Ghouls & Goblins

***HALLOWEEN NIGHT***

Who has the best political costume in Springfield?

(And how many ladies think they have what it takes to pull off Palin?)

DEVELOPING . . .

Colonel Jack To Respond To Obama

POINTMAN
Former candidate for Auditor and briefly Lieutenant Governor Jack Jackson will be in Springfield Saturday to respond to Barack Obama's rally on behalf of John McCain.
***
The site build for Obama's rally at JFK Stadium begins at 10 p.m. Friday.

How Many Will He Draw?

We took to the field at Parkview High School's JFK Stadium to give you a look.

Watch the KY3 News @ 10 Report HERE to see the venue.

THEN . . . start guessing on how many can fit.

Bond: Obama Wants Empathy For "The Gay, The Minority"

At Sarah Palin's rally in Cape Girardeau Thursday, Missouri Sen. Kit Bond warmed up the crowd by lambasting Barack Obama's judicial philosophy.

As quoted by CBS News, here's what Bond said:

"Just this past week, we saw what Barack Obama said about judges. He said, ‘I’m tired of these judges who want to follow what the Founding Fathers said and the Constitution. I want judges who have a heart, have an empathy for the teenage mom, the minority, the gay, the disabled. We want them to show empathy. We want them to show compassion.'"

In July 2007, Obama spoke to Planned Parenthood about judges. Here's how NBC quoted him: "We need somebody who's got the heart, the empathy, to recognize what it's like to be a young teenage mom. The empathy to understand what it's like to be poor, or African-American, or gay, or disabled, or old. And that's the criteria by which I'm going to selecting my judges. At at time when the real war is being fought abroad, some would have us fight Culture Wars here at home. I am absolutely convinced that culture wars are just so '90s. Their days are growing dark."

Rural Missouri Keeping McCain Competitive

Missouri: McCain 50%, Obama 47%

Politico/Insider Advantage Poll

814 voters, 3.4% Margin of Error

***

In St. Louis County, Obama racked up an imposing 17-point lead, 55%-38%. McCain’s ability to break even against Obama in these two states, despite the Democrat’s strong performance in suburban and urban areas suggests that the Arizona senator is drawing strong support from the less densely populated areas in these states, said InsiderAdvantage pollster Matt Towery.

***

"I think what’s happened is, the less populated areas of these states are coming in heavily for McCain," Towery said, adding that Obama’s performance in St. Louis County was "good, but it’s not great." "It’s good, but it’s not overwhelming," Towery explained. "And that’s in one of the more sophisticated, urban locations in Missouri."

***

ALSO: OBAMA'S SOFT BLACK SUPPORT?

Towery acknowledged that the poll showed a closer-than-expected race among black Missourians – Obama took a lower-than-usual 65 percent of the group – and said that if African-Americans ultimately vote for Obama by the huge margin analysts expect, "it will make the race closer."

Obama Will Rally At Parkview's JFK Stadium

***BREAKING NOW . . .

Barack Obama will hold his Saturday evening rally in Springfield at Parkview High School's JFK Football Stadium.

***

516 Meadowmere St
Springfield, Missouri 65807

***

Doors open at 6 p.m. for the event.

Tickets are not needed. It's first come, first served.

However, RSVPs are strongly encouraged. Members of the public may RSVP at MO.barackobama.com

CROWD SIZE:

According to Evangel's website, (scroll to the bottom), the capacity at JFK stadium is 5,200.

But according to Springfield's Convention & Visitors Bureau, JFK can seat 8,000.

Obviously, they'll be lots of people on the actual field.

***

Let the number games begin!

(Somebody call the Fire Marshal NOW!!!!)

WATCH THE KY3 News @ 6 REPORT ABOVE

Kinder vs. Page on Tour De Missouri

The candidates for Lieutenant Governor squabble over Missouri's big bike race, the economic impact and what means the state should take to fund it.

Peter Kinder cites the races as an example of his bipartisan work . . . "What I'm being attacked on is a great unifying event for the state."

Sam Page said the race was "mismanaged," and criticized Kinder for "raiding" an economic development fund to help pay for it. "The Lieutenant Governor was responsible for the sponsorships, and he fell short . . . If he can get $350,000 in campaign contributions from one company, then he should be able to find the other $350,000 for sponsorships."

ALSO: Page questions the projected $30 million dollar economic impact

THE A.P. has more on the state-funded analysis

***WATCH IT ABOVE***

Page Links Himself to Nixon in New Ad

COATTAILS?

In his latest ad, Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor Sam Page answers Peter Kinder's charge on a Medicaid vote by tying Kinder to Gov. Matt Blunt and the 2005 cuts. Page also links himself to Jay Nixon, who is the frontrunner in the race for Governor.

"Sam Page will work with Jay Nixon to expand health care . . ."

***Watch Kinder's ad that Page is responding to BELOW***

"When Wealthy Dr. Page did show up, he pushed to increase what Medicaid pays him, but cut it for the needy . . ."

VEEP VIDEO: Palin & Biden in Missouri

PALIN IN CAPE

***WATCH CLIP ABOVE***

Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin spoke to several thousand enthusiastic people at the Show Me Center on the campus of Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau. The arena holds a little more than 7,000 people and was full. In fact, hundreds more watched on closed circuit TV in an adjoining recreation center. Palin told the crowd that McCain will fix the economy, lead America to victory in wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and help the
country move toward energy independence.

***

BIDEN IN ARNOLD

***WATCH CLIP BELOW***

Democratic vice presidential candidate Joe Biden spoke to more than 500 people at Fox High School in Arnold, a suburb of St. Louis, where he was flanked on stage by autoworkers laid off this week. He appeared in Jefferson County, a county that Hillary Clinton won easily in the February primary against Barack Obama.

Thursday Thoughts

• RACE IN REVERSE --- A friend of mine who I went to journalism school with called me today to tell me he's "taking a chance, and voting for Barack Obama." The reason this was striking to me, is because this guy is a traditional conservative Republican. He's a sports anchor who lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, and he put it this way: "He looks like the winner. Do I really want to tell my kids I voted against our first black president? I'm giving him a 4-year trial." Will the bandwagon affect boost Obama? And could his race be a plus with those "rational" Republican voters out there?
• COY CLAIRE --- It's bizarre to me the level of news coverage that Sen. Claire McCaskill gained after saying she ruled out a potential Cabinet post in an Obama administration. Sure, Claire loves being a Senator. Nobody doubts that, but hypotheticals are much different than a President-elect Obama approaching her pleading, "Claire, I really need you to be Attorney General." Who turns that down? Seriously. Remember that McCaskill originally said she wasn't interested in the United States Senate either. We all know how that turned out. I've learned that politicians know they aren't punished when they play coy about their next political move. The public doesn't hold them to these so-called "promises." It's fair for us in the media to ask about them, but we should be careful how serious we take them.
• CROWD CONTROVERSY COMETH --- Here's a prediction. On Saturday, Barack Obama's crowd size will be under a microscope. The Democratic nominee will draw about 20,000 people, or so the campaign will say. Republicans will quickly jump on that number, and declare the crowd size was overblown. They will then go on to say the "liberal" media downplayed Sarah Palin's crowd size, but overplayed Barack Obama's. The aggressive Obama campaign will push back hard with their own number . . . and the media will be left in the middle. Damned either way. And oh, that "Fire Marshal," somebody is going to dig up whether he's a Republican or Democrat.

Obama Rally Unlikely To Be Held At Plaster

A Missouri State University source tells the KY3 Political Notebook it's unlikely that Barack Obama will hold his Saturday night rally at Plaster Stadium because of a scheduled soccer game at 7 p.m.

Wednesday night at a Democratic rally in Springfield, Rep. Sara Lampe announced to the crowd that Barack Obama's visit would be held at that location at 9 p.m. A separate Democratic source quickly contacted the Notebook to say that Lampe spoke too soon, because the location has not been "locked down."

Other possible locations being mentioned include Hammons Field and the Fairgrounds, but there's no official word from the Obama campaign just yet.

Nixon Rallies Democratic Ticket in Springfield

WATCH THE KY3 NEWS @ 10 REPORT HERE

"It is not accidental that 6 days before the election, this ticket is in Greene County."

Democratic candidate for Governor Jay Nixon rallied with the entire statewide ticket in Springfield Friday night. Dozens of supporters and workers attended the rally outside the Nixon field office. Team Nixon says 200 were in attendance. Watch a clip of the first part of Nixon's speech above.

***WATCH clips from other candidates BELOW***

"The Republicans have nominated a debt collector," said Democratic candidate for Attorney General Chris Koster, of his opponent Mike Gibbons, during Wednesday's rally.

Without much of a challenge in her own race, Democratic Secretary of State Robin Carnahan urged supporters to continue to work hard for the entire slate of candidates.

Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor Sam Page likened re-electing Peter Kinder to voting for Barack Obama while keeping Dick Cheney.

Nixon Steers From Specifics on Incentives to "Go Green"

At a campaign stop at Springfield's only "Green" shopping center Wednesday, Democratic candidate for Governor Jay Nixon touted the importance of embracing new energy efficient technology, but stopped short of detailing specifics on how he would try to capitalize on the movement as Governor.

From the rooftop of the "Green Circle," Nixon said that progress with such technology could be made "under existing programs," but stopped short of backing a specific incentive plan for businesses. "So that what we're doing is not just merely incentivizing, but we're creating something that has more net economic value than merely just giving a tax break or a tax credit," Nixon said.

"I don't have a specific proposal today about which particular tax credit could yield the biggest benefit, but I do think there are programs out there," he said.

Plaster Not Locked Down . . . (Just Yet)

At a Democratic rally in Springfield Wednesday night, Springfield Rep. Sara Lampe told the crowd that Barack Obama would hold his Springfield rally at 9 p.m. at Missouri State University's Plaster Field Saturday night.

***

But a Democratic source warns The Notebook that Lampe shouldn't have spoken, because the site isn't yet locked down. "They have not picked or locked down a site yet," says the source.

***

More solid details should emerge Thursday morning.

Keep checking ky3.com.

Southwest Mo. Teacher Says He's Embarrassed To See His Name on Mailer Supporting Prop A

UPDATED: PROP A PROPONENTS SHOW CAMPBELL'S SIGNATURE ON THEIR FORM

"Mr. Campbell may not have understood the information we sent him or forget that he signed up as a supporter of Prop A, but his lack of understanding or forgetfulness don't qualify as news," said Prop A spokesperson Scott Charton.

A southwest Missouri school teacher's name is incorrectly featured on a mailer promoting Proposition A, according to the group fighting to oppose the ballot initiative.

Doug Campbell, a teacher at Carl Junction High School, said his name appears on a promotional piece for the "Yes On A" coalition. In a press release from the "No on A" campaign, Campbell is quoted saying he was embarrassed to see his name supporting an initiative associated with gambling.

"I understand first hand the dangers of gambling, as I've seen people who have suffered the terrible consequences of gambling addiction. I don't support removing the $500 loss limit or anything else that will benefit casinos," said Campbell in a statement.

UPDATED 8:21 P.M. But proponents of Proposition A provided the letter with Campbell's signature to the KY3 Political Notebook. The YesforSchoolsFirst.com survey clearly shows Campbell's signature, with a Carl Junction address.

"The form is clear and so was his voluntary expression of support," said Proposition A spokesperson Scott Charton. "Our opponents are simply trying to bully a few teachers into claiming they didn't understand what they were supporting. It's a desperate last-minute ploy to try to divert voter attention from the fact that Prop A is supported by hundreds of teachers throughout the state," he added.

For more on the details of what Proposition A is, click HERE.

In the press release, Campbell goes on to add that he believes other school teachers may have been mislead about supporting Proposition A.

"I received a survey asking if I thought more funding for education was needed. The survey had the appearance of an official letter from a state educational organization with several educators and their schools listed, so I filled it out. The only question concerning casinos asked how important it was to prohibit the legislature from using revenue from casinos for these funds," Campbell said.

But Charton said that while Campbell might have misunderstood the information, "his lack of understanding doesn't qualify as news." "The fact is, hundreds of teachers throughout the state have endorsed a YES vote on Prop A, because it will provide over $100 million in vitally needed new revenues to schools statewide -- without increasing any taxes on Missouri residents," Charton told The Notebook.

Evelio Silvera, executive director of Casino Watch said, "There is no telling how many other educators around the state have been used by the casino industry. Mr. Campbell's bravery to step forward has exposed this unethical practice and I hope more teachers will come forward to tell their story."

The Obama Office Pool

NOW . . . WHERE?

Barack Obama's coming to Springfield Saturday.

Now, where do they put him?

***

THE KY3 Office Pool

Ky3 Reporter Cara Restelli . . . MSU Football Field (Plaster)

Ky3 Assignment Editor Doug Owen . . . JQH New Basketball Arena

Ky3 Producer Brian Vandenberg . . . MSU Football Field (Plaster)

Your guess?

***

What about Hammons Field . . . The airport says they haven't heard anything . . . A venue at Evangel?

St. Louis Rabbi Wants Apology From Kinder

"HEINOUS and HURTFUL"

Rabbi Susan Talve says Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder's comments comparing Sam Page's political attacks to a Nazi propaganda machine were "hurtful and unacceptable."

***

"That's the Goebbels' Hitler . . . Big Lie, Big Lie," Kinder said on Monday in response to a question about a recent Page television ad.

You can watch video of Kinder's comments HERE.

***

RABBI'S FULL STATEMENT:

"The comments made by Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder this week were hurtful and unacceptable. It is disgraceful to compare Rep. Page's commercial to the Nazi propaganda machine that led to the genocide of the Jewish people. In comparing Page to the architect of Hitler's "Big Lie" technique, Lt. Gov. Kinder crossed a line that should never even be approached. Lt. Gov. Kinder should rescind his statement and issue an apology for his heinous comparison," said Rabbi Susan Talve in a statement Wednesday.

***

Sam Page said the comment had no place in a political campaign. Rabbi Susan Talve is the founding rabbi of Central Reform Congregation in St. Louis.

BREAKING: Obama In Springfield Saturday

FIRST ON KY3: Barack Obama will visit Springfield Saturday, according to a top-level Democratic source.

Details TBA . . .

DEVELOPING . . .

Hulshof Challenges Nixon on Numbers

?________$

"NIXON SHOULD FILL IN THE BLANKS"

Republican Kenny Hulshof challenges his Democratic opponent on what his agenda would cost Missouri taxpayers.

***

"The people of Missouri deserve to know the price tag that comes with a Nixon Administration," said Scott Baker, spokesman for Hulshof. "If he believes our numbers to be inaccurate, he should provide his own estimates. The fact is he cannot and will not, because he knows Missouri cannot afford his plans. It is time for Jay Nixon to finally come clean with Missourians."

***

Nixon's proposed plan to restore the 2005 Medicaid cuts is calculated to cost $265 million dollars. His A+ scholarship expansion is estimated to cost $61 million. Hulshof's campaign says Nixon still hasn't detailed specific costs for expanding early childhood education, increased teacher pay, job training programs, providing incentives for alternative fuels and other proposals he's promised.

***

Nixon toured a green supermarket and store in Springfield Wednesday. During the campaign stop, he did not outline a specific plan to create incentives for more businesses to "go green."

McCain, +2

Missouri: McCain 50%, Obama 48%

TIME/CNN Battleground Polls, Oct. 23-28, 3.5% Margin of Error

***

In Missouri:

Men: 43% Obama, 55% McCain
Women: 51% Obama, 46% McCain

Income under $50K: 55% Obama, 43% McCain
Income $50K or more: 45% Obama, 53% McCain

***FOR OTHER BATTLEGROUND POLLS, CLICK HERE

Wooten Explains Support For Nixon

"TRIED TO CALL HIS PEOPLE, HAD NO LUCK"

Republican Chuck Wooten explains to KY3 News what lead to his decision to support Democrat Jay Nixon over Republican Kenny Hulshof in the race for Governor. The former 5-term state representative from the 137th legislative district says Nixon's willingness to help him pursue veterans issues sealed the deal. Wooten says he attempted to reach out to the Hulshof campaign, but never heard back. "Tried to call his people and had no luck," Wooten says of attempted contacts with Team Hulshof.

***

Wooten says he believes there's a lot of Republicans crossing over to support Nixon because of how the Republican establishment got involved in the primary race. "Lots of Republicans feel that the state committee should not have gotten involved in the primary," Wooten says. "It's made lots of Sarah Steelman people mad, that they're switching over to Jay Nixon."

***

ALSO SAYS, Nixon can work both sides of the aisle, and believes the Attorney General has a shot at winning Greene County.

***

Wooten attended a campaign even with Nixon Wednesday in Springfield.

Blunt "Carefully Considering" Kinder Special Session Request

BLUNT WARMING UP TO REQUEST

GOVERNOR PLANS TO MEET WITH LAWMAKERS

KINDER WANTS SPECIAL POST-ELECTION SESSION TO DEAL WITH $103 MILLION DOLLARS IN HEATING ASSISTANCE

"Just this week we saw the first frost, a sure sign that winter is just around the corner and a looming reminder to some that higher heating bills will soon be added to their burden. This is one of the reasons Lt. Gov. Kinder’s call for a Special Session has gained support from a number of community groups who want to help seniors and other vulnerable citizens stay warm this winter," said Gov. Matt Blunt in a statement Wednesday.

"In response to his call, following next week’s election I will visit with House and Senate leaders to discuss the Special Session Lt. Gov. Kinder has proposed. We will carefully consider the request, the availability of funds, and the anticipated demand," Blunt added. "I have said before, and I know Lt. Gov. Kinder agrees, no one should have to choose between heating their home or paying for food or other necessities," he said.

DEMOCRATS HAVE CRITICIZED THE PROPOSED SESSION AS POLITICAL
If you missed it, Watch the KY3 News @ 10 Report HERE

Truthwatch '08: Kinder and Page

The Tour of Missouri vs. A vote for higher sales taxes.

"Faulty science" vs. Quality Jobs Funding.

We Truthwatch some of the ads that have been hitting T.V. screens in the race for Lieutenant Governor.

Watch the KY3 News @ 10 Truthwatch '08 report HERE.

What If

10 THINGS HE SHOULD HAVE DONE

1. Three to five days after the primary, aggressively reached out to Sarah Steelman and planned a big rally at G.O.P. Headquarters in southwest Missouri, where supporters of both would have come together, downplayed differences, and readied for the battle ahead. Made sure the shot of the two clenching hands over head got on the front page of the paper and the evening news. (Also told her, you got my back this time, I got you next time. . .)

2. Apologized for the earmarks. Not the Bridge To Nowhere necessarily, but the Lobster Institute, the Hippie Museum, etc. Said Congress got out of control, and it was wrong, but that "I tried to be a good Congressman by getting projects for my district." Then went on to say, the issues ahead are much bigger than earmarks (with Steelman begrudgingly nodding beside him on the stage.)

3. Used Kit Bond and Roy Blunt more -- to rally the faithful. They were his horse in the primary, where have they been since? Why aren't they advocating for him more? Bond is stumping this weekend for Hulshof in Kansas City, but why not in Branson and Nixa? Why did these two G.O.P leaders seem more worried about Hulshof winning the primary than the general?

4. Hit Nixon hard in August. Begun with the contrast ads immediately. Fifteen seconds on "Clean Government" Kenny, Fifteen seconds on Nixon's actions that raise some ethical eyebrows. Make the narrative about trust. Repeat same theme.

5. Not ignore Springfield/Southwest Mo. for more than 7 days at a time. (He did for 27 days!) We know where the voters are in the St. Louis and Kansas City suburbs, but he didn't win this area in the primary. Show up once a week, and get on TV making a clear contrast with Jay.

6. Rolled out his job plan at least two weeks earlier than he did.

7. Said once, as plainly as he could, "Matt Blunt did some good things, he did some things I don't agree with, but I'm not Matt Blunt. I'd be a different Governor, with a very different approach."

8. Find a tracker as aggressive and resilient as Vinay Vaz. Probably not, but who knows, Nixon might've popped if he felt some pressure. Plus, then he's never too comfortable.

9. Used Renee more. She's a rockstar who knows TV.

10. Hulshof's biggest advantage over Steelman was his oratory skills. The guy's a good speaker. Put him in big halls, VFWs, senior centers. Bring in 20 to 40 people. Create a rally atmosphere, with good applause lines. Then walk across the street to the diner, and shake hands until it hurts.

(The above items are a compilation of analysis that didn't solely come from my head. Keep in mind, I'm not so lofty to assume that even if Hulshof did all of these things, he could have won. These are rather a summation and combination of views and opinions I have heard and picked up after speaking to numerous Republicans on the topic over the past week.)

Blue Jay

NIXON RETURNS TO SPRINGFIELD WEDNESDAY

Democratic nominee for Governor Jay Nixon will campaign at a "green" retail outlet in Springfield at the Tour of Green Circle on East Republic Road to discuss economic challenges and opportunities at 2 p.m.

***

Later that evening, Nixon will thank supporters and volunteers at the Nixon for Governor Field Office on South Grant Ave. at 7:30 p.m.

***

Can Nixon turn Greene County BLUE, or even come close and make it PURPLE?

C-SPAN 2 to Replay Nixon-Hulshof Debate Tonight

Not kidding this time.

See the schedule yourself

Watch the Debate @ 7 p.m. Tonight

Kinder Answers Claims in Page Attack Ad

POINT, COUNTERPOINT

"That's The Goebbels' Hitler . . .

Big Lie, Tell A Big Lie."

In a recent television ad, Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor Sam Page accuses Peter Kinder of calling second-hand smoke, "faulty science", losing "millions of taxpayer dollars" on the Tour of Missouri and passing a tax credit for a St. Louis developer.

ABOVE: Watch the ad, and Peter Kinder respond to each charge individually.

Kinder compares Page's tactics to "Goebbels," as in Joseph Goebbels, Hitler's propaganda minister.

Kinder's Call

BLUNT CONSIDERING REQUEST

BRING ON THE HEAT

A spirited campaign for Lieutenant Governor, a call for a special session, and the ongoing financial pickle of providing heating assistance to seniors and low-income Missourians as the cold weather approaches.

***WATCH THE KY3 NEWS @ 10 REPORT HERE***

Peter Kinder calls for a special session to address to pass $103 million dollars for seniors and low-income residents. He says the money needs to be approved now -- so it can get to those in need in December, not February or March.

"When they come between the months of January and March, we're kind of behind the game. The cold weather months, as we know, come many weeks before that," Kinder says. "Under this plan, it could conceivably start in December, well before Christmas."

OACAC Executive Director Carl Rosenkranz reacts:

"The timing is unusual, however it may have taken that long to get information together. On the surface, the timing is a little unusual, but maybe that's how long it took, I don't really know," says Rosenkranz. "We always thought it would be better to have it as part of the regular appropriations and then you wouldn't have to call a special session."

THE PAGE CAMPAIGN REACTS:

"Voters will not be fooled by Lt. Gov. Kinder's sudden change-of-heart 8 days before an election," says Page spokesperson Bret Bender. "A full-time lieutenant governor would have been advocating for seniors during the legislative session, when it would not have cost taxpayers $100,000 per week and when oil was twice the price it is now. This is nothing more than the transparent political stunt of a losing campaign," adds Bender. "It's too early to see what affect the new surge in federal funding will have for utility bill assistance. Matt Blunt and Peter Kinder have already left $1.6 billion in Washington that should have provided health coverage for our citizens. We cannot afford to turn our backs on more federal dollars because Lt. Gov. Kinder is looking for a bump in the polls," Bender goes on.

CANDIDATES FOR GOVERNOR WON'T GO NEAR IT

"The Lt. Gov is treating it as a campaign issue. We’re not going to comment on the Lt. Gov’s campaign," says Jay Nixon spokesperson Oren Shur.

"He defers to the current governor on this call," says Kenny Hulshof spokesperson Scott Baker.

THE GOVERNOR'S OFFICE REACTS:

"Governor Blunt is considering Lieutenant Governor Kinder's request," says Blunt spokesperson Rich Chrismer. "The governor has said it is very possible that it makes sense to do this in a Special Session. Lieutenant Governor Kinder is a great advocate for Missouri seniors and others who need this type of assistance so the governor was not surprised he made the request and he will consider it very carefully," Chrismer adds.

WATCH MONDAY'S Q & A WITH KINDER BELOW:

Gracias

Monday was an all-time record day for us on hits and page views at The Notebook.

Like, not even close.

We (really I) appreciate it.

For just two and a half years in the volatile bloggin' biz, we are doing a-ok.

Keep on a-clickin'.

And, thanks again.

Latest Missouri Poll: Obama By 1

THE ULTIMATE TOSS UP

OBAMA 48%, MCCAIN 47%

Poll done on Oct. 26th of 1,000 voters; Margin of Error 3%

Notes:

Race essentially tied among unaffiliated voters

McCain wins men by 1; Obama wins women by 3

57% view McCain favorably; 53% view Obama favorably

They're Back!

***UPDATED: COLUMBIA STOP PLANNED

***OBAMA-BIDEN TO RALLY IN MISSOURI THURSDAY***

A Democratic Party source tells the KY3 Political Notebook that Barack Obama and Joe Biden will campaign in the state Thursday.

***

The two will campaign separately, in different parts of the state. Obama will hold an event in Columbia at 9:30 p.m. It's unclear if a stop will include the Ozarks.

"Probably not," says the source.

Rally meant to counter Sarah Palin's visit to Cape Girardeau Thursday

VIDEO: Joe Biden Speaks To KY3

Vice Presidential nominee Joe Biden spoke to KY3 News via satellite this morning.

***

We asked him about capital gains taxes, a controversial Christian County flier portraying Senator Obama as a Muslim and, if successful, when he plans to resign his U.S. Senate seat.

***

***WATCH IT BELOW***

On Capital Gains Taxes, and How The Hikes Won't Hit You If You Make Less Than $250K: "Not only do we not increase your capital gains if you're below that number, you actually get a break if you're a small business . . . The capital gains are not the problem now."

On Timing of the Tax Increases For The Wealthier: "We would let it expire. They go back to the same tax structure they had under President Clinton, where they did extremely well."

On Those Who Believe Obama's A Muslim: "The few people who believe that have just been infected by fear and concern . . . I think you'll see that all dissipate."

On Republicans He'd Recommend For Obama's Administration: "It's inappropriate for me to talk about that on the air . . . We've got a long way to go, eight days to go."

On When He'd Resign His Senate Seat, If Successful: "I wouldn't resign my Senate seat until I were sworn in as Vice President of the United States."

McCaskill's Home Hit With Graffiti

(AP) KIRKWOOD, Mo. -- Spray-painted graffiti was found on the suburban St. Louis home of Sen. Claire McCaskill, and it appears the vandalism happened the same night that U.S. Rep. Russ Carnahan's cars were defaced in St. Louis.

McCaskill spokeswoman Maria Speiser said Monday that someone spray-painted graffiti onto the Missouri Democrat's Kirkwood home Thursday night or Friday morning.

She declined to detail what the graffiti said. Speiser said Kirkwood authorities and the Capitol police are investigating.

Proposition C Mandates Renewables For Big 3

WATCH the Sunday KY3 NEWS @ 10 REPORT HERE

"This will help us reduce our carbon emissions," Melissa Hope of the Sierra Club says, "and this will also in the long run be less expensive for Missouri consumers."

***

Ballot initiative would mandate investor-owned utilities produce 2% renewables by 2011; 15% by 2021

***

City Utilities isn't included in the initiative; Empire District Electric is neutral

"If we believe it's a good thing for Missouri, it's a good thing for everyone . . . not just investor-owned utilities, but also for co-ops and the municipalities," says an Empire spokesperson.

Post-Dispatch Delivers Last Batch of Numbers

FINAL P-D POLL BEFORE THE ELECTION:
Research 2000: 800 voters, Oct 20-23, 3.5% Margin of Error
***
JAY NIXON 55%, KENNY HULSHOF 41%
PETER KINDER 49%, SAM PAGE 40%
CHRIS KOSTER 48%, MIKE GIBBONS 42%
ROBIN CARNAHAN 54%, MITCH HUBBARD 41%
BRAD LAGER 46%, CLINT ZWEIFEL 44%

***VOTE ON YOUR FAVORITE UNDERDOG BELOW***

All the numbers are HERE

Notes/Observations:

• If this poll is anywhere in the ballpark, the question isn't if Hulshof will lose, the question is by how much, and how that could impact the rest of the ticket.
• Virtually unknown G.O.P. candidate for Secretary of State Mitch Hubbard is statistically in a bit better shape against Robin Carnahan than Hulshof is against Nixon.
• Kinder looks to be in the driver-seat against Page (name-I.D. has got to be helping), but take note that 9% remain undecided in the race for Lieutenant Governor. (Plus, Republicans keep cautioning me: "This will be close.") This last week for both of them will matter.
• Mike Gibbons is down 6 points to Chris Koster in the race for Attorney General. That deficit is exactly what it was a month ago. Will the harsh ads both are running cancel each other out, or is Gibbons' tough enough to drive up doubts about Koster and close that gap in the final stretch? (10% are undecided.)
• Lager-Zweifel for Treasurer could be a barnburner. Lager may benefit for those independent-minded Missourians who just want to vote for "some" Republican. Zweifel could be helped by Obama/Nixon coattails.

Ask The Magic 8-Ball

8 KNOWN UNKNOWNS
for the final 8 Days

1. Will Jay Nixon "spread his wealth" of his campaign contributions around to help down-ballot Democrats like Sam Page?

2. Which candidate will get closest to going super-ultra-thermo-nuclear-negative?

3. Who's a better "closer," Sam Page or Peter Kinder?

4. If Hulshof loses by 8 or more points, who's going to receive the brunt of the blame?

5. Will the unprecedented, unrelenting organization by the Obama campaign in conservative Southwest Missouri end up making a measurable difference?

6. Can Brad Lager prove he's stronger than the tide?

7. Why didn't we ever see Kenny Hulshof and Sarah Steelman hold a single public campaign event together? (Not one -- nothing, nada, zero?)

8. Who's a better door knocker, Eric Burlison or Nick Beatty?

Kinder Renews Special Session Call

Locked in a competitive re-election campaign, Lieutenant Governor Peter Kinder will renew his call for a special legislative session in Springfield Monday.
***
Kinder will join representatives from OACAC (Ozark Area Community Action Corp.) to again call on Gov. Matt Blunt to hold a special session after the election to extend energy benefits to seniors and low-income residents.
***
The media event is set for 1:15 p.m. at OACAC on 215 S. Barnes Ave.

Democrat Sam Page is challenging Kinder for Lieutenant Governor

9 Days Out, Missouri Still Not Breaking

A SINGLE POINT
Separates John McCain and Barack Obama in the latest NBC News poll of Missouri
***
NBC's Chuck Todd on Missouri: "It usually is a trailing indicator of where the national polls are, and it's still a Republican state. A pinkie on the scale for the Republicans, not a big thing. But if you see a surge for Obama, five or six points nationally, then he's probably tied, or maybe even a little ahead in Missouri."
***
ALSO, Todd paints an electoral picture for Obama without THE BIG 3:
If Obama wins Virginia, Colorado and Nevada . . . he does not need to win Pennsylvania, Ohio or Florida.
"That really makes it tough," Todd says.
***
"Everything seems too good," says Political Analyst Charlie Cook on Obama's chances.

Sunday Morning Brew

OZARKS TODAY: SUNDAY POLITICAL ANALYSIS

BELOW: Watch my chat with KY3's Abby Wuellner about the KY3 Debate for Governor, the strongest points each candidate made and what races could keep us up late this election night.

Also: Ozarks Public TV will replay the KY3 Debate for Governor Sunday @ 5 p.m.

Or, the entire debate is divided up into healthy portions on ky3.com

McCaskill on Capital Gains, Palin and What's Next For Her

McCaskill Defends Obama's Capital Gains Tax Hike

"He's talking about raising capital gains at the very top end over time, and at the end of the day, his capital gains tax would be no higher than it was under Ronald Reagan."

McCaskill Criticizes Palin's Record of Reform

"There's a lot of mixed messages right now, I think, to the conservative base, about Sarah Palin."

Claire in the Cabinet?

"I'm very happy in the Senate," she replies, not offering anything close to a Shermanesque statement. Adds she's eager to work with President Obama as a "consensus builder" camped out "in the middle"

(McCaskill was in Springfield Friday, during a statewide tour with Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius, to boost Barack Obama's campaign.)

Zweifel Ad Zaps Lager

But Lager Sacks Zweifel With "Big Government Charge"

POOF!

"While I can't make all your problems disappear, I can do something about this guy."

Democratic candidate for State Treasurer Clint Zweifel zaps his Republican opponent --- literally --- in a new ad on Southwest Missouri television right now. Zweifel's ad hits Brad Lager for supporting the 2005 Medicaid cuts and voting to raid "our student loan program," also known as MOHELA.

In a recent interview with KY3 News, we addressed the issue of MOHELA with Lager. He defended his vote as a State Senator, saying that MOHELA still meets it's fundamental mission.

"As the Democrats typically do, they scream and yell and the world's going to come to an end . . . and it hasn't," Lager said to us.

***

Lager also said Zweifel lacks "real-world" budget experience and has a history of "bigger government is always better."

**

So is Lager a Matt Blunt Republican a Kenny Hulshof Republican or a Sarah Steelman Republican? Click ABOVE to find out.

Your Sunday Political Fix . . .

. . . SERVED UP ON KY3'S OZARKS TODAY

WATCH SUNDAY @ 7 a.m.

We'll Dissect the Nixon-Hulshof Debate, And The Final Week of Missouri's Race for Governor

Post-Debate Thoughts

Both Kenny Hulshof and Jay Nixon held brief press conferences after the KY3 Debate Friday.

Below are highlights:

Hulshof: Nixon"Lacks Transparency, Lacks Specifics, Playing It Safe"

Hulshof charged that Nixon's Attorney General office has shown a "lack of transparency" over the years, and cited audits by Democratic Auditors Claire McCaskill and Susan Montee to back up his claim. Specifically, Hulshof criticized Nixon for the use of a state car during campaign events. He then went on to blast Nixon's lack of specifics on issues. "Investing in human capital, wonderful soundbite. What does it mean?," asked Hulshof. "When you have very few bold ideas, you do what's politically safe."

Nixon: Hulshof's Numbers "Jump Around", "Doesn't Get" Impact of China Trade

Nixon took Hulshof to task for "jumping around," on the costs of their respective proposed plans. He says Hulshof's programs add up to around $750 million dollars, while his only cost a bit more than $300 million, yet Hulshof charges Nixon can't pay for his. Also says: "We don't know exactly how much money is in the till." He went on to target his Republican opponent on his pro-trade vote with China, which Nixon believes cost Missouri 45,000 jobs. Finally, Nixon specifically detailed how he would change the "single occurrence" portion of Missouri's worker compensation law.

Their Final Debate

NIXON vs. HULSHOF

Missed It? Wanna Watch Again?

It's HERE

***

Watch the KY3 News @ 10 Post-Debate Coverage HERE

Last Stop: The Big House

SUPPORTERS FACE-OFF OUTSIDE KY3

DEBATE @ 8 p.m.

KENNY HULSHOF vs. JAY NIXON

OUTSIDE THE VIEWING AREA?

CATCH IT ON C-SPAN 2

Live @ Noon: The Palin Rally

WATCH OUR COVERAGE OF THE SARAH PALIN RALLY DURING FRIDAY'S KY3 NEWS @ NOON

(Oh, and be sure to check out that crowd size;)

Number Games

SIZE MATTERS

When initial reports came in that Sarah Palin's crowd size was 20,000, KY3 News crews involved in our coverage were immediately skeptical.

To be clear, I highly respect Chad Livengood's reporting, and consider him a friend, so this is no dis.

But how does anybody really know? (You can't really ask or rely on campaign officials or partisans, because they automatically overestimate. They can't help it! Not that they lie so much, but it's like asking somebody's Mom about how smart her kid is.)

Let's be clear: We don't know how many people attended the Palin rally, because we didn't count. Nobody did as far as I can tell. But 20,000 -- to us -- seemed like a bit over the top. Where'd the cars park? Can 20,000 really even fit in that parking lot?


We guesstimated around 10 thousand, maybe 12 thousand. But twenty?


Republicans are adamant we're under reporting the big number. But now, in the late hours, it seems to be shrinking.


Initially, they stuck with the 20,000 number.


Then, we were told at least 18 thousand, per the Springfield Fire Marshal.


Anne Compton, a Springfield Republican, just called our station to say it's at least 15,000.


Crowd sizes are commonly inflated by both sides of the aisle in heated campaigns. And now that the number has already shrunk by 5 K, that should raise questions in itself.


Here's one thing we probably can agree on: The crowd was large, energized and extremely fired up to see Sarah Palin.


If you were there today, leave your estimated crowd size in our comment section.

The Sarah Palin Visit

JOE "THE PLUMBER"

VS.

BARACK "THE WEALTH SPREADER"

WATCH THE KY3 NEWS @ 6 REPORT HERE

***WATCH MORE VIDEO OF SARAH PALIN'S SPRINGFIELD RALLY BELOW***

Sarah Palin accuses Barack Obama of "not being candid" about his tax plan, says he is "hiding his real agenda of redistributing your hard-earned money," and coins a new nickname for the Democratic nominee.

Palin Pics

(Pictures courtesy of Blogga Lova Freelanca, Micah Hay)

Frenzied Friday

THE SARAH PALIN VISIT

@ Bass Pro Shops

Program Begins 11 a.m.

Palin To Speak @ Noon

Check HERE for LIVE Twitter Updates

WATCH KY3 NEWS @ NOON

McCASKILL RESPONDS

The junior Senator will hold a town hall meeting at 1:40 p.m.

@ Missouri State University's Kentwood Hall

Watch KY3 News @ 5 & 6 for FULL REPORTS

THE DEBATE

Kenny Hulshof & Jay Nixon Face-Off

8 p.m. Live on KY3 News

Also Carried Nationally On C-Span

WATCH KY3 NEWS @ 10

For the Full Day Political Wrap-Up

DEVELOPING . . .

(All Day!)

Over The Line

"POOR JUDGEMENT"

UPDATED: CHRISTIAN COUNTY CHAIR PULLS FLIERS

"IN AHLA WE TRUST"

Above is the Republican flier being distributed at Christian County G.O.P. Headquarters

It infers Barack Obama is socialist, communist and Muslim.

The $100 dollar bill also has the words "Food Stamps" on it.
***

WATCH THE KY3 NEWS @ 10 REPORT HERE

***

MO. DEMOCRATIC PARTY REACTS:

"With the economy in crisis and Missouri families struggling to make ends meet, it's too bad that some would rather launch false attacks and distractions instead of focusing on the issues that really matter in this election. While John McCain will offer nothing more than four more years of the same failed policies of the Bush Administration, Senator Obama will offer 95 percent of working families a tax cut, keep jobs from going overseas, and turn our economy around," says Missouri Democratic Party spokesperson Jack Cardetti.

***

CHRISTIAN COUNTY G.O.P. CHAIR EXPLAINS:

"Yes, I was aware of the fliers," says Christian County Republican Chair Ed Merritt. "The party is not distributing those. Some voter asked us if he could leave them here, and we agreed. It was poor judgement on my part," Merritt adds. Asked why the party allowed the fliers to be distributed, Merritt says, "There's no excuse. They are now gone."

***

MISSOURI G.O.P. RESPONDS:

"The Missouri GOP condemns the offensive and divisive nature of this flier," says Missouri Republican Party spokesperson Tina Hervey. "We were unaware of the flier, and we were highly disappointed to learn of its existence," she adds. "The sentiments in this flier are not tolerated by Missourians looking to create a brighter future for their children, nor do they reflect the Missouri of the 21st Century," Hervey says.

***WATCH ONE NIXA VOTER RESPOND TO THE FLIER BELOW***

MORE OF MY CONVERSATION WITH REPUBLICAN DAN BOYD, AND WHY HE BELIEVES OBAMA IS A SOCIALIST AND COMMUNIST BELOW

FINALLY, AN INTERVIEW WITH SHAWN OBSBORNE, A NIXA REPUBLICAN WHO SAYS HE'S "TOTALLY AGAINST" THE FLIERS, AND CALLED ON THE G.O.P. TO REMOVE THEM.

***WATCH IT BELOW***

"It's Doing Nothing But Hurting."

The Nation Will Be Watching

DEBATE REHEARSAL

HAPPENING NOW . . .

Jay Nixon and Kenny Hulshof will debate at KY3 Studios Friday @ 8 p.m. LIVE

ALSO: C-SPAN will carry the debate LIVE so if you aren't in the Ozarks, you can still check it out.

Palin Protestors

. . . ALREADY

On the corner of Campbell and Sunshine, across from Bass Pro Shops, just before 6 p.m.

Mailer Targets Beatty On OverDue Credit Card Bills

A Republican mailer is targeting the Democratic candidate in the #136th House District for his problems with credit card debt.

***

"Reckless Nick Beatty has bought more than he can pay for; now he wants Missouri families to do the same," -- G.O.P. Mailer

***

Nick Beatty acknowledges the claims in the mailer are true, but calls his struggle "a lesson" and "an advantage" because he says he won't let predatory lenders and credit card companies prey on other people.

A Republican mailer that claims Nick Beatty hasn't paid his credit card bills in Greene County is true, according to the Democratic candidate for the #136th District.

The mailer (pictured above) hit doors in the #136th legislative district this week. It reads: "Reckless Nick Beatty didn't pay his credit card bills and was sued three times in Greene County Court."

"That is true," Beatty said in an interview with the KY3 Political Notebook Thursday. "Those credit cards were sent out to me when I was in graduate school," he added.

Beatty said the overdue bills with three different credit cards companies accumulated during 2007 and 2008 while he was in graduate school. Beatty said the companies should not have granted him credit cards.

"When a credit card comes in the mail with $1000 or $2000 limit, those are kind of hard to turn down, and they know that," Beatty said of the credit card companies that offered him cards. "For anybody in that situation, it's a tough decision to make."

Beatty said he owes about $10,000 to the companies and the court cases are still pending. "I'm still trying to resolve them. I could've declared bankruptcy like Steve Helms for over $70,000, but I didn't want to handle it like that," Beatty said.

When asked if this raises questions about how he would be able to handle and direct taxpayer money in Jefferson City, Beatty said the experience would be helpful going forward. "Life has always been able to teach me. I'll be darned if I let this happen to other people. I think it's an advantage because I understand what happened," Beatty said.

"Everybody's got financial issues. My opponent, his uncle, Doug Burlison, is a perfect example. These are personal issues. I want to focus on the issues that should matter in this campaign like healthcare and education," Beatty added.

Beatty faces Republican Eric Burlison in the #136th House District. The mailer was paid for by the Missouri Republican State Committee in Jefferson City.

More Bad Tape

"You live in the city . . .? . . . I meant what nationality?"

DEMS RELEASE MORE VIDEO OF TRACKER ENCOUNTER

***

An unknown individual assaulted Missouri Democratic Party tracker Vinay Vaz at a G.O.P. event in West Plains Tuesday.

***

Kenny Hulshof's campaign has said "it's a ridiculous claim," to say the assailant has ties to them.

***

In video, unknown individual also refers to "20 Hulshof meetings."

Adds: "Are you going to follow us over to the next one? Because we're going to go there too."

Go Negative! It's Good For Us.

The grainy video. The eerie music. The slow-motion picture shots.

At about this time in the campaign, you could be getting to the point where you've had enough of the negative television ads.

In Missouri's three top races (Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General), all six major candidates are currently on the air with what could be considered a "negative ad."

But as Newsweek reports this week, there's not only nothing new about this --- but negative ads are also good for our democratic process. That's right, they are helpful to me (as a journalist) and you (as a citizen.)

First things first: According to Jon Krosnick of Stanford University, there's no evidence that negative ads keep people away from the polls on Election Day. In fact, some studies done show that, in races that bombarded people with negative ads, there was a slight uptick in turnout.

How can that be possible? Our brains are wired to respond to negativity. "When voters dislike a candidate, they are more motivated to go out and vote," to keep that lying cheating reprobate out office.

But more importantly, negative ads have an important role in defining the campaigns we follow and helping us make decisions about our options. As quoted in the Oct. 20th Newsweek, John Greer of Vanderbilt University believes that "negativity plays an important and underappreciated role in democracies, in large part by presenting more, and more detailed information than positive ads do."

"And make no mistake about what may be the most valuable information voters glean from attack ads and mudslinging," writes Newsweek's Sharon Begley. "A sense of the candidate ("and I approved this message") who paid for them."

The data also shows that most attacks in ads are relevant. Vanderbilt's Greer analyzed a database of presidential ads from 1960 to 2000 and found that "personal attacks are flat . . . it's attacks on views that are rising." And, that's a good thing.

"Negative ads are more likely to be about the important issues of the day than positive ads. They can therefore "actually advance the debate, not undermine it," Greer said.

Positive ads with pictures of the candidates and their families really don't tell us much. They are more designed to sent us warm, positive feelings. Negative ads immediately send the opposition in overdrive, and motivates the press to "fact check." (We have a whole Truthwatch series at KY3.)

In the end, it keeps us all on our toes, and asking questions. Plus, we always learn more. "Obama says he's going to cut taxes for 95 percent of taxpayers, but McCain says Obama's plan will raise taxes for small businesses," explains Greer. "Because Obama is forced to respond to that, we learn more about his tax plan."

Finally, there's a lot of charges that get thrown around that if aren't completely false --- are very misleading. But this is also helpful, say the researchers.

"If an ad attacks an opponent with misinformation, which engaged voters can identify (through media coverage or their own research), what people learn from it is that this candidate is willing to lie and to get ahead," says Stanford's Krosnick.

So the next time you see Jay Nixon attack Kenny Hulshof or Sam Page slam Peter Kinder, don't wring your hands or roll your eyes --- use it as a learning experience.

Getting Testy

"Isn't there an abortion clinic you working at or something . . . or a building to bomb?"

***

DEMS ASK HULSHOF FOR APOLOGY OVER ASSAULT OF TRACKER

The incident occurred at a Republican event Tuesday in West Plains

WATCH THE FIRST CLIP RELEASED BY MISSOURI DEMS HERE

***

The video involves an unidentified Republican. It's unclear who he's affiliated with. Tracker Vinay Vaz is the one holding the camera for the Democratic Party. Dems are calling on Hulshof to identify the individual who violently shoved Vaz and apologize for the actions.

***

“Congressman Hulshof, I understand the intense nature of political campaigns," wrote Democratic Party Executive Director Ken Franklin Wednesday to Hulshof. "But, there is no call for such acts. I hope you will agree and take the appropriate action,” Franklin stated in the letter.

***

TEAM HULSHOF RESPONDS:

"For all we know, this was staged by the Dems. We have just as much basis to make that claim as they do to make their ridiculous claim that this person is connected to Kenny," says Hulshof spokesperson Scott Baker.
"The challenge still stands – they should prove their accusation that this person is associated with Hulshof for Governor. They can’t. While the events highlighted in the YouTube video are unfortunate, they are not related to Kenny Hulshof or anyone who works for him," adds Baker. "Assertions to the contrary are yet another attempt to mislead Missourians," Baker says, asking the Missouri Democratic Party to apologize for the insinuation.

***

MO. DEM PARTY RESPONDS TO BAKER'S COMMENTS:

"How dare Scott Baker. Shame on Congressman Hulshof. Shame on him for hiding behind a spokesman and not personally condemning the deplorable events at a rally on his behalf. Shame on him for not doing what is in his power to turn over the identify of this disturbed individual. Just when we didn't think it was possible, today the Hulshof campaign reached a new low," says Mo. Democratic Party spokesperson Zac Wright.

THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY RELEASED MORE VIDEO HERE

"Where you from,?" says the unidentified man in the video.

***

FUNNY THING . . . Sarah Steelman's campaign actually embraced Vaz during the primary. At one event in Springfield, David Steelman actually invited Vaz to appear in a Steelman campaign picture.

Hulshof on Fox Business Channel Thursday

Republican candidate for Governor Kenny Hulshof will appear on the FOX Business Network at 11 a.m. Thursday to talk about his job-creation plan.

***

"Kenny Hulshof is the only candidate with a plan to immediately get Missouri’s economy working again," said Hulshof spokesperson Scott Baker. "This innovative idea is garnering national attention because it is a creative solution to one of the biggest challenges facing our state."

***

Hulshof's jobs plan would give six percent rebates to businesses that hire 3 to 6 employees in 2009. The jobs must pay a wage equal to or above 90 percent of the average wage of the county. Hulshof says he would pay for his $265 million dollar plan by dipping into Missouri's Rainy Day Fund.
***

The Problem: Ozarks cable provider Mediacom doesn't carry the Fox Business Channel

FIRST ON KY3: New Location For Palin Rally

COME ONE, COME ALL!
Watch the KY3 News @ 10 REPORT HERE

***FIRST ON KY3***

***SOURCE: SARAH PALIN'S RALLY WILL BE MOVED TO THE PARKING LOT OF BASS PRO

IF YOU DIDN'T GET A TICKET, YOU CAN JUST SHOW UP.

TICKETED ATTENDEES WILL GET A SPECIAL SECTION

A top Republican source tells KY3 News that Sarah Palin's rally in Springfield Friday is being moved to the parking lot of Bass Pro Shops on South Campbell.

The move comes after a long day of scrambling to find a new location after droves of supporters ended up without tickets. Four-thousand tickets were given out at two Ozarks locations in just an hour and a half.

People who did receive a ticket for Palin's rally will be placed in a special section for the rally at Bass Pro. Anyone who does not have a ticket is invited to come to the rally. The gates will still open at 9 a.m. for the rally. The program is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m.

The McCain campaign made it official at 6:13 p.m.

"While we are extremely honored and appreciative of Missouri State University being willing to host Governor Palin’s Road to Victory Rally on Friday in the McDonald Arena, due to the overwhelming demand of the people in Springfield wanting to hear some straight talk from Governor Palin about how the McCain-Palin ticket will keep taxes low, improve the economy and keep our country safe, we have needed to move the Road to Victory Rally to a larger venue," said Regional Press Secretary Wendy Riemann. "The Rally will now be held in the parking lot of the Bass Pro Corporate Headquarters in Springfield. All times will remain the same. People who stood in line this morning for tickets, should bring their ticket with them to the new rally site, as they will be in a special reserved section. Those who don’t have a ticket are also welcome to attend the rally," added Riemann.

Stay with KY3 News for the latest details first.

DEVELOPING . . .

Put Her On The Field?

SCRAMBLE!! . . . PART II

THE WEATHER KILLS HAMMONS (probably)

The KY3 Political Notebook has learned that Republican officials are considering moving Sarah Palin's rally Friday to Hammons Field -- Sources close to the delicate negotiations say that the Cardinals organization has been contacted about the move. The big concern? Weather. Temperatures could be in the 40s and there's a possibility of rain. Might be too big of a risk.

***

UPDATED: @ 4:38 P.M. A separate top G.O.P. local says Team McCain-Palin is looking for other options -- either a larger site or another appearance by Palin. "I know they got pricing at Hammons, but Hammons is probably out because of the weather," says this separate source. "MSU only has McDonald because they have work to do at JQ to get ready for the Eagles, and can't stop the work. We're hopeful we have another option so we can accommodate more people," she says. "It's literally in the works right now."

Kirk Elmquist of the Springfield Cardinals tells The Notebook, "we have no confirmation of that here." "That's all I can tell you now," Elmquist says.

DEVELOPING . . .

Thought We Were The Liberal Media?

Lifted from today's Mailbag:

"It seems to many of us in Southwest Missouri that your news is very much biased in favor of the McCain-Palin campaign. As an example, in your nightly news last evening you spent a great deal of time touting Sarah Palin's speech on Friday in Springfield. Last week you had a small news story concerning Joe Biden's visit. In the view of many of us, Sarah Palin is an empty suit with scary qualifications to be a heartbeat away from the Presidency. To many of us, you sound just like Fox Noise (News), that "fair and unbiased news network."

--- Miles Rickart, Kimberling City

Source: G.O.P. Considering Bigger Venue For Palin

SCRAMBLE!

A Greene County Republican tells the KY3 Political Notebook that due to the overwhelming request for tickets for Sarah Palin's event Friday, G.O.P. officials are considering moving the venue to a larger location. Since the contract has been signed with Missouri State University, it's likely if there was a move, it would still be on campus. The problem, says the source, is that time is the issue, and there may not be another suitable venue available.

***

Tickets to see Palin were gone in just an hour and a half.

DEVELOPING . . .

The Palin Effect

All the tickets for Sarah Palin's Springfield event Friday are gone.

Watch the KY3 News @ Noon Report HERE.

More than 100 people were lined up at Greene County Headquarters for tix by 8:20 a.m.

Tickets began being distributed at 9 a.m.

According to the Missouri Republican Party, it took an hour and a half to hand out 4,000 tickets for the event.

A friend of mine, who lined up for tickets and just missed getting one, called it, "A Palin in my *ss."

The 138th: Lampe Slams Corporate Tax Breaks; Goodart: Bigger Government Isn't Always Better

THE 138th: MICHAEL GOODART VS. SARA LAMPE
The two candidates for Springfield's #138th House District seat squared off on a variety of issues at a League of Women Voters Forum Monday.
***
FINAL GRADES:
LAMPE: A-
GOODART: B
Summary: Lampe's four years of experience as a legislator were on bright display during the 90-minute forum. She came armed with specific statistics, which bolstered her case on a bunch of issues (8,000 more students, $400 million in tax credits, Greene County's 59th ranking.) Lampe's passion also came through on education and on what she sees as a waste of money on corporate tax breaks. Her time in Jefferson City and the ability to navigate around the facts gave her a clear advantage over Goodart, who held his own. Goodart did the best job of a challenger in trying to paint a contrast with his opponent. His theme is a compelling one with many Republicans: bigger government isn't always better. He basically kept on that same theme that money isn't always the answer, but lacked more specifics on "the why" that could have helped his case. He tried to defend the Republican legislature in several instances. He made some solid points, but it's tough to be defending the party in power this year.

***

Here's a synopsis of how they answered the questions posed, in the order they were asked:

OPENING STATEMENTS
Goodart -- Standing up, talks about fair taxation and good government. Said a quality education is important to get students ready for the workforce. Called for government efficiency and the implementation of the "Fair Tax." Directly asks for your vote.
Lampe -- From prepared remarks, rattles off a host of things she's learned during her 4 years as a state legislator. A lot is not pretty. She learned about the influence of big business, how hard it is to be in the minority. Notes she voted against the Medicaid cuts. Said she's tired of a laundry list of "false choices." She said Dems aren't perfect, but at least don't "create false choices."

TRANSPORTATION FUNDING
Goodart -- Notes Missouri went from 3rd worst to 9th best under Republican leadership. Favors a consumption tax rather than an income or property tax to deal with financing issues. Said lawmakers need to look at "all funding" possible to fund road projects.
Lampe -- Said Mo. is at a "falling off place." Suggests two financing options on the table: Public private partnerships for toll roads. Secondly, grouping together as communities to decide on projects. Municipalities would decide to raise their own taxes based on their own needs. But noted, she's not sure if locals would end up agreeing on that, because many outlying communities use Springfield roads but wouldn't have to pay the higher taxes for them.

HEALTHCARE
Goodart -- Said the priority should be helping people who can't help themselves. States that Mo. cut $70 million in 2005. Praises Hulshof's plan for Healthmax to provide Missourians with "access." Talks about how he doesn't have health insurance himself, and doesn't want the state to supply it to him. Hints Medicaid cuts were the correct thing to do, but never outright says it.
Lampe -- Medicaid cuts need to be restored. The clearest difference in philosophy between the two. Wants to cover all children ages 0 to 18. Said dental, mental health coverage should be included. Calls for focus on accessibility, affordability and portability.

CHILDREN'S NEEDS
Lampe -- Focus should be on pre-K for 3,4 and 5-yr olds. Then pivots to the funding issue. Said Mo. education is "drastically underfunded." Higher ed has been unfunded for years. Notes this example: University of Missouri has added 8,000 students since 2001, but has to operate with the same budget as 7 years ago. Cites Mo. Constitution that says education should be number one priority.
Goodart -- Defends G.O.P. for increasing education funds every year. Notes he is running his campaign on $10,000. Uses that to show he knows how to budget. Makes one of his strongest points: that we can't just be asking the state legislature for more money. Spending money doesn't mean results. Talks up parental responsibility and involvement on ways to help children achieve success in education.

ENERGY
Lampe -- Is prepared for and gets fired up about this question. Lays into ethanol subsidies. Expresses shock at the millions paid in ethanol subsidies for "economic development for farmers." Calls it a "ruse," because much of this money doesn't end up going to farmers. The real passion of Lampe is coming through here. States, "Ethanol is not the answer to our energy issues." Wants to focus on other renewables and cutting consumption. An example: retooling our auto plants so they can sell hybrids. One of her best answers. Direct and compelling.
Goodart -- Calls for the use of nuclear, solar and wind. Also: carpooling to work. Again, hits theme of less government. Said that we can't just pass this problem on for government to fix. Adds that we need to look at ourselves first to solve the energy problem.

BIPARTISANSHIP
Goodart -- Said people are sick of fighting between the two parties. Notes his door-walking in the 138th District and said that if he can get a person to talk to him, "they seem to like me." The warns: I might so some things you might not like, because my top interest will be the district.
Lampe -- Said she worked on the other side of the aisle with 7 different Republicans on different issues. Said lawmakers have more in common than differences, that diverse backgrounds can help educate each other. Notes that she worked with a state representative from St. Louis to help ask members to carry their paper to the side of the floor to be recycled.

SCHOOL VOUCHERS
Lampe -- Said when the government passes tax credits, that's money that comes out of the revenue stream. Notes that business tax credits doubled from $196 million to $400 million over the last 10 years in Missouri. Said private school is a choice, and if a private school receives government money, that private school usually doesn't want to adhere to the rules that are required of public schools. Pledges "the voucher debate will rage on," in Jefferson City. Said it's not always easy to defeat the pro-voucher bills, but makes clear it is something she will continue to fight.
Goodart -- Said he's "not a big proponent of vouchers," then quickly notes they had some success in Washington D.C., a more urban area. Said there needs to be more options for students in computer science and vo-tech schooling.

ONE ITEM THEY'D CUT FROM THE BUDGET
Lampe -- Corporate Tax Credits. Cited a stat that Missouri has lost more jobs since January than the surrounding 8 states combined (attempting to channel Jay Nixon's popular charge..)
Goodart -- Didn't list one item, because he said he couldn't. Talked about restructuring the tax system. Also defended corporate tax credits. Said that we pay corporate taxes when we buy something from the corporation, so that helps the company. Defended corporate tax credits because they help create jobs.

BIGGEST LAW ENFORCEMENT PROBLEM
Goodart -- Recalls story that earlier this year a 17 year old broke into his home and robbed him. Stressed there needs to be more community/parental involvement. Said we needed to look at the reasons people commit crime.
Lampe -- Crimes against children are the biggest problem. Greene is 59th of 115 counties regarding taking care of children. Notes that local lawmakers have tried to get Greene County another judge.

The Hottest Ticket in Town

TWO MORE REASONS WHY THE RACE FOR LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR IS BECOMING THE STATEWIDE RACE TO WATCH

The Ad: Sam Page for Lieutenant Governor

The Message: Some of Kinder's actions are so wrong, they're laughable.

In the slew of political ads hitting television screens right now, this one stands out. Why? It's superb use of humor. My co-workers notice it. "That's funny," said one producer heading out of the control room. A lady at the YMCA even stopped me to ask about it. "Who did they get to play the smokers,?" she asked with a chuckle. The workers in the office smoking. The bike race with workers shaking their heads on the sidelines. The Kinder pick-up truck with the overdone signs plastered all over the side. These are all effective ways of calling into question some of the Lieutenant Governor's decisions -- in a funny way. The music is perfect because it keeps the pace, in an upbeat yet slightly ominous way. For me, this ad sits up there with Sarah Steelman's "Orville & Ed," as far as being one of the best in the cycle. Lots of ads are doing the ominous, "my opponent is scary," right now. That's why this one is standing out to people. It's not harsh. It's not mean. It playfully gets the point across. You make 'em laugh, and then they start to wonder, "Maybe it was kind of silly to spend so much money on a bike race when our economy is tanking?."

The Ad: Peter Kinder for Lieutenant Governor

The Message: Kinder created jobs, while Page tried to kill them.

This ad is a simple textbook contrast ad, with a laser-like focus on the economy. While Page mocked Kinder's "Tour of Missouri," in his ad, this ad highlights $500 million in tourism dollars. Though it's worth noting that the bike race isn't referred to or shown in the ad. It then lists the Quality Jobs Act, that Kinder supported, which created "thousands of jobs." It doesn't take more than 12 seconds of the 30-second spot for the campaign to begin showing a shifting grainy shot of Sam Page. The visual of Page almost is more important than the message. The pictures they chose make Page look shifty and uncertain. These shots play under the female voice, noting that Page opposed "funding" the Quality Jobs Act while favoring "job-killing taxes." But notice how Page is looking down or away from the camera in all the shots. That's meant to convey a level of disconnect and discomfort with the viewer. Still, with lots of regular people this ad will get lost in the host of other "scary" ads being run out there right now.

Palin to Rally at Missouri State University Friday

DONE DEAL

SHE WILL COME . . .

WATCH THE KY3 NEWS @ 10 REPORT HERE

As KY3 News first reported last week, vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin will hold a campaign rally in Springfield Friday.

The rally will be held at Missouri State University's McDonald Arena on 850 South Kings Road in Springfield at 11 a.m.

Doors for the event open at 9 a.m. and tickets will be available beginning at 9 a.m. Wednesday. The event is free and open to the public.

Tickets can be picked up at the following two locations: Greene County Republican Headquarters on 2951 East Sunshine from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.Christian County Republican Headquarters at 809 North Main Street in Nixa, Mo. from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For additional information, contact the McCain-Palin hotline at 314-667-4728.

Two sources told KY3 News Palin's visit to Springfield was certain last week. Finding a suitable location turned out to be the biggest challenge for the McCain-Palin campaign, sources say. The campaign and Missouri State University came to an agreement on McDonald Arena late Tuesday night after considering several other options.

Let's Laugh It Out . ..

QUICK COMIC RELIEF

(INSERT WITTY CAPTION HERE)

Then, there's THIS.

Gettin' Dirty

GIBBONS PAINTS KOSTER AS A CRIMINAL IN NEW AD

A failure to pay income taxes, arrested for passing a bad check, taking money tied to the Gambino family, firing a whistleblower, illegally laundering campaign contributions.

These are the charges in Mike Gibbons' newest television ad against Democratic candidate for Attorney General Chris Koster.

"TOO OFTEN ON THE WRONG SIDE OF THE LAW"

In Koster's latest ad, he argues Gibbons opposed cracking down on Medicaid fraud.

"My opponent argued against locking them up . . . stating that Medicaid fraud is just a property crime."

Rush & Me

The Talk Show King of the Conservative Movement Bashes My Questioning of Mike Huckabee Monday, regarding what's relevant in this presidential election.

***

And to think, taken to task by Rush on of all things, "drug use."

READ THE TRANSCRIPT & LISTEN TO THE AUDIO HERE

WATCH THE CLIP HERE

HERE'S THE KEY EXCERPT:

RUSH: So yesterday in Springfield, Missouri, Mike Huckabee was interviewed by a TV station, KY3 news, reporter said, "I know you mentioned Bill Ayers on the stage today. Is that an issue people ought to consider more important than even the economic issue? What's the message here? Is it his associations or is it the economic, the tax structure of the country?"

HUCKABEE: Can you tell me anybody that sorted out who it was that supplied Barack Obama the drugs that he claimed in his own book to have taken? No.

REPORTER: So that's relevant, his drug use is on the table.

HUCKABEE: Well, if Joe the Plumber's back taxes are relevant, a guy who's just playing football in his neighborhood, then everything is relevant.

RUSH: Hmm. That's Mike Huckabee. And the reporter, you know, "What do these associations have to do with economic things?" This is the where the reporter and most reporters are just ignorant and bullheaded. If your best friends are socialists, if your best friends are anti-capitalist, it has everything in the world to do with whether or not your economic policies are going to be capitalist or socialist. Ignorance, the most expensive commodity we have in this country, and a lot of it exists in the Drive-By Media.

Looking For A Fight

The two top candidates for Lieutenant Governor continue to trade tough jabs, two weeks out -- as the race becomes personal.

***

PETER KINDER'S CAMPAIGN SAYS SAM PAGE DOES NOT HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO BE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR BECAUSE OF HIS OPPOSITION TO THE DEATH PENALTY:

"Peter Kinder has always been a strong supporter of the death penalty and have always been prepared to carry out an execution in the event the governor was out of state. Peter believes we owe it to the victims of heinous crimes like murder to ensure that justice is served," said Kinder spokesman Paul Sloca. "Missourians should be concerned about Sam Page’s opposition to the death penalty and his apparent inability to carry out the duties of lieutenant governor," Sloca added.
TEAM PAGE RESPONDS:

"Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder is apparently too busy defending physical and sexual abusers of children to check his facts," said Page spokesperson Bret Bender. "The man who called all Democrats dumb farm animals is so desperate at this point he has given up on twisting the truth and is just conjuring attacks out of thin air. Rep. Page has never co-sponsored such legislation," Bender added, referring to 2007 legislation to repeal the death penalty.

***

TEAM PAGE HITS KINDER ON SEPARATION OF GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS:

The Page campaign said Kinder should explain the hiring of Stacey Blomberg, who they say serves dual roles as an employee for the state and a worker for Kinder's campaign.

"The revolving door between campaign work and state work is well known in Kinder's office. Deputy Lieutenant Governor Jerry Dowell is also a member of Tour of Missouri Inc. even while moonlighting as a paid campaign manager for a Republican Congressional candidate. Campaign e-mails were found on the computer of former Kinder Chief-of-Staff Eric Feltner. And a slew of Kinder state staffers were found coordinating campaign efforts with Kinder's campaign spokesman Paul Sloca on state e-mail accounts," said Page spokesperson Bret Bender.

"It's time for the flagrant campaign work on state time and on our tax dollars in the lieutenant governor's office to come to an end," Bender added.

TEAM KINDER RESPONDS:

"Sam Page should be more worried about federal charges for taking campaign contributions from foreign nationals rather than who is working in the campaign office, but, to address Sam Page’s personnel obsession, Stacey Blomberg does not work in the campaign office. Does this guy have any real issues to talk about," responded Kinder spokesperson Sloca. "Blomberg has a letter from the Missouri Ethics Commission saying she has no conflict of interest as long as she does campaign work on her own time," Sloca added. (Here’s link: Blomberg ethics letter)

B.J. Marsh Backs Nixon for Governor

The outgoing and unpredictable Republican House lawmaker from Springfield throws his support behind the Democratic candidate.

***

HERE'S B.J. MARSH'S FULL STATEMENT:

"Times are tough, and families in Missouri are hurting. Now more than ever before, we need a Governor who can bring this state together and get us moving forward again. I’ve known Jay Nixon for 20 years, and I know that he’ll roll up his sleeves and get the job done, like he always has. I’m supporting Jay Nixon for Governor because I know, without a doubt, that he will bring about the change our state needs. As someone who is heavily involved at Missouri State University, I am particularly concerned about the ability of Missouri families to afford a college education. Tuition is skyrocketing, and too many students are graduating with tens of thousands of dollars of debt. Jay Nixon has put forward a plan, called the Missouri Promise, to create a pathway for middle-class students to get a four-year degree and graduate debt free. Jay Nixon knows we must help prepare our young people to compete in the new economy."
***
"Jay Nixon also understands that in order to turn this economy around, we must get serious about embracing science and technology. From life science to plant science to new energy solutions, Jay will fight to bring next generation jobs here to Missouri. That’s the kind of leadership we need right now."
***
"For me, this election isn’t about whether someone is a Democrat or a Republican. It’s about electing the best candidate to move Missouri forward, and that’s Jay Nixon. People know that I tell it like it is. Here’s the deal: Jay Nixon will work across the aisle to get things done for Missouri families. Enough said."

Greene County Dems Call on Denison To File Contribution Report

The Greene County Democratic Party is calling on #135 House Rep. Charlie Denison to file his third quarter report with the Missouri Ethics Commission.

The filing period ended on September 30th and all candidates were required to file their report by October 15, 2008.

The most recent report filed by Denison was in August. As of Tuesday at 3:45 p.m. no October quarterly report has been filed by Denison's committee.

"If Rep. Denison did not receive or spend more than $500 for the reporting period, he would still have to file a Statement of Limited Activity in Lieu of Disclosure," said Matt Patterson, executive director of the Greene County Democratic Party. "Here we are, two weeks out from the election, and Rep. Denison is not disclosing his list of contributions. We hope that this is just an oversight by the Representative and not a way to cover-up any unpopular campaign contributions." said Patterson.

Denison faces Democrat Nancy Hagan on November 4th.

Could Blunt Be Out As Whip?

Politico reports that insiders expect Rep. Roy Blunt to step aside from his Whip Post next month if Republicans suffer losses in the House, as expected.

***

The story also reports that Blunt could be key to Minority Leader John Boehner's survival.

***

"Boehner and Blunt were able to save their jobs after the 2006 election because the rank and file blamed President Bush and their predecessors, such as former Texas Rep. Tom DeLay, for the losses that cost them control of the House," reports Politico. "This time around, members say, Boehner and Blunt won’t be able to escape the blame. "Members are furious after this bailout debacle," one lawmaker said. But he cautioned that the incumbent Republicans who were "willing to run" against Boehner and Blunt "are not well-positioned to win. ... So we’re trying to decide if we’re pissed off enough at Cantor and Putnam."

***

Still: Don't Count Blunt out: "If Boehner shares a trait with his No. 2, Blunt," writes Politico. "It’s the ability to survive."

Hagan: Give Missourians the Healthcare Program Lawmakers Have; Denison: Springfield Needs Nuclear Power For Water Needs

THE 135th REMATCH: DENSION VS. HAGAN
The two candidates for Springfield's #135th House District seat squared off on a variety of issues at a League of Women Voters Forum Monday.
***
FINAL GRADES:
HAGAN: B
DENISON: C
Summary: Denison had some good real moments (when he noted his heating bill), some bold statements ("I will not vote for vouchers), and an eye-popping proposal (build a nuclear plant in Springfield) but he lacked specifics on issues he said he's championed, like education and transportation funding. Used "time limitations" as an excuse too often, and failed to list a specific legislative accomplishment. Hagan showed passion on what she cared about, railed against tax credits and vouchers, but could have been clearer on why Republican voters in her historically red district should take a chance on her over Denison.
***

Here's a synopsis of how they answered the questions posed, in the order they were asked:

OPENING STATEMENTS
Denison -- Listed transportation and education as his top issues, said "we've done quite well in the last four years in Springfield," on those issues. Seemed distracted by the two-minute time limit, so he halted his statement there.
Hagan -- Cited education and healthcare as her priorities, said Missouri is in a "crisis regarding healthcare." Pinned current economic crisis partly on the lack of will to address healthcare.

TRANSPORTATION FUNDING
Denison -- Said he attended a "very interesting meeting" today, one of 4 recent meetings on the issue, but acknowledged there's still no "concrete way" of financing Missouri's transportation future. Talked about working hard with the city, county and state. Again said it was something he couldn't address the issue in two minutes -- without using his two minutes (?).
Hagan -- Noted that Arkansas has better roads than Missouri, adding that's "a sad state." "I don't have the answer," she acknowledged. "You the taxpayer are going to help us with that." Neither Hagan or Denison had a real answer on this issue -- and to be fair, most politicians running for office everywhere don't.

HEALTHCARE
Hagan -- Called for giving Missouri residents the same type of healthcare plan that state lawmakers and employees are allowed to have. Said she knows that healthcare costs are driving the problem. Suggested creating "employee pools" so more people could be covered.
Denison -- Accessibility is necessary, he said. Then gave props to the Jordan Vally Clinic. "Need to continue that time of thing." Made blanket but vague statement about doing "whatever we can to get insurance to people we can."

CHILDREN'S NEEDS
Hagan -- Should put a big focus on universal pre-K and college affordability. Said if a child wants to go to college, he or she would be able to go. Didn't explain how she'd pay for that. Said the state should give incentives for students to go into sectors that are experiencing workforce shortages. Cited middle school as a "crisis age" for students that needs more attention.
Denison -- Cited growing enrollment at OTC. 20-thousand plus at MSU. "What we have been doing is correct," he said, defending his votes on education funding. Wants more emphasis "to push for the A+" program. How? That was left unclear.

ENERGY
Hagan -- Made a simple but great point. "What is wrong with this state? There's no recycling." That's how friends react when they come to Missouri. "You guys are so far behind," she said, they said. (I can relate. I'm from Jersey and growing up we had like 8 garbage cans to separate plastics, paper, cans, etc.)
Denison -- I do recycle, he proclaimed. Said his utility bill was just $65 dollars last month, because he and his wife have been conserving more, making less trips to the grocery store. Seemed alarmed about a coming water problem in southwest Missouri. Proposed building a new reservoir and putting a nuclear plant on top. A bold, but perhaps, eye-raising position. Still, this was one of the best moments of the forum, because both candidates seemed to simplify an issue and relate it to the real world.

BIPARTISANSHIP
Hagan -- As an educator, said she always had someone to team up with. Recalled that in her door-to-door campaigning, she's found "really good people" from the other side. Said it's time to drop the Republican/Democratic labels. Promised to work with both parties.
Denison -- Called it "exciting" to work across the aisle. Said the General Assembly has done a great deal of bipartisan work. "We've had so many votes over 140 . . . voting together," he said.

SCHOOL VOUCHERS
Hagan -- Would never vote for vouchers, tax credits for private schools. Said private education should be provided by private funds, because there's no restrictions or mandates that private schools are required to live up to.
Denison -- Said he voted against HB 808, known as "the voucher bill," despite pressure from Republican leaders and Gov. Matt Blunt. "I will not vote for vouchers," Denison said flatly. Seemed to imply that vouchers should only be considered to help "special children," in certain areas that are "not getting help."

ONE ITEM THEY'D CUT FROM THE BUDGET
Hagan -- Stop tax credits. Said Missouri spends millions of dollars on companies that don't truly invest in the state.
Denison - Amtrak. Said the $3 Billion (think he meant million) given to Amtrak "is killing us." He called it a subsidy that's "not right."

BIGGEST LAW ENFORCEMENT PROBLEM
Hagan -- Drug trafficking. Called it a major issue that's eating many kids and families alive. Blamed schools for "dropping the ball" on drug prevention programs.
Denison -- Drugs. Said lawmakers should work with school more to quickly identify trouble spots. Also said there needs to be more of a focus on mental health.

(Note: Candidates in the 136th and 138th also attended the forum. Complete reviews on their performances will be posted in the coming days as time allows.)

Prop B Would Aid Independent Living, Unions

Proposition B would create an 11-member board that would recruit more workers to serve as in-home assistants for people with disabilities. But it also would make it easier for those workers to form unions, something that opponents say is bad for business.

WATCH THE KY3 NEWS @ 10 REPORT HERE

***
"I see a potential increased costs that maybe not the best for healthcare in Missouri, increased costs for those providers," says Trey Davis of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce, which opposes the initiative.
***
"If attendants choose to unionize, it would allow them to do that," counters Stephanie Goodwin of Missourians for Quality Homecare. "I think they should have the choice to be able to unionize."
***
The initiative would cost approximately $500,000 annually to be taken out of general revenue. Goodwin says about 11 other states have a similar homecare board.

Huck Rails Obama; Team Obama Responds To Drug Reference

Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee spoke much more about Barack Obama than John McCain at his appearance Monday in Springfield. Above are some of Huckabee's harshest hits.

***

Huckabee repeatedly hammered Obama's tax plan that would "spread the wealth." He also criticized the media for vetting Joe The Plumber --- but not asking questions of Bill Ayers. In my interview with Huckabee, I asked him about his "spread the wealth" theory, if its ever ok to raise taxes and his advice for John McCain as he faces an increasingly difficult electoral map.

"PEOPLE FORGET 1980"

TEAM OBAMA REACTS TO HUCKABEE'S DRUG REFERENCE:

(Watch what Huck said HERE)

"These distractions aren't what Missourians are looking for in these tough times," said Southwest Missouri Regional Press Secretary Jean Weinberg. "Top Republicans have denounced these negative campaign tactics, including Colin Powell. Voters here deserve real solutions to the serious problems facing our country," she said.

The Future Face of the Missouri G.O.P.

Republican candidate for Treasurer Brad Lager rallied Springfield Republicans Monday with the help of former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee.

WATCH CLIPS OF LAGER'S COMMENTS ABOVE

"The budget should drive government, not allowing the government to drive the budget," said Lager, after being introduced by State Sen. Delbert Scott.

***

Mike Huckabee said Lager got into government for the right reasons, and praised Missouri Republicans, including Gov. Matt Blunt, for transforming a huge deficit into a surplus. Huckabee also teased Lager, calling him "the most cautious man" he's ever met, because Lager dated his wife 13 years before marrying her.

WATCH CLIPS OF HUCKABEE'S COMMENTS BELOW

Springfield's Legislative Candidates Debate

SORT OF.

The Missouri House candidates for the 135th, 136th and 138th Legislative Districts met at a League of Women Voters forum Monday night to discuss healthcare, education, energy and why paper is bad.

DEVELOPING . . .

Huckabee Invokes Obama Drug Use

UPDATED: GIULIANI USES SAME ATTACK ON FOX

TIME magazine reports HERE

In an interview with KY3 News Monday, former presidential candidate Mike Huckabee said Barack Obama's admission of past drug use is a relevant issue in the campaign.

"Can you tell me anybody that sorted out who it was that supplied Barack Obama the drugs that he claimed in his own book to have taken? No," said Huckabee when asked about what issues are relevant in the campaign.

***

Huckabee goes on: "If Joe The Plumber's back taxes are relevant, a guy who's just playing football in his neighborhood, than everything is relevant."

Huckabee held a rally with Republican candidate for Treasurer Brad Lager in Springfield Monday afternoon.

***WATCH FULL CLIP ABOVE***

Nixon Wins Debate Coin Flips

HULSHOF LOST BOTH FLIPS AGAINST STEELMAN AS WELL

Jay Nixon's campaign won both coin flips held at KY3 Studios Monday for Friday's debate. The Democratic nominee for Governor chose to go second in his opening and closing statements. Nixon also chose to ask Hulshof the first candidate-to-candidate question.

***

Hulshof and Nixon will debate live on KY3 this Friday at 8 p.m.

New Mo. Poll, Same Ole Story

MCCAIN 45%, OBAMA 44%

Suffolk University Poll of Missouri

Oct 17-19th, 4% Margin of Error

ALSO: 80 percent say they've heard of "Joe The Plumber"

Flip

Representatives from the two top campaigns for Governor will meet at KY3 Studios at 1 p.m. to participate in the coin flip that will determine the order that Jay Nixon and Kenny Hulshof will speak in Friday's debate.

***

The winner of the first flip will decide the order of the opening and closing statements.

***

The winner of the second flip will be allowed to ask their opponent their candidate question first and receive the first question by a panelist.

***

Hulshof and Nixon will debate live this Friday at 8 p.m. on KY3

DEVELOPING . . .

Let The Scramble Begin

CALENDAR CRUNCH

With just 15 days until the election, every minute of every hour counts.

The candidates and advocates who are most effective in their use of the remaining time could reap rewards in a close contest.

***

So, who will stand out these last two weeks?

***

***THE MONDAY DAYBOOK***

11 a.m. Former Indiana Congressman Tim Roemer visits Springfield to tout Barack Obama's health care plan at the Veterans Post on 2525 East Division.

12:45 p.m. Former Presidential Candidate Mike Huckabee stumps for Republican candidate for Treasurer Brad Lager during a rally at G.O.P. Headquarters on East Sunshine in Springfield.

3:30 p.m. The Springfield Chamber of Commerce Government Relations Committee holds a meeting on Proposition B, the "Home Health Care," ballot initiative. Trey Davis of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Gwen Beebe of Integrity Home Care are slated to speak.

6:30 p.m. The League of Women Voters holds a forum on local legislative races for Springfield's 135th, 136th and 138th House districts at the Library Center on South Campbell.

6:45 p.m. John McCain holds a rally in Belton, Mo.

7 p.m. Former President Bill Clinton holds a rally for Barack Obama in Kirkwood, Mo.

Gov. Blunt: Palin "Perfect," McCain Rising in Mo.

Just who is Barack Obama?

After watching Sunday morning T.V., it looks like Missouri Republicans are describing him as a promise-breaking celebrity who hangs around with former terrorists on the weekend while trying to "spread your wealth" around during the week.

Asked for his reaction to Obama's record-setting crowd under the Arch in St. Louis Saturday on CBS' Face The Nation, Gov. Matt Blunt said there wasn't any need to quibble about the exact numbers . . . just after he got done quibbling about the numbers.

"I've heard some differing numbers, perhaps a smaller crowd than might have been reported, but I don't know that we need to quibble over numbers," Blunt said, seeming to question the 100,000 people that reportedly attended Obama's rally.

(But really, does it even matter if it was 90,000 or 100K?)

While his father targeted Obama's associations on CNN, the Governor went back to a charge first raised in July, using the c-word to describe the Democratic nominee.

"He obviously has a great celebrity status, drew a couple hundred thousand people in Berlin, Germany, so he's a global celebrity. He draws big crowds. That doesn't always translate into votes," Gov. Matt Blunt said.

Asked if the endorsement of Republican Colin Powell would make a difference, Blunt brushed it off. "I don't know that it'll make a difference in Missouri," Blunt said, quickly rattling off a host of issues where John McCain lines up better with Show-Me State voters.

Blunt also defended vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin, and said that McCain's lead is growing in Missouri.

"She is a perfect candidate for Missouri," Gov. Blunt said of Palin. "I could take Sarah Palin to my hometown of Strafford or any community in our state and she would immediately connect with people. She understands the real world," he added.

"She's been a great help in Missouri as we move forward in this campaign. You know, Senator McCain is the underdog, he's being severely outspent in Missouri, but he appears to be in the lead today, that lead's been growing over the past several days," Blunt said.

The latest poll I could find is from Rasmussen Reports, showing Obama with a six-point lead over McCain, 52%-46%.

Show-Me Showdown

MCCASKILL & BLUNT FACE-OFF ON CNN
The two spar over Sarah Palin's "Pro-America" comment
Blunt says Obama "associations" should be on the table
McCaskill Defends Cities, Obama's Tax Plan

Senator Claire McCaskill and Congressman Roy Blunt sparred over Sarah Palin's recent comment about campaigning in "pro-America" parts of the country, but ended up agreeing that Barack Obama's "bitter" comment, referring to rural residents, was a dumb statement.

The two appeared on CNN's Late Edition with Wolf Blitzer to trade thoughts about the state of the presidential race.

POWELL & AYERS
Reacting to the endorsement of Republican and former Secretary of State Colin Powell, Blunt only said that he disagreed with the General. The 7th District Congressman then went right into Obama's associations with domestic terrorist Bill Ayers, adding that John McCain should have never taken Rev. Jeremiah Wright off the table as an issue.

Blunt said these associations should be things "people are thinking about." "I think it does matter what a guy listens to week in and week out for twenty years," Blunt said. "I think it matters where you decide to launch your campaign for the Senate. I think those are well within the bounds of political discourse. If John McCain had anything like that at the other end of the spectrum, I absolutely am confident it would be a big issue," Blunt added.

McCaskill said Powell's endorsement of Obama would speak "very loudly in Missouri," and used it to counter Blunt's charges. "Does anybody in their right mind think that General Powell would ever endorse anyone that had any patience with terrorists? Of course he wouldn't," McCaskill said, labeling the McCain campaign as "small, petty and angry."

JOE'S TAXES
On the issue of taxes, Blunt estimated that 54 percent of all small businesses would face a tax increase under Obama's plan. He said that 16 million people work for small businesses that earn more than $250,000. "Almost all those people put their money right back into the business and try to create a few million more jobs," Blunt said, adding that the specifics about Joe "The Plumber's" story are irrelevant.

"I'm sure he wishes he could have that 'We need to spread the wealth' comment out," Blunt went on. "We ought to be focused on job creation here, rather than spreading the wealth. A spread the wealth environment will not get us through this. Spreading the wealth creates less wealth, not more wealth," he added.

"We all now know that Joe 'The Plumber' will get a tax cut under Barack Obama. He won't with John McCain," countered McCaskill.

Answering the charge that some people who don't pay federal taxes would get a tax break under Obama's plan: "They are paying taxes. They may not be paying federal taxes, but they're paying plenty of taxes," said McCaskill.

PALIN'S PRO-AMERICA
The biggest sparks between Blunt and McCaskill came on a question about Sarah Palin's recent comment about being happy to campaign in "very pro-America areas." The implication: That there are areas of the United States that aren't pro-American.

"It's sad, honestly," said McCaskill. "We need a president that sees all of America as patriotic," she added.

Blunt seemed to attempt to distance himself and Palin from that comment, and painted it this way: "Obviously the best of America is all over America. I think often in small town America, like so much of our state, you do see what America's about in a little clearer microcosm because everybody knows everybody else and you see that," Blunt said.

"Today in our state, there are going to be tens of thousands of families . . . that go to church, they're going to be talking over the weekend about deer hunting season and turkey hunting season, and remember that's the group that Barack Obama said were bitter and clings to their religion and guns," Blunt added, attempting to turn the focus back on Obama.

When pressed by Blitzer on Palin's specific comment, Blunt said: "I'm sure she didn't say there are anti-America parts of the country, I don't believe that. I'm sure she doesn't either."

"Roy, you know Roy, c'mon up to St. Louis," McCaskill said, interjecting. "I'll show you a microcosm of very, very pro-American people."

After noting he likes St. Louis, Blunt defended his home turf: "Claire, in your last campaign you talked constantly about how you wanted to be out in small-town Missouri, and you've talked constantly about how Barack Obama needs to be out in small town Missouri, now why is that? Nobody believes that the best of America is not in our cities. . . "

"Good . . ," McCaskill replied.

Blunt then paid McCaskill a compliment: "I think Claire McCaskill did a lot in the primary to help Barack Obama win this state, and I admire her for taking that position in the primary."

McCaskill made sure she didn't get away without showing her love for rural Missouri. "It's not that rural America and rural Missouri is not wonderful. It is, it is great, and I meant what I said about campaigning in rural America, but so are the cities. And we shouldn't divide ever in America, between the two," McCaskill said.

"If you want to talk about Sarah Palin, let's talk about Barack Obama," Blunt responded, again referring to Obama's "bitter" comment.

In a piece in the New York Times Sunday, Obama acknowledged that "bitter" comment was a mistake.

"He's right about that," Blunt said.

"Yep, he is right about that," McCaskill said in agreement.

Sunday Morning Talk, Ozarks-Style

OZARKS TODAY: SUNDAY POLITICAL ANALYSIS

Watch Springfield News-Leader Political Reporter Chad Livengood and I talk with KY3's Paula Morehouse about the state of race for Governor and what to expect in the final two weeks of the campaign, on Sunday's Ozarks Today.

Hulshof Snatches The A.P. Lede

From Saturday night's Debate:

ST. LOUIS (AP) - Republican gubernatorial candidate Kenny Hulshof accuses Democratic rival Jay Nixon of proposing $2.6 billion in new spending that would result in higher taxes for Missourians.

Nixon countered by repeatedly painting Hulshof as a Washington insider during a Saturday evening debate in St. Louis.

Hulshof is a congressman from Missouri's 9th Congressional District. Nixon is Missouri's attorney general.

The debate was the third in a series of four leading up to the Nov. 4 gubernatorial election.

***KY3 will host the fourth and final Debate for Governor this Friday, Oct. 24th @ 8 p.m.

Jill Biden Encourages Obama Workers

Jill Biden spoke to a few hundred supporters of the Democratic presidential ticket in Springfield Saturday.

***

WATCH the KY3 News @ 6 Report HERE

The Palin Rap on SNL

Absolutely MUST SEE.

Here's the link if you missed it.

http://www.nbc.com/Saturday_Night_Live/video/clips/update-palin-rap/773781/

If It's Sunday . . .

We've got a new weekend morning show debuting this weekend on KY3.

On Sundays, we're experimenting with a political segment to talk about and analyze the political news of the week and look ahead.

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This Sunday, tune in as the Springfield News-Leader's Chad Livengood and I talk about Missouri's race for Governor with Anchor Paula Morehouse. We'll talk about the state of the race, the recent polls, ads and issues, and preview our Friday night debate on KY3.

If you can't make it at 7 a.m., tune in at 7:45 a.m. That's approximately when we expect to hit the tube.

Hulshof & Nixon Debate in St. Louis Tonight

The two top candidates for Governor face off in St. Louis on local FOX TV at 6 p.m. Saturday.

The debate will be broadcast on Kansas City television as well.
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The panel doing the questioning includes WDAF's John Holt and Shelli Lockhart, along with KTVI's Betsy Bruce and Elliott Davis. KTVI's Charles Jaco will moderate the debate. The debate can be heard on KTRS 550 AM radio in St. Louis.
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Reminder: The final debate between the two is next Friday at KY3.

Super Saturday In Missouri

100,000 TURN OUT FOR OBAMA IN ST. LOUIS

Officials Call It A New U.S. Record

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch has pictures and video

OBAMA'S SPEECH FOCUSES ON TAXES:

"Here's the truth Missouri -- we are both offering tax cuts. The difference is who we're cutting taxes for."

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"I think it's time to give a tax cut to the teachers and janitors who work in our schools, to the cops and firefighters who keep us safe, to the waitresses working double shifts, the nurses in the ER, and the plumbers fighting for their American Dream . . . And while Senator McCain ignores the payroll taxes you pay to score a few political points, I'll put a tax cut into the pockets of working people so you can pay the bills."

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MCCAIN CAMPAIGN TARGETS OBAMA ON TAX PLAN

RESPONSE:

"Barack Obama would give tax cuts to Americans who don't pay any income taxes - it's a policy Democrats used to call welfare, what Barack Obama calls 'spreading the wealth,' and what Joe the Plumber calls socialism,'" says Tucker Bounds, McCain-Palin spokesperson

ALSO AT RALLY: MCCASKILL HITS PALIN

Sen. Claire McCaskill took aim at Sarah Palin for a comment she made this week about campaigning in "pro-America" places. "We have reached a new low in American politics when someone dares to say that one part of America is more pro-American than another part of America," McCaskill said. Read more at the Wall Street Journal blog HERE.

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JILL BIDEN HELD AN EVENT WITH SUPPORTERS IN SPRINGFIELD THIS AFTERNOON, OBAMA MOVES ON TO KANSAS CITY FOR AN EVENING RALLY TONIGHT

Check for Full Reports on KY3 News @ 6

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JUST ANNOUNCED: FORMER PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON WILL HOLD A RALLY ON MONDAY AT KIRKWOOD HIGH SCHOOL IN ST. LOUIS COUNTY

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AND DON'T MISS SARAH PALIN ON SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE TONIGHT AFTER KY3 NEWS @ 10

Steelman Says She's Against Greene Co. Court Plan

The State Treasurer Clarifies Her Position on A Greene County Ballot Initiative to KY3 Amid Confusion

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PLUS: Greene Countians Against Question 1 Launch Website

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Republican State Treasurer Sarah Steelman tells the KY3 Political Notebook she's opposed to a ballot initiative in Greene County designed to change the way judges are seated on the bench from election to selection.

The proposal is known as the Non-Partisan Court Plan, and it's Question 1 on Greene County's ballot.

"I don't recall being asked about the Greene County Non-Partisan Court Plan," wrote Steelman in an e-mail to the Notebook, after some supporters of the plan claimed the former candidate for Governor backed it. "But I do not support it. I don't support implementing the Missouri Plan in any county where it is not currently used," Steelman went on.

Earlier, backers of the plan had said Steelman supported the Non-Partisan court push.

James Harris of Better Courts For Missouri, a group opposed to the plan said that Republican candidate for Governor, Kenny Hulshof's support for Question 1 only tells half the story. "Hulshof has called for sweeping judicial reform at the state level because he like Governor Blunt recognize the personal injury attorneys have too much influence in the selection process," said Harris.

Still, Hulshof did announce at the Springfield Bar Association meeting last month that he backed Greene County's Non-Partisan Court Plan. He then went on to lay out some concerns with the Missouri Plan itself, which is used to select Supreme Court Judges.

Instead of electing judges, the Non-Partisan Court plan would set up a panel to select judges based on merit. That panel would include 2 citizens appointed by the Governor, 2 attorneys voted on by Greene County Lawyers and the chief appeals Judge. That panel would come up with a list of three names for appointment, and present that list to the Governor.

In her e-mail, Steelman went on to say that she supports the Missouri Plan with some changes, "specifically more transparency."

Chip Sheppard, a Springfield attorney who supports the Greene County plan, has said that the opposition group, Better Courts For Missouri, lacks transparency in its own organization. Sheppard describes Better Courts as "shadowy." "Lobbyist James Harris won't disclose to anyone, who is giving the big money he is spending," Sheppard said. "I think (that) violates Missouri Ethics Law," he added.

Better Courts and other opponents think the Missouri Plan, and the Greene County Non-Partisan Plan gives undo influence to trial attorneys. After Gov. Matt Blunt appointed Judge Zel Fisher to the Supreme Court this week, Harris used the opportunity to criticize the selection process. "It is obvious that more qualified applicants were not nominated, leading us to believe that political favoritism and strong bonds to MATA (Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys) were the qualifications that propelled Judge Fisher to his newly secured position," Harris said in a release.

Harris stresses to The Notebook that it's the same "Missouri Plan" that will be implemented in Greene County unless its defeated, "not some modified statewide version." In an effort to ramp up their efforts against the initiative, Springfield conservative Larry Russell has launched a website http://www.stopquestion1now.com/.

"Greene Countians have been electing judges for decades, and it works for us, so I don't see any reason to import the problems of St. Louis and Kansas City just become some rich trial lawyers would rather pick judges themselves," said Russell, who is past president of the Missouri Republican Assembly.

For more on the debate over the plan, click HERE and HERE.

McCain Camp Ramps Up Robocalls

The message being sent to voters in the Ozarks links Barack Obama to former domestic terrorist Bill Ayers.

Watch the KY3 NEWS @ 10 REPORT HERE
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"It's scary to me because I'm afraid somebody's going to take this literally. There's a lot of people that aren't rational and could do something horrific, that's what scares me," says Springfield independent voter Carol, who asked her last name be withheld for fear of retribution for complaining.
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BUT HOW EFFECTIVE ARE THE AUTOMATED CALLS?
"I don't think we'd even declare its effective. I think what we can say is its cheap, because you don't have to pay callers to do it, and you can say anything you want," says Missouri State University professor of Political Communication Elizabeth Dudash. "I don't know anyone who is necessarily pro-Obama who is going to go, oh yeah, he's a terrorist, I'm out of here," Dudash goes on, adding that it's probably more effective reinforcing impressions among the base.
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THE FACTS ON AYERS:
Ayers & Obama did serve on the same Chicago charity board in the 1990s and Ayers did host a campaign event for Obama during his 1995 state-senate run. When Ayers co-founded the militant group the Weathermen in 1969, Obama was 8 years old.
FAIR POINT FROM THE RIGHT?
Pat Buchanan on MSNBC's Hardball: "Suppose we had a Klan bomber, who had bombed churches, black churches in the 60s, unrepentant and said, 'I wish I had done more,' . . .you would not let me get away without ramming that home, saying 'what are you doing, hanging around with trash like that?'"

Rasmussen: Nixon By 19

GETTING UGLY

Rasmussen Reports:

Nixon 57%, Hulshof 38%

Poll Taken Tuesday of 700 Likely Voters, 4% Margin of Error

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Nixon gets 91% of his party's backing; Hulsof only attracts 78% of Republicans

62% view Nixon "favorably," just 46% view Hulshof "favorably"

Nixon holds "dominating edge" among unaffiliated voters, according to the pollster

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Calls to several Republicans Friday show the public polling matches the private polling. Some are hearing internals ranging from an 18 to 22 point deficit for their nominee. Republicans increasingly see Hulshof's job as to fight "the good fight," in markets he can afford to, in order to help save other Republican candidates down ballot from an electoral massacre. As one G.O.P. politico told The Notebook, "This is worse than Watergate . . . Believe the numbers."

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Also, earlier this week, another "McNixican" signals a defection. Lawrence County Republican Theresa Sumners writes: "In watching the debate in July between Sarah Steelman and Kenny Hulshof, I already had made the decision if Treasurer Steelman was defeated by Congressman Hulshof that would indeed be voting for Nixon in the General Election. I am a Republican, and this is the first time I will have ever voted for a Democrat. My decision is solely based on experience. Jay Nixon has done a superior job as our Attorney General, I can't say the same for Kenny Hushof in his role as Congressman. I have several other people who are Republicans, tell me they are voting for Jay Nixon as well."

Fmr. Prosecutor Graves Files Ethics Complaint Against Page

Former U.S. Prosecutor Todd Graves has filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) against Democratic candidate for Governor Sam Page for receiving a campaign contribution from a foreign national.

On October 4th, Page received a $10,000 contribution from Waverly Glen, a medical equipment company that's address was listed in Vaughan, Ontario Canada. Federal law bars candidates from accepting campaign contributions from non-citizens or other foreign groups.

In a letter to the FEC Friday, Graves, a Republican attorney, said that Page's acceptance of this contribution "presents a rare but serious violation of our country's long-standing ban on foreign contributions in U.S. elections."

"The subject donation appears to have been made with a check drawn on a foreign company's bank account (not any U.S. subsidiary)," wrote Graves. "Rep. Page's campaign apparently received it in an envelope bearing a Canadian address. Because Rep. Page nonetheless represents that the source of funds is not foreign, I believe this is a knowing and willful violation, and am sending a copy of this complaint to the United States Department of Justice for its concurrent investigation."

Thursday night, a person close to the Page campaign called it a clerical error and the campaign filed an amended report Friday. The report now lists the address as from St. Louis, not Canada.

Page is locked in an increasingly competitive race for Lieutenant Governor with incumbent Republican Peter Kinder.

EXCLUSIVE: Sarah "Barracuda" To Visit The Ozarks

UPDATE 5:54 P.M. MCCAIN CAMPAIGN SAYS NOTHING SET IN STONE YET; KY3 GOV. DEBATE COULD COMPLICATE VISIT

Two G.O.P. sources tell the KY3 Political Notebook that Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin will visit the Ozarks next Friday.

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The sources say Palin will most likely stop in Springfield, but the campaign is also contemplating an Interstate 44 tour that could involve two stops. Both stops would be in the Ozarks. Both Joplin and Springfield are being considered.

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McCain Regional Press Secretary Wendy Riemann says no visit is yet set in stone, and that the schedule remains fluid. Riemann adds that there's a push to get McCain or Palin into the state within next week, but that no Springfield visit is confirmed on her schedule yet.

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ANOTHER G.O.P. SOURCE ADDS: KY3's Scheduled Debate for Governor next Friday between Kenny Hulshof and Jay Nixon could complicate the planning for a Palin visit. "Does the G.O.P. really want to step on Kenny on Friday? They need to rework this."

Official itinerary and details are still being worked out. Presidential campaign schedules a week before any visit this close to the election are extremely fluid.

DEVELOPING . . .

10 Things We Won't Miss In 18 Days

1. Campaign conference calls, every other hour

2. The paranoia and control-freakishness of the staffers on the ground for Team Obama

3. Joe The Plumber

4. Anything involving the slogan "Change"

5. E-mails about Obama's citizenship

6. Voicemails that have no time to be returned

7. Campaign spokespeople kissing up (after they win, there's a noticeable "we don't need ya anymore" change in demeanor)

8. Debates

9. Parodies of debates, debates over debate rules

10. "Thanks, but no thanks."

Your nominees?

Hulshof's 2-fer

"Got Extra Money? Jay Nixon Thinks You Do."

The latest television ad by Republican candidate for Governor Kenny Hulshof splits his messages into two separate spots. The first is 13-seconds, offering a quick rebuttal. The second is 17-second, focusing what seems to the be line of attack Hulshof will use against Nixon the remainder of the campaign. The first refutes an ad by Jay Nixon right now that blames the financial crisis on Hulshof. Nixon's charge is over the top, but Hulshof's response is to call that "ridiculous," because he voted against the federal bailout twice. It's true he voted against the bailout -- but that was obviously after the financial crisis had begun. What and who helped cause it to get to this point? Interesting that Hulshof doesn't go back into the messy details to address the previous trade votes Nixon has been hitting him on. The second 17-seconds is more creative, hitting Nixon on spending your money. It wasn't too long ago the Sarah Steelman was making the same argument against Kenny Hulshof. Earlier this fall, Nixon took that same playbook to define Hulshof. Now Hulshof is trying to turn the tables. It seems over the past few days, the Hulshof campaign has found it's line of attack: Nixon's programs will cost too much. He's a big spender. Hulshof's now got 17 days to beef it up, and sell it.

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A RESPONSE TO AN EARLIER POINT:

On the spending issue, Nixon's campaign says Hulshof seems to be confused about the cost of his own healthcare plan.

From Nixon's Oren Shur:
"Congressman Hulshof appears to be confused about the cost of his own health care plan. His campaign admitted it would really costs 500 million in state funds, not the 50 million he said today. Fuzzy math, I guess. So the Congressman's plan costs more than Jay Nixon's, but cover fewer Missourians."

Lager's Up

Republican candidate for Treasurer Brad Lager is up with his first television ad. Pretty boilerplate. Good production value. Simple, clean message. I balanced the budget. I cut waste. I reduce spending. The crusade against spending seems to be catching on this year, huh? Again, no mention of party, just a hearty promise: "I'll watch over every dollar, every day because they are not just tax dollars, they're our dollars."

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Lager faces Democrat Clint Zweifel in the General Election. We've yet to see Zweifel hit Springfield TV.

Lampe: Crack Down on Corporate Taxes, Cut Ethanol Subsidies

How to help pay for Medicaid?

Springfield Rep. Sara Lampe proposes cracking down on unpaid corporate taxes and cutting ethanol subsidies.

Watch more of our interview with Lampe above.

Wrong Number

Angry viewers flood KY3 with complaints about anti-Obama robo-calls linking the Democratic nominee to Bill Ayers and terrorist acts.

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Who's robo-calling you?

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DEVELOPING . . .

***If you have received a robo call from a candidate or special interest recently, let us know from who and if you saved the message by e-mailing me at dcatanese@ky3.com

New & Improved

If you haven't yet, check out our revamped political page at ky3.com.

It's still being built. But we've added candidate profiles and are in the process of sprucing it up to make it cleaner and more user-friendly.

It's under our Decision 2008 tab.

Better late than never, right?