Obey Out

Who Ya Gonna Call - Pork Busters

2007-06-14T09:26:00.000-07:00

Americans For Prosperity is holding a rally today to call on Dave Obey to fulfill Democrats' campaign promises to bring more transparency to the earmark process. Obey has proven that he will simply practice business as usual when it comes to running the appropriations committee.

Here's the press release:

In response to Congressman David Obey's attempt to hide pork-barrel earmarks from American taxpayers, I'm excited to announce that Americans for Prosperity's Wisconsin chapter will hold a grassroots rally tomorrow, June 14, outside of Congressman David Obey's home office in Wausau in support of pork-barrel transparency.

At the rally, grassroots taxpayers from Congressman Obey's district will call on him to release all of the pork-barrel earmark requests he has received from rank-and-file Members of Congress so they and other taxpayers around the country can help the Appropriations Committee Chairman evaluate their merits.

We'll also present Congressman Obey's staff with the names of hundreds of Americans who have volunteered to help him review more than 36,000 requests for pork-barrel spending. Just one day after AFP helped kick off an online petition drive, more than 700 Americans have signed up to help the overworked Chairman.

Our rally will also feature a giant pork-barrel pig, which our members plan to rename in Chairman Obey's honor.

If you're in the Wausau area tomorrow, be sure to join us at Noon on the sidewalk outside Congressman Obey's office at First Star Plaza , 401 5th Street , in Wausau .

And if you haven't already done so, be sure to sign our online petition at Porkbusters.org/petition/.

Obey Votes Against Dairy Funding

2007-05-27T18:30:00.000-07:00

Dave Obey voted against the war funding, and in doing so, put the liberal left wing of the party ahead of dairy farmers in Wisconsin.

Obey's Excuses

2007-05-15T11:30:00.000-07:00

Obey tries to explain eruption away.

We don't know about you, but if this was the first time he had exploded at someone, an explanation would be in order. He explodes at the drop of a hat and that's the problem. It's not a reflection of our values and it's time for him to go.

Mount Obey Known for Bad Temper

2007-05-10T14:22:00.000-07:00

According to colleagues, you haven't lived until Obey's ripped you a new one, Obey's always ill-temptered, and cranky all the time. http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0507/3922.html

Great representation of our values. I need a paper bag for my head when I visit DC later this summer.

Mount Obey erupts on colleagues
By: Josephine Hearn and David Baumann May 9, 2007 06:22 PM EST

The great Mount Obey rumbled to life again Tuesday, producing one of the most spectacular eruptions yet for the Wisconsin volcano and triggering minor flare-ups in peaks as far away as California.

Experts said such breathtaking seismic activity is common for Mount Obey, better known on Capitol Hill as House Appropriations Chairman Dave Obey, one of the most volatile members of Congress.

Obey's most recent outburst came during a private meeting of House Democrats discussing the latest proposal for funding the war in Iraq through the summer.

Rep. Dennis J. Kucinich, an anti-war Democrat from Ohio, asked Obey whether the bill would lead to privatization of Iraqi oil reserves, according to lawmakers and aides present at the meeting. Exasperated by the question, Obey let forth a stream of caustic words, asserting that the bill would not privatize Iraqi oil and emphasizing that he had clarified the issue many times already with Kucinich.

Obey was unrepentant Wednesday.

"I told him to read the goddamn language," Obey said in an interview. "If someone's ears are too tender for that language, that's too bad. I did it on purpose."

He said that Kucinich, who is running for the Democratic presidential nomination, is purposely misleading people about the spending bill. "I'm sorry he's only at 1 percent in the polls," Obey said. "He simply does not like me and I don't like him. I make no apology [for] what I said to Kucinich. He had it coming."

Obey gave some insight into how he uses his temper when he elaborated on the incident. "It was purposeful," he said. "People don't listen to half the things that are said in caucus. I did it to get people's attention. And, by God, I got their attention."

Obey continued, "As far as whether I have a temper, frankly, Scarlett, I don't give a damn. I didn't come here to win a popularity contest."

Kucinich had no comment.

Obey's eruption galvanized Rep. Diane E. Watson (D-Calif.), who rose to say she was offended by the remarks.
"When a member asks a question, I think there should be a response, not a cussing out," she said in an interview. Watson said that she shared Kucinich's concerns that the bill might lead to oil privatization but that Obey "scolded" her.

Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) was similarly taken aback. "He cursed at [Kucinich]. I think Mr. Obey was unfairly harsh and disrespectful."

Waters, Watson and Kucinich are among the handful of Democrats who opposed Obey's last wartime spending bill.

Other lawmakers at the meeting were more forgiving of Obey's temper, noting that such behavior is commonplace for him and not meant to be taken personally.

"You haven't lived until Dave Obey has torn your ass in half," Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) quipped to his colleagues.

Rep. Rahm Emanuel, an Illinois Democrat who is himself known for profanity-laced outbursts, tried to lighten the mood. "In my family, this is how we talk!" he said. (Indeed, Emanuel's mother is quoted as calling him a "shithead" in a new book, "The Thumpin': How Rahm Emanuel and the Democrats Learned to Be Ruthless and Ended the Republican Revolution.")

But Watson was not amused. She rejected arguments that Obey's comments were not meant to be harmful and were simply "the way he is."

"That's the way Imus is," she retorted, referring to radio shock jock Don Imus, who was recently fired after making racially insensitive remarks. "I do not accept what [Obey] said to me."

Mount Obey has long fascinated volcanologists who marvel at its high level of activity. Obey last blew his top two months ago, when he was confronted by an anti-war activist in a Capitol Hill hallway. The topic was again the wartime spending bill, which he has been ushering through the House. Obey himself would like to end the war, but he understands that his bill must take a more moderate approach to gain wider support, congressional aides said.

He unleashed a six-minute diatribe on the activist, railing against "idiot liberals" who did not understand his pragmatism. The exchange was caught on video and posted on YouTube, where it had been viewed more than 151,000 times as of Wednesday.

Obey attacks other lawmakers and congressional aides with regularity, often dubbing a misguided thought as "bullshit." In 1997, he mockingly waved a newspaper article in front of former Rep. Tom DeLay (R-Texas) on the House floor, saying it showed Republicans were selling out to lobbyists. DeLay shoved him and called him "chicken shit," according to accounts at the time.

Scott Lilly, who worked with Obey on the House Appropriations Committee for decades and himself got in a tussle with DeLay in 2001, said Obey's volatility is calculated.

"Many of the times he gets angry, it's not uncontrolled," Lilly said. "He gets people's attention when he gets angry, and he's aware of that. It's a more effective way of communicating with people."

First elected in Wisconsin in 1969, Obey is among the most senior members of the House and, as Appropriations chairman, he wields enormous power.

He is also perennially ill-tempered, said another former aide, who asked not to be identified.

"He's cranky all the time," the former aide said. "He's so used to being in a bad mood that if nothing is pissing him off, it makes him angry."

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II (D-Mo.), co-chair of the House Civility Task Force, a group created to lower the level of vitriol among lawmakers, declined to condemn Obey's behavior.

"There have always been characters in Congress, people who are respected for who they are," he said. "He's not being mean; he's just being who he is."

Still, Cleaver said members of Congress should "make sure to give a very civil response." He lamented an overall lack of civility in Congress.

"This place is almost a volcano waiting to erupt,'' he said, "on any issue, at any moment."

Obey Drops Pork Bribes and Inserts Union Payoff

2007-05-08T13:20:00.000-07:00

Dave Obey revealed a new funding proposal for our troops in Iraq. It calls for shorter funding authorization and benchmarks without an automatic date to withdraw troops. But according to this Politico article, he has dropped the pork spending bribes and replaced it with a union payoff of a minimum wage vote.

If I were a member of congress who'd been promised a pork project for my district and was then told I was simply getting another minimum wage vote, I'm not so sure I would take that deal.

Oh well, the unions are Obey's (and most liberals) biggest benefactors, and they must be demanding this.

Should be interesting.

Playing Politics with Our Troops

2007-05-01T12:22:00.000-07:00

This blatant political ploy by Speaker Pelosi should be condemned by Dave Obey today. Haven't heard, well, instead of sending the overdue troop funding bill to the President after it passed last week, Nancy Pelosi said she needed to read it line by line AFTER she voted for it.

Obey's FEC

2007-04-17T15:36:00.000-07:00

2% of Dave Obey's First Quarter Fundraising Comes from Wisconsin.

Wow, that's an impressive show of grassroots constituent support!!!

98% of Dave Obey's nearly $272,000 in campaign contributions came from special interest PACs in Washington, DC as well as 39 other states. 69% of contributions were from special interest PACs and 29% from out of state sources.

Yet, no mention of the breakdown of this funding from our newspapers. How sad on both counts.

Obey's Friend and More

2007-04-17T15:05:00.000-07:00

Well, the woman Dave Obey shouted down and offered a parting expletive to, was arrested for protesting outside Speaker Nancy Pelosi's office while chanting anti-war sentiments.

Also, over the break, Obey claimed he was making multiple stops across the district. We found evidence of one.

We are also breaking down Obey's first quarter FEC report. To read a first look from the Wasusau Daily Herald, click here.

More Taxes

2007-03-29T21:32:00.000-07:00

Today, Dave Obey voted for the largest tax increase in U.S. History, $400 billion over 5 years. Broken down, here's how it would impact America.

26 million small business owners, by an average of $3,960.
48 million married couples, by an average of $2,899.
42 million families with children, by an average of $2,181.
12 million single women with children, by an average of $1,082.
17 million senior citizens, by an average of $2,270.

Good thing we put these guys in charge. Hopefully President Bush will veto the Democrats' plans.

2007-03-20T07:14:00.000-07:00

The following are excerpts from an editorial Wausau Daily Herald. Read it and then our comments.

An hour with Rep. Dave Obey is an hour in a graduate-level political science seminar . . .

. . . you'll come to appreciate the mastery of context and details that distinguishes the nation's ablest public servants from the rest of the pack.

We wish more professional politicians spoke their minds that way. Obey's candor . . . is refreshing.

We suspect that the episode also reflects the lingering frustration of Obey and other experienced legislators from both parties who grew impatient over the past decade of congressional affairs managed by ideologically driven newcomers. Obey is a policy professional, more interested in getting things done than scoring political points.

And he is a pragmatist.

We at the newspaper are fortunate, and we know it. Our jobs enable us to spend quality time not just with Dave Obey but with our U.S. senators, the governor and lieutenant governor, members of the state Legislature and other public officials. It's a wonderful perch.

We emerge from the sessions with Obey - those 500-level poli sci seminars - knowing that we're lucky to be paid observers of one of the great congressional careers in the nation's history, distinguished not just by length of service but by deep intelligence, wisdom and passion - precisely the qualities the United States needs to lead us out of Iraq while protecting the lives of our soldiers.

We've often contended Obey has the press in his hip pocket, and this proves it - we even left out much of the kissing up the Daily Herald did to Obey in this editorial.

This You Tube incident isn't one isolated incident of Obey's temper and character, it's a perfect example of it. People all over Washington and the Seventh District have been berated by Obey for disagreeing with him for nearly four decades. Obey got away with it for years because he so carefully controlled his contacts with the media (do you think for one second Obey would have gone off and even cursed at these people had it been in a meeting with writers for the Daily Herald?) and because there wasn't a vehicle like You Tube.

It isn't "refreshing" as the Herald characterizes it, it's disheartening to think this man is our Representative in Washington because he certainly doesn't represent the character of the people of Wisconsin.

Obey Earmarking

2007-03-17T15:16:00.000-07:00

Anyone else remember when Obey was decrying Republican use of special interest earmarks to buy votes and pay off lobbyists.

Guess what Dave Obey did in trying to get his Supplemental Appropriations bill passed - not tough to guess, he used earmarks.

Even $25 million for spinach farmers. What do spinach farmers and funding the ongoing War in Iraq have to do with each other? Answer: absolutely nothing unless you're either trying to buy votes or repay a lobbyist.

So which is it Dave, vote buying or special interest payoff (actually it's probably a combination of vote, the person(s) whose vote was bought is probably paying off a special interest lobby)?

Mean, Yes, and Not too Bright Either

2007-03-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

Good thing these guys are in charge.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sAREkvWi4rM

Dave Obey is Mean

2007-03-09T14:06:00.000-08:00

Watch this video, particularly the last 3 minutes.

If this is how Dave Obey talks to his anti-war, anti-troop friends, imagine how he speaks to people he doesn't agree with when he doesn't think people are watching. And it's not like the people he's talking with are even raising their voices. They are standing there calmly and respectfully. Too bad Obey doesn't return their courtesy, but as we've said here many times, Obey feels he is better than everyone else.

[UPDATE] Hat tip to Red State, with :38 to go, Obey drops the F-bomb, "go f*** with somebody else."

He should apologize for denegrating the office. Again, these people were not yelling at him. They were not using profanity. Obey raised the volume on the conversation. He's a hothead and should be ashamed of himself.

Obey to the World - the U.S. Folds

2007-03-09T13:01:00.000-08:00

We like watching the World Series of Poker on TV. Dave Obey's favorite part apparently is when the player with the best hand says, "I fold."

According to the JS online Obey said the measure features a timeline "for bringing the United States' participation in Iraq's civil war to an orderly and responsible close."

We knew it before, but now it's official, Obey says the U.S. should give up. Obey has been opposed to being Iraq since the beginning and always wanted our troops to fail-voting against funding for our troops and constantly undermining them in the media which emboldens the terrorists.

It's just too bad he never wanted us to succeed.

Obey's Priority - Class Warfare

2007-02-20T13:10:00.000-08:00

According to this story, Dave Obey wants to make this about "us versus them."

" . . . Congress is moving in a new direction and is being run by people with a different set of priorities - putting the needs of average working people ahead of the economic and political elites . . ."

Seriously, does Dave Obey really expect us to believe that Republicans sit around in a room and say, "how can we screw people who make less than $50,000 a year?" Let's remember, that Republicans passed the tax relief that reduced to zero the amount of federal income taxes a family of four who makes $45,000 a year pays.

The economic and political elites of the world who live in Washington and New York and Los Angeles support the Democrats, not the Republicans. And Dave Obey should know, because it's the liberal, rich, elite from the East Coast that do the most to fund his campaigns.

Smile

2007-02-06T10:19:00.000-08:00

In a recent Oshkosh Northwestern article, Dave Obey opines on being a Freshman member of Congress.

To be sure, it will take time for members of the freshman class to find their place in Congress, said Dave Obey, the third longest serving member in the House.

"For the first three years that I was in the Congress, I thought I had made a big mistake," said the Wausau Democrat.

First, we're impressed that Obey can remember back that far.

Second, we wish Obey would have followed his gut and realize that for the future of America, someone with his values should indeed not be serving in Congress.

Democrats Lose Bid to Raise Their Own Pay

2007-01-31T13:25:00.000-08:00

Republicans Stop Democrat Attempt to Raise Congressional Pay

Apparently, Congressional Democrats didn't really mean it last fall when they said they wouldn't accept a pay raise until the minimum wage was raised. The Dems tried to strike a deal with Republicans to let the new pay raise take effect February 16th. Republicans said no.

It's real convenient to act all high and mighty when saying anything to win an election. Good for Republicans in holding the Dems feet to the fire.

Testing the Constitution

2007-01-30T11:44:00.000-08:00

Obey and the Democrats decided to give Delegates to Congress a vote on the House floor . It's fairly convenient since all but one of them caucuses with Republicans. Obey, Pelosi and the like are simply making another power grab to bolster their chances of winning close votes. We don't think it's what our forefathers had in mind for voting in Congress, but to the victors go the spoils, right?

Just like ramming several bills through Congress without a committee hearing or allowing Republicans to offer amendments, the old school Democrats are back to their pre-1994 ways of ruling Congress with an iron fist. Look for stories soon to surface about how they are trying to squeeze campaign contributions out of lobbyists as well.

So much for the change in tone offered by Democrats during the campaign last fall.

Obey's Op-Ed

2007-01-23T15:14:00.000-08:00

So Dave Obey's writing for the Capital Times (they usually write on his behalf, so it's time to return the favor we guess). In his op-ed, he says Democrats are all that's good about America - you know, apple pie, peace, justice and our very way of life. He even took credit for rolling back student interest rates (though he took a sick day instead of voting on it).

What he spent a large part of the op-ed on was changes to ethics rules. We at Obey Out believe that the rules weren't the problem. The Members of Congress who got in trouble were all breaking the rules that were already in place. Changing the rules doesn't change the Members who will break any rules.

We have no problem with allowing a lobbyist to buy a staffer or a Member a reasonably priced lunch, and in Washington DC, a $30 to $50 limit on food would do just that. Now, they can't even buy them a cup of coffee. It's kind of stupid to think that the people we elect can't be trusted not to be bought off by a steak or two. Is that what our nation has come to?

We at Obey Out would prefer a system where lobbyists must report within 7 days all expenditures made (within a reasonably set limit), and for whos benefit, and that the information be available on a publicly searchable database. That step would prohibit Members from over-indulging because no one would want to be at the top of that list.

Anyway, our favorite phrases from the op-ed were:

the rules restrict lobbyists from organizing, financing or participating in member travel and prohibit member travel

"the rules ban "dead of night" special interest provisions"

We have already documented that not only did Dave Obey have no problem taking lobbyist funded junkets, but he also had no problem making "dead of night" deals over a glass of merlot.

Oh well, Obey's not above conveniently ignoring the facts anyway and neither are the newspapers who love him.

So Much for Priorities

2007-01-19T13:46:00.000-08:00

Dave Obey made a big issue about the Republican effort to restructure the student loan program last year. Yet, when a Democrat bill to lower interest rates came to a vote - Obey missed it.

Hmmmm

2007-01-17T12:47:00.000-08:00

What's with the liberals being up in arms with "24"?

We (or I in this case as some of my co-Obey Outers love this show) don't even like "24." Yet, with the State of the Union coming up and the Democrats unleashing an offensive on Bush to try and damage his credibility so he gets no bump from the speech, liberals are working in concert with their friends in Congress by saying that "24" is right wing neo-con propaganda.

First, "24" is one of the most popular shows on TV and TV execs are about making money. They are making "24" into the type of show they believe will make them a lot of money.

Second, let's remember that culturally, politically, and philosophically, Hollywood is overwhelmingly liberal.

To us, it's classic liberal mania - defined as liberals are all for letting everyone have an opinion unless they disagree with it, then whatever you have to say is simply part of a vast right wing conspiracy to ruin America. Welcome to the club "24".

A Forum

2007-01-09T19:04:00.000-08:00

There are a couple anonymous commenters posting to Obey Out who claim to be Republicans, but complain about Republican leadership and defend Obey as a better alternative to the 2006 candidate Nick Reid.

We welcome all who wish to join our party, but we have a few questions.

First, what Republicans for Congress, Senate or President have you voted for in the last 15 years?

Second, what current Republican candidate do you support to be our next Presidential nominee (other than Tommy Thompson)?

Third, what current Republican member of the House of Representatives would you most like to see be the next Speaker of the House and why?

Fourth, which two specific policy positions that Nick Reid took do you oppose and why is Dave Obey better on these issues?

Fifth, who would you support as our nominee for Congress in 2008?

For our other readers, we would like to hear who you support as our Presidential nominee, who would make a good Republican Speaker, and who you would support as our nominee?

This is an open forum, so sound off.

A caveat, any post from our regular critics that rehashes the same old comments about Tom DeLay, Democrats for Reid, corruption, etc, etc, etc, will be DELETED.

A Sad Day for America

2007-01-05T15:12:00.000-08:00

We just gave Nancy Pelosi the keys to the House. Scarry.

Also, thanks to the Journal-Sentinel, we now know what else Obey was doing rather than working on 2007 appropriations bills, he was planning a party . . . "Answering to "Mr. Chairman," Obey had a spread of food and drinks for guests, who included House Democrat Tammy Baldwin of Madison."

Happy New Year

2007-01-03T09:05:00.000-08:00

We hope you all enjoyed the holiday season. We spent Christmas with family and friends and took some time off from blogging (no, we didn't get run out of the blogging business by the Democrats and conspiracy theorists posting here).

Our New Year's Resolution - convince more people to get behind the Republican candidate to defeat Dave Obey in 2008.

Now, to Dave Obey's spin doctoring. In this WisPolitics.com article, Obey says Democrat Congress needs to clean up Republican spending and get back to balancing the budget. Yet, he offers no specifics on how to do it. He defended earmarks, and he criticized Republicans for budget cuts. When Democrats aren't talking about making tough choices to balance the budget, it only means one thing - TAX INCREASES are planned.

The other thing in this article that bothers us is that Dave Obey renewed his call for public financing of elections. Again, as we've posted before, this will never happen and Dave Obey knows it. It allows him to look all "man of the people" while knowing he can keep ringing up the campaign cash register with special interest financing and winning lopsided elections. Imagine if Obey and his Republican opponent had roughly the same amount of money to spend when in the past Obey can outspend his opponent 5 to 1.

And finally, another lie from Obey. From the article, "Obey also knocked Republicans for not passing appropriations bills, especially those needed for health care, in the previous session, saying they'll have to pass two years worth of appropriations bills in the new year."

Yet again, his friends in the press did not call him on this blatant disregard for the truth. As we've covered (and been blasted for by our Democrat posting friends), Obey has already announced the Democrats will not be passing the 2007 appropriations bills but instead start working on the 2008 bills.

If we keep electing this guy, this is what we will continue to get. Talking like a populist moderate, voting and working like a lying elitist liberal.

Rearranging the Deck Chairs

2006-12-14T14:56:00.000-08:00

As further evidence Dave Obey doesn't have his eye on the ball, we offer the following report from Congress Daily in Washington.

"Incoming House Appropriations Chairman Obey is proposing to add two additional subcommittees and break up two others, largely doing away with the GOP reshuffling that occurred two years ago, according to sources."

Some of our commenters have suggested it was Republicans who are to blame for Obey punting on 2007 spending bills. We agree that Republicans, coupled strongly with fillibuster threats from Democrats in the Senate, did not get the bills done. However, we now have proof that rather than negotiating to finish the bills, Obey is negotiating on the make-up of the committee. Obey is trading process for substance and doing a further dissservice to the American people in the process.

According to the story, "Decisions on subcommittee jurisdictions and "cardinals" probably will not be final until January when Democrats meet to hash out committee assignments, and Obey also needs to complete negotiations with incoming Senate Appropriations Chairman Byrd. Obey's staff declined to comment or confirm details. A Byrd spokesman said talks were ongoing, and the final product might look different."

Giddy with the chance to make a power grab, Obey is focusing his time and energy on rearranging the deck chairs on a sinking ship rather than repairing the hole. We're not shocked, with Democrats it's about having the power to tell people how to live their lives, not about doing good for the majority of Americans.

Punting on 3rd Down

2006-12-12T13:08:00.000-08:00

Without even trying to forge a bi-partisan compromise as he bragged he could do in debates with Nick Reid this fall, Dave Obey has decided to not address the unfinished appropriations bills for Fiscal Year 2007. Good Job Dave!!! Proud to have you as our appropriations chairman!!

http://www.yubanet.com/artman/publish/article_47372.shtml

Obey Making Excuses - Shows True Colors

2006-11-16T16:17:00.000-08:00

In an effort to lower expectations on what Dave Obey will do for the district, Obey blamed the Iraq war and tax cuts for lowering the amount of money available to spend.

This is what the people of the Seventh District need to wake up to - Obey's first priority is spending your money, preferably MORE OF IT.

To the people of the 7th, when will we wake up and smell the crap Obey believes?

Nick Reid's first priority would have been to make sure you get to keep more of your hard-earned money.

Anonymous and Illiterate

2006-11-13T15:38:00.000-08:00

Someone without the courage of their convictions posted on this site that Reid isn't the right type of Republican to go to Congress. They also used some worn out cliches and name calling which shows they have no real arguments to make.

Anyway, this district voted for Ronald Reagan. Reagan was pro-life, pro-second amendment, pro-tax relief and for a strong national defense. Those are Nick Reid's core principles.

So, if Nick Reid runs again, we should support him. He ran a great campaign in a year when Republicans were getting killed nationwide. Now he has a name ID and financial platform to jump off of.

If he doesn't run again, we will support another strong Republican candidate as well.

Election Day

2006-11-06T21:39:00.000-08:00

Vote Reid.

And bring 10 people with you.

Differences Vast between Obey and Reid - Thank Goodness

2006-11-04T13:24:00.000-08:00

From the Journal Sentinel

Differences vast between Obey and Reid
Race in 7th Congressional has plenty at stake
By DAN BENSON

Posted: Nov. 3, 2006

There are a lot of differences between 7th District U.S. Rep. David Obey (D-Wausau) and his Republican challenger, Nick Reid.

To start, Obey, 67, is older than Reid, 26, and has a 37-year head start in experience in elected office, having first been elected to the 7th District seat in 1969, 10 years before Reid was born.

For those and other reasons, not many political handicappers give Reid or Green Party candidate Mike Miles much chance of unseating Obey.

But the race for the state's largest congressional district, encompassing all or part of 20 counties in the northwest corner of the state, might be one of the nation's most significant if the Democrats win a majority in the House of Representatives.

If that happens, Obey stands to retake the chairmanship of the powerful House Appropriations Committee, which controls government spending.

It's not that first-time candidate Reid is completely without experience.

Reid, who grew up near Superior and says he decided to pursue a career in politics when he was 18 years old, graduated in 2001 with a degree in political science from Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion, Ind.

He joined the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank in Washington, D.C., where he worked for three years as a congressional liaison. Then, for two years, until the end of 2005, Reid was press secretary for U.S. Rep. Jim Ryun (R-Kansas).

Reid moved to Rice Lake from Washington last winter to run against Obey.

Reid, who defeated Jeff Tyberg in the GOP September primary, said it was Obey's record on attracting business to the district that motivated him to get involved in politics.

Reid said he sees economic development as a "crossover" issue that will draw Democrats and independent voters to vote for him.

Obey's campaign argues that the congressman is fighting to keep jobs in the state and nation by backing the so-called Corporate Patriot Enforcement Act.

Other differences on the issues between Reid and Obey include:

• Obey, along with other Democrats, has proposed that the U.S. begin withdrawing some troops from Iraq by the end of the year and redirect funds to improving security on trains, ports, subways and planes. Reid says he supports President Bush's strategy but agrees that a withdrawal of U.S. troops is inevitable; he says, however, that there shouldn't be a fixed timetable.
• Reid said he supports developing oil reserves in Alaska, unlike Obey.
• Reid opposes abortion and supports state and federal so-called marriage amendments, which would define marriage as a union between a man and a woman. Obey has described his voting record on abortion as being "mixed," having often voted against curbs on abortion rights. He voted for the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act and is on record as saying he believes marriage is between a man and a woman. But in July he voted against a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage, saying "the Constitution is supposed to be reserved largely for determining the process of government. It should not be filled up with unnecessary references to personal living arrangements."

Green Party candidate Miles is the third person on this year's ballot. It is Miles' second run at Obey; he challenged the incumbent in 2004.

That year, with no Republican on the ballot, Miles came in second, garnering 26,188 votes against Obey's 240,988 votes. Larry Oftedahl of the Constitution Party got 12,819 votes.

On his Web site, Miles all but concedes this race to Obey.

"The reality is that no one can beat Dave Obey," Miles writes. "Dave will have his seat until he retires."

Miles' platform favors an end to the war in Iraq, increased environmental safeguards, universal free education, free health care, less government.

Reid's financing is a drop in the bucket compared with Obey's. Miles' is even less.

According to Federal Elections Commission data, Obey's campaign had $962,743 on hand and had spent $774,815 through the end of September, compared with Reid's $23,602 and $138,256, respectively.

Miles, has not raised enough money to be required to file with the FEC.

Obey Knows Buffoonery

2006-11-04T13:02:00.000-08:00

This is a disgrace. I'm embarrassed Dave Obey is my Congressman. Fire him. Hire Nick.

Congressman defends Kerry's remarks

U.S. Rep. Dave Obey, D-Wis., defended critical remarks U.S. Sen. John Kerry made about President Bush's policy on the Iraq war, saying Kerry "correctly described the buffoonery that accompanied the president's mishaps."

Reid for Congress

2006-11-01T18:28:00.000-08:00

From the Spooner Advocate

I am running for Congress to give Wisconsin families a better tomorrow for themselves, their children, and their grandchildren. It is time for real representation in Washington, and for over 37 years Dave Obey has proven to be out of touch with the people of our district and our values. We need a representative who will work hard to bring jobs and opportunities to our district to improve the quality of life for our citizens, and keep our families here.

Superior Mayor Endorses Reid

2006-10-24T12:23:00.000-07:00

http://www.friendsofnickreid.com/news.asp?newsid=95

Superior Mayor Endorses Nick Reid for Congress!
10/23/2006

Seventh Congressional District Candidate Nick Reid received a boost to his campaign this weekend with the endorsement of Superior Mayor Dave Ross. The endorsement came in a joint press conference last Saturday with Mayor Ross and Congressman Mark Green.

“I would like to give my whole-hearted endorsement of Nick Reid for Congress,” said Mayor Ross. “Nick is one of our home grown, class “A” products, that we'd be more than happy to send to Washington.”

The event highlighted the need for change in Northern Wisconsin after 37 years of failed leadership. Mayor Ross’ endorsement demonstrates that new leadership is needed to help small business owners and grow the northern economy. “I am grateful to have the support of such a great leader,” said Reid.

“Mayor Ross has set an example of how strong, positive leadership can make a difference in a community. When I am elected, I look forward to working with Mayor Ross and other community leaders like him to bring new jobs to the Seventh District.”

Endorsement a Slap in the Face (A Joke Even)

2006-10-24T12:12:00.000-07:00

In this story the National Farmers Union Endorses Dave Obey. First of all, this organization is based in DC. Second, it is a borderline commnist organization.

But here's the slap in the face, a quote from their release . . .

"The most pressing challenge now is for voters to support these candidates so they actually get elected and can help turn the tide in Washington.”

Dave Obey have been in office for 37 years. For 25 of those years, Democrats were in the majority.

How exactly is Dave Obey going to make a difference if he hasn't already?

It's time for some new blood in Washington.

Another Reason to Vote Republican November 7th

2006-10-24T12:04:00.000-07:00

Vote Republican

2006-10-20T09:21:00.000-07:00

If you don't know why to vote Republican, Click Here

Don't Apologize Mike

2006-10-18T16:33:00.000-07:00

Check out this post from Green Party candidate Mike Mile's website.

Last week in the debate, Mike Miles brought up the FACT that Dave Obey's son gets earmarks from federal appropriations bills as a lobbyist. No one suggests Obey or his son did anything wrong, however, it was legitimate to point out that this is a huge conflict of interest. What was interesting to us was how loudly Obey protested. Miles is right to say Obey needs to stay above any appearance of impropriety and what Obey went on and on about was that his son did nothing wrong. Obey never said he had done nothing wrong . . .

Moreover, the larger point is that Obey raises an overwhelming majority of his campaign financing from special interest PACs and DC lawyers and lobbyists. That should send up huge red flags to the people of Northwest Wisconsin as to where Obey's loyalties are. We hope Miles or Reid will point this out in the next debate.

Global Warming

2006-10-18T16:29:00.000-07:00

Dave Obey's at it again. Here's what he said about Al (I discovered global warming) Gore's movie on global warming. "It is the most fundamental, and probably the most cataclysmic, problem we face . . ."

http://www.spooneradvocate.com/placed/index.php?sect_rank=3&story_id=226572

Let Me Clear My Throat

2006-10-16T13:12:00.000-07:00

One of our commenters posted about the annoying throat clearing Obey did every time Nick was talking during the debate. We don't know if it was a ploy, a tell, or just a guy getting old, but how rude.

OK, to the subject of the post at hand. Obey's at it again. According to his latest FEC report, Obey raised 72% of his campaign contributions from . . . . drumroll please . . . . SPECIAL INTERESTS IN WASHINGTON . . . . here is the link.

Which makes Nick latest ad very appropriate. You can check it out at the following link http://www.friendsofnickreid.com/tvspotsad3.asp . It's a good one. Spread the word.

In Case You Missed It

2006-10-14T23:07:00.000-07:00

Reid Defeats Obey in Debate - Click Here to download the file

Dave Obey sounds like a bitter old man as he states such things as being proud to vote against small businesses and for two of the biggest tax increases of all time.

Carry this around in your car and play it for everyone you know. Anyone who listens to this debate will vote for Nick Reid.

In Case You Missed It

2006-10-06T18:33:00.000-07:00

NRA Endorsement

2006-10-03T14:07:00.000-07:00

For the first time in years, the NRA has not endorsed Dave Obey.

In fact, they gave Nick Reid an "A" and Dave Obey only a "B+"

We think Obey deserves a much lower grade.

Read it for yourself here.

Are you sitting down?

2006-09-30T09:18:00.000-07:00

Did the Telegram say what I think they said here?

Already, the U.S. House campaign of Nick Reid and Wisconsin Senate campaign of Shirley Riedmann are evidence that Republicans are making a strong push to gain strength in northwestern Wisconsin. They represent a stronger breed of GOP candidate than in recent years, and additionally suggest a trend is in the works.

Yes, that sounded like a compliment to Nick Reid's campaign.

If you want the short version, the Telegram is saying that Northwest Wisconsin may be trending toward Republicans.

We need to capitalize on this trend. It's the last day of the quarterly reporting period for campaign contributions. If you believe as we and the Telegram do that Nick Reid is running the strongest campaign since Scott West in 1996, then click here and send him a few bucks today.

Why Voters Are Ready for Change

2006-09-29T09:45:00.000-07:00

According to this Rasmussen poll, Governor Doyle's approval ratings are 51-48% overall. Sounds good for Doyle, right? Digging deeper however, to look at the intensity of voters, 19% strongly approve, 28% strongly disapprove. That's a bad, bad sign for an incumbent. It means nearly 2/3rds of those who say they approve of Doyle aren't solidly in his camp.

We suspect that Dave Obey's approval ratings are similarly soft.

There is an environment for change out there, what are we doing to take advantage of it?

Obey's Campaign Money

2006-09-27T08:21:00.001-07:00

Obey receives $28,500 in campaign contributions from tribal gaming interests. Not only is this pro-gambling money, but it's just another example of how Dave Obey plays the Washington money game to stay in office - raising very little from the district he's supposed to represent.

Obey Votes Against Property Rights

2006-09-26T15:18:00.000-07:00

Obey voted against property rights protections today. Last week he voted against requiring voters to show an ID, yes he voted against preventing voting fraud. This week he votes against strengthening private property. Has he read the constitution?

This Excuse Smells of Horse Droppings

2006-09-25T08:19:00.000-07:00

Here's a squib from this Journal Sentinel story

Wausau Democrat Dave Obey, who was listed in a voting chart two weeks ago as "not voting" on a bill against horse-slaughtering, noted to us that he cast a vote of "not present." Obey said he voted that way in protest.

"I thought it was ridiculous with three weeks left in the damn session we sit there hemming and hawing about the health of horses and we weren't doing a damn thing about the health of human beings," said Obey.

Does this excuse smell like a horse stall to anyone else?

Let us translate for you . . . OK, the liberals in DC want me to vote for this legislation. They want to take away the rights of people to determine whether or not their old horse goes to the glue factory or to the slaughter house and sold to Europeans (who apparently really like horse meat). Common sense people in Northwest Wisconsin will think, what's next, outlawing cow slaughter because PETA thinks it should be done. I'll just say I'm protesting the context of the vote without having to take a position.

Or maybe Dave got stuck in an elevator or nature was calling . . . whatever, this was lame.

And one final note, come on reporter ask the next logical question, so Congressman Obey, I know you were (snicker, snicker) protesting (ha, ha) but how WOULD YOU HAVE VOTED on the MERITS of the LEGISLATION.

And who says reporters aren't lazy?

Never Give Up

2006-09-24T13:10:00.000-07:00

We at Obey Out get the feeling that there's too much "give up" and not enough "fight" in the Republicans in the 7th District. There's not enough enthusiasm to help Nick Reid win this race.

In 1994, no one gave Scott West a chance to win. No one gave him any money. Hardly anyone was helping him by volunteering, etc. Then, he lost by just a few percentage points, and we were all kicking ourselves for not giving or doing just a little bit more.

Let's not have that happen again. Nick Reid is working 100 hours a week trying to win this race. Yet, we've yet to get him enough money to run a winning campaign. How many of us have walked door to door in our neighborhoods to ask people to support Nick?

We at Obey out have contributed what we can, and we're volunteering time whenever we can. Are you?

Send him some money today by clicking here

Click here and let them know you can volunteer.

Nick Reid is working hard for us. What have you done to help?

Obey Says No to Voter ID

2006-09-21T14:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the U.S. House voted to require voters to show government issued photo-ID in order to vote. Dave Obey voted NO. Any questions?

Debates and Support

2006-09-18T10:21:00.000-07:00

The following story ran in the Wausau Daily Herald. In it, Reid challenges Obey to 6 debates. Obey says only 3.

Also, Tyberg says he will support Reid in November. Way to go Jeff!!

U.S. Rep. Dave Obey, a Wausau Democrat who has been in Congress for 37 years, will face 26-year-old Republican Nick Reid of Rice Lake in the Nov. 7 general election.

Reid, a former press secretary for U.S. Rep. Jim Ryun, R-Kan., won the GOP nomination in Tuesday's primary election for Wisconsin's District 7. Reid captured 59 percent of the vote in defeating Jeff Tyberg, 37, of Grantsburg.

"The primary season is over, and it's time to offer the voters a choice," said Reid, who has challenged Obey and Green Party candidate Mike Miles to six debates. "I hope that my opponents will allow all of the voters in this district to see and hear firsthand what our positions are so that they can make an informed decision on Nov. 7."

Obey already has set aside dates for three debates in central Wisconsin, including one Oct. 26 in the theater at the University of Wisconsin Marathon County. That debate will be from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., with moderator Glen Moberg of Wisconsin Public Radio.

Miles of Luck also is challenging Obey in November but had no Green Party primary opposition.

Tyberg said he will support Reid in his campaign against Obey.

"I look forward to assisting him in achieving our mutual goal of winning the November election and providing the people of the 7th District with a real voice in Washington," he said Wednesday in a press release

Third Rate Name Caller

2006-09-15T22:12:00.000-07:00

According to this article from the Post Crescent, Dave Obey resorted to name calling in the debate over the war on terror. We're so proud.

Rep. David Obey on Wednesday likened the House Republican leader's questioning of Democrats' patriotism to Joe McCarthy's Cold War witch-hunt for Communists.

"I come from the state of Joe McCarthy," said Obey, D-Wausau. "(I) know a third-rate McCarthy when I see one. And we saw one yesterday."

The majority leader, John Boehner of Ohio had said that Democrats who criticized President Bush's speech on Monday, "are more interested in protecting the terrorists than protecting the American people."

If you're scratching your head over Obey's reaction, we are too. This is the same guy who felt like it was alright for the New York Times to leak information on a LEGAL program to watch potential terrorists.

I guess Obey's theory is, when someone starts telling the truth about me and I don't like it, I'll call him a name. How old are you Dave, 9 or 69?

And now we comment on all the Democrats moaning, wailing and gnashing of teeth over the President's September 11th speech. They didn't like that he made a case for staying in Iraq. They said that was political and not befitting the occasion. What?!?!?! Regardless of why we got into Iraq, that's where the terrorists are fighting us. That's where they have vowed to drive us out and claim victory for their Islamic-facist (sorry Russ, but that's what they are) cause.

And don't let the Democrats fool you, if Bush hadn't made the case for Iraq, they would have been all over the news this week saying he was running away from his Iraq policy.

And finally, what's up with John McCain? The Supreme Court didn't say that military tribunals were unconstitutional, they said the President didn't have the legal authority to conduct them. Congress is trying to give the President the authority and McCain is blocking it. Not a good time to position yourself in the middle for your presidential aspirations Johnny boy.

Reid Wins - Hits Ground Running with Debate Challenge

2006-09-13T08:19:00.000-07:00

Reid's Victory Remarks

I want to thank all of our supporters for making this night possible – this is only the beginning – and I want to thank my good friend, Jeff Tyberg, who I admire greatly. I just spoke on the phone with Jeff, and he sends his regards to all of you. He also asked me to pass along an invitation to all of those listening tonight – that we unite together now as one voice to elect a congressman that will finally represent our values and bring a hope for a better tomorrow to the good people here in the Seventh District of Wisconsin.

Reid Challenges Obey, Miles to Six Debates

"The primary season is over, and it's time to offer the voters a choice," said Reid. "I hope that my opponents will allow all of the voters in this district to see and hear first hand what our positions are so that they can make an informed decision on November 7th."

Reid's proposal includes debates in Wausau, Superior, Chippewa Falls, and Amery. The first debate would take place on Wisconsin Public TV, with the second taking place on WSAU's 55 Feedback program. Next up Reid offers to debate on local radio stations in the Polk county area, followed up by a televised debate in Superior on a broadcast station. Reid proposes the final two debates take place on broadcast TV stations in Chippewa Falls and Wausau.

"This series of six debates will allow the voters in each region of the district an opportunity to hear all sides of the arguments and make an informed decision," said Reid. "I look forward to debating Mr. Obey and Mr. Miles, and I urge them to accept the challenge as soon as possible."

Results

2006-09-12T20:03:00.000-07:00

Results found here.

11:52 Media Calls Race for Reid with 77% reporting and a 59-41 lead. With Reid's current vote getting in Marathon, Reid's final % could reach 60.

11:45 Reid up 59-41 with 75% reporting. word is, Tyberg still hasn't conceded. Probably will soon. As many as 2000 votes outstanding in Marathon county where Nick is leading 68-32.

11:30 OK, we're calling the race for Reid, but we give credit to Tyberg for running a spirited campaign. Final margin is in doubt, but will probably settle between 57-59 for Reid. We expect the media will officially call in the next 30 minutes.

11:10 58-42, 60% reporting

10:49 59-41, 47% reporting

10:35 57-43, 43% reporting

10:17 57-43, 30% reporting

10:03 57-43, 26% reporting

9:53pm 57-43, 17% reporting

9:36 pm seems to be stabilizing, 56-44, 13% of precincts

9:17 pm closer now, 57-43 Reid

9:05pm 2% reporting, 64-36 Reid.

8:55 pm It's still early, only 5 precincts reporting.

Vote Today

2006-09-12T08:56:00.000-07:00

Regardless of where you come down in this primary today, please excercise your right to vote.

If you're looking for a recommendation, we endorsed Nick Reid.

UPDATE: Want to know where they stand before you go vote today, check out the 7th GOP Primary Debate.

9-11 Legacy: Obey Tried to Cut Intelligence Funding

2006-09-11T09:45:00.000-07:00

"Three persons who chaired or were ranking Democrats on Armed Services subcommittees for part of the 1993-99 period—Pat Schroeder, D-CO; Neil Abercrombie, D-HI; and Marty Meehan,D-MA—also voted for every fund-cutting amendment that was offered during their tenures. Dave Obey, D-WI, the senior Democrat on the Appropriations Committee that holds the House’s keys to the federal checkbook, voted seven out of eight times to reduce intelligence funding."

That's a quote from this article in Front Page Magazine.

As we remember 9-11, let's remember that seven of the eight times Obey faced a vote on funding our intelligence operations after the first World Trade Center bombing in 1993 until 1999, he voted to CUT our ability to monitor potential threats.

If for no other reason this fall, we should toss Obey out on his ear for these seven votes. It's incomprehensible to us that as Osama Bin Laden was declaring war on America, Obey could sleep at night after voting to cut the intelligence funding to try and protect us from attacks.

Debate Coverage

2006-09-09T09:56:00.000-07:00

Here's the Duluth News Tribune story - another pretty bland story, but at least someone covered it. Now that it's after Labor Day, the Obeyite Reporters can't pretend he's running unopposed.

An Appropriate Reminder

2006-09-08T16:38:00.000-07:00

We know it seems like we love YouTube a little too much lately, but we found this ad from Progress for America today and feel like you should see it.

Five Myths About Gitmo

2006-09-07T20:10:00.000-07:00

Dave Obey's liberal friends have gone bonkers over things like Guantanamo Bay, and the terrorist surveillance program. This video debunks one set of myths.

In Case You Missed It

2006-09-07T13:48:00.000-07:00

Check Out This Link It's a look at what it would be like if Democrats controlled Congress.

Reid the stronger pick

2006-09-07T08:03:00.000-07:00

While we agree, those weren't our words, they came from today's Milwaukee Journal Sentinel endorsement in the 7th District Republican primary.

You can find the endorsement here

It ends by saying Reid's "experience with the inner workings of Congress makes Reid the better pick."

If at first you forget to file

2006-09-06T11:58:00.000-07:00

. . . forget to file again. Jeff Tyberg has once again been noticed with a failure to file his FEC report. The letter was sent September 1st. They gave him 4 days to file and it's now September 6th. We hate to kick a guy when he's down, but if he can't file his report on time, twice in a row, that does speak to how he might run his Congressional office.

The Primary Debate

2006-09-06T08:08:00.000-07:00

It's our understanding that the two Republican candidates will debate again this Thursday on Wisconsin Public Radio.

Two things we found interesting based on reports from the last debate to keep an eye on this time.

Tyberg called for abolishing Social Security in the last debate. While we at Obey Out think Social Security was a poorly designed system and is badly in need of reform, Tyberg's position is both unworkable and unelectable. It's a pipe dream to think you could just wave a magic wand and make the Social Security sytem disappear. A better approach would be to take a step in a new direction by keeping the government's hands off our money and let it grow, but keeping a system in place that still helps those who need it the most. It's the best we could get and we should be fighting for it.

Tyberg also said something along the lines that people in the United States don't know how good they have it when it comes to gas prices. He says other countries pay much more and we shouldn't be complaining so much. That pretty much speaks for itself.

Otherwise, look for the two candidates to agree on a lot - which is good, they are both Republicans after all.

By contrast, this Rhode Island debate between two Republicans had a little more fireworks, including this exchange on the death penalty and applying it to Bin Laden.

2006-09-05T15:03:00.000-07:00

The Daily Telegram continues to pump out pro-Obey propaganda. Here's our favorite lines from the latest piece praising Obey for a dental clinic in Superior.

Gandhi once said, “The best test of a civilized society is the way in which it treats its most vulnerable and weakest members.”

Thank you, Congressman Obey, for passing the test.

It was signed by Kate Boyle.

Well Kate, Gandhi did not say that the best test of the federal government is the way in which it treats its most vulnerable and weakest members, he said it was the best test of "civilized society." This is where liberals get it so wrong. It is up to us as citizens in our communities to meet that test, not the federal government.

Kate's view is a lazy (i.e. liberal) view of the world. Why couldn't Kate or someone else in Superior when they saw a need for dental care, gone to local dentists in town and asked them to donate a few days of their services every year to take care of those who legitimately could not afford dental care. My guess is, if a need was there, the dentists of Superior could have and would have met it. Instead, a bunch of liberals got together and said, if we could only get Dave Obey to send us money, we can fund a clinic for a few years. Then, we can go hat in hand again back to the federal government for more later.

What Kate and the liberals of America have done is created a dependency on the federal government instead of the self-reliance and personal responsibility our founding fathers used to build the greatest nation on the face of the earth. Do Kate and Obey and the liberals of America believe our founding fathers would approve? We don't.

One Week Out

2006-09-05T10:37:00.000-07:00

With one week to go to the primary, what do we know?

1. Dave Obey has enjoyed an extra two months of not having to campaign because there was a Republican primary.
2. Based on FEC reports, the winner of this primary will have no money left over to start the general election. That will most likely be Nick Reid, who is running far ahead of where any Republican has ever been on Labor Day, but is suffering from having to make sure he wins the primary first.

That's the bad news. The good news . . .

Republicans across the district need to become more energized. In a year where being a Republican in America doesn't seem to be cool, Mark Green is running a statistical dead heat for governor and there is a marriage amendment on the ballot. Both are good news for a Republican congressional candidate in the 7th district.

So, if you have been sitting on the sideline - when the primary is over, open your checkbook or get out your wallets, pull out your credit card and make an online contribution. If you're like us and have already made your choice, send a last minute contribution today.

Did you hear the debate?

2006-09-01T16:18:00.000-07:00

If you didn't catch the Daily Herald article on the 90 minute Republican candidate debate, it's a real yawner. We didn't get a chance to hear the debate, so if you can fill us in on more of the highlights, leave a comment here.

Obey's Machine in Action

2006-09-01T15:53:00.000-07:00

Here comes another Obeyite to defend his left-wing Congressman.

We aren't going to post the entire letter to the editor here because quite frankly, it's quite windy, just like Obey. I think the strategy is, if we drone on and on long enough, people will figure we know what we're talking about.

This letter to the editor is right off the Democrat Party/DailyKos talking points memo. Call Republicans "neo-cons" and say we are in "bed with big oil." Ironically, that's the title of the letter, which the writer begins by saying Nick Reid must be using Republican talking points. Talk about hypocritical.

We could stop, just call this guy a windbag and a hypocrite, which is clear, and let it go at that, but we wouldn't be blogging if we could just let the rest of the manifesto go.

Let's remember this about big oil. No one person owns more than 1% of any oil company. After they pay about 30% to the federal government in taxes, the rest of the money is either re-invested or paid to shareholders - that's the overwhelming majority of us with mutual funds, IRA's, and 401(k)s.

The writer says the goal is energy independence. Yes, that's the goal, and the point of Reid's press release is that a key short and mid-range need is to PRODUCE MORE OIL AND GAS AT HOME, and OBEY VOTES AGAINST EVERY EFFORT TO INCREASE THAT PRODUCTION. Alternative fuels are not going to come online overnight. It will take the next 10-25 years to make sure ethanol, hydrogen, etc, will be cost-efficient and in mass production. If ANWR were open, it would not destroy the (desolate) environment there. No scientist without a crazy environmental agenda believes that claim. The same with the Outer Continental Shelf.

If Dave Obey were really for the average joe as this writer claims, he would work for the short and long term solutions because that's what will help keep prices down.

We really could go on and on, including about how the writer compared Reid to the Nazis, but you can draw your own conclusions from that one.

We do want to end with this, we are encouraged that Obey is attacking Reid already. He knows Reid is a legitimate threat. Send Nick a contribution today.

From a Friend

2006-08-31T22:59:00.000-07:00

One of our loyal readers sent us the following e-mail from the Carolina Coast.

Just wanted to drop you a line from tropical storm Ernesto. As I watched the storm roll in tonight, I started thinking about Dave Obey. Here's why:

Just like this tropical storm will hurt the local economy, Dave Obey has done his best to make the Wisconsin economy worse.

Just like Ernesto will flood low lying areas, Dave Obey floods small businesses in more regulations and taxes.

Just like Ernesto blows a lot of unecessary wind, well have you ever seen Dave Obey speak on the floor of the House, talk about a windbag.

Obey probably thinks Ernesto was caused by global warming, because it is the greatest threat we face, but experts will tell you some of our most active hurricane seasons ever were when it was colder, oh and that it will likely be colder in 50 years than it is now too.

I'm sure there's an immigration reference in here somewhere, but I don't want to assume Ernesto is an illegal.

Bottom line, if you like swirling windbags that can ruin your economy, not to mention my vacation, than Dave Obey's your man.

No Credibility

2006-08-30T08:43:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the reader who included a link to this letter to the editor. We have to take it on.

To The Telegram: In the campaign news release entitled “Reid: Drivers pay for Obey’s Mistake,” it was implied U.S. Rep. Dave Obey in some way is responsible for high gas prices. Congressman Obey is a Democrat. Both houses and the presidential seat are filled by Republicans. Six years ago, the Clinton administration left the nation with a balanced budget. We are now closing in on a $9 trillion deficit and growing to a projected deficit of $12 trillion when President Bush leaves office. In any event, every man, woman and newborn child in the U.S. now owes $30,000 each to buy our country back. The Republican candidate Nick Reid offered no redeeming value for our recovery, and I don’t believe finger pointing and name calling will ever advance a person to a congressional seat. — Dan Watland, Superior

1. Bill Clinton vetoed exploring for oil in ANWR which would have produced at least 1 million barrels of oil a day. Bill Clinton was a Democrat. And let's remember, our energy problems stem from complete inaction while either Democrats controlled Congress or the White House for the 45 years before 2000 because bringing new sources online take 10+ years, not 6.

2. Does the deficit have anything to do with gas prices? But since you brought it up, you have your facts wrong. The one year budget was balanced because Republicans in Congress forced Clinton to do so. He never proposed a balanced budget. Also, we still had a $5.5 trillion debt when he left. It's now $8 trillion, not 9. Every man woman and child owed about $25,000 then. Yes, it has gotten worse, but there was a recession and a little War on Terror, and a $100 billion hurricane to pay for.

Not being educated on how the world works Mr. Watland or being a non-thinking left wing partisan hack gives you no credibility.

Rumor Has It

2006-08-29T12:50:00.000-07:00

Rumor has it that Tyberg issued a non-apology press release, calling his false claim that Reid wouldn't debate him a "misunderstanding." That's the way someone who can't ever admit when they are wrong says, "I was wrong." Weak, but what can we expect.

Rumor also has it that Obey is done working for August. We can only find record of him working for 5 days out of 5 weeks of the break where Members of Congress are supposed to come home and meet with their constituents.

We also heard from a tipster that Dave Obey is already planning his transition to appropriations chairman. If we work together, we can change his plans to how to spend his retirement.

Marriage

2006-08-28T20:41:00.000-07:00

Check out this post from Boots and Sabers regarding the marriage amendment.

If you agree with them, then Dave Obey called you "ridiculous." He voted against it twice and has said he does not support the Wisconsin amendment.

hahahahahahahahahahahahahaha

2006-08-26T21:56:00.000-07:00

Dave Obey has been Democrats Waste, Fraud and Abuse "Truth Squad."

hahahahahahahahahaha . . .

Can you say beaver destruction?

hahahahahahahahahahaha . . .

This is what the liberal minority leader said,

"The alarming amount of waste, fraud and abuse by the Bush administration and the rubber-stamp Republican Congress is egregious," Mrs. Pelosi said. "Democrats are committed to a new direction in the way our government does business so taxpayers' money is handled responsibly."

The group immediately released a report on what it called wasteful procurement spending in response to Hurricane Katrina. Other members of the Truth Squad are David R. Obey of Wisconsin, John Tanner of Tennessee, D.C. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, and John F. Tierney of Massachusetts.

Democrats love to spend other people's money. What this group of people should be called is "the best 5 liars we could find" or "best at keeping a straight face squad."

I can see it now, if the Republicans had got $225,000 for beaver destruction, it would make the "Truth Squad" list. But, when the Democrats get it, they trot out a guy to say, "beavers were building dams on roads (so it was critically important that Obey got us gas money to run over the beaver dams with our pick-up trucks)."

If I didn't know better, I'd say the "truth squad" was a joke. This is no joke. These jokers want to be in charge of spending your money.

Where Have You Gone Jeff Tyberg?

2006-08-24T13:41:00.000-07:00

No, we don't mean physically, we mean the guy who said he was going to campaign based on his ideas and not mention his Republican opponent in a negative light.

Yet according to a tipster this morning, the Burnett County Sentinel is running a story where Tyberg calls out Reid on his contract with the district. Tyberg calls on Reid to return any money received from outside the 7th district.

If this is true, and we believe this is a reliable source, then first we want to address the facts, then we'll address the intelligence.

From our tipster, the story says, "Tyberg is "very pleased" that Reid said he "agrees with the points highlighted by Tyberg" in response to Tyberg's interview on WAOW TV as posted on it's website."

Actually the WAOW story Tyberg refers to does not quote Reid. It makes a statement by the reporter about his interpretation of what Reid says. We called the Reid campaign. Reid said he told the reporter he agrees with Tyberg on some of the points (taking money was not the only point in the contract) and was glad that Tyberg was highlighting that Obey was not a fiscal conservative. Moreover, if you read the rest of the sentence the "agrees" part was in it says, "but adds, the personal contract released by Tyberg doesn't worry him at all." Does that sound like Reid had any intention of signing the contract to anyone other than Jeff Tyberg?

But Tyberg goes on to say, "I welcome Mr Reid's agreement with the points I made about not taking campaign donations from anyone who is not a resident or property owner in the 7th district or contributions from any political action commitee or lobbying group.
"I invite him to sign the contract along with me and begin immediately returning all funds recieved from individuals outside of the 7th district and from pacs and lobbying groups."

Now as to the intelligence of this whole strategy. This is what's wrong with Tyberg's campaign. People who know how politics actually works know you have to raise money to win. Why would anyone unilaterally disarm from having campaign funds to spend when Dave Obey is raking in hundreds of thousands of dollars from special interests in Washington? It's nice that Tyberg is trying to be a "man of the people," but it's like the tree falling in the forest, if no one hears it who cares what kind of sound it makes when it falls or what type of tree it was. With no money, Tyberg would be that tree.

Now for the non-sense.

Also from the tipster, the story concludes with, "Tyberg also noted that both he and Pat Synder, host of WSAU-AM's 55 Feedback talk show, have invited Reid to participate in a debate but that Reid has not returned phone calls relative to the matter."

This makes absolutely no sense as Nick Reid was in studio with 55 Feedback this morning - one of several appearances Reid has made on the show. Either Tyberg's making this up, or he's got his facts mixed up.

A few posts ago, a commenter encouraged us to quit calling fouls and focus on offense against Dave Obey. We agree with the sentiment, but here's the thing. Tyberg agreed to an endorsement process and then backed out. He made an impassioned plea that he was being picked on by Reid supporters back in July (posted here, called every county chairman and complained, sent out an e-mail to his supporters, etc) and this was about Dave Obey, but he has now gone on the radio and in the newspaper taking on Reid, not Obey. This speaks directly to his integrity. It also speaks to his character that as the pressure of the upcoming primary approaches, he's turning into another politician who will say one thing to one group of people and turn around and do another. This isn't the common man's way of doing things, it's Dave Obey's way.

In Case You Missed It

2006-08-22T10:57:00.000-07:00

Both Republicans, Reid and Tyberg, were supposed to be on the air (Wisconsin Public Radio) to discuss why they are the right candidate to take on Dave Obey.

You can listen by clicking here
Tuesday 8/22/2006 7:00 AM

Tyberg was a no show. Oops.

Oh, and lest we let him off the hook. Dave Obey declined a 30 minute segment to tell why he was the best man for the job. And to the last caller, name ONE thing Dave Obey has done on a national level that makes him a "statesman."

The Obey Love Fest Continues - Beaver Style

2006-08-21T23:23:00.000-07:00

If you didn't catch the evening news tonight, check out WSAW's story here. As if Obey's press secretary wrote the copy for the newscast, beaver destruction funding was elevated to one of Wisconsin's highest priorities tonight. If you're not laughing yet, we're not kidding. Watch the video. They found some trees that beavers allegedly killed and they found a guy who said a beaver actually built a dam on a road. Now that's one fast beaver if he can get a dam built on a road without it getting run over by a local pickup truck. Seriously, you have to watch the video.

To prove this was one of the worst pieces of journalism ever, guess how much air time they gave to Nick Reid, the featured speaker at the event, NONE. They showed him, but if you didn't already know who he was, he was not specifically identified by name with his picture. Maybe, he was the guy in the beaver suit for all the viewers knew.

Please, someone, remove the collective lips of the press from Obey's you know where.

Curious Place for Comparison

2006-08-21T10:31:00.000-07:00

It's good to see someone covering the 7th District Race, but this is from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Last time we checked, no one in Milwaukee is going to be voting in the race for Congress here.

The primary is just 3 weeks away. Hopefully someone in our local media will cover this race once we have a single nominee (another reason, by the way that having a single nominee months ago would have helped).

As a side note, Nick Reid is expected to headline this press conference in Wausau for Americans for Prosperity.

Obey's Drive for $4 Gas

2006-08-18T19:10:00.000-07:00

Nick Reid hits Obey for his support of higher gas prices in this release.

“High energy prices have a direct impact on families and business here in the Seventh District. For 37 years we have had a congressman who has voted against energy independence and in favor of high energy costs at every turn,” Reid said. “The message here is unmistakable, Dave Obey places the interests of liberal environmental groups ahead of the interests in this district, and that is just extreme.”

At Least We Know, Obey Got an A in Recess

2006-08-16T10:30:00.000-07:00

Last week, Nick Reid put out this press release. It calls on Dave Obey to make his schedule public. The Wisconsin Democrats made a big to do about Mark Green not making his schedule public. We think if it's good for the goose . . .

Anyway, and we're only guessing here, we're guessing that Obey doesn't make his schedule public because he has virtually no public schedule. He showed up in Park Falls to take credit for something someone else did. Some Democrats up in Ashland gave him an award for being a Democrat - a milestone acheivement that Obey right now probably has his media guys in DC scrambling to put into a fluffy TV ad.

Other than that, we've read he campaigned in Iowa and Green Bay, neither of which is in the 7th District in case we have readers from Pluto (or Washington, DC).

Maybe we're just mad because at least when Dave's in DC he takes a couple dumb votes a day we can choose from or says something completely beneath a Congressman on the House floor to poke fun at. When it's recess time, Obey takes that literally. He recesses. So Dave, at least for giving us something to post about, come out, come out wherever you are.

Obey and Pay to Play

2006-08-14T13:17:00.000-07:00

This is the story of Dave Obey, ProLogic and its lobbyist PMA.

ProLogic is a defense contractor who announced it would open an office in Stevens Point in December of 2004.

Prior to that time, ProLogic had given $5,000 to Dave Obey's campaign. In the 18 months since that time, ProLogic is Dave Obey's number one contributor, giving $31,000 to his campaign and PAC according to opensecrets.

ProLogic has seen its business increase six-fold in the last four years, winning over$57 million in federal contracts during that period. Is it a coincidence they opened an office in Obey's district in exchange for some help from the ranking Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee? Not according to their prior history.

ProLogic has "helped" its friends before. Check out this Bloomberg story linking ProLogic to ethically challenged Rep. Alan Mollohan (D-WV) who was forced to step aside as the ranking Democrat member of the House ethics committee - interesting enough after stalling the organization of that committee which prevented it from investigating any ethics complaints for about 15 months. ProLogic gave Mollohan $34,500. Mollohan still serves as a Ranking Subcommitee Democrat on the Appropriations Committee.

It also linked ProLogic and its lobbyist, the PMA Group, to Rep. Visclosky (D-IN). The PMA Group alone gave over $100,000 to Visclosky.

The PMA Group has given Obey $7,000 this cycle alone (added to $4,000 during 2004).

Before we go on, let's remind you that Obey said this about Congressional earmarks that ProLogic is receiving, “It turns the appropriations process into an ATM.” We say, "you should know Dave."

Back to the PMA group, according to Harper PMA gave over $51,000 to Rep. Mollohan. Mollohan is still under investigation for directing over $200 million in earmarks to charities directly or indirectly controlled by him.

PMA has received according to open secrets $520,000 from ProLogic between 2002 and 2005 to lobby members of Congress like Obey and to ensure that federal money got steered their way.

If it can be said you are like the company you keep, then it's pretty clear that Obey, Mollohan, Visclosky, ProLogic and the PMA Group have a great "pay to play" system down. Not many companies have seen their business grow by 600% the last four years, but Pro-Logic's has.

We are going to start looking more closely at the lobbyists and other special interest groups who have given to Obey to see if the appropriations connections go deeper. The question is, why aren't the members of the Wisconsin press corp doing the same thing?

The Left Wing Leader

2006-08-12T08:21:00.000-07:00

At least on the blogs anyway, the Blue Team Leader of the Liberals is DailyKos. Red State takes him to task here. Basically, Kos, Obey and the Liberal Left have a wrong-headed view of the world.

Kos said-

CT-Sen: Lieberman is seriously unhinged by kosFri Aug 11, 2006 at 12:11:58 PM PDT
Seriously, I really do want to get my vacation started. But how can you ignore things like this?

"I'm worried that too many people, both in politics and out, don't appreciate the seriousness of the threat to American security and the evil of the enemy that faces us -- more evil, or as evil, as Nazism and probably more dangerous than the Soviet Communists we fought during the long Cold War," Mr. Lieberman said.

More evil than the guys who gassed 6 million Jews?

More dangerous than the guys who had thousands of nuclear warheads pointed at us and could've snuffed out all life on the planet at the press of a button?

Lieberman has lost it. Completely and utterly. He is insane.

Red state responds -

Leave it to our friends on the left to fail to understand that the guys we are fighting certainly would gas six million Jews, if they could get their hands on them, to fail to understand that if the guys we are fighting had thousands of nuclear warheads pointed at us, would actually use them.

More -

But when we see an Islamist culture that can produce suicide bombers, men willing, happily apparently, to kill themselves as long as they can take some Westerners with them, a reasonable person would have to ask whether the specter of nuclear retaliation by American ICBMs and SLBMs would deter Osama bin Laden -- or Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

Think about Hezbollah. Hamas had captured an Israeli soldier less than two weeks prior to Hezbollah doing the same thing. The Israelis reacted very decisively against Hamas on the Gaza border; they didn't respond like milquetoast liberals, wringing their hands and saying how terrible it was. Hezbollah's leaders knew that capturing Israeli soldiers along the Lebanese border would result in the same thing, although Hezbollah's leaders might not have guessed quite how strongly Israel would respond. Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah knew that Israel would go after them militarily, and knew that, since they were hiding in areas populated by non-combatants, a lot of those non-combatants would get killed.

If Sheikh Nasrallah (and his Iranian puppeteers) were willing to sacrifice civilians in southern Lebanon to set off an engagement they cannot, and know they cannot, win militarily, why ought we to think that the same logic that kept Nikita Khrushchev and Leonid Brezhnev from sending nuclear weapons our way would deter the Islamist leaders, if they had those weapons?

Der Führer took power in 1933; he didn't start gassing and burning Jews and a few other chosen enemies for more than six years. He did, however, make quite clear how he felt about Jews, in writing, for everyone to see, well before he took power. President Ahmadinejad hasn't started killing Jews (or Christians) yet, but he has certainly told us how he feels about them. Senator Lieberman knows enough about history (more, apparently, than Markos Moulitsas Zuniga, who writes as Kos) to see what could be coming, from a man who says, openly, that Israel should not exist, and runs a country apparently attempting to build nuclear weapons, and realize that such a threat must be taken seriously before it becomes an unmanagable one.

Had the civilized world reacted to Adolf Hitler in 1935 or 1936, the way it should have reacted, had Neville Chamberlain not gone crawling to Munich to seek "peace in our time" in 1938, the horrors of World War II, at least in Europe, might have been avoided.

Our Jewish friends have had this lesson seared into their collective consciences; Senator Lieberman has the good sense to recognize the threat and want to address the threat, today, while the threat is still a bit away, rather than to wait until the devil is on our doorstep.

By September of 1939, the British, who had thought that Winston Churchill was just out of it when he was warning about Adolf Hitler years earlier, realized that he had been right all along. Had action been taken on Mr Churchill's advice years earlier, millions who were killed would not have been killed -- but the world would have no way of knowing it. Instead, the peace at any price types held sway, and the world found out -- the hard way -- that Mr Churchill was right all along.

Since the Republicans didn't put up a credible candidate in Connecticut (what a mistake), we say, "Go Joe."

More on Obey's Out-of-State Money

2006-08-10T10:31:00.000-07:00

According to this open secrets report, Wisconsin federal candidates got $2.2 million in itemized contributions from Wisconsin. Washington, DC and Virginia totaled $190,000 (so on the whole Wisconsin candidates got about 11 times more money from Wisconsin than from the DC area Obey calls home).

According to this open secrets report, Obey got over $70,000 from the DC metro area, more than 1/3rd of the total received by all the federal candidates from Wisconsin (that includes both Senators, and all incumbents and challengers in the 8 Congressional Districts).

According to this open secrets report, Dave Obey did not crack the top 10 for Wisconsin federal candidates in contributions received from people from Wisconsin. He did come in 1st for money received from contributors outside of Wisconsin with nearly $221,000. Nearly as much as 2nd and 3rd place COMBINED. And MORE than the TOP 4 Republicans combined.

If you add the $221,000 to the $454,000 he received from DC-based special interest political action committees, Obey received a whopping 79% from sources outside of Wisconsin.

Tyberg's Position Changes: Now running a "sort of" clean campaign

2006-08-09T13:49:00.000-07:00

After the Tyberg camp threw quite a fit about this blog and others being too negative about him, he went on 55 Feedback this morning and took some digs at Nick Reid.

We're going to focus on one quote from the show, Tyberg said, "I don't know about my opponent but I will have home in the district, not in DC."

For the record, Nick Reid owns a home in Rice Lake. We're pretty sure Tyberg knows that, but we know he should know it if he's been paying attention at all.

It is our understanding, and we are open to a correction, that Tyberg lists his address as the same address of his parents. So, he does not own a home in the district, he lives with his parents. Not that there's anything wrong with that.

So, apparently Tyberg does not own a home in the district but will if he gets elected. Reid already owns a home in the district, but Tyberg's not sure if he will when he gets elected. Does this not make sense to anyone else?

While Tyberg did not mention Reid by name, we're pretty sure this is an example of the negative campaigning Jeff said he wouldn't do in a post on this very blog. His exact quote was, "It is my intent to run a clean campaign that will honor God and the people I wish to represent."

It will be hard for the Tyberg campaign to find a way around this promise because Tyberg himself posted it right here.

P.S. Here is more of Jeff's post in case you don't feel like clicking on it:

This is Jeff Tyberg, candidate for Congress in Wisconsin’s 7th District.

I want to state here publicly what I have made clear to my campaign volunteers and to Nick Reid personally, and that is that I and my campaign will not attack Nick Reid, and I will not condone anyone who does. My campaign volunteer coordinator is even now writing an email stating that his letter was unauthorized. It will not be repeated.

Tyberg Launches Salvo - Daily Herald's Bias

2006-08-09T10:46:00.000-07:00

According to the Wausau Daily Herald, Jeff Tyberg has released a contract with the 7th district.

From the story:
Among his seven promises are to accept only contributions from property owners or residents in the district, to not accept contributions from lobbyists or political action committees, and to keep no more than $100,000 of annual salary.

"Every point in the contract shows how I will remain connected and a vital part of the district while serving in Washington," Tyberg said.

In addition, Tyberg promised to serve no more than 10 years in office, to not collect a pension, to provide a toll-free telephone number and to post an explanation on his Web site of his votes cast.

We give Tyberg credit for launching a creative press release. In our opinion, his first in over a year of being a candidate.

Here's our analysis of it. First, Reid raised more campaign contributions from inside Wisconsin than Obey did last quarter. Second, is Tyberg saying he wouldn't accept campaign contributions from NRA's PAC or the Fair Tax Committee's PAC or even NFIB (small businesses)? This proves Tyberg isn't serious about winning. You have to take contributions from your friends in order to win. Jeff, you are already going to get outspent by at least 5 to 1, why handicap yourself further?

OK, the rest, no more than 10 years in office. We support the idea of term limits (probably at 12 years, but we won't quible over the time), however, we at Obey Out believe that in order for them to truly be effective, they should apply across the board. Otherwise, those who honorably uphold them would put their districts at a disadvantage over those who chose not to. Reid has taken the position that he would vote for term limits, so we're comfortable with that.

Then pension and the salary would be Tyberg's choice. We aren't a group who think Congressman are overpaid (at least not as a general rule). We think he would be required to pay into his pension even if he opted not to take it and we also think he should cut a check back to the US Treasury every month, not give it to his ministry or something.

Here's our biggest question about the plan: Why do you need a 1-800 number to stay connected? You'll only be in session in Washington about 30 weeks a year for 3-4 days at a time. Are you saying that the other 250 days a year aren't enough to get around the district to town hall meetings and talk to your constituents? Will you not have district offices with local phone numbers so people can call in and talk without paying long distance charges? To us the 1-800 number is a gimmick, particularly because Tyberg won't be able to talk to people who call in anyway. As a Congressman your schedule is jam packed, so you won't be fielding calls at the front desk (if you are, you're shirking your responsibilities of the job you were elected to do).

Finally, we ask this question of the Wausau paper: both candidates have issued press releases for quite some time. Reid's have been particularly astute at pointing out Obey's record and character. The Daily Herald hasn't touched them. We therefore know these reporters are in Obey's back pocket. We also called the Reid campaign and asked about the line of them not returning calls for comment. Apparently, the reporter left a message on an office phone at 7:30pm last evening asking for comment while the Reid team was campaigning in the district. Obviously, this reporter only wanted to be able to print a line saying they didn't return a call for comment or he would have started calling during normal business hours or would have called Nick's cell phone which the Daily Herald has. Clearly, this is a Friend of Obey Reporter getting a dig in at Reid while promoting Tyberg for the primary. Obey already push polled against Reid (not Tyberg). He knows he can trounce Tyberg because Tyberg will have no money to spend against him. It's in Obey's best interest for Tyberg to win the primary. We bet Obey will even get some of his editor friends to endorse Tyberg in the primary in order to give him some more free media (because lord knows he won't have the money to buy any). Ok, ok, we will get to our question, why does the mainstream media have their lips planted firmly on Obey's backside?

Obey and the Political Environment

2006-08-09T09:02:00.000-07:00

Last night three incumbents lost in their primaries - two democrats and one Republican.

Let's rundown why.

Joe Lieberman lost in his Senate primary to Ned Lamont over his support for the War in Iraq, but that was only a small part of the equation. The liberal bloggers riled up the left wing base and sent a message to Lieberman that hard core left wingers expect their Democrats to oppose and obstruct Republicans on everything rather than trying to get anything done. Most pundits believe Lieberman will win as an independent in November because Republicans didn't put up a real nominee.

Joe Schwarz, a Republican in the U.S. House, lost his primary in Michigan because he was too liberal of a Republican for the Republicans in the district.

Cynthia McKinney lost her second primary of the last three in Georgia. Her little run in with a Capitol Police officer where she struck him in the chest with a cell phone after he tried to stop her at a security checkpoint was the last straw in a list of embarassing incidents for her.

Here's our overall analysis: voters are willing to make a change this year. It doesn't matter if you're a Democrat or a Republican, if you're out of touch with your district, you are vulnerable this year. And no one is more out of touch with his district than Dave Obey. He takes votes far to the left of the overwhelming majority of his district. He neglects visits to the district, trading them for all expense-paid trips to exotic locations.

Help us throw Obey Out of office in November. Spread the word, write letters to the editor, call in to local talk radio, talk to friends and neighbors, contribute to Nick Reid (we endorsed Reid, but the Republican nominee will need money, lots of it) whatever you can do, do it.

Obey Takes Credit for Other's Work

2006-08-08T10:13:00.000-07:00

Here's a story on Obey's Park Falls visit.

"The Park Falls Mill is an important part of the region's economy and I'm happy to be here today to celebrate its reopening with everyone," said Obey. "The entire community came together in the face of a devastating economic blow and did what needed to be done to overcome adversity and move forward. Everyone involved - from Governor Doyle and Butch Johnson to the workers themselves - deserve a hearty congratulations for a job well done."

Notice in no way does Obey say he lifted one finger to make this re-opening a reality. Yet, his appearance at the event makes it look like he was responsible. His friends in the media made him the lead of the story.

The media won't print anything about Obey not being on the job and missing 34 votes, but they'll give him this puff piece.

Spread the word, it's time to throw Obey Out.

[UPDATE: This story is a lot closer to getting it right. It largely credits Butch Johnson for stepping in and saving the plant. By the way, we hear Johnson may be hosting a fundraiser for Nick Reid . . .]

King Dave-O

2006-08-07T13:18:00.000-07:00

We've been asking for quite some time if anyone's actually seen Dave Obey. We saw that he was in Iowa campaigning for another Democrat. We know he's helping Jamie Wall in the 8th. Then today, we saw this Go Nick Go post and started asking around.

We have confirmed that Obey was in the Park Falls parade yesterday waving like royalty from a fire truck. So much for the idea that he represents the working man. He's more like a Washington, DC Union lobbyist than someone who works for a living. He couldn't even walk and waive, he took a ride.

We also heard he was trying to take credit, along with Doyle, for re-opening a plant there. From what we heard, the locals weren't buying what Obey was selling. However, we're not shocked that Obey would swoop in to take credit for something he didn't do since he really does so little that actually helps us here in Wisconsin.

25,000

2006-08-07T10:58:00.000-07:00

We passed a little milestone last week. We were all really busy (as you saw by our slower than usual posting pace last week), so we didn't get to say anything about it.

Anyway, thanks to all of you who helped us reach 25,000 hits on our little blog since November of last year.

Drinkin the Kool-Aid

2006-08-04T08:43:00.000-07:00

The Madison Capital Times rushes to the defense of Dave Obey.

In an apparent lapse of reality, Dave Zwiefel commends Obey for pushing the minimum wage. Problem is, Dave Obey voted against raising the minimum wage last week.

He blames it on conservative issues here:

"This Congress, though, would rather spend its time debating flag burning, gay marriage and other measures aimed to divide Americans than offer a helping hand to the less fortunate among us."

First of all, Republicans put a $2.10 raise in the minimum wage on the House floor for a vote last week, and Dave Obey voted no. I know we already said this, but it bears repeating.

Second, protecting the flag and protecting marriage have the support of at least 68% of Americans. How is that dividing Americans, exactly Mr. Zwiefel?

I know as a liberal Mr. Zweifel that you feel compelled to defend Obey's vote against the minimum wage. All you're doing is trying to muddy the waters. It's almost as if you're trying to say Obey didn't actually even vote on the minimum wage. That Republicans didn't bring it up for a vote. But, that's false. Republicans did and Obey voted no.

What this whole episode proves is that Mr. Obey, and his liberal friends in the media who won't print anything Obey's Republican opponents send out, that they don't want the issue of the minimum wage to be resolved. Instead they want it as a political issue to campaign on this fall. If you don't believe us, remember that Dave Obey didn't hold town hall meetings to help seniors sign up for the prescription drug plan till after the deadline for signing up passed.

It's all politics and power for Dave Obey. It's as simple as that.

Party Line

2006-08-02T20:15:00.000-07:00

This week the Constitution Party was passing out Tyberg for Congress literature at its booth at the Wisconsin Valley Fair. We had heard Tyberg thought about bolting for the Constitution Party before the filing deadline. This seems to lend a lot of credibility to that rumor.

At this point, we have to credit to Tyberg for not switching to the Constitution Party line because that would have done more damage to Nick Reid's chances in November by siphoning off ultra-conservative votes (who would never vote for Obey) in a head to head match-up with Obey.

It does make us wonder which party Tyberg really wanted to represent though.

Where's Dave-O?

2006-08-01T19:17:00.000-07:00

We've played where's Dave-O several times this year. And, with remarkable consistency, no one's ever reported seeing Dave in the district. He hasn't been spotted at any parades, fairs, or other community events that he didn't stage. That leads us to ask why? Is Dave so arrogant that he thinks we won't notice if he never shows up in his district at any situation he can't control? Is he taking this election for granted? Is he on another all-expenses paid vacation courtesy a special interest group? Is he at one of his homes NOT in Wisconsin? Does he have some health problem that makes him unable to travel the district? What is it?

Someone help us.

Obey Votes Against Raising the Minimum Wage?

2006-07-29T08:42:00.000-07:00

Proving Dave Obey once again plays political games with issues he says are important to him, he voted against a Republican bill to raise the minimum wage to $7.25 over the next 2 years.

Yes, after saying Democrats would attach minimum wage to everything that moved through the house, the Republicans attached it to a bill that would extend the work opportunity tax credit, the earned income tax credit, the deductibility of education tuition and mine safety. Additionally, in order to give small business owners certainty in their tax planning which will help offset the adjustment to the new minimum wage, they included, not a full repeal of the estate tax, but an increase in the exemption from estate tax/death tax which will allow many more small business owners and farmers to pass these job producing businesses on to the next generation.

Obey said NO. He would much rather leave the Democrats with a political issue to campaign on for the next 100 days. Once again, it's a sad, sad commentary on Dave Obey's political philosophy - "say you want to help people, don't actually help people, use issues for political gain instead."

[UPDATE: 9:50 PM 7/30 - FIRST, THE TIME FRAME OF THE WAGE INCREASE, UNDER THE BILL THAT PASSED IT WOULD START JANUARY 1, 2007 AND BE COMPLETED IN JUNE 2009. WE DID MAKE A MISTAKE IN SAYING 2 YEARS COMPARING 2007 AND 2009, IT'S ACTUALLY 2 1/2 YEARS. SECOND, TO THE COMMENTER WHO TRIED TO CALL US ON A MISTAKE, YOU WERE ALSO 1/2 YEAR OFF, SO WE'LL CALL IT EVEN. AND PLEASE STOP REFERRING TO THIS AS NICK REID'S SITE. NICK REID DOES NOT DECIDE, SUGGEST OR IN ANY OTHER WAY DETERMINE WHAT WE POST HERE. I KNOW YOU DESPERATELY WANT TO LINK THIS SITE TO HIM, BUT PLEASE STOP BECAUSE IT'S JUST NOT TRUE.]

Obey Against Improving Medical Records

2006-07-28T14:50:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Obey voted against legislation that would help implement a digital, online, medical records system and make it affordable for even rural doctors.

Why would we want to stop filling out so many stinkin forms when we go the doctor or the hospital?

Why would we want to reduce the amount of paperwork which drives up health care costs?

Why would we want to reduce the number of medical errors by giving emergency room doctors a complete medical history?

This is yet another example of how out of touch Dave Obey is and how he wants to make our lives more difficult instead of easier and more affordable.

The Common Man?

2006-07-28T08:56:00.000-07:00

Jeff Tyberg recently sent out an e-mail to some supporters. In it, he included a sheet with letter to the editor ideas. Here they are:

I was born and raised on a farm, and still occasionally helps on his uncle’s farm. He is a member of Wisconsin Farm Bureau.
I have worked as a trucker, teacher, carpenter and cook, and understands the struggle to earn a living in Northwestern Wisconsin because he’s done it.
My campaign hasn’t been about money, and we haven’t held any big fund-raisers and we won’t be direct-mailing you every week asking for money. Instead we’ve focused on meeting people and listening to them.
All of our staff are volunteers, regular folks with jobs who are giving their spare time to help the campaign.
End with something about Jeff being the “common man’s candidate for Congress”.

Other than the fact they keep mixing their "I's" "He's" "My's" "We's" and "Our's" making us unsure of whether this is from Jeff or his staffer, let's compare the candidates/campaigns.

Nick Reid grew up in a union household near Superior, his dad worked in the carpenter's union. Nick worked doing construction in the summers to earn money for college and he worked during college on nights and weekends (doing things like convenience store clerk) to pay his own way, so he understands the struggle to earn your way in life. Nick was a union member and is a lifetime NRA member.

After graduating from college, Nick took an internship at the Heritage Foundation in Washington, DC to learn about conservative public policy first-hand, then he earned two promotions and finally landed a job as the Press Secretary to a Congressman - the very definition of working your way up and gaining valuable, relevant experience to running a race for Congress.

Nick gave up his good job in Washington, DC to move his wife and two children back to Wisconsin because he believed the people of Northwest Wisconsin deserved better representation in Congress.

Sorry Tyberg camp, but campaigns for Congress are inherently about money. It's a truism - ask anyone who's won a challenger race for Congress in the last 20 years (i.e. Mark Green). By ignoring your responsibility to raise money, you give yourself no chance to win in November. In the same vain, staff giving their spare time is wonderful, but the full-time staff members the Reid campaign has are able to go out and meet so many more people to build a grassroots coalition.

Finally, we find it extremely interesting that Tyberg left off his vocation list, the thing he's done the most during his working years - missionary. Some of his supporters quite vociferously defended his calling to missions work when his trip to Washington, DC was criticized. Honestly, he hasn't spent that much time struggling to earn a living in Northwest Wisconsin the past 10 years, unless you count being Assistant Manager at the coffee shop for about a year - the job he gave up to run for Congress. He's been travelling the world as a missionary. There's nothing wrong with that (in fact we admire it). It's hard work and it is a struggle to raise the support money to pay for it, but it isn't what the "common man" in Northwest Wisconsin has been doing.

Obey's Junkets

2006-07-27T13:40:00.000-07:00

Dave Obey has taken nearly $79,000 worth of vacations since January of 2000.

We've talked about it before, but we wanted to provide a little more in depth look, plus some visual assistance. We'll start with his latest trip this February to Jaimaica. While we were cold here in Northwest Wisconsin, Obey was taking a week's vacation (all expenses paid) in Jaimaica. The tab - $5,854.

Jamaica (February 2006)

Also, learn more about the Aspen Institute, who pays for these trips, in this post. Aspen is made up of big corporations and other special interests.

In the first 5 months of 2000 alone, Obey took 24 days worth of all expenses paid vacations to

Naples, Florida - January 2000
Puerto Rico - February 2000
Grand Cayman - April 2000
Vancouver, Canada - May 2000

The bill for these four trips was nearly $22,000. (do you spend $22,000 for nearly a months worth of vacations every year?)

Here are some other highlights:

Florence Italy - $9,745.60
Grand Cayman (again) - $5,457.60
Punta Mita, Mexico - $7,766.27
Jamaica (again) - $5,499.40
Puerto Rico (again)/Bahamas - $6,976.00
Venice, Italy/Paris, France - $6,961.00

Dave Obey has averaged at least 2 all expenses paid vacations around the world the past 6 years. The average cost is around $6,500 to take his wife to exotic locations on someone else's credit card.

So, shed that coat Dave, we're sure you'll be off to another exciting destination real soon.

Obey's not NORML

2006-07-27T09:25:00.000-07:00

Obey lauded in this letter to the editor for his support of legalizing marijuana for medical use. The letter was signed by Gary Storck of Madison NORML. Their mission statment reads:

To uphold Madison's long-standing community standard that the use of cannabis is not a criminal matter. To show compassion towards our seniors, disabled, and seriously ill; to support Wisconsin's farmers; and to ensure the personal freedom of responsible adults.

So, Obey has the support of a group that believes all marijuana use should be legal. The most humorous part is that they want to support it as an industry for "Wisconsin's farmers." The saddest part is that they do not view this as an addiction that has ruined so many lives.

Dave Obey represents the views of the liberal Madison establishment, not our conservative values in Northwest Wisconsin.

For further reading, here's their blog post on Obey's vote.

And here's a link to a picture of Storck. You draw your own conclusions about what he might have been doing before getting up to speak.

More on Reid

2006-07-26T13:34:00.000-07:00

Here's a post from GOP3 highlighting Nick Reid's campaign fundraising success.

Tyberg's Report is in

2006-07-26T09:01:00.000-07:00

$300 . . . Jeff Tyberg raised $300 between June 16th and June 30th.
$239 . . . Tyberg spent $239 between June 16th and June 30th.

$1409 . . . that's how much he has left on hand as of June 30th to spend for the Primary.

Reid had $65,172.

Where's Tyberg's June 30th Report?

2006-07-25T08:40:00.000-07:00

We thought maybe Tyberg received special dispensation from the FEC, but our understanding of the rules was right, that he has a June 30th report due. It was supposed to be postmarked on July 15th.

The FEC has now hit Tyberg with a failure to file notice. OOPS.

According to the notice, Tyberg faces civil money penalties for every day he does not file.

Marriage Poll

2006-07-21T14:57:00.000-07:00

According to this Rasmussen poll, 68% of Americans believe marriage should be defined as a union between one man and one woman.

Here are more interesting stats:

67% believe the issue should be put to a vote.
12% believe judges should step in.
5% believe elected officials should decide.

While the laws on the books across the country defined marriage as between a man and a woman, judges stepped in (though 88% of Americans think they shouldn't) and started to undo these laws. Then our elected officials (like Dave Obey) have acted as barriers to allowing the voters to decide. Of course elected officials like Obey think they are smarter than 100% of the voters anyway.

Obey's Message to Pro-Lifers

2006-07-20T11:10:00.000-07:00

Obey said to pro-lifers yesterday, "I want to use your tax dollars to fund the destruction of embryos for research." here's his release - courtesy WisPolitics

Obey then basically says pro-lifers are kind of like the people who said the world was flat. I'm sorry Dave, but because I don't want tax dollars to fund the destruction of life doesn't make me anti-research.

"Efforts to hold back stem cell research, with all of the promise that it has for persons suffering from Parkinson's, Diabetes, and so many other diseases, will be no more successful than were efforts in earlier ages to suppress Copernicus and Galileo."

Obey's Spin - Journalists Let Him Off Hook

2006-07-19T08:11:00.000-07:00

In this Journal Sentinel article, it is now clear what Obey's strategy is in defending his anti-marriage position. He's referencing his vote for the Defense of Marriage Act and his "personal belief" that marriage is between a man and a woman. Saying the constitution should not include references to living arrangements.

What we are most disappointed in the Journal Sentinel for is letting him off the hook for his earlier comment calling the marriage amendment "ridiculous." If a Republican had called the Voting Rights Act ridiculous, the media outlets would be relentlessly pursuing that story and would be calling for apologies and retractions. Because it's a Democrat and it's not a liberal cause, it's allowed to be swept under the rug.