Tom Marsh Vies For Inclusion In Gubernatorial Debates

He won a spot on the ballot by gathering 11,000 signatures, but should Independent gubernatorial candidate, Tom Marsh be included in the debates?

Marsh, the first selectman of Chester who initially entered the race as a Republican and later changed his affiliation, said he’s currently speaking to debate organizers to make sure he’s included.

“I’ve been vetted. I’ve been through the process. I should be there,” Marsh said Thursday.

To continue reading Christine Stuart Story
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A Message From Bo ItsHaky

During the past week I gravely watched our grand State – Connecticut – and our grand Country slipping further and ever faster into a delusional state of denial. It is particularly distressing to watch what career politicians and insiders – Democrats and Republicans alike – have done to our country, our government and public service.

Like two peas in a pod!

For too long “We the People…” had no true representation in our government. Enough! …is what I hear on Main Street, enough with the dog and pony shows, enough with corruption, ”We want our voice back” and so do I.

As a response to the will of the People on Main Street and the shameful week-long hyped political circus, destructive bickering, abuses of true public-service and deflections from the issues that really matter – hello the economy, jobs? – I have decided to seek not, the nomination of the Republican Party for the 3rd District.

Instead, I will continue to run for Connecticut’s 3rd Congressional District as an Independent. I believe that I can and will better serve the People as an Independent, please join Our campaign and help us deliver Washington the message that We the People got pain – lots of it – and we can’t take it anymore.

Boaz ItsHaky

Rasmusen Poll Reveals Early Gubernatorial Leaders

The following statistics are being reported by CTBOB on the Connecticut Governors race. Bob has reported the following at his blog www.ctbob.blogspot.com.

"On Wednesday Rasmussen published the results of a telephone poll of 500 likely voters in Connecticut, and here's the results:

Ned Lamont (D) 42
Tom Foley (R) 35
Some other 11
Not sure 13
Dan Malloy also has a lead, although slightly smaller, over Foley:
Dan Malloy (D) 38
Tom Foley (R) 35
Some other 11
Not sure 16

Margin of error is 4.5%, putting the two Democratic candidates in a theoretical dead heat over Foley. The last Rasmussen poll, from April 1st, showed Foley with a slight lead over both Lamont and Malloy.

The general consensus among bloggers I've talked with is that Rasmussen slants somewhat conservative, because telephone polls typically are limited to calls to people who own land-line phones. A larger percentage of young people and college-age students only have a cell phone. So for the sake of argument, you can probably figure there's at least a several percent older (and thus more likely conservative) demographic being polled."

To add to this statement by CTBob I would like to add that the nature of this years election will require the winner of the Gubernatorial race to deal with the impact of the global fiasco and the 1.6 Quadrillion in worldwide derivative failures. The future economy of CT will be one that requires our new Governor to return our state to its farming roots amid an emerging Fascist philosophy.

Once the stimulus dollars run out, (I.E. extended unemployment, 40 Million people on Food Stamps, $8,500.00 home buyer credits, $4,500.00 cash for clunkers, on the job training programs and bail out after bailout for Banks, automakers, etc. etc..) Milford will be "put out to pasture" along with every other town in the state of Connecticut. We need a truly miraculous Governor I pray that we get one.

Chester's First Selectman Ditches Republican Party

CHESTER— First Selectman Tom Marsh will pursue his run for governor as the candidate of the Connecticut Independent Party, a move he hopes will ensure him a role in the statewide election debate this fall.

Marsh, a Republican first elected to the town’s top job in 2005, also oficially changed his voter registration from Republican to Independent Party. The Independent Party was formed in Waterbury during the last decade, running candidates for mayor and board of alderman in city elections. The party currently hold four seats on the Waterbury Board of Aldermen, and has local town committees in Newtown, Milford, Watertown, and Winsted.

CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING CHARLES STANNARD STORY

Chester First Selectman Tom Marsh Visits Milford Independents

Chester is a model town in the state of Connecticut, and so is its very proud Republican Mayor Tom Marsh who has the honor of presiding over the states most desirable town. Tom Marsh is currently a Republican seeking the Independent Party nomination to run for Governor.

He attended this evenings Milford Independent Town Committee Meeting along with Dr. Mertens who is also seeking the party nomination for the U.S. Senate. Both Mertens and Marsh were this evenings guest speakers and each spoke as to their unique qualifications for public office.

Mertens indicated that he is "ready to fearlessly confront the nations challenges," and criticized the failed policies of the two party system. Mertens who is a Engineer and teacher by trade, called Obamacare "flawed and is disappointed with the bill in its current form" but has agreed that something has to be done about this nations troubled health system.

He said Obamacare is a "starting point" and it will need serious reform if it will work for the people of Connecticut. Mertens also agreed with Telesca that the 15 state lawsuits challenging Obamacares Constitutionality are good. He and Mike both believes that the courts will make a determination on whether or not the "Commerce Clause" is in fact an issue. Mertens is also sceptical about its legal defeat, as he is of the opinion that the bill may not be un-Constitutional enough to satisfy the courts legal standard.

Mike Telesca, a cancer survivor himself, stated that during his treatment he was faced with severe financial challenges. Telesca said that "the hospital was charging him upward of $20,000.00 a day.." He said "a decision had to be made and I left the hospital many times earlier than I should have so I welcome anything that reforms this system of care."

Tom Marsh, was asked about his vision for Connecticut and quickly pointed out that there is party gridlock in the state Capitol. The Republicans want to stop spending, and the Democrats are under the direction of the unions. Marsh said that the "Current Speaker of The House Chris Donovan has more in common with a labor representative than a representative of the people."

Marsh also criticized Rells leadership, citing that "Hartford has not had any solid leadership in many years." Running as an Independent now, he believes, is the right move, especially with civil unrest and the steady public outcry for change that continues to grow.

Marsh said that he believes Voters will soon realize that there needs to be a "third choice come November" and he is hoping that those disenfranchised voters will be more inclined to vote for him on the Independent line.

Both Marsh and Mertens have websites highlighting their positions and views on state and Federal Issues and encourage everyone to take the time to read what they published. Mertens said that if "every person in Connecticut took take the time to read just the first page on my website I would be elected."

Marsh's website www.marsh2010.com and John Mertens website www.mertens2010.com.

Milford's Jim Amann Widraws From Race

Milford's Jim Amann has withdrawn from the race for Governor citing heavy competition from popular wealthy Democrats. Including in his words "Ned Lamont who has deep pockets." Amann alleges he cannot compete with the "personal finances" of many of the contenders.

Jim Amanns campaign was riding on the premise that the Citizens election campaign would provide him with 1.5 Million for a primary and another 3.0 Million to run for Governor.

The program was mired in problems that stemmed from a lawsuit that called the program unconstitutional. Last summer a a superior court judge named Underhill agreed and the program has been in a state of legal limbo ever since. Richard Blumenthal filed an appeal, but that appeal is expected to be heard this March and since legislators in Hartford have not acted in a favorable manner the program is expected to fail in its entirety.

Some key state legislators have already pointed out that millions of the the funds have already been redirected toward helping disadvantaged people in Social Services, calling helping the poor a higher priority than funding elections.

Governor Rell made her final plea last month to the state legislature during her State of the State address. She called upon both houses of government to rescue the belabored Citizens Election Program. Rell said that "we have worked tirelessly to limit the influence of special interests, saving public financing must be made an important priority moving forward."

Those words however are not being taken seriously because the number of candidates seeking public funding in the 2010 election cycle is significantly down. The main reason stems on the fact that there is no guarantee that candidates can be successful.

Gov. Rell Will Not Seek Re-Election

Former speaker Jim Amann must be pleased that his number one rival decided to opt out of her bid for Governor. With Rell out of the Race there are now eager Republican Contenders. This years shift in favor of the Republican paradigm is good news for Gov. Rell's Lt. Governor Mike Fedele who said he will pursue the states top job, and made his announcement on the heels of Rell's.

Democratic contenders have swelled, and the race is a wide open bid with lots of interesting people including another Amann rival Ned Lamont who has yet to announce. Lamont probably still remembers his endorsement of Lieberman, and he will certainly make the race interesting if he throws his hat into the ring with Malloy, and Bycyewitz.

Gov. Rell indicated that after giving her decision a long hard look decided it would be best for her and her family to retire from office come 2010.

Our next Governor will be one mired with record deficits, serious economic problems and a turbulent society. This is certainly not a Job worthy of any envy and I wish only for the best leader to emerge.

Milford's Jim Amann On TV

Connectiut Newsmakers Jim Amann
by ctblogger

The following clip was found on www.myleftnutmeg.com, a liberal Democratic site that has developed a reputation for Lampooning Amann. Without a doubt Milford's former speaker is making a valiant effort in getting his name out.

Recently, this comment from a patron of the Milford Oyster festival came in regarding Amann. (Comment Re-Posted Un-Edited)

"I ventured out on Saturday to take in the excitement of the Oyster Fest. My family and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and spent money, but not a fortune. Love the firefighters-always loud and obnoxious to get you to throw the ball and knock them into the water! I heard some mild disappointment coming from people who couldn't walk outside the designated area with their beers. I also heard people lamenting the lack of shaded areas to eat down on Fowler. I walked around and ran into all kinds of people I know including the illustrious mayor of Milford, Jim Richetelli. Did not see Jimmy Amann anywhere, but did see his signs everywhere. He's gonna have a tough battle with Mama Rell! Overall, it was a fun day filled with popcorn, bubbles, family and friends. Thanks for the opportunity to have a relaxing day! See you next year! BTW how's that funding going?"

Numbers Put Malloy And Bysiewicz In Front, Amann Trails

Stamford Mayor Dannel Malloy who is exploring a run for governor in 2010 raised $144,135 during the last three months and Secretary of State Susan Bysiewicz isn’t far behind having raised $141,005 during that same period.

Republican Gov. M. Jodi Rell raised $20,010 over the last three months and since forming her exploratory committee Rell has raised a total of $90,463. Since starting their exploratory committees in February Malloy has raised a total of $272,210 and Bysiewicz has raised a total of $239,530.

It’s unclear at the moment how much former Speaker of the House James Amann has raised. Amann’s campaign manager, Jim McMahon, said Friday that Amann has had one fundraiser to date, but has another half-dozen scheduled over the next few months.

“It’s no longer about fundraising,” McMahon said Friday referring to the new public campaign finance system. “It’s about raising enough money to qualify for the state grant.”

Amann, whose campaign is already out of the exploratory phase is the only declared candidate in the race and as such has to follow different fundraising guidelines than those still in the exploratory phase. Contributors to Amann’s campaign are only allowed to give a maximum of $100, while Malloy, Bysiewicz and Rell can receive contributions of up to $375. However, if they make the transition to a candidate committee only the $5 to $100 contributions will count toward the qualifying amount of $250,000.

Candidates who raise $250,000 are then eligible for $1 million in public funds for the primary and $3 million for the general election.

McMahon said he doesn’t have the final numbers yet, but says Amann has been traveling around the state “solidifying a tremendous amount of support.”

“Our state faces many challenges and I am pleased that so many citizens agree that it is time for real leadership in Hartford,” Bysiewicz said. She said she has traveled the state and visited with close to 70 Democratic Town Committees asking for support for the Democratic nomination next year.

Malloy has visited 62 Democratic Town Committees since forming his exploratory committee in February.

“I’m gratified and energized by this outpouring of financial support as I continue to explore a run for Governor,” Malloy said. “Over the past two quarters, our fundraising has been consistent, steady, and successful.”

C Stewart CT News Junkie. ORIGINAL STORY

Scully’s Departs From Amann Campaign

Patrick Scully, who joined former Speaker of the House James Amann’s gubernatorial campaign in January, says he is no longer working for the campaign.

“I am no longer employed by the Amann campaign because of lack of funding,” Scully said in a phone interview Friday. “I don’t have time to work for free.” Scully said he is working on building his consulting company and his departure in no way “negates my thoughts of the candidate.”

Scully’s departure does raise questions about the viability of Amann’s campaign, although Amann scoffed at that idea on Friday. Amann said the campaign dismissed Scully for reasons he refused to discuss on the record, not vice-a-versa.
Scully said the campaign owes him “five figures,” which could conceivably be a problem because, based the campaign report filed at the end of April, Amann’s campaign had $4,110 cash on hand.

“We’re doing fine,” Amann said. “We’re moving forward.” He said in the old days he would have raised $250,000 by now, but things are different under the new public finance system, under which Amann said it was difficult to spend money in the exploratory phase. That’s why the campaign switched over to a candidate committee, but in the process forfeited more than $20,000.

Under the new rules if the amount a candidate rolls over from an exploratory committee exceeds the total amount of qualifying small-dollar checks received, then the difference goes back to the state election fund. Amann transferred $35,488 from his exploratory committee into his candidate committee, but he had only raised about $9,545 in qualifying contributions of $100 or less causing him to lose more than $25,000.

Click here to see the campaign finance record of the transfer.
“It was a mistake,” Scully said of the campaign’s decision to switch from an exploratory to candidate committee so quickly.

Amann’s opponents — Stamford Mayor Dannel Malloy and Secretary of State Susan Bysiewicz — are still exploring a run for governor. Malloy’s campaign had about $105,297 cash on hand and Bysiewicz about $83,357 at the end of April.
But Amann, who has already opened up his campaign headquarters in Milford, said “we’re the only ones in the race.”

The last time Quinnipiac University polled residents on the 2010 gubernatorial match-up was back in February. At that time 79 percent didn’t know enough about Amann to have an opinion. Bysiewicz was the early favorite in a Democratic primary with 44 percent of the vote, followed by Malloy with 12 percent and Amann with 4 percent. Another 36 percent are undecided.

The same poll showed Republican Gov. M. Jodi Rell beating Amann 61 to 21 percent. On Friday Amann said he had hundreds of volunteers working for him and has plans for at least two fundraisers this summer.

Cristine Stewart www.ctnewsjunkie.com

Can A School Drop Out Become Governor?

Our Speaker of the House, and my opponent has got to have the biggest "pair" in town. His academic achievement is absolutely baffling and sub-par. Jim Amann also known by many "old timers" in town as the Johnathan Law High School troublemaker created a name for himself the day he set the school on fire.

People who know Jim have characterized him as being a sub par student who had difficulty attaining even the most basic of academic standards. Against the odds, he did graduate from High School even with all the controversy and mischief he was known for there.

He did attend University for a very short time, but for numerous unknown reasons he eventually concluded that college was not "his thing" and decided to quit.

This academic failure on his part raises a very important question on many peoples minds. How can a person who has such a poor educational level, be expected to comprehend in-depth legislation, complex accounting spreadsheets, and even be expected to know how to manage thousands of employees, negotiate contracts based on sound macro-economic principles and be trusted not enslave the population of our state with his mistakes?

Perhaps times were different then, but today most parents (who love their children) would cringe should they discover that their child was a juvenile delinquent whose sole ambition was to quit school. What is more enlightening about our Speaker is that he has a crass, crude vocabulary to match his "sub-par" education.

Amann, as part of his vocabulary, routinely engages others with unprofessional language. These choice words include "Idiot," "HeartOn", "Crush", "Brain-Dead", and many others too inappropriate to mention. Certainly we would not call this progressive under any circumstance. If anything these inappropriate words are an admission of our Speaker's disappointing and unprofessional image as a state legislator.

As if that was not shocking enough, Jim is now getting even more arrogant and grandiose than ever before. Jim, after enraging the the Democrats by ignoring party primary results in the last U.S. Senate race, is demanding that the Democratic Party, the very people he betrayed, support his bid for Governor. Quite sadly, and absent any real choices come 2010, it is entirely possible that CT could have this under educated, insulting, and un-professional man become our next governor.

It is my belief, that should Amann actually win the gubernatorial bid, our state will see his lack of education result in some of the greatest political and economic mistakes ever made in CT. Anyone supporting Amann's bid must be prepared to pay with their own jobs, lives, health and family finances.

Personally I know this to be true based on the fact that his record speaks to his character. We can expect more of the same frustrating, costly trial and error with Amann. We could expect increased potential for corruption, more wasted tax dollars on lavish parties, more opposition and issues with ethics committees, more rude insulting divisive crass language, the introduction and passing of bills that he does not read on fully understand and of gravest concern the constant battle to misappropriate state funds on mundane projects that in debt our state and benefit no one.

Every person in lower Milford needs to band together and send a message this Nov. 2008 that we demand higher standards of both professionalism and academia of our leaders in Hartford. We must speak out with our voice and with a vote for Change. This November vote for Independent leadership not in the clutches of a bickering deceptive party system.

As of today nearly 30% of our state, frustrated with parties, have become registered independents, and yet not one Independent representative exists in Hartford. Voting for me Rocco J. Frank Jr. this Nov. will bring the long overdue Independent voice desperately needed Hartford.

My promise is to never be compromised by energy interests, lobbyists, or any tyrants who come bearing gifts in exchange for favorable policy. Having a great family and loving children, there is nothing more that I desire than to return to you all that you lost. All our children deserve better from our leaders who often are lost to the subversive nature and prevalent corruption that will remain ever present in the annals of government.