A Republic city official says the G.O.P. primary race for state legislature in the #134 district will come down to Rep. Jim Viebrock and longtime educator Bob Bilyeu.
The government official says the other Republican contender, Mayor Jim Collins has acted like "a dictator," as leader of the city. "He downgrades fellow aldermen because they ask questions," says the official. "Collins is not a moderate," he says. "The mayor keeps shooting himself in the foot."
Yet the official, who has knowledge of the inner workings of the city government, says the Republican primary race will be close because Bilyeu is a good candidate. "He is a great man, even though I won't vote for him," says the official who is a Viebrock supporter.
"The thing about Jim is, people don't always agree with him, but he's always honest with you," says the official.
"Everyone's talking about who's going to fill Mark Wright's seat, but it's going to be nothing like this race. It's going to be highly contested, right until the end between Viebrock and Bilyeu. It's going to be very close," says the official.
53 comments:
The fact that a race between Bilyeu and Viebrock will be close demostrates just how misguided our political system has become. Bilyeu has a lifetime of acheivements. He won the Liberty Bell Award, was national debate teacher of the year, is a great leader in his church etc. Viebrock is a do nothing legislator that has no real accomplishments in or out of office. I would think it would be hard for even Viebrock to claim he should be elected over Bilyeu and still keep a straght face.
A "Republic Official". C'mon! Obviously, this person in particular doesn't like Collins. Ask anyone who works for the city of Republic, even under the auspice of anonymity, and you will hear resounding support for our mayor. Take a poll of all current sitting aldermen and you will find that well over 90% support Collins and have even agreed to allow him to put signage on their property. In fact, quite a few of them are helping with his campaign. There are a few exceptions on the BOA. Those two folks who have a personal grudge against Collins for exposing one of them for the slime he is.
As for Viebrock...well I can't think of a worse legislator than he. He talks a good talk, he's a good campaigner, but, beyond that, is all fluff and stuff. There is no substance to the man. He claims to be the "anti-politician", but when he lets his guard down, he sheds his snake skin and exposes himself for the true person he is -- the worst kind of politician. One who will shake your hand at the same time he's stabbing you in the back. During the Republic mayoral race, he asked several people to run as write-in candidates against Collins for the reasoning that, if Collins lost the mayor's race, he would drop out of the Rep. race. Sounds like Jimmy is scared a bit, heh? He has done nothing, nothing for the largest number of constituents he has -- the city of Republic. Just last week, he tried to pass off a picture of himself shaking hands with the chief of the VOLUNTEER fire department of West Republic in a campaign add in the Republic Monitor as shaking hands with a fire fighter from the Republic Fire Department. It's an honest mistake you say? Nay, not when he had gone to the fire chief of the Republic Fire Department just a few days earlier asking to take pictures of himself and the fire chief standing in front of the new equipment and the fire chief flatly told him NO! Viebrock wanted to claim that he helped Republic get that equipment. What a crock! He did nothing to help the city get that equipment. City Hall did all the work. On one other occasion, he claimed that he helped coordinate a funeral for a slain corporal. Again, another falsehood. Collins, together with the Republic police chief, fire chief, Greene County Sheriff's office and the military coordinated that funeral at Calvary Baptist Church. Viebrock didn't sit in on one meeting leading up to that funeral! Do we really want to continue paying this man $31,354 a year (which, in a six-month work year works out to be $1200 per week)? And, do you realize that, if re-elected, he will qualify for a pension that, to date is $900 per month for life? Sounds like a lot of money for a self-glorified state house tour guide to me!
Bilyeu is a good man. No one could even debate that or would want to. But he's not a legislator and knows nothing about municipal government. And you need to know how state AND local governments are run and run well before you can do well in the office of state rep.
Personally, I am casting my vote for the only one of the three men that I can trust to represent me and my hard-earned tax dollars in Jefferson City. A man with strong conviction, strong moral values and a strong sense of how to get things done. Even most of the 7th Congressional District Republican Party members back him over Viebrock, although they can't say anything publicly. They say alot privately, though!
For all who are wondering, river otter is Jim Huntsinger.
Oh, another thing, Collins will tell you he is for smaller government yet he raised the citizens of Republic taxes three times. He over spent the city’s budget by one million dollars his first year as Mayor. The following year he tripled the city’s budget and grew the “obligations” of the city’s infrastructure by three times. Now the city is facing certain bankruptcy. As for the photo with the firefighter, Viebrock sought permission to use a preexisting photo. Mayor Collins decided he didn’t want the city’s equipment used for political reasons and forbid representative Viebrock from using the photo. I guess it’s good that the Springfield Firefighters Union endorses Representative Viebrock. Viebrock fought hard for them this session. Oh! But wait! You say he didn’t do anything! I think it’s time we call Jim Collins and his pack of bitter liars out on the carpet. By the way, I was with Rep. Viebrock when he told Governor Blunt he had received a phone call that the Republic P.D. refused to participate in the military funeral. Those meeting’s took place because the Governor got involved at Viebrock’s request.
I'm just glad, having grown up in Republic, that the Fred Phelps Freak Show didn't make it to the military funeral in question... shows what cowards they really are.
Thanks go out to the Patriot Guard for helping Phelps make his decision to chicken out. Got to love those guys. They do good work.
Ahh, so you THINK you know who Riverotter is, huh? Wrong, sucker! You don't know what you think you know. Maybe you ought to do a little more homework before you start spouting off. I do know Jim Huntsinger, barely! All I know of him is that he was on the BOA for quite some time. What makes you think you know anything about me or who I am or what I'm about? Think again. And if you were with Jim Viebrock when he supposedly received a call from the Republic PD that they "refused to participate in the funeral", did you ACTUALLY listen in on the call or did you only go by what Slimey said? I know for a FACT that the Republic PD was involved because I know the family in question PERSONALLY! Can you say the same? I think not! As for the tax raises -- a fourth-class city cannot impose tax increases on it's citizens without voter approval! Do more homework jerk and then try to pass yourself off as knowledgable. Until then, let the real people who know what's going on reply to this blog -- not just those with a personal agenda. I don't even know Collins personally. I just know that, considering the options, he's the best man for the job. And you are trying to tell us that the Governor is friends with Viebrock, a known Republican party backstabber? Get real! Bust this myth.....Viebrock plays footsy with his neighbor while he's still married to another woman! By the way, do you even know what a River Otter is? Idiots come in all shapes and sizes and, apparently, they now know how to type!
By the way, Mayor Collins can't issue an executive order ordering the fire chief to not allow pictures. This is a fourth-class city -- the BOA and the city administrator are the real powerhouse here. The fire chief doesn't work for the mayor. He works for the City of Republic. The mayor can't even fire him without first going to the city administrator and the BOA! Get real, ye who know NOTHING about how the city of Republic works. If you are "with" Viebrock so much, then you must be his personal assistant, Linda. That's the only way you could have been party to him speaking with Blunt. Even his own party doesn't support him and wants him to lose! lol I have spoken to every rep and senator in SW Missouri, and, under the conditions of anonymity, they have acknowledged that they are secretly wishing that he loses!
Oh, I almost forgot. He "fought hard" for the Sprinfield Fire Fighter's Union. Does everyone realize that Viebrock supported a bill that would have caused DOUBLE taxation on the residents of the city of Republic for fire protection. Mayor Collins himself went to Jeff City personally to make a presentation to the House. Actually, one of the State Reps from Springfield commented that it was the best presentation he had ever seen on the house floor. As for Viebrock in all this....He said he was too busy to help Republic. Republic makes up most of his constituancy -- NOT SPRINGFIELD! Why is he so interested in protecting the interests of the Logan-Rogersville fire department instead of protecting the people who ELECTED him from double taxation? Answer that "MYTHBUSTER". By the way, what a lame name.
Whoa! I hit a nerve with riverotter (Jim)! I do work in the Capitol two days a week and my husband and I live in Republic, however I am not Linda. Now, riverotter again you have no idea what you are talking about. Let’s start with getting the bill right. Viebrock was working on HB 1305 and1306, which passed the House and died at the last second in the Senate. That bill had nothing to do with Republic. The bill Collins spent Republic tax dollars to go to Jefferson City to “kill”, as he brags, never made it to a vote in committee. That’s right committee. Collins has never debated anywhere near the House floor! That honor is reserved for those who actually get elected to the House. I’m not surprised he told you he was the greatest debater in the world, he is not only the most arrogant man I’ve seen in a long time, he has no problem with stretching the truth either. Soon, he’ll log on here and demand that I “shut-up”! As for the city employees backing him, my sister works for the city and feels threatened by Collins. She’s afraid that he will get her fired if she doesn’t cheer for him as he walks by.
Have you noticed that everyone in Collins’ camp is bitter, ugly and desperate acting? Jim Collins can’t run the city of Republic, what makes anyone think he is ready for Jeff City. Although, it would be fun to watch what happens when he explodes and tells one of the St Louis “black caucus” members to “shut-up”!
One more thing ... I see where RiverOtter says Collins has resounding support in Republic. If that is the case, then why did the spring election for Mayor have the following results (taken from County Clerk's website):
CITY OF REPUBLIC MAYOR JIM COLLINS -- 413 or 60.74 MICHAEL "MIKE" HURNEY -- 265 0r 38.97
WRITE-IN -- 2 or .29
It shoud be noted that Mike Hurney had publically withdrawn as a candidate so folks voting for him knew he would not be a viable candidate. And, those numbers do not reflect the voters who voted for neither because they couldn't stand Collins ... and there were some of those. I would not say that getting 60% of the votes when Collins was not running against anyone is very "resounding."
Gentleman, please refrain from personal attacks or innuendo. You may discuss policy all you wish, but tossing out accusations won't get you posted.
Look, in the end, we need more informed voters in this area. The apathy is sickening around here. Viebrock has had four years to prove himself to the voters of the 134th and, in my opinion, he hasn't done it. Collins is a strong leader who gets results. You may not always like what he says but he will ALWAYS be honest with you. I don't know him on a personal level -- just purely from meetings and public appearances. But, what I've seen I like. I like someone who isn't afraid to tell it like it is. Guess some of you on here would rather vote for someone more PC but that's only gotten this country into the big mess it's in right now. Viebrock has shown himself to be a good campaigner, but when asked questions on the tough issues, he flashes his pretty-boy smile and dodges the questions. Or, he answers them with a BS answer that anyone with half a brain and a computer could research and find out that he's wrong. He has taken credit time and time again for things he hasn't done. He's been demoted off of committees by the speaker of the house. Those things are neither accusation or innuendo. They are fact and they are indisputable because they are a matter of public record. Just call Rod Jetton's office and ask him. Bilyeu is a good man, but has no experience and we need someone who will hit the ground running in Jeff City and actually get things done for this area.
And I think what I have tried to communicate, and what others are saying, is that if you think you are getting a straight shooter with Collins you are not. All the things you are saying about Viebrock could also be applied to Collins. If you think you are getting a straight shooter ... I assure you are not. I've been witness to the say one thing and do another. I'm not saying Viebrock has been a great representative, he has not. But I assure you, as an educated, involved, well-informed voter and community participant; I assure you that a vote for Collins will not result in what you are imagining.
The more river otter and mythbuster make the case for their candidates and against the other the better Bilyeu looks. Every seems to agree he is a very fine man. He taught speech and debate for over 30 years so I am very confidant he would be a very capable, knowledgable and effective legislator.
Well, my mind is now made up. Negative campaigning may in fact win elections but it is not something I am going to support. The News-Leader editorial today demonstrated who in this election is running a negative campaign -- Collins. Here is a part of the text of the Bryan Lewis column:
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In all but one case, the challenger is disappointed in the incumbent's performance. This year, our editorial board won't endorse in the primary races. But I wanted information. So, I called six of the challengers, and asked them why they were running for office and if they were unhappy with the incumbent's performance. Also, to see how they handle the basics, I asked why they were Republicans.
Here are some excerpts from our conversations:
- District 134: In Republic, both Jim Collins and Bob Bilyeu are challenging two-term incumbent Jim Viebrock.
Bilyeu is the one candidate who didn't have anything negative to say about the incumbent. He said that after filing for office, he gave a call to Viebrock and told him: "I'm not really running against you, I'm just running for the office."
A retired high school debate coach and music minister, Bilyeu believes he is persuasive and has the leadership abilities to get things done.
"I think that my life experiences have prepared me to do a really good job at this."
Collins, on the other hand, didn't have anything positive to say about Viebrock.
In talking about his opponents, Collins said, "Bob Bilyeu is a fine guy. ... He's honest and honorable. Jim Viebrock is not."
Collins, the mayor of Republic, said Viebrock has not helped the city at all during his time in Jefferson City.
And why are they Republicans?
Collins said: "I'm a Republican because the platform reflects most closely with my personal views. I'm pro-life. I'm for smaller, less intrusive government and the classic planks that are in the platform."
Bilyeu said: "I'm a Republican because I believe in less bureaucracy, less government. I believe in putting as much power as you can at the local level and letting that be the basis for what happens."
-------
So, there you have it! The funny thing is that most of the things Collins is accusing Viebrock of (in both his personal and professional life) also apply to Collins. You know what they say, when you point the finger at someone, three fingers are pointing back at you.
So this whole discussion and campaign had cleared things up for me more than before. As for me and my house, we are going to vote for Bilyea. I'm requesting a yard sign today.
Wow 134th race is really heating up!! Viebrock was endorsed by the Speaker of the House hardly a sign that he is not liked in Jeff City!!
Actually, I was told my a campaign worker of Viebrocks six or seven months ago that the speaker of the house was trying to find someone to run against Viebrock. The belief then was that Viebrock was not liked by the Republican leadership because he had been too independent and they wanted him out ... but I don't believe they would pick Collins. The leadership may have looked at the options this year and decided Viebrock was not too bad.
You realize of course that Collins brother is Gary Collins who ran as the democract for Sheriff against Jack Merritt. The rest of his family, although in various ministry positions, are Democrats. Could it be that this candidate made a party choice based on what he felt would get him elected?
For anyone who cares, a simple phone call to each of the candidates campaign committees will clear up any questions you may have about where they stand. Bilyeu, again, is a good man, but needs to know more about municipal government and state level government. Collins is a strong leader in this town and has opened the city up to the public more than ever before. There are more citizens involved in the city than any time in recent history. As for his party affiliation, if family ties are indicative of where your values lie, then I guess that I can't be a Republican since I am the only one in my family who is. They are all hard-line democrats and union leaders in their respective locals and trades. But I chose to be a Republican based on my own values. But, I guess since my whole family chose the other party, that makes me a democrat too, right? As for the negative campaigning, Viebrock chose to go that way the last week of the 2002 election in his letter to the editor of the Republic Monitor blasting both Collins and Ron Mark who were running for the seat. That's after all three candidates agreed publicly not to do that. But, Viebrock was obviously scared that he would lose and went for the low blow. He didn't have to. His door-to-door campaign style and all-around Beaver Cleaver image he portrays here in Republic would have probably gotten him the votes he needed without the negativity. But, he chose to go that route anyway. Why is Collins going negative? He's playing catch-up to Viebrock who has been going negative to anyone who will listen in this town for some months now. How do I know this? Because, at the Republic Business Expo, he spoke to me and a colleague for all of about two minutes before he made a pointedly personal attack against Collins. It was low and it was unneccessary and I was ashamed of him. That's what finally made my decision for me. I want someone who is not afraid to stand out in public and say what they think. Do you all think it's negative campaigning to say that the person doing the job, in your opinion, isn't getting it done? In your own jobs, if your boss came to you and a colleague with a promotion and you felt you were the better candidate, wouldn't you say so? And if your boss pressed you on why you thought you could do the job better than the other guy, wouldn't you tell him? Maybe that's just the root of honesty -- saying the hard thing publicly sometimes isn't the most popular, but it's the most honest.
And, just as an FYI...I read earlier that my name was Jim Huntsinger. Well, to clear that up, I am not Jim Huntsinger. I am much younger than the man in question --- much, much younger.
I believe we need a represenative like Viebrock that doesnt follow party lines. Thank God for that Lord knows that with all that has happened politically lately we need some who looks out for the people and not party interest. With the support of Missouri State Teachers Asscociation, Firefighters Union, those are great endorsements but the one that counts for me and my house and family and friends is Jim Viebrocks unwaivering support of the Ozarks and standing up against the St Louis and KC political powerhouses and fighting for whats right whether republican, democrat, libratarian, independent, etc,etc, Viebrock is the man so lets get behind some one who will always stand up for all Ozarkers let's send a message that we have a voice and that voice is Jim Viebrock!!!
River otter: It took me some time to research some of the things you have been accusing Representative Viebrock of. You mention that he was demoted from some committees. I find that to be an interesting choice of words. Only two of the four committees that Rep. Viebrock serves on have changed. According to sources in the Capitol, he vacated his seat on the Judiciary Committee so that a freshman attorney could sit on that committee. He was reassigned to the Retirement Committee where he fought for the firefighter’s retirement as mentioned earlier. The only other committee that he served on was the Rules Committee and that committee was completely reorganized and no original members still serve on that committee.
In the 2003-2004 sessions Rep. Viebrock shared a small office suite with Representative Vicky Schneider from O’Fallon, that suite number was 406. For the 2005-2006 sessions they both moved to the 407 complex where his office is today. It is one of the larger and nicer office complexes on the fourth floor. As a weekly visitor to the Capitol I saw nothing to suggest anything different. These facts can be found in the official Capitol records. I don’t know what kind of personal beef you have with the Representative, but I really wish you would stop fabricating stories designed to damage Representative Viebrock. If your candidate can’t build support by other means than slinging mud, he should just quit.
Also I have been wondering about something on Bob Bilyeu’s financial disclosure. If he is such a good republican, why is Doug Harpool, and who I assume is Doug’s wife, giving maximum contributions to Bilyeu? Isn’t Doug Harpool the Democrat running against Senator Norma Champion? No matter how you look at that, it cast a question of doubt.
I suspect that Mythbuster is none other than Ron Mark ... who often talks about his weekly trips to Jefferson City. Interesting.
As for Doug Harpool, if you had read the News-Leader you would know the answer to that question ... plus the reason Harpool was at Bilyeu's announcement of canidacy -- Harpool was the Missouri State debate champion back in the 1970s and Bilyeu was his coach. Harpool said he owed his former teacher for his choice of vocation and much of his success and he was supporting him for that reason.
The other name on that disclosure statement is Bill Owen and he is very active in area Republican political circles but also supports Bilyea with $600 + because he too was a debate student of his.
By the way, it seems to me that "knowledge" of municipal government is not too necessary to be a state representative. We need more citizen representatives as opposed to attorneys and double-speakers. The sign of a good legislator is not the number of bills he passes. Government needs to stay out of the way. Instead, I think the biggest criteria is moral character. I'll let you guess which of the candidates lack that aspect.
Plus, if Republic gets its charter government the state legislature will have much less impact on the community, right? At least that is the sales pitch we keep hearing.
As for switching political parties ... no a person does not have to have the same affliation as the rest of their family. But, if they did at one time and then made a switch in order to run for office that looks like being an opportunist instead of really believing in a platform.
As for Collins opening up Republic's government ... what a joke! A majority of the committee members are his relatives (including a daughter) and church members. Many of the committees meet irregularly and I can speak first-hand to the issue that if a committee recommends something he does not like then the recommendation doesn't make it to the council. It is all for show.
By the way, Collins has been a very negative campaigner also ... and he is also a negative attack dog as a mayor, going after any citizen or council member who dares to disagree. You don't have to look hard for public examples and there are many other private examples.
Republic family, I’m sorry, but, I was around when Doug Harpool was in the legislature before. If I were running Bilyeu’s campaign I would distance myself as far from Harpool as I could! The man is absolutely hated by the lobby community in the Capitol. He is the most liberal of the liberals and he is already attacking Senator Norma Champion negatively. To have a photo of Bob Bilyeu and Doug Harpool standing side by side endorsing each other is questionable at best, especially in such a contested race as this one.
Ron Mark (aka MythBuster) could you please provide a source regarding the photo of Bilyea and Harpool together? I have not seen that nor have I seen either one of them actually endorsing the candidacy of the other. I would be interested in knowing about that. As for Aunt Norma, I couldn't support Doug Harpool but Senator Norma is a little past her prime. I wish the Republicans could have gotten a better candidate to run.
By the way, being disliked by the lobby community in Jefferson City is a good thing, isn't it?
Since you previously ran against both Viebrock and Collins I think it is interesting you are supporting one over the other. Are there some other reasons?
Does anyone know where any of these candidates stand regarding the reform of License Fee offices in Missouri? How about you Mythbusters ... do you know?
I have been following this blog spot with some interest (and quite a bit of musing). People, can we please stop all the name-calling and get the facts straight. For starters, Jim Collins does not have a daughter on any council in the city. His daughter does not even live in Republic. How do I know this? Because I am his STEP-daughter-in-law and I do serve on one of the commissions that my father-in-law implimented. There is not one ounce of blood relation between us. I am a very independent woman (just ask my husband). If you feel that I got that positions solely because of my affiliation with the man, well, I am not going to waste precious time and energy trying to change your mind. Just meet me, talk with me, and you will see that I do not use my affiliation to benefit me nor do I care to. I prefer to make my way based on my own merits and character. As a point of interest, when I began serving on the Communications Commission and was elected the Secretary of said committee, only one other person on that committee even knew that I was step-related to Jim. Yet, based on my personal merits, I was elected by the rest of the committee to be the secretary. As far as other people serving on these committees, anyone involved in any kind of committee today could tell you that it is very hard to get people involved in anything. Even the PTO has that problem!
Now, as for Jim running a negative campaign, the only negative thing he has said about Jim Viebrock is that he is a weak legislator. That's an opinion! He has not criticized the man's private/personal life and has made a point of telling his campaign committee that he will not tolerate and such attacks against the other candidates. I think if everyone can attack Jim, calling him a dictator and a bully, then Jim should have the right to say that he thinks that someone is not doing the job well enough. As far as Jim's party affiliation, as far as I know, he has always been a Republican since long before he ran for a BOA seat.
All I have to say about Bilyeu is this: Why would you run for an incumbent's seat if you thought that he was doing a good enough job? Bilyeu has made a point of saying that he's not running against Viebrock, but running for his seat. Isn't that what is commonly referred to as an oxymoron? In the current political atmosphere that has many Republican candidates worried about their future, why would you even run against the incumbent unless you felt that his job was not adequate enough, i.e, you could do a better job? Let's face the fact that whoever wins the Republican primary race in the 134th will with most probability win the seat in November. This is a strong Republican area.
I have just one more comment to make here and I'll let you all get back to devouring one another again....I read where everyone involved in Jim Collins' campaign is "bitter, ugly and desperate-acting". I have to take a personal offense to that. I am directly involved in Jim's campaign and while I may not be the most beautiful woman in the world, I resent being called ugly. :) There are a few ugly men on the team (just kidding guys), but the women are all quite attractive. Also, bitter and desperate-acting don't fit either. Number one, I have nothing to be bitter about -- neither do my sisters-in-law who are on the committee or anyone else that I know well. There are a few that I don't know so well, so I can't speak for them. And desperate-acting...I have never acted desperate about anything in my life. I have five children and hardly the time to be desperate about anything but getting a full night's sleep!
I hope that everyone gets out and votes for the person whom you feel should represent you. It seems that most everyone here has already made up their minds. It occurs to me that it would better serve this district for everyone to focus all that pent up energy on trying to get people to just get out and vote -- FOR ANYONE AT ALL! We have horrible voter turn out in this area. In the end, the voters will decide who wins this race -- not some blog spot where everyone goes to vent. Thank you.
Hey River Otter why is it you call Aldermen slime when its only because they ask fair and just questions lets be real here after all the hub bub I reviewed the Board meeting on the local cable channel broadcast in question and guess what Alderman Armstrong only was told to SHUT UP SHUT UP no denying it Collins messed up if he cant handle diplomacy at city hall in Republic how can he handle it in Jeff City!! Thank God for the other two alderman you spoke about river otter who arent afraid to state their beliefs I just might show up at the next Board Meetin and try to figure out who they are and thank them for not giving in to pressure and standing up for whats right guess thats why my vote is for Viebrock!!! Someone who looks out for me!!
Ok folks, time for some clarifications. I also work in Jeff City, and usually 2-4 days a week for the past four years. I know all the reps and senators, and know them well. I can tell you Jim Viebrock is one of the most honorable, hardest working guys in the capitol. He sticks to his principles and defends his district every time.
As for Mr. Collins' testimony. I was in that committee meeting, and he was nearly laghed out of the room byt eh committe members. MR Collins stated it was unfair that some cities had to have different rules than others. The committee is full of members from St Louis and Kansas City,(no, they have no special rules or anything). Nice of you to know your audience.
Next, Mr. Collins has been committing some heinous slander, and he is lucky Viebrock is such an easygoing guy. If it were me, my lawyer would be all over Collins. I can assure you, thous of you who have heard the rumors, Jim is NOT that kind of man. More than a few in Jeff City are, and Jim V is not one of them. He is sincere and committed, and MR. Collins had better watch his mouth. Great morals for a preacher!
The fire department equipment: Viebrock actually had a lot to do with acquiring it. He decided, as a favor to the donors, that he would not take credit, or even mention it, so that every other fire department in the state wouldn't be begging for similar donations. Just because Jim doesn't brag about his accomplishments doesn't mean he has none.
Viebrock has an open door policy that his district should be proud of..something Mr "shut up" needs to learn a thing or two about. What happened to democracy and free speach, Mr. Collins??
Viebrock is proud of the fact that he is not a "legislator" but a "representative". He always works hard for his district, an dhe has accomplished more in quite negotiations than almost any other legislator. The late Rep. Richard Byrd is perhaps the only member who worked on more projects in the capitol. Viebrock is respected by his peers for his integrity and work ethic. He would never accuse an opponent of the kinds of things Mr. Collins is spouting. And before you jump me, yes, Collins came to my house and said nasty things to my and my spouse's faces, so it's not gossip or hearsay. And for the record, his campaign manager should be pretty peeved he is spreading her name amidst the trash he is selling.
Ok.. Bilyeu is a nice man, but doesn't have much experience. If Collins and his supporters are this nasty during campaign and on a blog, do you really think they will change if he is in office?
And ask yourselves this big question:
If Mr. Collins does not like to be told what to do by men "in an ivory tower in Jefferson City" (said it during that stupendous testimony) WHY does HE want to BE ONE OF THEM???????
All I have for now
ANd there is no way mythbuster is Ron Mark. If you think that, you don't know much about this district and its history.
Regarding how Kathleen Haralson is related to Jim Collins, I stand corrected on the exact connection. However, it is not as much of a secret as you think. Gerry Pool and Peggy King have both mentioned it and they are both on the communications committee. One plus one equals two.
Plus, I don't see your name on Jim's website (http://jcollins134.org) but are you not also the treasurer for his campaign?
I think BengalOrange hit the nail on the head, if you can't conduct city business well, how could you manage the work in Jefferson City? I know Jim tries to take credit for everything that happens in Republic, every new business that opens, every good decision by city staff but the city would function fine without him as Mayor. Gasp.
Nope, I'd rather have a distinguished and honored 35-year educator and debater (Bilyeu) OR an honored FFA farm hand (Viebrock) representing me and my large family than an ill-tempered bi-vocational pastor.
If Ron Mark is the one making comments on this web page he shouldn't be taken seriously. He is a financial operator of a fee agent office and is primarily interested in protecting the $$$$. He also ran against Harpool and was defeated soundly. He ran for office several othr times but never did win.
Harpool was a student of Bilyeu. He was quoted in the paper as saying he gave him a contribution because he believed Bilyeu was an honest man and because he felt he owed him a lot for being such an inspiratonal teacher.
To answer your question, RepublicFamily, no, I am not the treasurer of his campaign. I don't have time in my busy schedule for that duty.
As far as Gerry Pool and Peggy King mentioning my relationship to Jim Collins, well, they are my friends as well as fellow commissioners and, of course they would know that. Also, Mrs. Pool has been a friend of the family for quite some time and has known my husband for years. We were married in her husband's church. Of course she knows who I am.
I think it is wonderful that you are so passionate about your choice of Representative. I only wish there were about 70% more people in this district so willing to back up their opinions with an actual vote at the polls.
Another point that I failed to mention in my previous post...I have served as the secretary of the Communications Commission for two years now. I met Peggy King as a result of that commission. It wasn't until Gerry Pool was made the Chairperson of that Commission last year that Peggy King found out how I was related to Jim.
I am also an elected member of the Charter Commission. I went out and obtained 138 signatures from registered voters in Republic to have my name placed on the ballot and I also did alot of leg work getting signatures for others too. I was nominated and appointed unanimously by the Charter Commission at its first meeting to be the co-chair and secretary of that commission. I am not saying this to toot my own horn, just to point out that I do things on my own. It might interest people to know that O.K. Armstrong (the alderman everyone is buzzing about) was also elected to this commission. Two weeks ago, at a lunch meeting, he reached across the table and extended his hand saying, "I don't believe I've met you before." I have attended all but one meeting and that was because I was out of town at my mother's funeral. I also collected signatures with him. He didn't even know who I was, let alone that I was any familial relation to Jim Collins. Just an interesting sidebar, I felt, anyway.
Well, well, well. We have a lot of information floating around. It is interesting that we like to make assertions and assumptions without looking deeper into the situation. Case in point number 1. "RepublicFamily" stated that Ms.Haralson is the treasurer of the Collins campaign. Not true. Shannon Haralson is the treasurer and all you have to do is look on a campaign sign. I looked at one last night on my evening walk. Case in point number 2. "Bengalorange" stated that he reviewed the board meeting on the cable channel. Interesting, so did I. What seems to be missing is the fact, all you have to do is review ALL the previous meetings on the channel and you will see why the mayor acted the way he did. It has something to do with the sunshine law, but my knowledge on that is very limited. In addition, if you bothered to review the meeting from a few weeks ago, you will see that the alderman in question got his time to present his ideas. Collins handling of the situation is wrong, BUT there has to be more to this than we know. BTW, what two alderman are you talking about? There are only about 3-4 out of the bunch that actually say anything? Put it out there and let us know. That way I can go back and review the meetings to see if the people you are referring to are the correct ones.
Last but not least, have any of you really spoken to any of these candidates? I have spoken with both Viebrock and Collins, but not Bilyeu. Speak to each of them and make up your own mind, but please state the facts.
Hey Republicfamily. I see your doing a lot of crying here. Get in the real world. You have to give Jim Collins some credit, he has worked hard as mayor and has done many, many great things in republic. Why don't you volunteer and help him instead of whining? He truly wants to make a difference. Some say, like you, that he is too tuff. Him being a U.S. Marine for 6 years during Vietnam will tend to make you tuff. I think we need some tuffness in government. I am so tired of some of the wimps we have representing us in government now. There needs to be change, now, with strong people! Call and speak to each man. I did. I am very impressed with Jim Collins. He really knows whats going on, and is determined to do the right things to make our future better. This Viebrock guy did not even have a clue on issues. So sad we have paid for this over the last few years. Check his record. Shameful! As for Bilyeu, I kind of get the feeling he knows this job is over his head. Anyway, call each three, have an open mind, and see what i mean. Jim Collins is the obvious choice.
I'd be 99% sure Mythbuster is Ron Mark ... too many clues and comments similar to what he makes in public. I suspected it but then when he started bragging about going to Jefferson City every week, that was a dead giveaway.
Yes, Ron Mark was also the treasurer of Roy Blunt's PAC in southwest Missouri (I just learned about that 2 days ago while doing some research) which is what got him a well-paying contract fee license office in Republic. If he is supporting Viebrock then I would guess that it would be because of Viebrock's position against the proposed license office changes (I'm just guessin here).
In Republic, I would think the Chamber of Commerce would be the perfect organization to run that fee office.
Yep, the more I research the more confident I am that the vote breakdown for this primary will be:
Bilyeu - 39%
Viebrock - 35%
Collins - 26%
Just for a historical reminder:
August 2002 Primary
STATE REPRESENTATIVE 134TH DISTRICT
JAMES VIEBROCK – 1551 or 39.84%
RON MARK – 1340 or 34.42%
JIM COLLINS – 1002 or 25.74%
Voter turnout will be a bit higher because of population growth in the area and having 2 tax measures on the ballot. Of course, weather helps deteremine turnout too.
Does anyone know about any polling data of likely voters for this district? I'm sure at least one candidate has done a poll and it would be fun to know the numbers.
sca316 - you say that Viebrock was endorsed by Jetton? What gives you that idea? A paid political ad in the Republic Monitor? Those quotes could have been from over the last four years. Although I doubt they would have been over the last year because Jetton wants him out. FYI, Jetton has come out and publicly endorsed one person -- Ray Weaver -- with a four paragraph letter in the Ozark paper. Speaking of Weaver, maybe someone should take the time and talk to him about his opinion of Jim Viebrock and Viebrock's being kicked out of his office for flip-flopping on his own party. To set the record straight ONCE AGAIN Viebrock WAS kicked out of his office and Weaver and Dennison and Marsh will all tell you that. It's not hearsay and those that are denying it are obviously just campaign workers for Viebrock doing what he has built his whole political career on -- LYING!
mythbuster - Who are these sources at the capitol you keep talking about? I wonder if we know the same people? Because my sources at the capitol told me about Viebrock being kicked out and put in a closet down the hall before anyone ever decided to run against him for this seat. Yeah, I know people too so don't think you are the only Jeff City insider on this site. Don't believe mythbuster. Chances are it's either a close member of Viebrock's team or Viebrock himself.
AlmicahShore: Ask the Republic Fire Chief Duane Compton who got the RFD their equipment. Ask him why HE decided not to let Viebrock take that photo and then ask him if he was ordered by anyone to make that decision. Compton was the one who called Collins after his "discussion" with Viebrock and told him about it. To restate again, Viebrock then went and got the photo of himself with the West Republic Volunteer Fire Department and then placed an ad in the Monitor claiming it was the Republic Fire Department! That wasn't a typo and if Viebrock doesn't know the difference between the two then how can he say he's so "in touch" with his constituents! That was blatent lying, once again! And don't think that Viebrock hasn't done his share of slinging the mud people. I have been party to his hyjinks on more occasions that I can count where he has flogged Collins in PERSONAL attacks on his character and that was before Collins decided to run against him this time. Jim Viebrock may be quiet, but have you ever heard the saying, it's the quiet ones you have to watch out for? I'm sorry, but I don't think he's done the job to deserved $900 a month for life. Let's give someone else a chance. At least give someone else a chance who hasn't gotten all their campaign money from PACs and lobbyists -- someone who has hoofed it around the district to get the money and put most of it up out of his own pocket! I have spoken to all three candidates and the only one who knows anything about the issues is Collins. And if he doesn't know, he finds out. I asked a question that he couldn't answer and the man came back a few days later with the answer for me. That impressed me. Yes, he has said some negative things about Viebrock -- but they are not lies or mud slinging -- they are facts and opinions. This is a free country and if you all can sit there and call Collins every name in the book, then why is it mudslinging when someone goes after Viebrock?
As far as his campaign manager goes, why don't you call her and personally tell her what it is you believe Collins has said that would defame her in any way? I'm sure she'd be interested to hear that. Do YOU even know who his campaign manager is? And that committee meeting? Charlie Dennison is the one who told me that Collins did an excellent job prsenting his side. Quit your whining about how "unfair" everyone is being to Viebrock. Maybe they have reason to be. Viebrock isn't the Beaver Cleaver he'd like everyone to think he is. Just ask his ex-father-in-law!
The city of Republic is in good shape today because of Collins. If you think you can debate that, then you don't really know anything about Republic or its government. I've read so much junk here about how the employees are afraid of him. Mythbuster -- whose this "sister" you claim to have? I asked around and no one in City Hall seems to know what you're talking about!
Actually, volunteering for Collins' campaign sounds like a good idea. I'm getting on board today.
Kathleen Haralson, I don't think I stated taht you were treasurer, I asked. It doesn't matter I suppose. I knew the last name was the same as the Collins treasurer. So that makes two Haralsons involved with the campaign. All in the family you know.
As for the council issue being related to the Sunshine Law, that is a blue heron and Collins and Hunsinger know it. Since most folks don't understand what the Sunshine Law is that is a good thing to throw out. Non-agenda items can be brought up as part of the discussion on another topic, just not voted on. OK didn't ask for a vote regarding the transporation issue. And, the Sunshine Law does not talk about having anyone thrown out of a meeting.
This goes to the heart of Republic BOA meetings. They are well scripted. I've even seen situations where a few BOA members supporative of Collins have had notes written prior to the meeting regarding what to say and when to speak up.
Oh, and I think Kathleen Haralson's suggestion is that OK Armstrong is old and forgetful. Me too. OK has much more experience managing municipal governments that Jim does. Again, that comment demonstrates the Collins campaign tendency to degrade others (like OK) instead of address the issues. I've sure seen several other examples of this same attack method by Collins. Attack the person instead of the issue ... it makes for great print.
As for me whining instead of being active ...well, I'm more active in the community than any of you know. I generally work, help and participate without asking for the lime light or pats on the back. I don't go out of my way to introduce myself and I'm not running for any office.
Don't let Collins claim of tuffness and great experience fool you. If not for the great staff employed by the city our local government would be a mess. The staff spends a great deal of time trying to keep Collins out of trouble. The Marines may have taught him to be tuff but I think the lessons of composure under pressure and discipline may have been missed.
The Sunshine Law, or "blue heron" as you so aptly put it, requires a little bit more digging, which is what I did, than what you stated, "republicfamily". Watch the video of previous board meetings and in particular one where OK got tossed. You will see that when OK brought up the transportation issue, he started within the context of the property discussed. This IS legal; however, bringing up a discussion on the transportation plan as it regards to other areas of the city - now that is NOT legal under the Sunshine Law, regardless of whether he asked for a vote or not. Make sure you have your laws straight. In addition, did you not see or hear that the transportation plan is a planning and zoning document and not a board document? OK stated he presented his ideas to the p&z and when pressed by an alderman on their answer to his suggestions, OK made the statement, "Duh".
This shows intemperance on OK's part. As far as "scripted" meetings, I have personally talked to a few of the alderman. All of them get their information the week prior to the meeting and a few of them write down the questions that they want answered. This is NOT being scripted, just prepared. This is what alderman, p&z members, PTO, school board members or any other volunteer person should do before getting to a meeting - do the research - just like you did when you checked out Viebrock's record and where his office was located.
The city does have a great staff, you are correct. BUT, they do not spend a great deal of time trying to keep him out of trouble. The mayor can either direct the city on a day-to-day basis or let the city administator do it. Collins, from my sources inside the city, lets the city administrator run the day-to-day, unlike previous mayors.
Speaking of composure and discipline, while you are using that on the Collins, make sure you apply the same to OK. More than once during the alderman broadcasts, OK has lost his composure and not used discipline. Collins did lose his composure, but so has OK. Again, state ALL the facts.
AlmicahShore, I've lived in this district all of my life and I know the history very well. Pretty intimately, in fact. And, I know Ron Mark very well. I can't hardly imagine him blogging but ... the other pieces fit.
Anyway, this has gotten way off the subject of the original post by KY3 which said that a Republic city official said the contest was between Bilyeu and Viebrock.
How about getting back to that subject. Who was the official. I don't read that post as being a board member but rather a city staff employee.
What else was KY3 covering on or near the day of that post that had to do with Republic? Can we assume from that statement that city employees don't care for Collins?
I stand corrected "republicfamily" - you were not the one who did the research on Viebrock, that was "mythbuster". I apologize for making that assessment. If you have done your research, then great, if you have not, please do.
Interesting names posting here.
Raven of Magenta? Does that have to do with the Titans Tower comic series ...or is it New Teen Titans. It is a super hero comic that targets girls, correct?
Then River Otter ... how does a mammal found in aquatic environments apply to you? The post at http://www.adfg.state.ak.us/pubs/notebook/furbear/rvrotter.php says River Otters have a great sense of smell and hearing but sometimes have a disagreeable scent.
unitedstatesfirst ... any relation to the missourifirst.com slogan Viebrock is using?
"Takes two wings to fly straight" sounds like a song lyric to me. But I do see other posts from you that seem to always tie back to Harpool. For example: http://ky3.blogspot.com/2006/07/dept-of-revenue-wright-uninformed.html and http://auntnorma.blogspot.com/2006/07/champions-allies-resort-to-smear.html.
MythBusters is a science-meets-popular-culture series that seeks to investigate the bizarre claims of urban legends and misconceptions. Does that apply?
And hey, KY3, how about a follow up story on the campaign in the 134th district!
RepublicFamily - my suggestion was not that Mr. Armstrong was either old or forgetful. I think he is a very smart man. But, my point is this. I have been in meetings with this man on a weekly basis for a month and he still didn't know who I was. It wasn't that he couldn't remember my name. I think that Mr. Armstrong is so bent on his own agenda that he hasn't taken the time to notice others around him. But, you are right. That is completely off the subject. The subject being that a Republic official made that statement. Well, everyone is entitled to their opinion. That's what makes this country a great place to live. Your opinion is that I am degrading to others and my opinion is that you have done the same thing. Two wrongs don't make a right, so I apologize if I have given anyone the impression that my purpose was to degrade anyone. I don't wish to degrade, just give the facts as I see them. Isn't that what we are all doing, after all?
Interesting names indeed "republicfamily", but then again, if you'd bother to do your research you might find a truth about each individual or a person that knows the truth about an individual and that might be where the names originate. Yes, you did your Google Search on those two words and came up with a comic strip. To answer your question - it has nothing to do the comic series. Thanks for doing the research.
As far as the original topic, the "city official" in question could be one of 100 plus people. BTW, elected officials are sometimes referred to as "city officials". In all my conversations with alderman and city officials, there is only one person who makes the comments about Collins being a dictator - that person is OK Armstrong. Not to say that other people may have said it, but that is the only person I have ever heard use that term in that context.
republicfamily -- River Otters do indead have a keen sense of smell, i.e, they can smell a rat, and hearing -- they are always listening all around them. As for the disagreeable scent, well it did say sometimes! lol What river otters are known most for is their tenacity in following their prey even into the deepest, darkest hole they try to hide in and bringing them back to the surface to be eaten. River otters are fun-loving creatures, but they can be fierce when they need to be.
BTW, think I've figured out Raven of Magenta! Good one!
River Otter you still havent told us who the two aldermen are that you state hold a grudge, just because someone doesnt roll over for Collins doesnt mean they hold a grudge, I think its because they both are trying to keep the Mayor in check!! Checks and Balances right or are you going to accuse both of these Aldermen for being unethical!! I am sure everyone one knows that your figure of 90% is incorrect , only 7 out of 9 dont support him that means he has 78%!!!
I have been reading these blogs about 1 week and still have a lot of questions. There are so many stories out there that it is hard to say what the real truth is. So let's find some truth!
Where do I start? Being a news reporter for about 10 years, it has always been my intent to find out the real truth.
Granted, it has been a few years ago, but it is ingrained in me, just like riding a bike. According to several Representatives in Jeff City, the Silver Haired Legislature and someone in the Republican hierarchy, Jim Viebrock was kicked out of his office last year. His desk was put in a closet and his parking space taken away. If you ask most Legislators, they will tell you that it was because Jim Viebrock was not honest in his dealings with the Republican Caucus. The question was reportedly asked of all the Republicans in the room if they had any questions on the item before them. This question was asked several times. It was assumed by all Republicans in the room that all would vote the same. When Viebrock went to vote, he voted the exact opposite. Not too honorable, if you ask me.
That is precisely why it does not make sense, and I do like to make sense of things, that Speaker Rod Jetten would endorse Viebrock in this election. The Speaker did write a postive letter to the editor for the 142nd District, because he and Ray Weter see eye to eye on a lot of things. If Jetten is backing Viebrock, you would think that he would do the same. Viebrock's add in the Monitor seems a little fishy to me. The Speaker could have been quoted saying those things regarding Viebrock 3 or 4 years ago. If Jetten is backing Viebrock, surely he would take the same time to write something good about him.
The fact is that Jim Collins has been slammed! Jim Viebrock has not. Interesting! There are quite a few things I could say about Viebrock's moral charecter because of who I know, but I have chosen the high road AND ALL OF US HAVE DONE THINGS WE ARE NOT PROUD OF. The only slam that Jim Collins has put out there, if you want to call it that, is that Viebrock has not represented his district very well and that Viebrock is not honorable. I'm sorry, I have covered politics in Jeff City for years and that is not a slam.
As far as someone saying negative things about Jim's family being involved in his campaign, I do believe most families support their loved ones. I really can not see a problem with that unless your family does not support you.
Thanks for listening, now get out and vote!!
I stand corrected. You are right. Since Tom Cunningham resigned due to his move, there are only nine aldermen left. That does indeed give Collins a 78% support ratio on the BOA. I never said that two aldermen "hold a grudge". One definitely does. The other is in cahoots with a prominent person in this town who has a grudge against Collins. All I'll say about that is this....remember Main Street? You know, much has been said about Collins being a dictator and arrogant, basically terrorising everyone in his path. Why, then, did the man not call out Armstrong and have the man put out of his alderman's seat for trying to make a personal profit off of a city plan? He could have exposed him for that but he didn't. The BOA censured him for it way back in, I believe, January or February, but never actually called him by name. The alderman in question exposed himself by pointedly asking the mayor if the ordinance that was put forward was directed at him. Guilty conscience! Since then, he has been bent on trying to get Collins impeached, making regular calls to the city's attorney about any little word, phrase or action that might be somehow construed as questionable. Quite frankly, the folks I talk to at City Hall are fed up with his antics. So, I'm only accusing one of being unethical and the other of being a patsy. Armstrong is a smart guy, but he made a major mistake when he tried to manipulate some of the people outside the city limits.
Checks and balances? There is no rolling over for the mayor. You obviously know very little about how the city government really works. The mayor only has the right to vote on a measure in case of a tie and that rarely happens mainly because the alderman all do their homework before the meetings. They get packets from the city clerk the Friday before the meeting so that they are prepared. That's just good government. Someone stated earlier that the BOA seem to have "scripts" in front of them. Is someone accusing all of the BOA of being unethical? The day-to-day operations of Republic are handled by Dean Thompson and his more than capable staff, as Raven mentioned earlier. The reason why Collins is liked by the staff (although, someone here I'm sure will disagree without merit) is that he leaves them alone to do their jobs. His main duty is to handle executive meetings. Just as the mayor of Springfield is much a figure head of government, so is Collins. Does that mean that he does nothing? Quite the contrary. The man works hard attending meetings and following up on businesses that have interest in coming to this area and to Brookline. Collins was in on, I believe, every meeting that involved the consolidation which were many and often. Does anyone realize that he is the president of the Greene County Mayors Association? Do you all think he strong-armed his way into that position too? So, I guess that would imply that every mayor in Greene County is spineless and weak, right? Get real! Give the man credit where credit is due. Collins has done great things for the City and is a visionary. Does he make mistakes? Umm, yeah, don't we all. I haven't met a perfect person yet. Bilyeu is a good man, but lacks any real political experience. When pressed on the issues, he doesn't have answers. Also, it just seems he may be running to have something to do with his time. Viebrock, I have to admit, is not a total loser. He has some good ideas. But, he's had four years. I just think it's time we give someone else a chance and see what they can do.
I am sure that I am going to be taken back behind the woodshed for this one, but as a Democrat in a Republician district I just love seeing you people go for each others throat.
First: does it really matter who we get into the House? They dont do much anyway. They come back home after only working a few months, take up their real job (usually insurance or real estate - since they cant do anything else) and drive around their district and get free meals.
Second: Yes they want to be in their seat long enough to get a pension and maybe an election run to the senate, unless you are Baby Blunt.
Third: What is the big deal if a mayor or chairperson askes for a disruptive member of that board or commission be removed. I may be dating myself here, but isnt there a Sergeant-At-Arms or a Parlimentarian that does that? I live in the county so I only worry about the Presiding Commissioner and my Western Commissioner.
Fourth and not least: If you dont have the onions to use your real name then shut up. It seems that the only one with any testosterone in this bunch is a female. The rest of you are sad for hiding behind an assumed name. If you expect anyone to believe you, outside the 4 of you that post here, use your real name!
I am glad I am a Democrat so I dont have to put up with all this junk. I am NOT saying we dont have problems, we do, but at least we dont ring the doorbell and run off leaving a burning pile of dung on the front porch as you are hiding behind a mask.
This is interesting. By the way, I've heard others besides OK use the word "dictator." I've been unclear when others have said something similar to what you wrote: "What exactly is OK's agenda in all this?" People keep saying he has one but no one has said what it is.
Also, I found these other interesting posts. Another one on this KY3 blog about Viebrock (riverOtter wrote into this one too) -- There is this previous mention:
http://ky3.blogspot.com/2006/06/viebrock-protect-life-guns-and-animal.html
Another earlier post outlined the "shut up" event and also drew comments from RiverOtter: http://ky3.blogspot.com/2006/06/134th-gop-primary-heats-up.html.
This one about Mayor Collins being up on the web: http://ky3.blogspot.com/2006/06/mayor-collins-up-on-web.html.
This post says Viebrock is vulnerable: http://ky3.blogspot.com/2006/06/why-donkey-could-win-my-seat-why-jim.html.
Hmmm...
republicfamily. Thanks for the the above 4 sites. They are very interesting to read. Even though you may, or may not support my candidate, Jim Collins, I appreciate your passion and time.
I enjoy the research. How about you Mythbuster?
I don't see why municipal government is necessary to be a state representative. Nothing in the law says it is necessary. Plus, we have plenty of state senators and representatives (current and past) that have not had city government experience. Frankly, I don't see why being in government --- aka being a politician -- is a needed quality. It seems like in the process of being a politician our candidates learn to do all of the things we citizens (in polls) say we don't want in our government.
Also, when you look at Collins platform none of the planks are Republic specific and none of them have anything to do with city government. In fact, a couple of them are really outside the bounds of state law (federal laws supersede).
Same could be said for Viebrock saying his 2 big issues are gun control and abortion. Although state law has touched the edges of the abortion issue both of these are chiefly federal issues.
As for me needing to do more research and support Collins, I've had 2 personal experiences where Collins promised me to my face one thing and then did exactly the opposite less than 1 hour latter. Both times the switch was to make himself look good. I'm sorry, I can't support the man after that because that is politics as usual.
If Viebrock has trouble telling the truth too, as many have implied, then that just leaves one other option this year -- Bilyeu. Give him one term ... he can't possibly do any worse than Viebrock and you know at his age he is not running to make a carreer out of it or build up his own ego as many have suggested Collins is doing.
As for using a real name, sometimes there are family reasons that cannot be done. I live and do business in Republic and using my real name would put myself at great risk with those who like payback and/or hold grudges. I speak from an experience that I would rather not repeat.
Now that the election is over we know that the "city official" was correct after all.
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