Hamilton County GOP

Wenstrup Fundraiser, etc.

2009-07-09T08:01:00.009-04:00

Dr. Wenstrup will be having a large fundraising event tonight and I'm honored to be introducing him there. If you want to attend and help Brad as he runs for mayor, contact Maggie Nafziger at maggien@hc-gop.org.

And...

Ultra-liberal Cleveland Plain Dealer columnist, Connie Schultz, is the wife of ultra-liberal Sen. Sherrod Brown. She recently wrote a column about Gov. Palin. Of course, it was highly critical. You can read it here. Why would I link to this trash? Two reasons. First, it is particularly mean spirited. Second, because of a sentence in the article that is worthy of outrage. Ms. Schultz wrote, "But Palin refuses to acknowledge that trotting them [her children] out time and again during the campaign made them vulnerable to attacks, which indicates an enormous lapse in parental responsibility or an astounding lack of political savvy." I ask Ms. Schultz, what is "trotting them out?" Is Ms. Palin somehow complicit in the David Letterman fiasco? Are President Obama's children "trotted out" when we saw them on the campaign trail? How about all the interest in their new puppy? Are the President and First Lady "trotting out" the girls making them "vulnerable to attacks?" Of course not. This kind of nonsense is why America generally rejects liberals. Ms. Schultz making Gov. Palin complicit and responsible for the reprehensible attacks on these children is outrageous and irresponsible. Shame on her.

And...

The two political parties in America see economics in two different ways. The Democrats believe government drives job creation and wealth. The Republicans believe that government should only create an environment where private business can prosper and create jobs and wealth. Right now, we're trying it their way. Stay tuned.

And...

I love this website: http://tinyurl.com/.

And...

The loss of Peter Bronson and David Wells at the Enquirer is bad for journalism and politics. Yes, Wells was sometimes not with us. But, his voice was crucial. Bronson was always with us. They will both be missed until they pop up elsewhere.

And...

Great woot today. http://www.woot.com/.

And...

Vice President Quayle (oops, I mean Biden) is in today.

And...

Short blog today as lots of catching-up to do.

And...

Have a great Thursday.

Sunday, etc.

2009-07-05T07:34:00.003-04:00

Would the above pool be sufficient to meet the needs of city residents like Greg Harris and Laketa Cole who believe that swimming pools are a "necessary basic service" of government? If so, we could save millions. Pools are not and never will be a "NECESSARY basic service" of government and when liberals use race to argue that they are--they are wrong! Millions of underprivileged kids, regardless of race, grew up without the NECESSITY of a free municipal pool. So can Cincinnati's kids IF city government can no longer afford them.

And...

Thanks to the many people who sent birthday wishes to me yesterday. It was nice to be remembered.

And...

Governor Palin's decision to resign makes sense for anyone in the public arena. Being in leadership and in the public arena can be highly taxing and I'm sure Governor Palin was just worn out. What we all do to public figures is unfair, but it comes with the territory. Unless you are Barack Obama.

And...

Are you on Facebook and Twitter yet? If not, you've got to try them out. Typically, information goes around Facebook/Twitter before it hits any major news outlet. Take the tragic death of Steve McNair as an example. People were tweeting and updating on Facebook an hour before ANY major news outlet was reporting the story. The "viral" nature of these social media is incredible. It is an online universe that candidates and politicians must embrace.

And...

We have a head-to-head race for who will be the next mayor of Cincinnati. Wenstrup v. Mallory. This is a good thing for the GOP as we can lay out a clear alternative to the failed leadership of the current city government. Help Dr. Wenstrup by visiting www.BradWenstrup.com.

And...

All five GOP candidates for city council have taken C.O.A.S.T.'s no new tax pledge. I'm proud of that. Our candidates are embracing the core principles of our party during a time where the pressure to burden taxpayers will be the greatest. Our party will return to prominence when we embrace our core principles and stick to them. Financial conservatism is at the core of what we ought to be about. The voters demand it and we should deliver.

And...

The most recent vote at the city council on the budget was 5-4 with the liberal Democrats carrying the vote for more spending and less fiscal sanity.

And...

"We have a government we cannot afford." What will we do about that?

And...

The national news has been quite grim lately. It seems we can't watch any news without a death of some public person being reported. It is a good reminder about the sanctity of life and how precious it is.

And...

I'm not afraid to say it: ENOUGH of the Michael Jackson story already.

And...

I'm not afraid to say it: I bought a Big City Slider Station because of Billy Mays.

And...

I had a Democrat Facebook friend write this to me yesterday, "I hope one year older makes you one year wiser. Maybe you'll learn that answers are better than attacks." This guy, well meaning, doesn't understand my job. It has long been the role of political party leaders to point out contrasts between the political parties. I am an ADVOCATE for my side and, sometimes, that means I must be on the offensive. I don't serve in government. I serve as a party leader. My job is to have Republicans win--everywhere. If you want bi-partisan cooperation for good government, ask a candidate or elected office holder to do that. I prefer Republican candidates who can work effectively with Democrats (i.e. Rob Portman), but my job is to promote Republicans. As Bill O'Reilly says, "wise up!"

And...

Have a great Sunday.

Necessary Basic Services?

2009-07-02T07:23:00.005-04:00

I can't resist...sometimes it is just too easy....

The Enquirer's blog reports that city council member Laketa Cole believes that "pools and recreation centers" are "necessary basic services" of government. Ms. Cole was talking to the Enquirer about the current budget crisis. Here is an excerpt from the blog posting by Enquirer reporter Jane Prendergast:

"She [Ms. Cole] considers pools and recreation centers necessary basic services. She learned to swim at Washington Park pool. She credits her time there and at recreation centers for putting her on the path toward getting her bachelor's degree and now a master's while some of her friends from childhood were having babies as young as 13. Council will have to decide what it considers necessary basic services for the city to provide."

Read the entire blog post here.

Government is out of control when leaders in government make statements like that one. If we get to a point where politicians feel they have to say that swimming pools are a "necessary basic service" to get elected, our democracy is terribly at risk. Swimming pools are not and never will be a "necessary basic service" of government.

Alexander Tyler, an 18th century Scottish history professor, wrote,

"A democracy will continue to exist up until the time that voters discover they can vote themselves generous gifts from the public treasury. From that moment on, the majority always votes for the candidates who promise the most benefits from the public treasury, with the result being that every democracy will finally collapse due to loose fiscal policy, which is always followed by a dictatorship.”

We need to restore sanity to city government--and soon.

Mayor in Japan, etc.

2009-07-01T06:34:00.004-04:00

The Enquirer reports that Mayor Mark Mallory is in Gifu, Japan to celebrate 20 years of Gifu being a sister city to Cincinnati. He was in China last summer for a similar celebration. I hope the cost of this trip is not being borne by the taxpayers. I have no reason to think it is, but you can be sure we'll find out. I'll reserve comment until we know.

And...

Sen. Bob Schuler's Senate seat remains open. The furious lobbying has begun. Sen. Schuler will be missed.

And...

"Governor Strickland is doing an appalling job for Ohio." Why is this in quotes? Because those words--as true as they are--do not come from me. That is the title of a recent column written by respected political columnist Brent Larkin of the Cleveland Plain Dealer. Read his column on Gov. Strickland here. Brent Larkin is not a Republican and hardly a shill for the Ohio GOP. His column is spot-on. About Strickland, he writes, "[N]oboby should believe he's a good governor--because he's not." He then goes on to say, "[t]he lack of leadership this governor has shown throughout this crisis is nothing short of appalling." Tough words. And it doesn't get any nicer after that. Governor Strickland has been a terrible governor of this state. His nice-guy image has certainly worn off as the state faces serious problems that he is incapable of managing. He is playing politics to assure his re-election in 2010 and political observers everywhere are taking notice. The voters are not far behind.

And...

Speaking of Governors, John Kasich's campaign is in overdrive already. John is a fantastic political candidate and an incredibly intelligent guy. He will be elected our next Governor in 2010.

And...

Greg Harris voted for the wasteful and unnecessary Environmental Justice Ordinance. He supported Laketa Cole during her dust-up with the police by questioning police tactics rather than condemning her abuse of power. And, now, he is making ridiculous assertions about policing the city. That guy has got to go.

And...

I can't believe that Al Franken will be a United States Senator. How Minnesotans can get it so right sometimes (Gov. Tim Pawlenty) and so wrong other times (Jesse Ventura and Al Franken) amazes me.

And...

Back to the Brent Larkin article on Governor Strickland...here are a few more highlights:

"But that a governor actually advocated a reckless policy that would destroy Ohio's fine system of public libraries shows how completely clueless he is about the state he's lived in pretty much all his life."
"Strickland acts as if that future begins and ends with his 2010 re-election campaign."
"[H]is administration operates on an inexcusable double standard."
"Strickland is, by no small margin, the worst governor for Cleveland in my lifetime."
"If Strickland were a Republican, this state's many advocates for children would be burning him in effigy on the Statehouse lawn. But while these folks are extraordinarily well meaning, most are also Democrats. So their criticism of this governor is shamefully gentle. "

And...

I'm off to the beach.

And...

Have a great Wednesday.

Driehaus Wrong on Cap and Trade

2009-06-27T09:28:00.007-04:00

***Immediate Release***

Rep. Steve Driehaus voted "Yes" on HR 2454, the so-called "Cap and Trade" Bill, further alienating him from his constituents in Ohio's 1st Congressional District. To see his vote and how he joined his Democratic colleagues in raising your taxes, click here.

This controversial tax hike on energy passed under the guise of protecting the environment. It passed on a largely party-line vote of 219-212. With 44 Democrats opposing it (including ultra-liberal Dennis Kucinich), the Democratic leadership needed Steve Driehaus. As usual, they got him.

Mr. Driehaus has forgotten where he came from and is now part of the liberal, big-spending, over-taxing Democratic machine in Washington, D.C. He does what he is told in Washington by the Democratic party.

The "cap and trade" bill is a tax hike on energy. House minority leader John Boehner says it best:

"The so-called “cap and trade” proposal amounts to a carbon tax, plain and simple. The plan would cap emissions, such as carbon dioxide, and force companies to purchase “credits” from companies who use less energy to meet the governments’ emissions requirements. House Republicans agree that we should work together to make real progress in promoting clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment, but “cap and trade” is not the answer.

The Administration’s budget expects to raise $646 billion in “climate revenue” by 2020. That’s $646 billion in new taxes imposed on coal, oil, and natural gas - which currently provides 85% of America’s energy. “Cap and trade” would empower bureaucrats in Washington to dictate energy prices and make choices that are best left to free markets and free people. Proposing new taxes on energy during a recession is not the answer to creating economic growth or job creation."

Statement of Chairman Alex M. Triantafilou

"This vote for "cap and trade" by Rep. Driehaus is further proof that he has forgotten his west-side roots and is now part of the big spending and big taxing Democratic majority in Washington. After his election in November, it was my hope that he would follow a more centrist course in Washington like some of his Democratic predecessors in the 1st Congressional district. He has done the opposite."

"Rep. Driehaus has demonstrated a history of voting just as the Democratic majority in Washington wants him to vote. He supported Nancy Pelosi as the Speaker of the House of Representatives. He voted for the nearly $800 billion stimulus package that will burden our great-grandchildren with debt and has yet to stimulate anything. Now, he has voted for a massive tax on energy at a time when our nation can least afford it."

"Mr. Driehaus' party-line voting history is a far departure from the independent voice of Steve Chabot. Mr. Driehaus has failed to put a CAP on frivolous spending and higher taxes in Washington so the voters should TRADE him for Steve Chabot in 2010."

Democrat(ic) Money Burn: Cincinnati Public Schools

2009-06-24T16:10:00.005-04:00

On Monday, June 22, 2009, certain Democratic Cincinnati Public Schools Board of Education members made a proposal that may lead to a further waste of your money.

I could go on at length about the frivolous and unnecessary spending that has gone on at the CPS for years. Democrats run the schools in Cincinnati. Spending is part of their DNA.

What is the latest way they may want to waste your money? They tabled a resolution that includes language that will require that successful bidders on certain school construction contracts pay prevailing wage to persons who win the bid.

Here is the language:

"The Bidder shall certify that it, and its subcontractors or any other contractor performing work on the project covered under the contract of the Bidder, shall pay the prevailing wage rate and comply with the other provisions set forth in Ohio’s Prevailing Wage Law, R.C. 4115.03 through 4115.16, and O.A.C. 4101:9-4-01 through 4101:9-4-28. This includes, but is not limited to, the filing of certified payroll reports."

Are Board members asking the right questions about this? Is prevailing wage necessary under state law? Is it legally necessary to pay prevailing wage for these types of projects? Or, is it simply a way to placate the unions that wield so much power over the Board and the Cincinnati Public Schools.

How about another question. If prevailing wage is not legally necessary for projects like these, how does paying prevailing wage help the children of Cincinnati Public Schools get a better education? Shouldn't the Board be focused on what is best for the children and the taxpayers?

We can have these questions answered when we elect Todd McIntosh, Chris McDowell and John Banner to the Board.

Wenstrup to Formally File Petitions for Cincinnati Mayor

2009-06-24T11:06:00.001-04:00

MEDIA ADVISORY FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 24, 2009

Wenstrup To Formally File Petitions For Cincinnati Mayor....the race is on

WHO: Brad Wenstrup and local business owners
WHAT: Announcement of petition filing for Mayor of Cincinnati
WHERE: Wooley Electric Co. (1676 Hoffner St., in Northside - corner of Cherry and Hoffner Streets, near I-74 & 75)
WHEN: Thursday, June 25, 2009 at 10:30 a.m.

As the City of Cincinnati faces an ever-growing budget crisis, runaway crime and difficult decisions that require a seasoned leader, Brad Wenstrup officially emerges as a candidate for Mayor. Wenstrup will make a few remarks and be available for questions.

www.BradWenstrup.com.
###

Sen. Schuler Arrangements

2009-06-21T10:15:00.001-04:00

Calling hours: Mon 6/22, 2-4 PM & also 6-8 PM @ Thomas-Justin Memorial Funeral Home, 7500 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati 45236. Funeral mass Tues 6/23 9:30 AM @ St. Vincent Ferrer Church, 7754 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati.

Senator Bob Schuler

2009-06-20T14:04:00.005-04:00

Our state, our county, and our party lost a great man yesterday with the passing of State Senator Bob Schuler. Bob passed away yesterday after a valiant battle with cancer.

Bob Schuler was a great man. As a legislator, he stayed true to his conservative Republican principles but always managed to work effectively to achieve great things in government. He was a gentleman. In addition to his strong work in the legislature, Bob was a great father and husband. He will be truly missed.

Bob was well enough to make it to party headquarters only a few weeks ago. He seemed to be getting along quite well and he was completely himself. He offered up his advice on many statewide issues and he was "in the game" in every way.

Bob's "Pasta Parties" became a spring tradition among the party faithful and, true to his conservatism, Bob never asked for more than about $25 at this annual fundraising event. I attended several and the huge crowds were a testament to how popular Bob was.

Bob's accomplishments in the legislature were recognized by many groups leading to his receiving these awards: Ohio Brain Injury Association-Meritorious Award, Ohio Parks and Recreation- Legislator of the Year , Ohio Social Workers-Public Official of the Year, Hamilton County Township Association- Legislator of the Year, Ohio AMVETS- Legislator of the Year, United Conservatives of Ohio-Watchdog of the Treasury.

We should all keep Bob and his wonderful family in our prayers. I will be posting more information about the arrangements for Bob as they become known to us.

Dine at the Quarter Bistro this Monday night and Support the Northeast Hamilton County Republican Club

2009-06-11T09:36:00.002-04:00

Enjoy a night of ‘Elegant Wine & Exquisite Fare’ at one of Cincinnati’s premier bistros at
Regular Menu Price
and support the
N.E.H.C.R.C.
“Northeast Hamilton County Republican Club”
place:

Quarter Bistro
6904 Wooster Pike - Mariemont, Ohio 45227
Monday, June 15, 2009

It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3…..
1 - Mark your calendar for June 15. “Dinner at Quarter Bistro”.
2 - Make your reservations now (Mention NEHCRC).
3 - Dine anytime between 5:00 PM and close. Enjoy!
And help support the programs of the NEHCRC

Enjoy an extensive wine list, French bread in a bag & wonderful worldly flavors!!
The ‘Quarter Bistro’ will donate the profits from this evening
to support the programs of the NEHCRC
Reservations 271-5400
http://www.quarter-bistro.com/

Join Congresswoman Schmidt this Friday in Raising Awareness for Girls' Education in Afghanistan

2009-06-10T11:33:00.005-04:00

Letter from Congresswoman Jean Schmidt:

I hope you will be able to join me this Friday at 7pm as I host an event to raise awareness about girls’ education in Afghanistan. The Taliban and other extremists have targeted women’s education in their effort to halt progress made in Afghanistan. As Afghanistan continues to combat terrorism and extremism, we must remain committed to guaranteeing women access to one of the developing world’s greatest enablers – education.

Our guest speaker will be Zahira Zahir, founder and president of Friends of Zahira Schools. Zahira is a native of Afghanistan who came to the United States in the mid-1970’s when her husband was working as an envoy to the United Nations. When the Soviets invaded, she was unable to return to her country. Zahira and her family started their lives over again in the United States and she became a United States citizen in 1992.

Since the fall of the Taliban, Zahira has actively been involved in improving girls’ access to education in Afghanistan. In 2002, she founded a non-profit – Friends of Zahira Schools – to reconstruct the high school that she attended as a young woman. Because of her unwavering dedication, Zarghoona High School (located in Kabul) currently provides an education to 14,000 students. Instead of holding classes outside under UNICEF tarps as they once did, the students now go to school in a building with new desks and chairs.

On June 12th Zahira will share her experiences with Cincinnati and address the cultural resistance to girls’ education in Taliban strong-holds of Afghanistan. I believe we must support the Afghan government in order to guarantee a brighter future for Afghan women and girls, especially those living in vulnerable parts of the country.

Zahira’s lecture will start at 7:00 pm and will be held at the Mariemont High School Auditorium. A private reception will be held at the National Exemplar Restaurant in the Mariemont Inn at 8:30 pm. The suggested donation for the private reception is $500 per person.
Friends of Zahira Schools is a tax exempt non-profit organization.
The tax ID number is 30-0127177. Checks can be made out to "Friends of Zahira Schools" and sent to:
Zahira Zahir
5505 Seminary Road, #2412
Falls Church, VA 22041

If you will be able to join us, please RSVP to Vanessa.Beary@gmail.com or 513-236-9290.
I hope to see you there!
Sincerely,

Jean Schmidt
MEMBER OF CONGRESS

Democrat(ic) Money Burn, Etc.

2009-06-05T08:36:00.003-04:00

Laketa Cole is proposing that the city start a post-partum aid program for new mothers in their first week home after delivering a baby. Read about it here. This might feel good, but is this what city government ought to be considering in the face of a $20-$40 million budget shortfall? Is Ms. Cole for real? Most Democrats want government in our lives everywhere. They feel government ought to offer solutions to everything. That becomes expensive. They raise our taxes to pay for it. Proposing new government programs in the face of a serious fiscal crisis is irresponsible.

And...

The same Enquirer story that I linked to above also tells us that liberal Democrats Greg Harris, Roxanne Qualls, Cecil Thomas, and Laketa Cole want to give away more free water service. It seems the Cincinnati Zoo gets free water (for the record, I do not have a problem with that) and these council members think that lots of other places ought to get free water. New programs and more free stuff. The Democrats are having a field day with your money. Can we get free water at our Republican HQ at 700 Walnut? It seems like a zoo sometimes.

And...

Today's local news is offering ample evidence as to why we need changes in local government. There is a report that the Democrats who run the Cincinnati Public Schools Board of Education are now trying to restrict public access to certain meetings. Read the story here. Restricting public access and blocking people from public information seems to be a real problem with this Board. We blogged about this problem in February when they tried to hide the resumes of all candidates for Superintendent. Read it here. The voters will have a real alternative to one-party rule at the Cincinnati Public Schools Board of Education this fall. They can vote for Republicans Chris McDowell and Todd McIntosh or for independent candidate John Banner.

And...

I'm done bashing my Democrat friends today. After all, it is a beautiful Friday and the Cubbies are in town for a three game titanic struggle. I am going to the game tonight with a group of liberal Democrats. Baseball and beer unites everyone.

And...

Rob Portman had a fundraiser earlier this week that was incredible. The event had a presidential feel to it. If there is anyone more qualified, professional, intelligent, and prepared for the U.S. Senate, I wouldn't believe it. Rob will get things done in Washington because he has firm conservative principles, but works effectively across the aisle to solve people's problems. Rob is the man--end of discussion.

And...

I watched President Obama's speech in Cairo on YouTube last night. I disagree with the man's approach to foreign policy, but the speech was balanced and well-crafted. He delivers a nice speech.

And...

Is there a frontrunner for President on our side in 2012. Not yet.

And...

Have you signed on to help Dr. Wenstrup? His campaign is at full throttle. Get involved at http://www.bradwenstrup.com/.

And...

The bashing of Dusty Baker must stop. He's managed a rag-tag, injury riddled team to within 2.5 games outta first. Results matter. I do hate the toothpick, though. He makes up for it with the wristbands.

And...

Have a great weekend.

A Great Night

2009-06-02T04:16:00.003-04:00

A special "Thank You" to Crystal Faulkner and Tom Cooney for hosting an incredible event for the GOP last night. Thanks to all who attended to support our great party. I am optimistic about our future.

Coming Together to Move Our Party Forward, Etc.

2009-06-01T05:05:00.008-04:00

Crystal Faulkner and Tom Cooney, two highly successful Cincinnati business leaders, will host an event for the Hamilton County GOP this evening in their home. This event, titled "Coming Together to Move Our Party Forward" was the brainchild of Ms. Faulkner and it is shaping up to be a great event. For more information on the event, click here or call 513-381-5454 or e-mail Maggie at maggien@hc-gop.org. Many thanks to Crystal and Tom for opening their home.

And...

Americans will wake up today to the story of an abortion doctor gunned down in his church yesterday in Wichita, Kansas. George Tiller was a Kansas doctor made famous because he was one of very few doctors in America who performed late term abortions. Every American and every pro-life activist should condemn this act of violence against George Tiller. This type of violence only serves the pro-abortion movement by making the pro-life movement look fanatical. Operation Rescue and other pro-life groups have already condemned the shooting. To read the AP story, click here.

And...

The Obamas spent a night on the town in New York City over the weekend. President Obama took the First Lady to NYC for dinner and a Broadway show. Read the story here. It may be a surprise to my Democratic friends, but I don't have a problem with the President doing that. He's earned the right to have a night on the town. I do have a problem with the disparate treatment a Republican president would get for doing the same thing. I cannot imagine the backlash a Republican "fat cat" would get if he did something similar. I just think the treatment would be different. I'll stop whining.

And...

I am thinking about taking 15 days away from the party because of stress-related issues. Not really. Flippancy aside, I'm worried about Joey Votto. He has been "the man" and his absence leaves a big hole in my favorite Cincinnati sports team.

And...

Is there any doubt that federal government spending is out-of-control? In just the last 12 months, the amount of debt per American household grew $55,000! $55,000 of additional debt per household. If I took on $55,000 more in debt, I would like to have more to show for it. Read more about this, here.

And...

It seems the critics are always louder than everyone else. But in the past week the Hamilton County GOP has gotten some nice words about what we're doing. I've received multiple compliments on several things: our Mayoral candidate, our decision to field candidates for the CPS Board of Education for the first time in years, and our more aggressive approach to the Democratic blunders at City Hall (my thanks to the Mayor and Laketa Cole for making it easy!).

And...

Need a job? Guess who is hiring? Bloated city government. Click here to see the many jobs being offered.

And...

Want to see how NOT to do a campaign website? Go to http://www.electmallory.com/. There are only two options: contribute or volunteer. In other words, "Do something for me." How about providing a vision for the city and giving the voters real information about what you allegedly have done and what you hope to do in a second term? I'm sure there's a way to get there, but I couldn't find it within 60 seconds of being on his website.

And...

Hamilton County's great townships are all governed by Republicans. Colerain, Green, Delhi, Anderson, Sycamore, Symmes, Springfield, Columbia, and Miami townships all enjoy Republican leadership in their government. All of these communities will vote in 2009 to elect Trustees. I'm expecting a big year for us there.

And...

Have a great week!

Josh Mandel for State Treasurer

2009-05-28T16:16:00.001-04:00

Letter from Representative Josh Mandel

I wanted you to be among the first to know that today, via Web video, I announced my decision to run for State Treasurer in the 2010 election. Please take a moment to watch my announcement video and visit my website for more details on my campaign: www.joshmandel.com.

Click here to watch the announcement video now or paste http://www.joshmandel.com/page/announcement-video into your browser.

I decided to run for Treasurer after spending many months on the road, traveling to all corners of Ohio and accumulating over 30,000 miles on my car. Time and time again, I heard the same message from folks throughout the state: they are frustrated that while our economy is hurting and families are tightening their belts, our government continues to over-spend.

I believe that, to change the direction of our state, we need new leaders who believe in good old-fashioned values like honesty, hard work and fiscal responsibility. I learned these timeless values from my family and they were reinforced in me by the Marine Corps. I have carried them with me throughout my life, and I will work day and night to honor them in my service to you as State Treasurer.

My most important duty as Treasurer will be to protect the hard-earned dollars of every Ohioan. I have a proven record of standing up for Ohio’s taxpayers, including spearheading one of the only municipal tax rollbacks in the State’s history as a City Councilman. As State Representative, I helped reform the investment oversight structure for the scandal-ridden Bureau of Workers’ Compensation.

I began my previous campaigns for office by campaigning door-to-door in lake-effect snow storms and by promising my supporters that I will never be outworked. My strategy for this race is no different – I promise to run a high-energy grassroots campaign, utilizing technology and engaging the young and the old alike. I hope you will consider joining our team today by making a contribution, signing up to volunteer, or by forwarding this message to your friends.

Thank you and I look forward to seeing you soon.

Sincerely,

Josh Mandel

Mayor's Defense Of Laketa Cole Is Irresponsible

2009-05-27T23:36:00.004-04:00

In his weekly meeting with the media today, Mayor Mallory defended Laketa Cole's recent interaction with Cincinnati police during a routine traffic stop. The Enquirer reports that the Mayor said that Ms. Cole did "nothing wrong" when she called the city manager and a high ranking Assistant Police Chief in the Cincinnati Police Division when she and her friend were stopped for an alleged traffic violation. A video of the scene shows Ms. Cole making phone calls during this traffic stop and then handing the telephone to the police officer at the scene. To read more on this topic and for our comments on this matter from earlier in the week, click here.

When asked by a reporter if the average citizen can call the city manager during a traffic stop, Mayor Mallory, amazingly, answered that citizens were free to call the city manager "if they had his cell phone number."

Statement of Chairman Alex M. Triantafilou
"I find Mayor Mallory's defense of Ms. Cole's actions disappointing, but not surprising. The Mayor's judgment has been lacking in several key respects and this is just another in a long line of critical mistakes made by his administration."

"Even more disappointing is the Mayor's flippancy on the question of whether citizens can call high ranking city officials in the midst of a traffic stop. I understand that the Mayor was attempting humor, but the abuse of power by a city government official to possibly receive special treatment from law enforcement should not be a source of humor for the chief executive of our great city. It ought to be condemned."

"In this moment, the Mayor had an opportunity to offer sound leadership by condemning a member of his own party for what was obviously improper behavior by Ms. Cole. On this question of leadership and on so many others, he has failed our city."

Judge Sonia Sotomayor

2009-05-26T16:24:00.002-04:00

Elections have consequences. President Obama today selected a left-of-center nominee for the Supreme Court of the United States.

This may surprise some readers, but I think the GOP should take a very "wait and see" approach on this nominee until we have more facts.

Just as we expected President Bush to get his choices affirmed, there is an expectation that President Obama should have his affirmed. If we don't like his choices, we should not elect him as our President.

As for his nominee, we should point out why a Republican President would make better choices. We lost that argument in 2008.

More on this in the days ahead...

Memorial Day

2009-05-25T08:40:00.002-04:00

Have a great Memorial Day!

Cincinnati City Council Member Laketa Cole

2009-05-23T12:27:00.014-04:00

The Channel 9 I-Team has exposed Democratic Cincinnati city council member Laketa Cole for attempting to use her position on the Cincinnati city council to influence the events of a recent traffic stop where her companion was charged with illegally driving under a suspension and she allegedly committed a traffic infraction. Click here to SEE the I-Team story. Click here to READ the I-Team story.

The media reports several disturbing things:

1. Upon being stopped by police, Ms. Cole made phone calls to high-ranking city and police officials from the scene. She called the Cincinnati city manager, Milton Dohoney. She called high-ranking Cincinnati police Assistant Chief Lt. Col. Michael Cureton. Her minor traffic infraction must have been a source of great public concern causing these important city officials to attend to Ms. Cole and her friend's personal escapades rather that to the public's business.

2. Ms. Cole was riding with someone who, according to the charges against him, shouldn't be driving on the streets of the city because his license is suspended.

3. Ms. Cole inserted herself into the work of a police officer by using her position as a member of the city council to "go over the officer's head" to an Assistant Police Chief so as to question and attempt to alter the events of the traffic stop. She succeeded. The police cruiser video clearly shows the police officer perplexed over the orders of an Assistant Police Chief who was called by Ms. Cole. After receiving the telephone from Ms. Cole, P.O. Zucker can be heard saying, "He just told me not to take the motorcycle. Now, what do I do?" Ms. Cole influenced the events of this traffic stop leaving the police officer concerned about his responsibility. The law is clear: he was to seize the motorcycle. He now understood that he had received a different order from his supervisor through Ms. Cole's cell phone. Did Ms. Cole try to influence whether her companion's motorcycle would be seized thereby forcing this police officer to make a choice between not following the law or not following an Assistant Chief's orders? With some clarification, the officer was finally able to do his duty and seize the offender's motorcycle. Although the right thing ultimately happened and the motorcyle was seized, the facts demonstrate that Ms. Cole was trying to use her authority to improperly influence and interfere with police procedure.

4. Ms. Cole stated to the I-team that she "never asked for a favor." Putting word games aside, the facts demonstrate otherwise and the statement defies common sense. Ms. Cole was trying to be a "big shot" and that is obvious to anyone who watches the video.

5. Ms. Cole called Mr. Dohoney to question why three police officers were on the scene. Was she insinuating some inappropriate police behavior? I have watched hundreds of these police videos as a prosecutor, Judge, and now private attorney. There is nothing unusual about police officers gathering at a traffic stop that becomes somewhat out of the ordinary. This is routine and regular police procedure. To the inexperienced viewer, it may seem odd. It simply is not. Officers will sometimes congregate at the scene of a stop for many reasons. Ms. Cole escalated this police stop by using her position as a member of city council.

6. The Enquirer reports that Ms. Cole claims she is innocent of the traffic infraction but will "pay it out" (a way of pleading guilty to a minor traffic infraction). Her statement to the Enquirer: "“Because of all the media, it’s easier just to pay it out, even though I don’t see that I did anything wrong,” she said. “I think it’s gotten bigger than it actually is.” So, Ms. Cole claims she was wrongly charged but will now not exercise her Constitutional rights and stand on her presumption of innocence because of media scrutiny? Incredible.

Laketa Cole chairs the powerful city council Finance Committee. It is fair to say that this committee chairmanship is the most coveted on the council as it can be so influential in how the city spends millions of dollars. Ms. Cole was appointed to this spot by Mayor Mallory. Her role on this committee makes her even more influential to the city manager and to the police division. We can be sure of one thing: When Ms. Cole calls any agency funded with city dollars--she will get an answer and action promptly. Unfortunately, this is not the kind of phone call a responsible public servant should ever make.

This is not Ms. Cole's first time dealing with the police and leaving the public to wonder whether she was using her position to influence events. Today's online Enquirer reports:

"This is not Cole’s first run-in with police. In October 2007, during her re-election campaign, Cole got into a fight with another woman over a boyfriend. Neither was charged. Police said Cole asked that her name be left off the police report, but Cole said it was police who suggested she remain anonymous.

Police officials checked open records laws and later added her name to the report."

To read the entire Enquirer story, click here.

Politically, we've blogged about Ms. Cole's failure to act cooperatively with the county to help alleviate the dangerous lack of jail capacity that our county suffers. In a letter to County Commissioner Hartmann, Ms. Cole rebuffed efforts by the county to buy more ankle monitoring bracelets to keep an eye on offenders who ought to be in non-existent jail space. Read our blog posting here.

The recent events involving Ms. Cole demonstrate a pattern of behavior that voters should strongly consider as they go to the ballot box in November. This most recent episode is unacceptable and wrong. Ms. Cole has demonstrated behavior that is unprofessional and unbecoming of a public official. She is not worthy of re-election.

Her chairmanship of a critical committee responsible for controlling public funds came as a result of her receiving that appointment from the Democratic Mayor. Mayor Mallory made a mistake in that appointment. That mistake should not be repeated.

The city has a chance to elect better leadership at city hall in 2009 and we will urge them to do so, relentlessly, until Election Day.

Thursday, etc.

2009-05-21T06:46:00.003-04:00

Is the winner of American Idol a Republican? I watched about 60 minutes of that show all year, but it seems he was certainly the more conservative of the two finalists. The other finalist was very good and maybe more talented, but America voted for the more traditional person. On talent alone, I probably would've voted for the 2nd place finisher. Adam Lambert was very good. But, the winner, Kris Allen, was certainly more traditional and conservative in his approach.

And...

In all the stories in yesterday's news about the serious budget shortfall that has city officials "stunned," did you see a single mention of our Mayor? Where is he? I think Vegas.

And...

This weekend kicks off the traditional summer campaign season of festivals, parades, and other such campaigning. It's a great time of year.

And...

Check out Dr. Wenstrup's website: http://www.bradwenstrup.com/.

And...

We had a conference call with our Judicial Nominating Committee last night. It is not too soon to think about 2010. With Judge Painter resigning, there will be a Democrat on the First District Court of Appeals that we will have to knock-off. We already have great candidates thinking about that race. It should be interesting.

And...

I had lunch with a great Republican yesterday, Mark Quarry. Mark is a member of the Silverton city council where he brings common sense Republican values to the job and he is serving the citizens very well.

And...

The Redlegs play a business day special today at 12:35 p.m.. Do they have Wi-Fi at the ballpark?

And...

As promised, our party will support and endorse candidates for the Cincinnati Public Schools Board of Education. The Board has been dominated by people who get elected with the support and money of the teacher's unions. We need to break this cycle to help the kids of the Cincinnati Public Schools. We'll fight hard to put a few new board members there.

And...

With Commissioner Pepper running for State Auditor, our chances of winning that seat on the County Commission in 2010 should improve. Who should be our candidate? Don't be shy. You know how to contact us.

And...

Speaking of Commissioner Pepper....the voters of Hamilton County ought to ask one question: Is Hamilton County better off now than it was when Pepper was elected and the Democrats took control of the Commissioner's office? The answer is simply "no." We have 800 fewer jail beds, fewer Sheriff's patrols, and a public safety crisis with no plan for how to deal with it. That's not leadership worthy of a promotion. Mary Taylor is the first CPA to hold the office of
Auditor of State and she is supremely qualified to hold the position. She deserves re-election.

And...

Have a great Thursday.

Democratic Big Government Run Amok

2009-05-20T08:15:00.003-04:00

Meet Democratic member of the Ohio House of Representatives Peter S. Ujvagi. I didn't know of him until this morning. Rep. Ujvagi and several of his Democratic colleagues in the Ohio House, namely Representatives Phillips, Pryor, Murray, Koziura, Letson, Yuko, Chandler, Winburn, and Bolon, are part of the big government problem in Columbus.

Why?

While Ohio struggles with a budget crisis that threatens the very financial stability of this state, these Democrats have proposed some very important legislation in House Bill No. 45. What critical measures are these Representatives taking during our state's crisis? They want to make it a crime in Ohio if you fail to have your lights on while you have your windshield wipers on. I'm not joking. Check out their bill here. If you fail to have on your lights while you have on your wipers during any precipitation, you are committing a crime and face a fine under this proposed legislation. Unbelievable.

Is it prudent to have on your lights and wipers during a rain storm? Sure. Is it a "best practice?" Of course. Should big government punish you for not doing it? No way.

Our state is in terrible financial health. Non-partisan editorial boards across this state have been highly critical of this Governor and the Democrats in the state legislature for proposing (and the House passing) a budget that is completely irresponsible. The Columbus Dispatch, not a tool or arm of the GOP, chastised the Governor in an editorial on this topic. Read it here.

The state may go broke. We may be releasing more violent felons from our prisons. We can't punish child support offenders. But, we can certainly face a criminal fine for not having our lights on during a rain drizzle.

Democratic big government threatens our freedom every single day with ridiculous legislation like that proposed here by Rep. Ujvagi. The future of the GOP is in protecting freedom.

Ghiz to Oppose Streetcar Project

2009-05-19T11:56:00.003-04:00

Cites Economy, City Budget Crisis for ‘Difficult Decision’
___________________________________

New Proposal Would Use $800k for Streetcar Study for Public Safety Plan

Councilmember Leslie Ghiz today announced that she would be rescinding her support for the Cincinnati Streetcar Project. An original supporter of the plan, Ghiz said she was forced to change her position due to economic and financial realities. Just yesterday, City Council’s Finance Committee was notified by the Finance Director of a $40 million deficit for 2010.

As with most cities across the country, Cincinnati is faced with some bleak financial numbers. Income tax revenues are expected to dwindle by $11 million this year alone. The street car project’s initial budget, Ghiz noted, proposed to use $25 million from the City Capital budget, of which 27% is funded through the Income Tax.

“My support for this project came at a much different economic time,” said Ghiz. “I’d love to continue this support but in good conscience cannot considering our financial predicament.”

Ghiz also announced a plan today to re-allocate the $800,000 set aside last year to study potential streetcar routes to fulfill the Ghiz-Harris public safety plan to lease electronic monitoring units for City offenders and hire two City Solicitors to aggressively combat blight and nuisance issues.

“Public safety has to be our top focus right now,” she said. “I promised to bring funds forward each week until we find 5 Councilmembers to recognize the looming public safety crisis and act accordingly. This is just the first step.”

Ghiz said she will introduce the ordinance Wednesday for Committee referral.

George Zamary for Cincinnati City Council

2009-05-15T11:53:00.005-04:00

"Z is the Key" Cookout

Please join the Zamary for Council Campaign at Mt. Echo Park

Saturday, May 16th from 12 pm - 3 pm

$10 contribution includes food and drink.
Contact: ZamaryforCityCouncil@yahoo.com

"Call The Question"

2009-05-15T07:57:00.002-04:00

With those three words, Democrat Laketa Cole displayed a stunning abdication of the city's most basic responsibility: public safety. With the strong support of the Mayor and the one Charterite on the city council, Ms. Cole shut down any debate on whether the city should spend $471,000 of our tax dollars to buy more ankle bracelet/electronic monitoring units to track those who should be in the jail but can't be because of our county budget mess.

The Democrats who run the city with the help of the only real Charterite have played every trick, used every parliamentary tactic, and maneuvered procedurally to avoid a public vote on whether our federal tax stimulus monies should be used to help the county purchase more of these units. Once forced to deal with it, Ms. Cole shut down debate with virtually no debate at all. This is irresponsible and hurts the city.

The city's argument, "it's not the county's money" is wrong. It demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding on how government ought to function. It ought to function for the people, not for the politicians.

Kudos to Leslie Ghiz and Chris Monzel for standing for public safety.

We have a chance to make a difference in the city in 2009. Let's embrace it.

Good Guy Loitering

2009-05-13T07:47:00.004-04:00

Have you heard of Good Guy Loitering? I hope so. The group is impressive.

A group of Westwood residents have decided to take back their neighborhoods by "loitering" on troubled street corners so as to keep out the criminal element. It is a great idea!

On Facebook, they describe themselves like this:

"Good Guy Loitering is just a group of friends and neighbors getting together - publicly - in a part of our community that is struggling with bad behavior. It is a showing that such behavior is not acceptable. But don't get me wrong, it's a blast! In large part, it is a few hours of fun and fellowship with other Westwood residents. It's a good time, and maybe that's the point. People seeing their neighbors out having a good time at night in Westwood IS A GOOD THING."

Their next event is tomorrow, May 14 from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the corner of Harrison and Grasselli in the heart of Westwood. Stop by and greet these great citizens as they fight back against crime and blight!

*This NOT a partisan group. I highlight them today because I support the work they do.