and Blue Guy did the same?
Bleed Purple,
Not at all. The difference is - Dems and GOP’ers actually have a chance to win. Dillon has no clue about congress. He hasn’t answered questions put to him by email yet……which party would he caucus with? Dems or Republicans? The two other independents caucus with the Dems. Which party would he seed with for committee assignments? If he stayed “independent”, he’d ensure that he would always be the bottom in a caucus of 1. (The other two indies seed with Dems.) Precisely how would the bottom seniority, no caucus, no party “congressman” actually “serve” us? It’s time for reality. Madia and Paulsen are raising money because they have to compete to win - to serve the people of the 3rd - not just for a vanity run for office. Without his millions, Dillon would be just another indie tilting at windmills.
Erik Paulsen has raised $107,000 from corporate special interests.
In 2001, Paulsen proposed prohibiting PAC contributions for Minnesota politicians. Discussing the bill in 2001, Paulsen said, “Eliminating PAC contributions will restore integrity to the political process and give citizens the confidence that their voice is more important than special interests groups.” Paulsen added, “We must act to negate the very perception that special interest money controls the way our government is run.” Now, Paulsen’s own campaign committee treasurer, Reid LeBeau, is himself a registered lobbyist. [State Representative Erik Paulsen press release, 3/21/01; Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board, Registered Lobbyists, accessed 8/29/08]
Erik has no shame, and is drowning in corporate PAC money.
Captain Madia has kept his commitment NOT to accept contributions from corporate PACs.
Ashwin Madia has the courage to change.
Erik Paulsen has raised $107,000 from corporate special interests.
In 2001, Paulsen proposed prohibiting PAC contributions for Minnesota politicians. Discussing the bill in 2001, Paulsen said, “Eliminating PAC contributions will restore integrity to the political process and give citizens the confidence that their voice is more important than special interests groups.” Paulsen added, “We must act to negate the very perception that special interest money controls the way our government is run.” Now, Paulsen’s own campaign committee treasurer, Reid LeBeau, is himself a registered lobbyist. [State Representative Erik Paulsen press release, 3/21/01; Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board, Registered Lobbyists, accessed 8/29/08]
The Paulsen campaign is drowning in corporate PAC money. The hypocrisy meter is clearly in the red.
Captain Madia had kept his commitment to NOT accept contributions from corporate PACs.
Ashwin Madia has the courage to change.