The Democrats continue their vicious battle for the nomination and are trying to figure out how to rewrite the rules on Florida and Michigan at the last minute. Republicans in Kansas and across the country are starting the process of picking delegates for the Republican National Convention. It will be a great Convention and will be nothing like the floor fight the Democrats are looking at having.
Unlike the Democrats, Kansas Republicans don't have elite "Super Delegates" that are intended to subvert the popular will.
Many Kansas Republicans have submitted applications to be delegates and alternates and districts will be selecting delegates along with the selection of at large delegates. The tremendous enthusiasm from the caucuses is rolling into the delegate selection process, the process is set and the votes will soon be cast.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
A Big First Step in 2008
A few days have passed and there has been a ton of media coverage of the Republican Caucuses, but this grand event of the Kansas GOP still deserves a recap.
Even without the huge media frenzy of Super Tuesday, and the departure of the leading Conservative candidate, the Republican Caucus was a tremendous success. 20,000 Kansas Republicans at Caucus sites large and small had the chance to make their voices heard around the nation.
The candidate visits were another first. Both Senator John McCain and Mike Huckabee made visits to Kansas. Not only did they visit, the conservative Arkansas Governor made four stops in Kansas in his way to an overwhelming victory.
For being the first Republican Caucus in 25 years, Kansas Republicans once again showed the ability to get the job done. Despite a few people who saw the caucuses as a cash cow, and some others who were too interested in bossing people around, the hard work and planning of hundreds of Republican volunteers paid off. Voters were smoothly and quickly verified that the attendees should be voting on the way into what really turned out to be a statewide series of Republican rallies. Instead of chaos at the check in table, the local caucus sites were able to focus on getting Republicans fired up for 2008.
Presidential visits, national media attention, a tremendous surge in Republican activism....what more can a Kansas Republican ask for? How about another caucus in 2012 to reelect a Republican President?
Even without the huge media frenzy of Super Tuesday, and the departure of the leading Conservative candidate, the Republican Caucus was a tremendous success. 20,000 Kansas Republicans at Caucus sites large and small had the chance to make their voices heard around the nation.
The candidate visits were another first. Both Senator John McCain and Mike Huckabee made visits to Kansas. Not only did they visit, the conservative Arkansas Governor made four stops in Kansas in his way to an overwhelming victory.
For being the first Republican Caucus in 25 years, Kansas Republicans once again showed the ability to get the job done. Despite a few people who saw the caucuses as a cash cow, and some others who were too interested in bossing people around, the hard work and planning of hundreds of Republican volunteers paid off. Voters were smoothly and quickly verified that the attendees should be voting on the way into what really turned out to be a statewide series of Republican rallies. Instead of chaos at the check in table, the local caucus sites were able to focus on getting Republicans fired up for 2008.
Presidential visits, national media attention, a tremendous surge in Republican activism....what more can a Kansas Republican ask for? How about another caucus in 2012 to reelect a Republican President?
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Kansas Day Pt III
The hotel staff is busy preparing the reception halls and committee members are getting ready for an exciting weekend in Topeka. Kansas Day, and the meeting of Republicans from around Kansas, is just three days away. In addition to interesting races for National Committeeman and woman, the State Committee will attend to various housekeeping matters, committee reports and two resolutions.
Neither resolution is seems very interesting at first glance, but both are very important. The first resolution deals with Kansas Days itself. Many Republicans, and some bloggers, don't understand that the Kansas Republican Party does not run Kansas Days. It is an independent club, the Kansas Day Club, that organizes the event. The proceeds from our annual meeting do not go towards helping Republican candidates or the many important tasks performed by the Party. Instead, all that money goes to the Kansas Day Club. This resolution will force the Kansas Day club to decide if they want to work together with the Party in partnership to have a bigger and better Kansas Days, for the benefit of all Republicans. Many organizations claiming to be Republican are looking out for their own narrow self interest and building a big bank account at the expense of the Party. The Republican Party exists for the benefit of all Republicans not just a few who happen to live in a certain area or belong to a special group. This Resolution is one small step in placing the needs of the Party ahead of special interests. Everyone wants all Republican organizations to be successful, but when one part of the Party puts it's interests above those of everyone else we are bound to end in defeat.
The second resolution is another small but necessary step in ending the ongoing suspect behavior and possible voter fraud going on in Kansas. Republicans have always stood for fair and open elections and this resolution promotes just that proposition. Requiring simple IDs to vote and proof of citizenship to register to vote just makes sense. The Kansas Republican Party has already adopted the ID requirement for the upcoming Republican Caucus.
Both resolutions are expected to pass with broad support from the Committee.
Update on the National Committeeman race....Rumor has it that Senator Tim Huelskamp may not be running for National Committeeman. Dwight Sutherland has not ruled out a last minute entry. Steve Cloud will be joining with Senator Sam Brownback for some sort of joint endorsement of John McCain for President.
Neither resolution is seems very interesting at first glance, but both are very important. The first resolution deals with Kansas Days itself. Many Republicans, and some bloggers, don't understand that the Kansas Republican Party does not run Kansas Days. It is an independent club, the Kansas Day Club, that organizes the event. The proceeds from our annual meeting do not go towards helping Republican candidates or the many important tasks performed by the Party. Instead, all that money goes to the Kansas Day Club. This resolution will force the Kansas Day club to decide if they want to work together with the Party in partnership to have a bigger and better Kansas Days, for the benefit of all Republicans. Many organizations claiming to be Republican are looking out for their own narrow self interest and building a big bank account at the expense of the Party. The Republican Party exists for the benefit of all Republicans not just a few who happen to live in a certain area or belong to a special group. This Resolution is one small step in placing the needs of the Party ahead of special interests. Everyone wants all Republican organizations to be successful, but when one part of the Party puts it's interests above those of everyone else we are bound to end in defeat.
The second resolution is another small but necessary step in ending the ongoing suspect behavior and possible voter fraud going on in Kansas. Republicans have always stood for fair and open elections and this resolution promotes just that proposition. Requiring simple IDs to vote and proof of citizenship to register to vote just makes sense. The Kansas Republican Party has already adopted the ID requirement for the upcoming Republican Caucus.
Both resolutions are expected to pass with broad support from the Committee.
Update on the National Committeeman race....Rumor has it that Senator Tim Huelskamp may not be running for National Committeeman. Dwight Sutherland has not ruled out a last minute entry. Steve Cloud will be joining with Senator Sam Brownback for some sort of joint endorsement of John McCain for President.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Kansas Day part II
The State Committee meeting is less than a week away and the participants in the main races are still up in the air. The Committee will vote on Kansas National Committeeman and National Committeewoman. Insider expects a few surprise twists before the ballots are counted.
The race for National Committeewoman appears to be between current Committeewoman Alicia Salisbury and KRA President Dr. Helen Van Etten. Insider wouldn't rule out the entrance of another conservative woman at the last minute, but for now Van Etten seems to be the clear cut favorite. Salisbury hasn't done much to offend party members like her Committeeman counterpart has done, nor has she accomplished much during her tenure. Her lack of buy in to the new course of the Kansas Republican Party will cost her support from the State Committee. Dr. Van Etten, has worked hard to raise money for the Party and she has contributed herself. Some may view her work as KRA President as a conflict, but her commitment to real Republican principles is unquestioned.
On the National Committeeman side there is one declared candidate, one likely to run and two past National Committeemen who have not publicly said they will not run again. Mike Pompeo, seems intent on proving that he deserves a place in the KS GOP hierarchy. Insider knows that State Senator Tim Huelskamp has been heavily recruited to run, but has not made an official announcement, one way or the other. Such a race would not only be a rerun of last year's 2nd and 3rd place vote getters in the Party Chair race, it will once again pit the 1st and 4th district, with people in both districts still bitter from last year's losses.
If that seems a little too easy, neither current National Committeeman Steve Cloud, nor immediate past Committeeman Dwight Sutherland have announced that they will not be seeking reelection. The announcement of one or both could shake things up a bit next Saturday.
Next....other matters for the State Committee to consider.
The race for National Committeewoman appears to be between current Committeewoman Alicia Salisbury and KRA President Dr. Helen Van Etten. Insider wouldn't rule out the entrance of another conservative woman at the last minute, but for now Van Etten seems to be the clear cut favorite. Salisbury hasn't done much to offend party members like her Committeeman counterpart has done, nor has she accomplished much during her tenure. Her lack of buy in to the new course of the Kansas Republican Party will cost her support from the State Committee. Dr. Van Etten, has worked hard to raise money for the Party and she has contributed herself. Some may view her work as KRA President as a conflict, but her commitment to real Republican principles is unquestioned.
On the National Committeeman side there is one declared candidate, one likely to run and two past National Committeemen who have not publicly said they will not run again. Mike Pompeo, seems intent on proving that he deserves a place in the KS GOP hierarchy. Insider knows that State Senator Tim Huelskamp has been heavily recruited to run, but has not made an official announcement, one way or the other. Such a race would not only be a rerun of last year's 2nd and 3rd place vote getters in the Party Chair race, it will once again pit the 1st and 4th district, with people in both districts still bitter from last year's losses.
If that seems a little too easy, neither current National Committeeman Steve Cloud, nor immediate past Committeeman Dwight Sutherland have announced that they will not be seeking reelection. The announcement of one or both could shake things up a bit next Saturday.
Next....other matters for the State Committee to consider.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Kansas Day...Part I
Happy 2008!
The excitement of the Republican Presidential race is building and will reach the borders of Kansas in a month. Plans are underway to have a smooth and highly successful Republican Caucus. But before the Kansas Caucus there is the small matter of Kansas Day and the state committee meeting.
Bylaw changes and resolutions are due by Friday the 11th. So far it has been quiet on that front with just a handful surfacing. Insider will share the latest if any earth shattering resolutions are considered by the resolutions committee.
The big vote for the committee will be for the new National Committeeman and Committeewoman. Insider will review the candidates next week, but it's not likely that the current National Committeeman or Committeewoman will be running for reelection.
Although the Kansas Republican party is not directly responsible for the planning of Kansas Day events, the 2008 Kansas Day events look better than ever. With the Kansas Caucus figuring so predominantly on the national stage, several Presidential campaigns will be hosting events.
There will be other changes this year. The County Chairs will not be pulled from their duties, and Kansas Day fun, for an additional meeting. Senator Roberts will be hosting a pancake feed on Sunday morning. Some of the changes will move some people out of their comfort zone. Keeping the Party moving forward is more important than doing things the same old way, and benefiting the same people, groups or businesses. The source of the problem is fear of change. Some people fear change and try to impede progress by creating all types of doomsday scenarios and claim that the sky is falling. The Kansas Republican Party is positioning itself for victory in 2008, financially and strategically, not serving the interest of a few chosen insiders.
If you can't make Kansas Day your first stop on the road to Victory in 2008, GOP Insider will continue to keep you up to date.
The excitement of the Republican Presidential race is building and will reach the borders of Kansas in a month. Plans are underway to have a smooth and highly successful Republican Caucus. But before the Kansas Caucus there is the small matter of Kansas Day and the state committee meeting.
Bylaw changes and resolutions are due by Friday the 11th. So far it has been quiet on that front with just a handful surfacing. Insider will share the latest if any earth shattering resolutions are considered by the resolutions committee.
The big vote for the committee will be for the new National Committeeman and Committeewoman. Insider will review the candidates next week, but it's not likely that the current National Committeeman or Committeewoman will be running for reelection.
Although the Kansas Republican party is not directly responsible for the planning of Kansas Day events, the 2008 Kansas Day events look better than ever. With the Kansas Caucus figuring so predominantly on the national stage, several Presidential campaigns will be hosting events.
There will be other changes this year. The County Chairs will not be pulled from their duties, and Kansas Day fun, for an additional meeting. Senator Roberts will be hosting a pancake feed on Sunday morning. Some of the changes will move some people out of their comfort zone. Keeping the Party moving forward is more important than doing things the same old way, and benefiting the same people, groups or businesses. The source of the problem is fear of change. Some people fear change and try to impede progress by creating all types of doomsday scenarios and claim that the sky is falling. The Kansas Republican Party is positioning itself for victory in 2008, financially and strategically, not serving the interest of a few chosen insiders.
If you can't make Kansas Day your first stop on the road to Victory in 2008, GOP Insider will continue to keep you up to date.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
The Gift that Doesn't Stop
Paul Morrison's gift to Kansas Democrats continues to give and give. While the KDP has opened up an internet suggestion box so the Governor has some names to consider before she appoints Chris Biggs, Paul Morrison continues to occupy the AG's office. The media is still trying to play off the Morrison story as just another "politician in sex scandal" story, ignoring Morrison's attempts to subvert the justice system.
While we wait for the final month of the Morrison regime, Insider will take a look at possible Republican AG candidates in 2010. It's early, but even with a couple years trying to appear right for the job, Chris Biggs, Dan Lykins, or Mr. Nancy Boyda will all have a much tougher race as an appointee than as an elected incumbent.
Here are some names to watch...
Phill Kline - Rumor has it that the Johnson County DA will not run for reelection...in Johnson County. Kline's stock has risen as a result of Morrison's downfall, especially after the undeserved scorn from the KC Star for breaking the story about Morrison's previous harassment issues.
Rep Mike O'Neal - A long time member of the House, O'Neal has worked with moderate and conservaties. His lengthy voting record would contain a few votes that could be used against him in a primary.
Rep Lance Kinzer - A newer face in the House, but an up and coming Conservative attorney. With two more years under his belt and the right encouragement, he might take a stab at it.
Chairman Kris Kobach - Often mentioned as a possible AG candidate due to his academic achievements. His leadership of the Kansas GOP as Republicans return from the setbacks of 2006 could give him traction in a crowded Republican primary race.
Sen Derek Schmidt - Majority leader in the Kansas Senate. Schmidt has a reputation as center to moderate in his politics, but is fair in his treatment of Conservatives. He has access to the money and influence of Topeka, but isn't well known statewide. Be on the lookout for a slow drift to the right.
U.S. Sen Sam Brownback - He's a lawyer and has good name recognition around the state. He claims that he won't run for Senate again in 2010. Maybe it's time for a new career.
This is going to be a wide open race with some great Republican candidates, expect more names to pop up over the next two years.
While we wait for the final month of the Morrison regime, Insider will take a look at possible Republican AG candidates in 2010. It's early, but even with a couple years trying to appear right for the job, Chris Biggs, Dan Lykins, or Mr. Nancy Boyda will all have a much tougher race as an appointee than as an elected incumbent.
Here are some names to watch...
Phill Kline - Rumor has it that the Johnson County DA will not run for reelection...in Johnson County. Kline's stock has risen as a result of Morrison's downfall, especially after the undeserved scorn from the KC Star for breaking the story about Morrison's previous harassment issues.
Rep Mike O'Neal - A long time member of the House, O'Neal has worked with moderate and conservaties. His lengthy voting record would contain a few votes that could be used against him in a primary.
Rep Lance Kinzer - A newer face in the House, but an up and coming Conservative attorney. With two more years under his belt and the right encouragement, he might take a stab at it.
Chairman Kris Kobach - Often mentioned as a possible AG candidate due to his academic achievements. His leadership of the Kansas GOP as Republicans return from the setbacks of 2006 could give him traction in a crowded Republican primary race.
Sen Derek Schmidt - Majority leader in the Kansas Senate. Schmidt has a reputation as center to moderate in his politics, but is fair in his treatment of Conservatives. He has access to the money and influence of Topeka, but isn't well known statewide. Be on the lookout for a slow drift to the right.
U.S. Sen Sam Brownback - He's a lawyer and has good name recognition around the state. He claims that he won't run for Senate again in 2010. Maybe it's time for a new career.
This is going to be a wide open race with some great Republican candidates, expect more names to pop up over the next two years.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Thanks
Temperatures are cooling and leaves are falling. It's time to take a break from politics before the 2008 races start into full swing and spend some time with family and friends. There is a lot to be thankful for both as an American, and a Republican.
As Americans, we should all be thankful that we live in a free country, that has remained free despite serious threats to our way of life. As Republicans we should be thankful for the hard work of dedicated Republicans around the state and nation.
After Thanksgiving, it will be time to start making plans for the January Kansas Republican Party meeting. There will be some old traditions renewed, and some brand new traditions. The biggest change will be the impact that the Kansas Republican Caucuses will have on the GOP. With two presidential candidates already committed to participating, and more on the way, the excitement will be building through January and February.
Happy Thanksgiving from KGI
As Americans, we should all be thankful that we live in a free country, that has remained free despite serious threats to our way of life. As Republicans we should be thankful for the hard work of dedicated Republicans around the state and nation.
After Thanksgiving, it will be time to start making plans for the January Kansas Republican Party meeting. There will be some old traditions renewed, and some brand new traditions. The biggest change will be the impact that the Kansas Republican Caucuses will have on the GOP. With two presidential candidates already committed to participating, and more on the way, the excitement will be building through January and February.
Happy Thanksgiving from KGI
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