THE RACE CARD?
LATE NIGHT E-MAIL TO SUPPORTERS SEEKS MONEY FOR MORE MEDIA***
ALSO: MAKES THE CASE FOR THE GENERAL:
"I am often asked if I would support my opponent if he should win the primary. The answer I always give is that I don’t want Jay Nixon to be Governor. I know that on this, we agree. But I also know that the best way to keep Jay Nixon out of the Governor’s Mansion is for me to be his opponent come November. He can’t attack me for bad votes in Washington. He can’t tie me to poor congressional approval ratings. He can’t say I am out of touch with Missourians. It will be hard for him to attack me at all."
THE 72-HOUR SWING
"They call Big Oil, Big Oil Said No, They Say No."
WITH NEWS THAT EXXON-MOBILE REPORTS RECORD 2ND QUARTER PROFITS, MISSOURI'S JUNIOR SENATOR TAKES TO THE SENATE FLOOR
Exxon Mobile Rakes In $11.7 Billion, The Biggest Quarterly Profit Ever
McCaskill accused Congressional Republicans of being "handcuffed to the demands of big oil." Calls for extension of tax credits for wind and solar . . . WATCH CLIPS of her FLOOR SPEECH ABOVE
THE CLOSING ADS PRE-PRIMARY IN THE RACE FOR GOVERNOR
THE HULSHOF CLOSER
My Take: Bringing us back to his roots is heart-warming. I mean, who doesn't love their dad? It's been Kenny's over-arching theme all along. "I came from small beginnings, but I didn't forget them. I'm a good guy, the Missouri dream. You can trust me." His line about "keeping your good name," is a subtle dig at Steelman. His message: I've stayed above the fray and kept my eye on the ball. You should reward me for that. The endorsements from newspapers is boilerplate politics, but if he's the nominee will he be touting these same papers if/when they back Jay Nixon? What will he say about the importance of endorsements then? He's making the argument that he's better experienced, more prepared, but critics will say he's lacked an overall message beyond that.
THE STEELMAN CLOSER
My Take: Steelman's closer is much like her last ad "Mom." She's basically repackaged it to highlight her maverick/outsider image. Nothing really new here. In fact, she uses some of the exact same lines word for word. Something must be telling them their themes are resonating. Steelman leads off with the Wall Street Journal column, which she hopes conservatives will recognize as a stamp of approval. She looks straight into the camera the entire time and she wants to convey that she's willing to shake up the system, especially on fiscal responsibility and spending. The Steelman ads have been slick and creative throughout the cycle, but this one is serious. No music. No gimmicks. No Orville and Ed. No Lobster. Can you tell it's gametime?
THE NIXON CLOSER
My take: Jay Nixon isn't running in the Republican primary, but you might be fooled by watching his latest ad. His first 30-second bio piece highlights Nixon's long career as Attorney General. The message. He's tough, he favors the death penalty. He knows what bothers you, he cracked down on telemarketers. He understands the economic squeeze, so he'll cut your taxes. Heck, he'll even cut government waste. Democrats will say this is who Jay is and has always been. But if you were new to the scene, you mighta thunk this ad was being run by a Republican.
Glenn Beck's interview with Sarah Steelman is up on YouTube.
Click HERE to watch it.
4 QUESTIONS FOR BARACK OBAMA
Privileged as we were to receive the only one-on-one television interview with the presumptive Democratic nominee for President, the time went fast and furiously. They scheduled 3 minutes for us. Yep, 3. We eeked out a bit more. Now you can judge what both he and I did with it.
WHERE CAN HE WORK WITH THE G.O.P?
WHAT'S HIS POSITION ON MANDATING ETHANOL?
WHY RAISE TAXES ON THOSE MAKING $250,000?
IF IRAQ GOES BAD, WOULD HE SEND TROOPS BACK IN?
PLUS:MORE VIDEO
OBAMA MINGLES AT BELL'S RESTAURANT IN LEBANON
YOU CAN'T MISS 86-YEAR-OLD LILA MCGLOTHIN, SWEET AS SUGAR
AND: MCCASKILL TALKS UP OBAMA'S CHANCES IN THE OZARKS
WAIT THERE'S MORE . . . WATCH THE NEWS @ 6 PIECE
SURPRISE!Watch the KY3 News @ 5 Report HERE
Watch Clips of Obama's Glendale Visit HERE
OUR ONE-ON-ONE WITH OBAMA
DEVELOPING . . .
. . . On The 3rd floor of the downtown YMCA in Springfield . . . @ 8:04 a.m.
Let us know if you spot Barack anywhere else today . . .
WATCH MY KY3 NEWS @ 10 REPORT HERE
My analysis: The establishment favorite, Kenny Hulshof has been knocked off his planned message by an aggressive candidate he might not have seen coming. While he tries to focus on the economy, he's still fending off attacks from Sarah Steelman while also attempting to re-define her. His strength is he eloquence and his ability to connect one-on-one. This race could be a case of The Message versus The Messenger?
WATCH HULSHOF RESPOND TO A QUESTION ABOUT HEALTHCARE IN OZARK BELOW, AND SPECIFICALLY HIS OPENNESS TO TWEAKING MEDICAID ELIGIBILITY
Watch his explanation of his Matricula Card Vote Above
Meanwhile, the campaign fires back on Steelman:
"Steelman accepted nearly $20,000 in political contributions from the very contractor she falsely claims to have forced off the job," says spokesperson Scott Baker.
FIND OUT WHO THE GREENE COUNTY CIRCUIT CLERK CANDIDATES FAVOR IN THE REPUBLICAN PRIMARY FOR GOVERNOR
BTW: We noticed Peggy Kubicek donated $19 dollars to Kenny Hulshof's campaign during the 2nd fundraising quarter this year . . . Those darn reports will always git ya!
3 REPUBLICANS FACE OFF FOR GREENE COUNTY CIRCUIT CLERK
Peggy Kubicek vs. Brooke Hobbs vs. Steve Helms
In the first clip, the candidates detail the roll of the Circuit Clerk
(GOOD)
In the second clip, the candidates begin to lay out why experience matters and what voters should look for when deciding who to cast their ballot for.
(BETTER)
In the third and final clip, I nudge the candidates a bit more about their differences.
(BEST)
SO WHO WINS THIS THING?
BLUNT CONVENES PRIVATE MEETING WITH MEDICAL LOBBYISTS AFTER OPPOSING LEGISLATION TO BLOCK A PAY CUT FOR DOCS
Watch the KY3 News @ 10 report HERE
In the first clip, Steelman addresses why she's made a tough web ad (and possibly a spot that could hit T.V.) that takes aim at Hulshof's prosecutorial record in handling convicted rapist Vance Roy Clark.
In the second clip, Steelman answers criticism from the Hulshof campaign and some voters that her television advertisements have been too negative. Does it mean she's trailing?
In the third clip, Steelman explains why she pushed for a $133 million dollar provision to be included in a nursing home reform bill while she was a State Senator. Congressman Hulshof has criticized Steelman for the move -- saying it's an example showing she's been hypocritical on the issue of wasteful spending.
HULSHOF LOOKS TO DRAW BLOOD
In latest television blow-for-blow, the Hulshof campaign again goes after Steelman's connection to trial attorneys, and features falling dollars to highlight her campaign donations.
Flips her own words against her . . . "Politicians use our money to buy their power and influence" . . . with tough tagline . . . "Yep, she sure does."
Marks the 1st 100% Contrast/Negative Ad from the Hulshof Campaign
We're On The Bus With The Candidate, Tonight on KY3 News @ 10
8-DAY REPORTS DUE MONDAYBut Steelman Loans Herself $200,000, Bringing the Total in Loans to $770,000
The Conservative Columnist Disclosed His Condition TodayHouse Republican Whip Roy Blunt, of Missouri, said Novak's record of reporting and commenting on American elections "has never failed to demonstrate keen insight and a peerless political acumen."
"I want to join the many wishing Bob all the best as he confronts this challenge and a speedy recovery as he looks to resume his work," Blunt said in a statement.
DOES SIZE MATTER?
STEELMAN TARGETS HULSHOF ON IMMIGRATION AND MATRICULA I.D. CARD
The ad follows the State Treasurer's question to the Congressman during the KY3 Debate last Wednesday
Watch Steelman ask Hulshof the question HERE
(Scroll down to Candidates question each other)
WATCH THE ZWEIFEL AD ABOVE
The Democrat is in a 4-way primary
(He's the only one on TV in Southwest Missouri)
Zweifel faces Andria Simckes, Charles Wheeler and Mark Powell on Aug. 5th
Republican Brad Lager is unopposed in his primary
THE ZWEIFEL CAMPAIGN RESPONDS TO THIS PREVIOUS G.O.P. STATEMENT:
"For the last four years, Missouri has had a state treasurer that failed to speak up when irresponsible financial decisions were made, like slashing health care and raiding MOHELA. The Republican establishment is clearly nervous about the possibility of Clint Zweifel bringing needed reforms to the State Treasurer’s Office," said Patrick Lynn, Zweifel’s campaign manager, in a statement to the KY3 Political Notebook.
Barack Obama's town hall meeting in Springfield Wednesday will be held at Glendale High School, according to details just released by the campaign.
The program begins at 10 a.m. Doors open at 8 a.m.
Glendale High School is located on 2727 S. Ingram Mill Road in Springfield.
This event is free and open to the public, however tickets are required. They will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. More information on tickets is included in the links provided below:
http://mo.barackobama.com/
For security reasons, the campaign asks attendees not to bring bags and to limit personal items. Signs and banners are not permitted.
Nelson Parnell, president of the Senior Democrats of the Ozarks, spoke about the visit.
Watch the short clip below.
Barack Obama's campaign for President is about to announce the specific schedule for his visit to southwest Missouri on Wednesday.
The campaign is holding an 11 a.m. news conference today.
It is being held at the Obama campaign office in Springfield on 220 South Campbell.
BTW: With Wednesday blocked out for wall-to-wall Obama coverage, the Missouri primary campaign just got 1 day shorter . . .
DEVELOPING . . .
AD WATCH: WHO'S ON SUNDAY NIGHT?
Harris Hits Ozarks TV with Ad During First Break of 5 p.m. News; Also Runs @ 10 p.m.
Cites Favorable Quote From Attorney General Jay Nixon; NIXON Responds:
"We have three strong candidates in the Democratic primary race for Attorney General," said Attorney General Jay Nixon "I am not endorsing any one candidate over the others. I have known Margaret Donnelly since 1988. During those 20 years she has been a champion for Missouri families. Missouri would be lucky to have Margaret Donnelly as its next Attorney General. Chris Koster has served the people of Missouri for many years and has a long record as a prosecutor. This experience would serve him well as Attorney General."
NO COMPLIMENTS FOR HARRIS INCLUDED
DEMOCRATIC TREASURER CANDIDATE CLINT ZWEIFEL ALSO HITS OZARKS TV FOR THE FIRST TIME @ 5:16 PM . . . THEN AGAIN AT 10:16 PM . . . Hits Gov. Matt Blunt in 30-second spot
STATE G.O.P. RESPONDS TO ZWEIFEL:
"Zweifel prefers the old way of cutting and withholding education funding from our students, schools, colleges and universities. Like Jay Nixon, Clint Zweifel does not want to fix anything, he wants to break state government by returning to the failed policies of the past," said Tina Hervey, G.O.P. communications director.
STEELMAN & HULSHOF ALSO UP SUNDAY NIGHT WITH ADS . . .
But are they NEW?
OBAMA HITS SOUTHWEST MO.
BETTY ANNE MCCASKILL KICKS OFF SPRINGFIELD OFFICE OPENING
"There are a lot of good Republicans and there are a lot of good Independents who will vote with us . . ."
DOWN THE STRETCHThey are the men behind the curtain.
They determine message, how to spend money and when to spin "momentum."
Jeff Roe and John Hancock. Friends, but rival consultants in the high-stakes Republican primary for Governor.
Roe of Axiom Strategies is the uber-strategist behind Sarah Steelman's campaign. Hancock, a former statewide candidate for Secretary of State, also runs his own consulting shop, and serves as Kenny Hulshof's campaign manager.
They have different approaches, tactics and reputations. But their goal is virtually identical when they get a call from a reporter like me: make the case for why his candidate can win, but in the most convincing yet realistic way possible.
With just 10 days until the voting begins, here's what I learned in interviews with both.
JEFF ROE for Steelman
The much-heralded Jeff Roe covets and protects his data. He is a man of many facts and numbers. But during a stop on Steelman's RV tour in Bolivar this week, he seems eager to make his case. First, he dismisses he's orchestrating a negative campaign. "I've been in negative campaigns, this isn't. It's not personal, it's not vicious," he says.
The Steelman campaign makes the case that they are seeing the undecided voters break for them, and that will in turn, make this race close. The polling shows a backlash against ethanol and support for a repeal of the mandate, which Steelman has been stressing on the stump. "When you say ethanol support, it's medium. When you say mandate, you've just got a lot of Republicans who don't want to do that," Roe explains. "We're on emotion here."
He said this week's debate at KY3 foreshadowed the final stage of the race. "Are they going to go with the nursing home. Do they go hypo-thermo-nuclear negative against her? Because if they do, it could cost them the election," Roe says.
Roe believes the Hulshof camp may try to "muddy the water" on Steelman's earmark attack, but he believes it is too late to change the subject. The campaign has three television advertisements "sitting in the hopper," to pick from -- and only TheRealKenny.com offers some hints as to where they might end up going.
When asked about head-to-head polling, Roe holds his cards close. "It's a dead heat," he says. That's all he'll reveal. No specifics. They pay for those numbers, for God sake's. Why in heavens would they dish them to a reporter?
All Roe will say is that Steelman is not only winning the remaining undecideds, but taking "people from Hulshof." He also predicts that Southwest Missouri will end up breaking hard one way or the other.
The resounding feeling among the Steelman camp is that this will be close. But Roe doesn't like to talk on-the-record about much. The camp is excited but nervous. Then again, they say . . . so are their opponents.
JOHN HANCOCK for Hulshof
John Hancock seems like he's managing the frontrunner. He's eager to point out, "I've never seen them get above 30% in any poll. Period." Then, he goes into a whirlwind of positivity for Kenny. He's gaining momentum by the day. The internals have never looked better. Then, he levels the boom.
"I'm very confident in a victory, a pretty substantial victory."
Boom. Everything I heard from Roe is spinning in my head. Could the uber-strategist be wrong? Could Kenny still be up BIG? Really? This thing ain't close after all?
This is what happens when you talk to strategists. They're job is to be convincing and most do a good job of it. But then you have to step back a little bit . . .
What about all those undecideds?
"The reality is, Kenny Hulshof does even better on the ballot in terms of high intensity voters, the 10 out of 10s," Hancock says. "The ones who are going to show up."
Sure, but what about all that angst among Republicans? The bad brand. The P.O'd G.O.P?
"She's trying to tap into a dissent level that just does not exist in any kind of meaningful fashion. If the dissent existed, their campaign strategy would be brilliant," Hancock says.
But, c'mon. All these e-mails and calls from regular farmers pissed about ethanol. Steelman must have some type of momentum since she launched the bus tour in southwest Missouri? C'mon John, the bus tour was a good idea, right?
"Look, what do they have, a dozen people per stop? It may be 12 people. That's about it. Their maximum crowd has been, what 16,?" he asks.
I say I've heard that had 30 or 40 in Fordland.
"Well, I don't know that Kenny has every spoken to a crowd smaller than 70," Hancock replies. "There is painfully little evidence of a groundswell towards Steelman. They are making 5,000 calls, and 12 people show up."
Ok. Let's do polls. Again, no hard numbers.
One source of mine says he's heard Hulshof is up 5 to 10 points. Quite a range there, but when I ask Hancock about polling, he replies simply, "it's very good." Then, he lobs a shot at what they've been hinting to me. "Their polling data is the same as ours, based on the content of their TV," he says.
My last try is electability. Won't Sarah be stronger in general against Jay? I mean, all the Dems talking to me say they want Hulshof and that Washington record of his.
"Go look at the liberal blogs and see what candidate they are pillaring. They are going after Kenny Hulshof at a rate of 3 to 1. There's a reason for that," Hancock offers.
Then, Hancock offers the Kinder factor up as an argument. "Look, who's political future is most tied to who runs better against Jay Nixon. That was an unprecedented move for Peter to come out for Kenny. If Peter really thought this race was close, he'd stay neutral. Kinder's fate is tied to that ticket. If Jay Nixon wins, it's tough for any statewide Republican to win."
Based on that logic, and perusing the numbers right now, it looks like a bad year for Republicans.
So where's the Hulshof-Steelman race?
10 points. 5 points. 2 points.
Pick your poll, and your consultant.
SEN. MCCASKILL BACK ON SUNDAY TV
Kenny Hulshof's campaign for Governor is calling his two recent debate performances at KMOX and KY3 News "a clean sweep" over rival Sarah Steelman.
In a newsletter to supporters Friday, the campaign said that Hulshof was successful in defending himself "against the constant barrage of negative attacks from Sarah Steelman."
"So much for Ronald Reagan's 11th Commandment!," reads the e-mail.
"In the Springfield debate, Kenny tried every thing he could to elevate the discussion and get the campaign back on the high road, including graciously complimenting Steelman, but Steelman would have none of it. She is bound and determined to run this race into the gutter. Missourians will soundly reject those tactics on August 5th," reads the newsletter.
This weekend Hulshof makes stops through Kansas City, St. Joseph, Odessa, Warrensburg, Sedalia and Mexico.
Here's the list for the Ozarks:
HULSHOF TO TOUT JOBS IN FINAL PUSH
THE LOBSTER SPEAKS
The Steelman campaign supporter trails Hulshof to events in order to highlight the Congressman's vote on an earmark for the Maine Lobster Institute
Hulshof's Scott Baker: “If Sarah Steelman believes grade school stunts like that will get Missourians to vote for her, then she has a lower opinion of Missourians than originally thought.”
Video courtesy of KY3 Photojournalist Taka Yokoyama
PLUS: BEHIND THE SCENES BODY LANGUAGE
(Video Taken Just Before & After The Debate)
YOU HAVE BEEN TREMENDOUS IN PROVIDING REACTION . . . I'M POSTING AS MUCH AS I CAN GET TO . . . THANKS AGAIN . . .
(Updated @ 6:45 p.m.)
MANY PRO-HULSHOF E-MAILS FLOW IN . . .
"As an undecided voter leaning toward Jay Nixon, I approached last night's debate with interest. I walked away now planning to support Sarah Steelman. Throughout the entire debate, Hulshof never answered a question directly while Steelman generally seemed to answer as thoroughly as she had time to. While he is definitely a smooth speaker, she came across as being the one with the knowledge of how to get the job done in Jeff City. The pivotal moment in the debate for me was when Hulshof talked about how he was the only candidate running a positive campaign for governor. Is an ad with Steelman's face covered in mud positive Mr. Hulshof? If this man is the Republican nominee, I will be voting for Jay Nixon in November," writes Gary Cook of Monett.
"Great job last night with the debate. I liked the questions that you and the other panelists asked. I thought that they were well thought out and you guys didn't hold back. I liked that.I was very impressed with the content of the debate, and I feel that it showed that these candidates, although both Republicans, are worlds apart in the areas that are most important to me. I definitely think that Sarah Steelman won the debate. I was at the Republican Watch party at the Lamplighter Inn, and I know personally of 4 undecided voters that made up their minds after hearing the debate. Sarah is for the people and understands that our money is hard to come by, and that it is important to reign in spending and cut taxes. The ethanol issue I think also revealed a lot about the character of Hulshof who never did really answer the question about the legislation he supports as a politician supporting his corn farming business and his personal investments. That just is morally wrong, speaking from an ethical standpoint. I agree with Sarah that Mandates make things more expensive and government involvement in the markets is always bad for the taxpayers dollar. Also at the watch party, when there was applause for the opening and closing statements, Sarah's was much louder. I think it was a 60/40 or 70/30 split. Cant say for sure, but there was a definite difference. I can truly appreciate a candidate that acknowledges that we hire them, and that they are to represent all the people of Missouri, not just their personal interests," writes Charity Davis.
"A little feedback on the debate. A little awkward from the presenters, but. overall good. Steelman won," writes Greg from Springfield.
"I am generally in support of Sarah Steelman at this point in the governor race, but I have been perplexed by the number of people I respect who know Hulshof personally and support him for the position. I have tried to get their perspectives on him and reconcile this with the fact that, from the outside, he looks to me like exactly the kind of establishment, high-spending, politician that I do not want anywhere near the Governor's office. I am also bothered by Mrs. Steelman's campaign tactics. After talking to some more people and having some time to collect my thoughts, I have at least the beginnings of an answer. This is my current perspective and subject to change as I learn more about the candidates," writes Eric Vought of Springfield.
"It seemed to me that Hulshof beat around the bush and didn't answer any of the questions. Especially on the bill about the Matricula ID card/ He tried to play stupid, we know he is not stupid he voted for it. I felt that for him talking the talk about being for border security he doesn't walk the walk since he is willing to let Mexican Truck driver's openly and freely drive on American roads. He seems like he is more the flip flopper then he claims Sarah Steelman is.Then he pulled a democrat one liner "Big Oil doesn't like Ethanol" we are not Democrats!At least Sarah Steelman understands that our economy is hurting, I don't know what fantasy Hulshof is in. Knowing that I am struggling with a family of 6 trying to make ends meet, I know that my pocket book is not very full so I don't think many others are doing better. I can see the evidence in my own back pocket. If I have to go cut my car cut my house to downsize to be able to feed my family of course I am not going to believe that the economy is on the upturn and that the government should not cut too.I would not vote for someone that supports more taxes when I struggle to feed my family. It sounded like he would vote for more taxes for the roads of Missouri," writes Aaron Davis.
OR WAS IT A DRAW?
PRO-STEELMAN COMMENTS DRIVE OVERNIGHT REACTION . . .
(Keep 'em comin' . . .)
Let us know here. Or e-mail your thoughts, critiques, comments, insight to dcatanese@ky3.com.
Miss it? Watch it HERE.
(Note this is all reaction that was sent to me.)
REACTION FLOWS IN . . .
CONSENSUS FORMS AROUND . . .
A TIE?
"You witnessed a Total Knock Out Tonight! His administrative experience is being a Washington intern??? He defended Washington waste all night. Didn't and couldn't answer questions on earmarks. This was a classic Washington mentality vs. Missouri experience debate. He flat out did not show up tonight," said Spence Jackson, Steelman spokesperson via Blackberry.
"I just wanted to tell you how favorably impressed we were with Sarah Steelman tonight, how focused she is. When her record is criticized, she doesn't feel it. Kenny Hulshof seems to think when his record is accused it's a personal attack, and you need thicker skin than that to be Governor. We were very impressed with her. This has swayed our vote, the ads and tonight together," said Joyce Tracy, Marionville, via voicemail.
"Hulshof won, but Steelman held her own. Aug 5th will be very exciting," wrote Heidi Kelly, via e-mail.
"I thought Hulshof won, but not by the margin Hulshof supporters would've liked. All of his points seemed backed up, where a lot of Steelman's defenses and points seemed like we were supposed to take them on the strength of her character. Also, Hulshof definitely made her look nasty when you asked the candidates what they thought of the other and she responded "he's a smooth talker." He then seemed like he could contribute several positive qualities he saw in her (incidentally, I disagreed with his points of view on some of her better qualities, but I digress). She did, however, get some really good sound bytes on him, like when he asked which of his congressional actions she liked and she said "of all the earmarks, the 'perfect Christmas tree' interested me..." and similar rhetoric. He was able to explain all her claims away, including why he supported the earmarks he did, but he didn't get the soundbites he needed, and sometimes, that's enough to swing it," wrote Eric Mayle of Springfield via e-mail.
"Hulshof did marginally better, his closing was great. Steelman was effective, on message and relentless. This was practically a tie. It reminded me of late in a boxing match when the two opponents are tired and do a lot of clinching. No one got knocked out. Here's the question-- given Hulshof's skill as a debater, is any debate where she effectively ties him amount to a win for her?," wrote Matt Lyons of Springfield via text message.
"It was a tie. You have Hulshof the slick talking attorney and then Steelman came off better than I expected. They both talked around questions at times. I really hate that. Just answer the question then explain more if you wish. Get to the point, stop talking in circles. They aren't as bad as some. Still have not made up my mind," e-mails Janet in Hurley, Mo.
"Could you tell me why it is that the Governors race seems to be the biggest smear campaigns that I have ever seen? I have no idea what either of the candidates stand for. I am from Sarah Steelman's home territory and will vote for her out of loyalty, but the smear tactics on their TV spots needs to stop," e-mails Christine Abmeyer.
"As a voter, I am disappointed with the debate. I didn't learn anything new from the discussion. To me neither candidate seems "gubernatorial;" and neither offered an insight into how they would govern Missouri or what the real issues are, other than healthcare, or why they should be elected (or nominated). Given current economic conditions, the ethanol issue is really a non-issue. It is not surprising that neither candidate took a potshot at Gov Blunt or offered any insight into what they would bring to the job. The comment on Nixon was gratuitous. I know you all only had an hour, but the questions did not touch on matters of real interest to Missouri voters. I am still not ready to choose come August 5th," e-mails John Gauthier of Mountain Grove, Mo.
"After watching the debate tonight my opinion is that Kenny Hulshof is a very politically savy, slick, lawyer with a partially disguised nasty disposition. I'm voting for Sarah Steelman," e-mails Shirley.
"I enjoy your political blog and your email updates. We are lucky to have you in Southwest Missouri. You are providing a great service. As a political junkie, your blog is a must read. The debate was well done with thoughtful questions. I don’t know who won between Treasurer Steelman and Congressman Hulshof, but the viewers definitely won. Thanks for a job well done," e-mails Hal L. Higdon, Ph.D. President Ozarks Technical Community College.
HULSHOF ARRIVES JUST AFTER 7 P.M., POSES WITH WIFE RENEE JUST BEFORE ENTERING MAKEUP
Steelman arrives at KY3 around 6:25 p.m. . . . Freedom of the RoadRiders Bikers escort the RV into the parking lot with a grand entrance . . . Steelman poses for a picture with her two sons . . . Hulshof has not arrived yet . . .
THE HULSHOF-STEELMAN DEBATE Schedule of Events
5:00 p.m. KY3 News @ 5 previews debate with look at latest ads/ Police Arrive
6:00 p.m. KY3 News @ 6 previews the debate and the race ahead/Food Arrives
6:15 p.m. Makeup Arrives
6:15-6:30 p.m. Sarah Steelman campaign expected to arrive
6:20-6:35 p.m. Panelist Makeup
6:30-7 p.m. Media Arrives
Approx 7 p.m. Kenny Hulshof campaign expected to arrive
6:45-7:00 p.m. Steelman makeup
7:00-7:15 p.m. Steelman mic check in studio
7:00-7:15 p.m. Hulshof makeup
7:15-7:30 p.m. Hulshof mic check in studio
7:45 p.m. Both candidates to studio/production crew in place
8:00 p.m. DEBATE BEGINS Live on KY3 . . . Streaming on News-Leader.com HERE
9:00-9:10 p.m. Hulshof holds media availability in KY3 front lobby
9:10-9:20 p.m. Steelman holds media availability in KY3 front lobby
10:00 p.m. KY3 News @ 10 reports on DEBATE highlights
10:30 p.m. and Later . . . Journalists file pieces, then mingle, gossip, bloviate . . . while candidate surrogates/supporters spin . . . maybe over a cocktail (s)? After parties . . .
***DEVELOPING . . .
The Hulshof-Steelman debate airs live on KY3 tonight at 8 p.m.
After taking weeks of criticism on federal earmarks, Kenny Hulshof's campaign for Governor is trying to turn the wasteful spending argument against State Treasurer Sarah Steelman.
The Hulshof campaign is pointing to Steelman's efforts as a State Senator to add a $133 million dollar spending provision to a nursing home reform bill back in 2000, in order to defeat it.
"The facts indicate that Steelman abandoned conservative ideals long ago," said Hulshof spokesperson Scott Baker, referring to the $133 million dollar spending provision as "so big, that one lawmaker said it would have created a state budget crisis." The lawmaker that Baker refers to was Democratic Senator Wayne Goode.
"In the process of promoting a massive and egregious giveaway of taxpayer money, Steelman killed the bill, which would have cracked down on elder abuse in Missouri nursing homes," Baker added.
News accounts from that time period show that Steelman's goal seemed to be to kill the bill by making the spending provision too large for anyone to support. She teamed withe a handful of Republican Senators to derail the bill that was meant to protect nursing home residents from abuse.
"It's a killer amendment," one Senator told the St. Louis Post Dispatch. Then-State Auditor Claire McCaskill was quoted saying, “I believe the nursing home industry’s goal is to kill the bill by putting a very expensive amendment on it. I think Sarah Steelman is assisting them.”
The bill would have made it easier to prosecute and investigate cases of abuse in nursing homes. Then-Rep. Craig Hosmer, was the sponsor and also blamed Steelman for killing the bill. “She cares more about nursing homes than the people in them,” Hosmer said, according to a May 12, 2000 article in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Democrats claimed the bill's death would "allow nursing home workers to abuse and steal from residents in their care with virtual immunity from prosecution." According to the Kansas City Star, Steelman and Sen. Bill Kenney said something needed to be done to help nursing home owners, who say Medicaid paid them $13 a day less than it costs to care for each patient.
"I'm not killing the bill. I'm trying to help it," Steelman reportedly said at the time.
Still, Steelman's $133 million dollar amendment included tapping $52 million from unbudgeted state funds.
The Associated Press wrote: "At a news conference after final adjournment, the bill’s Republican supporters were clearly a bit jarred by Steelman’s actions. Sens. Betty Sims, R-Ladue, and Roseann Bentley, R-Springfield, both said they asked her to desist and let the chamber get on with the business of the hectic final day."
Steelman spokesperson Spence Jackson said the Hulshof campaign was recycling old attacks used by Democrats.
"This was funding set aside for elderly Missourians in nursing homes. Unlike Congressman Hulshof, Sarah Steelman has stood up for taxpayers and would never waste their money on frivolous things like the Bridge to Nowhere," said Jackson.
"The big-spending Washington status quo is getting desperate now. They are recycling old discredited attacks used by the Democrats in Steelman's re-election bid to the state Senate. The people who knew her best rejected those false statements and re-elected her with over 71 percent of the vote," Jackson added.
But Hulshof's Baker said this is just one example of Steelman's record of "abuse, waste and conflicts of interest."
"On August 5, Sarah Steelman will learn that Missourians are paying more attention than she thinks," said Baker.
STEELMAN LAUNCHES ANTI-HULSHOF WEBSITE
SARAH STEELMAN TO APPEAR ON GLENN BECK 
DEBATE REHEARSAL
MARSHFIELD & ROLLA TO GET OFFICES 
The candidates for Greene County Sheriff debate at a League of Women Voters Forum at 6:30 p.m. at the Library Center on South Campbell
Democratic candidate for Governor Jay Nixon pledged Tuesday to restore medical coverage to 389,811 Missourians who lost it back in 2005 under Governor Matt Blunt's cuts to the Medicaid program.
Nixon made the announcement during a 3-city campaign tour Tuesday, just a day before the two Republican candidates for Governor debate at KY3-TV in Springfield.
"When Gov. Blunt slashed health care from 400,000 Missourians in 2005, he created a health care crisis that has only gotten worse," the Attorney General said. "Missourians lost coverage over night, families who still had insurance saw their premiums skyrocket, and our state turned away nearly $2 billion in federal health care funds. We must fix our broken health care system, and that starts by restoring coverage to every Missourian who had it slashed in 2005," he added.
Here are the details of the Nixon plan:
The Missouri Budget project offered lukewarm support of the plan Tuesday. "There are currently 770,000 Missourians who are uninsured and don’t receive the preventive health care that they need,” said project director Amy Blouin. "While this measure would help a portion of those folks, Missouri must continue to come together and work in a non-partisan manner to ensure that these measures pass within the next legislative session."
The state Republican party quickly issued a statement questioning why Nixon defended similar healthcare cuts enacted by Gov. Bob Holden. "In 2003, Jay Nixon, without a word of dissent, went to court to defend Holden-enacted Medicaid cuts," said Tina Hervey, communications director for the Missouri Republican Party.
"Nixon supported the Holden Medicaid cuts before he was against the Blunt Medicaid reforms. It sounds a page from the John Kerry political handbook," Hervey tells the KY3 Political Notebook.
UPDATED 9:15 P.M. . .Nixon campaign spokesperson Oren Shur e-mailed this response to the G.O.P. criticism: "As Attorney General, Jay has a responsibility to defend the state's laws, whether he agrees or disagrees. Quite frankly, he's had to defend lots of bad laws, particularly during these last four years. Cuts to health care certainly fall into that category. Hulshof and Steelman insist on looking backwards rather than offering a plan to address the health care crisis we currently face because of Matt Blunt's cuts -- cuts that both of them wholeheartedly support," Shur said.
Republicans claim Nixon would have to implement a nearly $1 billion dollar tax hike in order to pay for the plan, but Nixon has said he can do it by drawing on federal funds that the state has been rejecting.
In response a new Democratic spokesperson, hired solely to handle the Governor's race challenged Republican candidates Sarah Steelman and Kenny Hulshof to outline their own healthcare plans.
"It’s been roughly six months since Steelman and Hulshof embraced cutting people’s Medicaid coverage. In all that time, they still haven’t offered any of their own ideas about health care beyond a vigorous Viagra debate,” Missouri Democratic Party Spokesman Zac Wright said.
"Missourians are left to wonder if either Republican will finally address the proverbial elephant in the room at the debate or just continue embracing Matt Blunt’s agenda of slashing thousands of people’s health care and driving the premiums up for everybody else," Wright added.
The House Armed Service Committee Chairman expresses dismay over a report that details how long soldiers with mental or physical problems have to wait before being discharged, reports USA Today
CAROL WILSON HOPES TO BE RE-ELECTED TO A POST SHE NEVER GOT TO HOLD . . . BUT DEMS ENDORSE FABROThere are four Republican primary contenders for Public Administrator.
If I was able to find a campaign site, I included it:
Becky Frakes
Terry Ozborn
After meeting both candidates, farmer Stacey McCallister e-mails the KY3 Political Notebook about why he's decided to support Sarah Steelman over Kenny Hulshof***She's stopping in each of the 47 counties with the largest number of likely G.O.P. voters . . . Two days before each visit, those voters get an automated call . . . Fewer than 1 percent show up, but the calls themselves are a goal
Excerpts from McCallister's e-mail:
This time of year, even a crime story can generate political problems.
I bring this to the blogosphere because I am curious to know what you think about it -- and this is where I can get feedback for the future. So watch it, and then tell me your take.
Or are John McCain's TV ads really darn good?
First . . . "Love" (which could just be the best spot of the cycle so far), and now "Pump".
A Democrat told me this weekend, "It almost makes me want to vote for him. That guy's voice, (in "Love") sounds like Morgan Freeman for God sakes."
Democratic candidate for Governor Mike Carter is criticizing Rep. Jeff Harris' plan to ban political robo-calls.
8th District Democratic candidate for Congress Joe Allen is blasting 7th District Congressman Roy Blunt's energy plan.
Greene County Sheriff candidate Mark Webb will start running TV ads on the local stations next week.
Edition III, in 2 parts
(Yeah, so the promo could be slicker, and "Governors" sounds odd, but they're promo people, not political people.)
Congressman Roy Blunt began his 2-day tour Friday touting a plan aimed at lowering gas prices based on finding more energy sources and using less of them.
Blunt's plan includes exploring for energy off America's coasts, promoting conservation and providing incentives for new technologies.
"This is the kind of balanced approach we need to bring down the price at the pump. I will keep working with my colleagues in Congress to take action on this package as soon as possible," Blunt said.
His plan includes:
TOP CONSERVATIVE PAPER COMPARES STEELMAN TO JINDAL
DON'T CALL ME, I'LL CALL YOU
The Democratic candidate for Attorney General calls for banning robo-calls by political campaigns but won't rule out using them himself during this campaign
"IT'S NOTHING PERSONAL"
Harris details why he's been so tough on rival Sen. Chris Koster, who switched parties last summer. He calls his disagreement with Koster "philosophical," not personal. Harris then lists his differences on the Photo I.D. bill, local control of CAFOs and the Medicaid cuts. "There wasn't a single Democrat in the House under my leadership who voted for those cuts. If we can't stand up against the Medicaid cuts, then shame on us," Harris said.
In addition, Harris won't touch rival Rep. Margaret Donnelly. When asked about differences with her, he quickly points to experience and leadership, but steers clear of specifics.
WHAT'S YOUR NUMBER?
When asked about fundraising and polls, Harris doesn't put too much stock in either. He makes it clear he is aiming to play well in southwest Missouri, because he's been here, and he'll be back.
OVERALL:
Harris was focused and forceful. While visibly a bit road-weary when he arrived, he quickly proved he was ready for a fight and armed with answers. He gets points just for just showing up to an area that's been mostly overlooked by the candidates for Attorney General. Neither Donnelly nor Koster have held similar press availabilities here yet, and Harris did indeed lay out a host of specifics. Southwest Missouri may not have a real impact on this primary, but if it does, Harris looks to have an edge down in the Ozarks.
"Politicians call it taxpayer money. I'm a mom . . . I call it your money"
SO WHICH IS BETTER?
"Sarah's not telling you she's totally reversed her position since July 1st."
REACTION FLOWS IN
FROM THE RV BUS IN COLUMBIA, SPENCE PHONES IT IN:
"He's not being straight with Missourians. He's not telling them he's getting rich off the ethanol mandate. He has a financial interest in ethanol, and that's why he's in favor of it," said Steelman spokesperson Spence Jackson. "He grows corn. Meanwhile, hard-working Missourians are paying $4 dollars a gallon to subsidize his lifestyle. He's got a financial interest and he's not coming clean about it."
WHEN PRESSED IN PHONE INTERVIEW, CONCEDES STEELMAN SWITCHED POSITIONS ON THE ETHANOL MANDATE:
"In essence, she did. Yes, she did support it temporarily. But she always had concerns about the matter, and unlike him, she listened to people. He's stayed rigid because he has a financial interest in it. Three or four months later, you see the impact of it, who could be for it? She's out here on the trail and is meeting farmers who agree. He's behind the curve."
HULSHOF'S SCOTT BAKER IS SUCCINCT:
"The only thing that Sarah Steelman has been consistent about in this campaign is attacking Kenny Hulshof," responds Hulshof spokesperson Scott Baker.
"Missourians are growing tired of her constant negativity. It eventually backfires."
ALERTED OF THE STEELMAN CAMP'S COMMENTS, BAKER ADDS:
"That is a direct attack on Kenny's character, because they are saying 'he's only in it for himself,'" Baker said. "Sarah Steelman knows better. What she doesn't mention is that Kenny has been a champion of biofuels for a decade, way before he took control of his family's farm. He is for it because its good for Missouri, a point that's clearly lost on Sarah Steelman. Anything to distract from her John Kerry-esque flip-flop!," Baker added.
The Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services in Monett said that Republican Sarah Steelman is "a day late and a dollar short" in calling for Missouri's MAP test to be eliminated.
"The MAP test at the high school level is already being phased out, so her claim that she will get rid of it is a day late and a dollar short," Julie Germann told the KY3 Political Notebook, after seeing our KY3 News report Wednesday. "The MAP test is being replaced by "end of course" exams, phased in this past spring," she added.
"Having every high school student take the ACT was a strongly debated issue by the secondary education arena (where it should be decided, not by a governor who knows little of anything about education)," Germann added. "At this point, for a number of reasons ranging from cost to the fact that not all students are college bound, the ACT test was tabled in exchange for end of course exams," she explained.
Rep. Jeff Harris said accusations by Gov. Matt Blunt's administration that he has not complied with their Sunshine request for e-mails from his office going back five years are untrue.
Speaking to reporters during a campaign swing through Springfield Thursday morning, Harris offered specific details on exactly how he responded to the open-records request filed by Gov. Blunt's office back in May.
Harris said that after a back and forth with the Governor's office about what documents they were seeking, Blunt Chief of Staff Trish Vincent asked for all correspondence on February 20, 2008. The request involved about 275 pages.
Harris said Vincent wrote him a personal check to pay for the copies and labor to produce the correspondence -- which he said he could not accept. "I can't accept a check to the Office of Jeff Harris . . . It's got to go through the clerk, there's a process," Harris explained.
When asked by Springfield News-Leader reporter Chad Livengood whether it surprised him whether a Governor's Chief of Staff didn't understand the rules of the General Assembly, Harris replied, "Not this administration."
Harris is running for the Democratic nomination for Attorney General.
A reminder: Sometimes politics is simple: "I know her, she's nice. I don't know him . . . so I'm with her." (Or vice versa)
Steelman again called for scrapping the MAP Test for high school students and replacing it with the ACT
HULSHOF CAMPAIGN: SCRAPPING MAP GOES TOO FAR
"Kenny believes educators should be held accountable for their performance," said spokesperson Scott Baker. "He also feels strongly that parents should be able to monitor the quality of education being offered at their child’s school. Assessments are an important tool in accomplishing those goals." Baker added, "Many of the concerns over the MAP test are borne from requirements instituted at the state level. Kenny will work with parents and teachers to make sure assessment tests are fair and accurate."
NIXON CAMPAIGN: KEEP MAP
"Jay Nixon believes we must measure academic progress and hold our schools accountable. As a state, we should not give up the authority to set our standards by forcing our students and teachers to abide by a national exam," said spokesperson Oren Shur.
On the last leg of her tour in Northview on Wednesday, Sarah Steelman gives KY3 Photojournalist Taka Yokoyama a tour of the RV that will take her campaign to 60 cities over the next 15 days
Saturday will be the next day the Steelman bus stops in the Ozarks. She'll visit Galena, Cassville and Anderson.
There are two television ads currently running to bolster Democratic candidate for Governor Jay Nixon. But only one is being paid for by Nixon. The other ad, now on television in the Springfield market, is bought and paid for by the SEIU (Service Employees International Union.)
SEIU, which bills itself as the nation’s largest union of health care workers, said it is airing the ad to highlight Nixon’s commitment to making health care more affordable.
It's reportedly a $450,000 ad buy for Nixon. The KC Star Prime Buzz blog has a nice run down on the claims it makes.
HARRIS HITS SPRINGFIELD THURSDAY
Rep. Roy Blunt hasn't contributed financially to John McCain's presidential campaign, reports Washington newspaper, The Hill.
"Congressman Blunt is focused on retaking the House so John McCain has the Republican majority he needs to lead our nation. To that end, he has been putting his fundraising dollars to use supporting incumbents and strong challengers," said Blunt spokesman Nick Simpson.
Newly emboldened Democratic candidate for Governor Sam Page is calling on Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder to release the back-up e-mail records of the Blunt Administration.
Gov. Matt Blunt is boasting about Missouri's $833 million dollar surplus at the end of the 2008 fiscal year.
"While 29 other states are struggling with budget deficits and shortfalls, Missouri remains strong under the leadership of Gov. Matt Blunt with our state reporting both revenue growth and new savings," reads a release from Blunt's office.
"While other states are struggling with budgets that cannot keep pace with spending, our responsible budgeting decisions and solid financial planning are ensuring that Missouri is on solid financial ground,” Gov. Blunt said.
Among the Blunt stats being touted Wednesday:
ON THE AIR
The frontrunner for Missouri Governor hits TV with warm and fuzzy 60-second bio spot from his hometown of DeSoto
Touts record as Attorney General for standing up to insurance companies, creating the "No-Call" List. Then says he'll help small towns thrive by cutting property taxes for seniors
NICE CLOSE: "This is my hometown . . . This is our Missouri."
Campaign Trickled the Ad out Tuesday . . . Will hit statewide Wednesday
#138th District Republican candidate Jeremy Cady reported raising $4,764 in contributions over the last three months in his campaign to take on Springfield Rep. Sara Lampe.
“Over half of Cady’s total contributions were processed online. 86% of his contributors gave online at an average just over $45 per contributor,” said William Wake, Jeremy Cady’s campaign treasurer.
Of those contributions processed online, more than $1,000 was raised in a single day money bomb fundraiser, according to the Cady campaign. “We have had success with our online campaign and we hope to grow stronger in this arena as the race continues,” Wake said.
“We have done well this quarter,” said Jeremy Cady. “We have had several small, individual contributions without any large money coming from special interests or PACs. I am sure the fundraising would have been even greater had so many people not been affected by the current economic crunch. Higher energy and food prices coupled with a tighter job market have impacted those people my candidacy most seeks to help. A removal of the ethanol mandate and ensuring the State of Missouri tightens its own belt, providing tax relief so our families can afford to eat and our parents can afford to drive to work should be high on our priority list," he added.
Cady, who has ties to the "Ron Paul Revolution" in Springfield, will face Michael Goodart in the G.O.P. primary. Goodart ran unsuccessfully for the Republican nomination against Steve Helms in 2006.
Over the past three months, Goodart has raised $1,131. He has just $302 on hand to spend, while Cady has $2,346.
Cady actually outraised incumbent Democrat Sara Lampe this quarter. Lampe reported $4,270 in contributions over the past three months. Still, she holds $9,351 on hand.
Lampe is unopposed in her primary.
$1.48 M this quarter
$1.14 M cash on hand
DEVELOPING . . .
It's 5:09 and no Steelman report yet.
As the KY3 Political Notebook reported last week, Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder announced Richard AuBuchon will serve as his new Chief of Staff.
AuBuchon replaced Eric Feltner, who resigned last month after being charged with furnishing pornography to a minor.
"Rich’s background and experience in public policy, law and state government will be tremendous assets in helping my office better serve Missourians," Lt. Governor Kinder said. “Rich has been a trusted advisor since he began working for my good friend, the late Commissioner of Administration Mike Keathley. I am extremely pleased that Rich has decided to join my staff and I look forward to having him lead the day-to-day activities of my office.”
AuBuchon, 32 of Jefferson City, presently serves as the Deputy Commissioner and Chief Counsel for the State of Missouri Office of Administration under current Commissioner Larry Shepker. AuBuchon oversees management of the Office of Administration, as well as handling all legal matters for the office.
Republican candidate for Attorney General Mike Gibbons raised $227,460 during the second quarter fundraising period, according to his campaign.
He has $379,909 on hand to spend.
This part, we don't get?
"Despite an aggressive campaign that has been embraced by thousands of Missourians, Gibbons reported $379,099 through the end of the quarterly reporting period," said spokesperson Caleb Jones.
Despite?
Does that mean they're unhappy with the $379,099 number? Alert me if I'm missing something here.
UPDATED . . . Spokesperson Caleb Jones called to clarify with a corrected statement . . . "Thanks to an aggressive campaign that has been embraced by thousands of Missourians, Gibbons reported $379,099 through the end of the quarterly reporting period," he amended.
Hey, we understand. It happens.
Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor Sam Page is boasting that he's outraised incumbent Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder during the 2nd quarter.
In a release, Page announced raising $271,191 during the last three months.
Earlier Tuesday, Kinder reported raising $258,346 during the same period.
Page said he gained 406 new individual contributors this quarter. "Our 2,234 contributors are the strength of our campaign," Page said.
"The broad-based support I've received has helped me out-raise the incumbent -- something not considered an easy feat. The addition of 406 contributors shows our campaign continues its momentum," Page added.
Page is reporting $560,440 on hand. Kinder still holds a slight advantage on that front. He has $573,492 on hand to spend.
Democratic candidate for Attorney General Margaret Donnelly has raised $216,118 during the 2nd quarter fundraising period.
Donnelly has $534,546 on hand to spend.
Donnelly's two main rivals, Rep. Jeff Harris and Sen. Chris Koster, have not yet filed their 2nd quarter fundraising reports.
. . . to minimize expected losses in November, reports The Politico.
"The money will go to the cash-strapped National Republican Congressional Committee for the fall campaigns as part of the GOP's biennial Battleground Program to raise money from incumbents," writes Patrick O'Connor.
In other news, House Republicans are trying to force a floor vote on legislation that would cut the number of localized "boutique" gas blends that refiners are required to produce under EPA mandates to reduce air pollution.
Minority Whip Roy Blunt is the bill’s sponsor. He said the bill might provide relief at the pump soon by cutting the number of different fuel blends that overworked refineries have to produce, according to CQ Politics.com.
“Americans may be willing to pay $4 for a grande double shot mocha Frappuccino, but not $4 for a gallon of gasoline,’’ Blunt told reporters.
