It is hard to believe that the Labor Day weekend, the unofficial end of summer, is upon us. It seems the summer gets a little shorter each year. Labor Day also is the unofficial start of the fall campaign season. Our candidates have been hard at work all spring and summer, but there is no doubt that things begin to get urgent right now.
And...
I was pleased to meet RNC Chairman Michael Steele yesterday. Chairman Steele visited with local elected leaders and citizens at JTM. The Chairman is engaging and charismatic. Even in a smaller private group, he was at ease and jovial. I truly enjoyed the meeting. He commands the attention of a room because he is articulate and forceful without being crass (like Howard Dean) or hateful. We have great leadership and that will help us in the long term.
And...
Speaking of JTM Food Group, special thanks to JTM CEO Tony Maas. Tony is a great friend and a tremendous supporter to many Republican candidates. Tony is the conscience of the GOP because he always speaks about the importance of faith, a respect for life, and the central role of the family in America. Tony is inspiring and every Republican ought to listen to Tony's message about the important role that values have in the future of our party and nation. I appreciate Tony's great friendship and his strong support of the GOP.
And...
President Obama will be here on Monday at the Labor Day picnic at Coney Island. It is fair to say that he is now an "unpopular President." He is. Republicans told Americans several things last year. First, we said that then Sen. Obama was "the most liberal Senator in the U.S." The man has exploded the size of government and has run up the deficit to levels never dreamed of by most Americans. Second, we said Sen. Obama was "inexperienced." Has his mishandling of the health care debacle not proven his inexperience? Third, we warned about his foreign policy. His administration is weakening our ability to battle foreign enemies by undermining the critical role of the CIA. So far, we Republicans have the right to say "we told ya so." We did.
And...
The Mayor of Cincinnati is once again colluding with the five liberal Democrats on the council to stifle progress and undermine public safety. The Mayor wouldn't even allow a discussion at the Wednesday council meeting of the proposal by the four sensible members of the council to save police officers. Pet projects need to take a back seat to public safety in this environment. "Remember in November."
And...
A very convincing preseason win last night by our beloved Bengals. Dare we be optimistic? I've made peace with Chad Johnson (refusing to use the new name). He has been entertaining on Hard Knocks, but his work ethic and desire to be a great receiver come through. I'm rooting for the Bengals and Chad in 2009.
And...
I had the distinct honor of following hall of famer Anthony Munoz to the podium at a fundraising event for Dr. Wenstrup on Wednesday. I had a chance to speak with Anthony at the event and he is just a tremendous guy. He is "old school" and this conservative likes that.
And...
I'm hearing about trouble with our friends over at the Hamilton County Democratic Party. Will they meet on 9/12 to consider pulling the endorsement of some independent minded Democrats? This is the rumor. In the U.S., we try to fit lots of different political views into two "big tents." It can be a challenge. On this point, I commiserate with my colleague Tim Burke. We shouldn't take any glee in these problems. Well, maybe just a little!
And...
I have made reading this blog mandatory for my 10 year old. So, a quick "shout out" to Michael. He is now my third loyal reader and not voluntarily. Most readers think it is written for 10 year olds, so he should not have any problems.
And...
Have a great long weekend.
