Beaten to the Punch by Rep. Clyburn

I found an article written by Congressman James Clyburn (D-SC) in 2006, that follows the same logic of the post I made on Friday.

Why I am a Democrat

(The following subject matter has been weighing on my heart lately. I hope I capture in words the inspiration that has been given me.)

Not long ago, I began a journey to seek out a greater relationship with God. This was not the first time I had traveled this path; I had explored various religions in college, as many do. But, finding no perfect fit, I settled on a non-religious spiritualism. The past year or so, I've been desiring more, however, feeling an emptiness that I knew only God could fill.

I began my quest by looking for churches in my neighborhood, and researched various doctrines on the Internet. And subsequently, I decided to visit my neighborhood's Baptist churches because of the Baptist church's long history of struggle for social justice, a cause dear to my heart, and the openness of the Baptist church.

Since I began my run for Alderman, I've visited more than just Baptist churches. I feel it is instrumental to understanding people to first understand their belief structures.

There are no coincidences in life; everything happens for a purpose and could not have happened in any other way or at any other time--it is all a part of His plan, and we all play our roles. In my visits to our neighborhood's various houses of worship, I found unifying themes each week from each of the religious leaders' sermons. While none of them read from the same verses, not to mention the same books, each week my heart was spoken to on some central message.

I am certain that God has used the politics in my life to draw me closer to Him.

Now, I could say that I am a Democrat because I believe in social justice and protection for all, but greater than that I am, in fact, a Democrat because I am a Christian. I am a Democrat because my social concerns are the same lessons that Jesus taught his followers, and the thousands of listeners, over two thousand years ago. Jesus taught us to love one another and to be in service to one another. Jesus taught us that it is not for us to judge one another, but to be tolerant. Jesus taught us to help those among us with the least ability to help themselves. These are the same principles to which most Democrats ascribe, regardless of their individual religious practices or beliefs. And, that is why I am a Democrat.

St. Louis Sample Ballot for March 3, 2009

In my last post I stated that all further posts during my campaign would be made at the campaign website. But, as it is my tradition to issue a sample ballot for up-coming races, I am posting one more time on this blog during my campaign.


Mayor
Francis Slay*
Irene Smith
Denise Watson-Wesley Coleman

Alderman - 1st Ward
Charles Quincy Troupe*
Sharon Tyus

Alderman - 3rd Ward
Velma Gene Bailey
Freeman Bosley, Sr*
Jefferey Hardin
S. Woods

Alderman - 5th Ward
April Ford Griffin*
Brenda Berry Simpson

Alderman - 19th Ward
Marlene E. Davis*
Michelle Ingram Lawrence

Alderman - 21st Ward
Bennice Jones-King*
Kerry D. Wilson
Antonio French

Alderman - 23rd Ward (open seat)
Joe Vacarro
Mary Homan
Colleen M. Bridges
Judi Roman
Kevin R. Toal
Doug Dick
Forrest V. (Woody) Lange

Alderman - 25th Ward (open seat)
Angie Singler
Shane Cohn
Travis Reems
Debbie Kotraba

*Denotes incumbent

Faith in a Ward United

To accommodate the different needs of a campaign website from a general blog, such as this one, I've established www.WardUnited.com. All further posts during the campaign will be made there. Thank you for visiting.

Travis Reems Runs for Alderman

Last night at 5:00 pm, I filed with the St. Louis City Board of Election Commissioners as a Democratic candidate for the office of Alderman of the 25th ward. I was joined by Tom Zych, former President of the Board of Aldermen, and grandfather of my fiancee, Miranda.

Arriving just prior to me was Debbie Kotraba, and leaving as I was arriving was Shane Cohn. Angie Singler was the first of the four of us to file, and did so in November, when filing opened.

For the past few years, residents of the 25th ward, who have seen my involvement in the community have asked me to run, and many city-wide have speculated that one-day I would run. I have held the question whether to run or not closely in my heart. I was, in fact, working for Alderwoman Dorothy Kirner on her re-election when she and I had a discussion in which she told me she decided not to continue her bid for re-election. We had a very long discussion about her, me, the ward and life. Dorothy is very dear to me, much like a grandmother.

It was based on that discussion and the requests of other neighbors and friends to run, that I decided to run for Alderman. Also, seeing the qualifications of the other candidates that were expected to file, I felt I owed my community an Alderman that could hit the ground running, with experience in government, politics and community involvement. Some of my fellow candidates have some of those traits, but none have all of them. And the 25th ward needs someone that can get to work on day one.

Over the next two months, I will be rolling out positions and plans on various subjects. So, check back often to see the latest. And, I would greatly appreciate any contributions you could make to my campaign.

Please send contributions to:
25th Ward to Elect Travis Reems for Alderman
3120 Providence Place, Suite A
Saint Louis, MO 63111

It's Morning in America

"We the People," is an often referred to passage of the United States Constitution, because of its power. Phrases like "power to the people" and "of the people, for the people and by the people" attempt to capture the same power, but fall short. The power of "We the People" comes not only from what the phrase says, but also how it sends that message.


One could very easily overlook the fact that in the original writing, the 'P' in "People" is capitalized. This is neither by happenstance, nor by error. The framers of the Constitution saw "We the People" referring to not a group of individuals, but rather an institution--a fourth branch of government, if you will--more powerful than the Congress, the Supreme Court and the President. In fact, the Constitution states that all powers not explicitly granted to one of the other three branches is reserved to the People. Other rights were explicitly enumerated as belonging to the People.


One such right, is the choice of the President of the United States of America. Every four years, we exercise that right. Today is that day.


We've been handed by our forebearers an American history book that dates back to the earliest foundings of the various colonies on this continent. That history book contains struggles, advances and even setbacks, as this nation grew to fully comprehend its destiny as the model nation for new concepts, such as republican democracy, human and civil rights, freedom and above all else, true equality among brothers and sisters.


This day, we have a choice to either turn the page in America's history book and begin a new chapter of advancement of those ideals upon which this nation was founded, or chronicle another setback.


We sit at the doorstep of a new era in American history. We have been presented a choice of two divergent futures: one future drawn of progress upon a page of hope, and the other written in the language of division and fear.

We the People have been presented this choice before in our history. At times we've made the decision for progress, and at other times, we've taken the shameful path away from our conscience.

But in this decision, on this day, we must choose advancement of those ideals we hold so dear as to define us as a people. On this day, in this place in history, we must choose Barack Obama as our next President.

McCain, Tested and Failed

By now, everyone knows that Senator Barack Obama is a christian and a former member of South Side Chicago's Trinity United Church of Christ. And, that Reverend Wright, pastor of that church, is an outspoken community advocate for the black struggle in America.

Senator John McCain and his campaign has long known that, and earlier this month McCain declared that Reverend Jeremiah Wright is a subject that is off limits for attack by his campaign.



TV ads began running recently that use Reverend Wrights statements to draw a picture of Obama as a radical.



Obama made a very public statement (see videos at the end of this article) as to why it is wrong to ask that he distance himself from Reverend Wright, regardless of his views and statements. And, when Reverend Wright made comments that Obama could not sit with, not only did Obama resign his membership from that church in May, but also denounced those comments.



So, either McCain is a liar, or he simply cannot control his people anymore than he can his running-mate. McCain has previously run ads that Obama is untested and not ready to lead, when in reality this example shows that McCain has been tested and has failed that test. Just another reason to vote for Barack Obama tomorrow.

Senator Barack Obama's views on race:
Part 1/4


Part 2/4


Part 3/4


Part 4/4

Save the Judges

An often forgotten portion of the upcoming ballot is toward the end, just before the propositions and constitutional amendments--the retention of Circuit Court Judges.

For those unfamiliar with the court system in the state of Missouri, every county, and the City of St. Louis (not being within a county) is contained within one of the state's 45 Circuit Courts. Many lesser populated counties are grouped together within circuits, and the larger ones, such as the City of St. Louis, are circuits unto themselves. All circuits elect the judges of the Circuit Courts, with the exception of Jackson County's 16th Circuit, which comprises most of urban Kansas City, the City of St. Louis' 22nd Circuit and St. Louis County's 21st Circuit.

Under the non-partisan court plan, the 16th, 21st and 22nd Circuit Court Judges, and Associate Judges, and the state Supreme Court's Judges are all appointed. The non-partisan court plan is aimed at removing politics from the judicial system. And, as we observe in the highly partisan and often very nasty judicial elections in Illinois, it might just be a good thing. We the governed are allowed a voice in the retention of the judges, however.

On the November 4th ballot in the City of St. Louis for retention are the following judges: Thomas C. Grady, David L. Dowd, Julian L. Bush, John L. Riley, Steven R. Ohmer, Timothy J. Wilson and Calea Stovall-Reid, Associate Circuit Judge.

Some voters decide that since they have no information about the judges on the ballot for retention, to vote against the entire slate. It is an unfortunate side-effect of the non-partisan court plan that the voters are given such little information about the judges. But that is not an adequate reason to vote against the entire slate.

Other than my experience as a juror in Judge Tim Wilson's court, I do not know any of the judges. But, based on the information presented at the Missouri Bar's website (each of the links associated with the judges' names), I support the retention of all of the above, and hope you will as well.

McMillan Rallies Troops for Obama

The following was penned by License Collector Michael McMillan:

Good Afternoon Everyone,

I need your help once again! Our country needs your help once again! Barack Obama and the statewide Democratic Party need your help once again!

We are only nine days away from the most historic election in our lifetimes. We cannot afford to be spectators. Our economy, health care system, educational opportunities, judicial nominees, wars, standing in the world and many other critical issues are at stake. A McCain-Palin victory would be four more years of the failed policies that got us into the crisis that our nation finds itself in today.

I am asking each of you to join me next Saturday, November 1, at the Obama headquarters to canvass or work in the office and recruit 10 people to join us with a minimum goal of 5. I'm asking that everyone show up between 11:30 and 12 to work from 12-5 with dinner served afterwards in the office. The office is located at 3126 Olive. I would strongly urge that you stay the entire time but would be glad to have as much time as you can spare.

This is the LAST weekend that we have to make a difference. How would we all feel if Missouri was in the McCain column and put him over the top for his Presidency knowing that we could have made the difference at this critical time?

Please join me in helping next Saturday and volunteering for election day. I look forward to hearing from you with regard to your progress and working together to benefit our city, state and nation.

Thank you,
Michael McMillan

Public Policy Updates for November 2008

The following is from the desk of State Representative Jeanette Mott Oxford:

As this column goes to press, we are days away from an historic General Election. However it turns out, those elected will need our prayers and support to face the many challenges that lie ahead for our state and nation. It will take great wisdom, creativity, and character to safely negotiate the rough waters created by the financial crisis, the federal deficit, the overwhelming number of uninsured people, the continued sorrow of our wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and many other pressing issues. May those who win on Nov. 4 seek solutions that will truly promote the common good and justice for all.

Here are a couple of announcements about important changes here in Missouri.

Minimum Wage to Increase in January 2009

Missouri’s minimum wage will jump 40 cents on Jan. 1 to $7.05 an hour, the Missouri Department of Labor announced on Oct. 3. Under a 2006 minimum wage law approved by voters, the wage is adjusted annually based on inflation.

The ballot measure set the state’s base minimum wage at $6.50 an hour. The first inflationary adjustment took effect this year, bumping the wage slightly to $6.65 an hour. The pending 40-cent jump is due to a 6 percent increase in the Consumer Price Index from July 2007 to July 2008.

Later next year, however, the state minimum wage will be superseded by the federal minimum wage, which will increase to $7.25 an hour from the current $6.55 an hour effective July 24, 2009.

Zel Fischer Named To Fill Supreme Court Vacancy

Republican Gov. Matt Blunt on Oct. 15 appointed Atchison County Associate Circuit Judge Zel Fischer to the Missouri Supreme Court. Fischer, a Republican who was elected to the trial bench in November 2006, replaces Judge Stephen Limbaugh Jr., who resigned in July to become a federal district judge.

Fischer, 45, of Tarkio was one of three finalists for the post selected by the Missouri Appellate Judicial Commission, which under the state constitution chooses nominees for vacancies on the state Supreme Court and Court of Appeals. The other finalists were Lisa White Hardwick and Roy Holliger, both judges on the Missouri Court of Appeals Western District who were appointed by Democratic governors.

Jeanette Mott Oxford
MO House of Representatives (District 59)

Capitol: 201 West Capitol Avenue
Jefferson City, MO 65101-6806
573-751-4567; jeanette.oxford@house.mo.gov
Home: 2910 Lemp Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63118-1716
314-772-0301; jmo4rep@juno.com

St. Louis Sample Ballot

With the election a little more than 2 weeks away, I am posting my preferences for election. Normally, I only post a sample ballot during the primary, because in the general, I vote for Democrats or as Montgomery Brewster urged, "None of the above." But this general, I've decided to make my preferences public by highlighting key candidates that have an opponent on the ballot two weeks from tomorrow. In top-down fashion, those preferences are as follows:

Barack Obama for President - In no previous decade has it been possible for an African-American to be elected President of the United States. And, if that weren't reason enough to vote for Senator Obama, his compelling vision to carry this nation into a new era--one free from hatred, bigotry and class warfare. He is both the promise and the fulfillment of that promise.

Jeremiah "Jay" Nixon for Governor - After 4 years of Blunt-trauma, we need a new direction. State Attorney General Nixon has not gained many friends in the city of St. Louis due to his defence of the state's position on the school desegregation funds, but in the execution of those duties, he showed his ability to do the right thing over doing the popular thing.

Robin Carnahan for Secretary of State - Far from resting on her laurel's (or family name), our Secretary of State has worked very hard to create a no-controversy atmosphere in her office. The Secretary of State's office is one that is prone to fraud and malfeasance, but not under Carnahan. She has earned to be returned to office.

Bill Haas for U.S. Representative (2nd) - Former School Board Member, Bill Haas, was somehow able to best his Democrat rival in the primary. It appears that the issues Haas has wrestled with in the past are truly in the past. While Haas may not be the ideal candidate, electing him is a much better option than returning his opponent. While I do not expect Haas to be victorious on the 4th, mostly for fundraising reasons, he truly is the better candidate and I urge those readers in the 2nd district to vote for him.

Russ Carnahan for U.S. Representative (3rd) - Congressman Carnahan has been a positive influence for his district and the state. His fresh thinking has helped push green initiatives, that are desperately needed in the city and in Missouri.

Joan Barry for state Senate (1st) - Joan and husband, Phil Barry, have decades of experience in Jefferson City as former state Representatives. Barry, a nurse, understands the critical level that the state's health care system is at. As good a candidate as Barry is, her opponent is equally scary. His views are regressive, repressive and better suited as a Halloween prank than a platform for a stat Senate candidate.

Robin Wright-Jones for state Senate (5th) - Currently a state Representative, Wright-Jones, has run on a platform of supporting public education and women's issues to the fullest degree.

Jeanette Mott Oxford for state Representative (59th) - No more progressive a candidate will you ever find than state Representative Jeanette Mott Oxford. As a former public policy advocate for progressive issues, she has continued her work in the state House.

Tishaura O. Jones for state Representative (63rd) - Former Committeewoman of the 8th ward, Jones lost that post due to her bid for this state Representative seat. Coming from a political family, this young lady is one to watch.

Rachel Storch for state Representative (64th) - As House Democratic Campaign Committee Chair, and a darling of the Democratic Party, politically savvy state Representative Rachel Storch should have no trouble defeating her general election opponent by at least the same 70 plus percent that she trounced her primary opponent in August. Storch is not just another rising star, but the rising star for Democrats in the St. Louis area.

Michael Vogt for state Representative (66th) - State Representative Vogt heads into his last possible term due to term limits, in his district that straddles the city-county line. Vogt is known to have served both his county and city constituents equally. Vogt has heavy-hitter campaign manager Greg Christian on board, which should make this an easy win for the team.

Vicki Lorenz Englund for state Representative (85th) - This South County state Representative candidate has been working very hard for the last year (or so) to bring her issues to the voters of her district.

Kent Cunningham for state Representative (109th) - A family-farmer and agricultural researcher from Franklin County, Cunningham has spent the last 20 plus years serving his community. As a founder of the Labadie Sewer District, a 4-H project leader, a member of the Labadie Chamber of Commerce and a leader within his church, Cunningham has given more to his community than most, and in the process gain invaluable leadership experience that his opponent just can't match.

Larry Williams for city Treasurer - Under Williams' administration, the city has seen a boom of parking-derived funding to the city's coffers. Sound investing has been the calling-card of William's capable office.

Constitutional Amendment 1 - This amendment is aimed at not only disenfranchising non-native English-speakers and is clearly a shot-across-the-bow at immigrants, but is fundamentally unnecessary, as current provisions within the state Constitution have similar requirements. The true aim of this amendment is to increase right-wing voter turnout on election day, similar to the anti-gay marriage proposal a few years back. There should be a clear message sent to proponents that such intolerance will not be accepted, through a NO vote.

Proposition A - This issue is so widely debated recently, that an analysis of each point is merited:

• "repeal the current individual maximum loss limit for gambling;" and "prohibit any future loss limits;"- This would put Missouri gaming on par with destination locations like Tupelo, MS. Our state is losing out on tourism dollars from not only big gamblers, but also the buses of vacationers.
• "restrict the number of casinos to those already built or being built;" - Shortly after riverboat casinos were allowed in Missouri, there was a rush to build in Kansas City, with at least half a dozen in the metro-Kansas City area having been built. Within two years most had closed, due to limited market. Those that remained attracted more than just gamblers through community-like structures that housed restaurants, movie theatres, arcades and other attractions for the kids while the parents played their own games. Missouri has hit the limit of casinos it needs. Those currently operating still need to compete for gaming business, as is apparent in the competing marketing of Harrah's, Lumiere and Ameristar, in just the St. Louis market.
• "increase the gambling tax from 20% to 21%;" - When the ability exists to shift the tax burden to discretionary spending, such as gambling, and away from regressive taxes, such as sales tax, it should be utilized.
• "create a new specific education fund from gambling tax proceeds generated as a result of this measure...." and "require annual audits of the new fund;" - One point many skeptics of this measure have had is that voters have previously been promised that the increase funds from gambling (such as through the state lottery) would be allocated to schools, but that law-makers have instead diverted those funds to other expenditures. This provision within the measure would ensure that the new revenue would go exactly where promised.

The residents of Missouri and St. Louis, especially, are best served by a YES vote on this measure.

Proposition B (the establishment of Missouri Quality Homecare Council) - As our population ages, especially the baby-boomer generation, and as health care costs continue to skyrocket, the importance of home health care workers increases. Not only can home health care workers decrease the need for the elderly to move into assisted living facilities, which weakens our neighborhoods, but these use of Licensed Practical Nurses as home health care workers can reduce the costs associated with elder-health care. Finally, with the scandals of elder-abuse any ability for the state to monitor the quality of health care is vital. The residents of Missouri and St. Louis are best served by a YES vote on this measure.

Proposition C - Missouri was the last state in which a nuclear power plant was built, and with current speculation, it might be the state with the next built. Without debating the issue of nuclear power's risks and rewards, it is obvious that Missourians, as most Americans, are ever-ready consumers of electricity. Most power generated within Missouri comes from coal (86%), and less than 2% of our electricity is from renewable resources. This measure would require investor-owned electricity companies to generate or purchase at least 2% of their power from renewable resources by 2011 and 15% by 2021. Further rate increases related to this measure cannot exceed 1%. Currently, if you have solar panels that generate your electricity, you might generate more than you consume, but even if you are connected to the power grid, the electric companies in Missouri will not purchase your excess because they see you as competition. However, if in any month you consume more than you are able to produce, they will gladly send you a bill for the electricity they supply. This anti-competitive behavior discourages investment in renewable energy sources. So, this measure would level the playing field for sources, such as wind, solar, water and geothermal. The residents of Missouri and St. Louis are best served by a YES vote on this measure.

Rep. Nasheed to Hold Economic Conference

State Representative Jamilah Nasheed will be hosting a conference on the current economic crisis, and its effect on the St. Louis job and development markets on Friday, October 24, from 9 to 11 am, at Harris-Stowe State University.

For further details, see this attachment.

License Collector McMillan Organizes Canvass for Obama

The following is from License Collector Michael McMillan:

Good Evening Everyone,

I need your help! Barack Obama needs your help! The Missouri Democratic Party needs your help!

A small group of us just finished meeting with the field director of the Obama campaign for the 19th Ward. As a result of that meeting, we have committed to provide 50 volunteers for a canvass this weekend on Saturday from 12 noon until 5pm leaving from the Midtown headquarters at 3126 Olive.

We are asking that everyone arrive between 11:30 and 12 noon. This is the LAST weekend to register voters before this historic election. Please contact 10-15 people in the next 24 hours and ask them to help this weekend. We need everyone to have a minimum goal of 5 people to participate.

We cannot allow this election to go by without doing everything we can to help. If you have class or any other engagements, that doesn't stop you from soliciting people. We need your family, friends, neighbors, co-workers and everyone that you know to help. Please email me back and let me know your personal availability along with the status of your volunteer recruitment.

Thank you,

Michael McMillan
314-740-2222

Home Health & Renewable Energy

The following is from State Representative Jeanette Mott Oxford:

Five ballot measures will be decided along with national and state offices in the Nov. 4 election. Here are some details about Proposition B and Proposition C which I have endorsed:

Proposition B would create a Missouri Quality Homecare Council, an eleven-member public authority to ensure the availability and improve the quality of home care services by recruiting, training and stabilizing the personal care attendant workforce. The Council would consist of a majority of governor-appointed consumers and consumer advocates, providing them with a real voice to improve the home care system in Missouri and would fall under the Department of Health and Senior Services.

The Quality Home Care Council would recommend minimum qualifications and offer voluntary training for workers. It would also prepare Missouri’s long term care system for future growth and help contain Medicaid costs. In addition, it would allow workers to have a voice in the system through a union, if they elect to do so.

Similar councils have been created in several other states with positive results. Academic studies of one state’s program found that workforce turnover fell 57 percent over a five-year period. The supply of workers also increased by 54 percent, and consumers reported greater satisfaction with services following the wage and benefit improvements.

Proposition C is the Clean Energy Initiative which would require Missouri investor-owned electric utilities (Ameren, Empire, Aquila, and KCP&L) to get 15% of their electricity from renewable sources by 2021. Renewables are defined as clean sources of energy like wind, solar, landfill gas, biomass, and small hydroelectric projects. According to Missouri Coalition for the Environment, 26 states have passed a similar policy often known as a Renewable Electricity Standard (RES). Instead, Missouri has a voluntary standard that does not hold utilities accountable to use clean energy.

Currently, 86% of Missouri's electricity comes from coal, and pollution from these plants has been linked to asthma and lung disease. Coal fired power plants are also the biggest contributor to climate change, so finding cleaner ways to produce electricity is very important to our planet’s future.

Are you saying, “Sounds good, but what will it cost me?” The other states with this policy have not experienced rate increases. Instead, diversifying the power supply by developing America's homegrown renewable energy resources can help shield consumers from spikes in energy prices over time. And there’s an insurance policy for voters in the ballot language - the Clean Energy Initiative includes a 1% rate increase cap.

I urge you to vote yes on both Proposition B and C.


Jeanette Mott Oxford
MO House of Representatives (District 59)

Capitol: 201 West Capitol Avenue
Jefferson City, MO 65101-6806
573-751-4567; jeanette.oxford@house.mo.gov
Home: 2910 Lemp Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63118-1716
314-772-0301; jmo4rep@juno.com

Mayor's Race Buzz

More than one in attendance at Michael McMillan's fundraiser last night at the Fabulous Fox Theatre commented that the License Collector's speech sounded very much like the speech of a man running for mayor. With comments on our city's school system, race relations and regionalism, it is easy to see how one might think that McMillan, who has previously stated that he is not running, is still considering it.

Before the speech, other names were being floated in the room as possible candidates, including Attorney Eric Vickers, former fire Chief Sherman George, former Alderwoman Irene Smith, former President of the Board of Aldermen and state Reprentative Tom Villa and Circuit Court Clerk Mariano Favazza.

With filing opening a little more than 2 months away, we will see shortly who is in, and who isn't.

To the Hillary and Would-be Palin Supporters

I've been pondering of late whether or not to post my thoughts on Republican Vice Presidential nominee Sarah Palin--to bemoan the selfish within the Democratic party that would squander our chances of taking the White House, setting American on a right-course again and promoting real, progressive change. But reading the best part of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch--the comics--a couple of days ago, I realized I need not, as "Candorville" by Darrin Bell had done the job so eloquently, as follows:

[Click to Enlarge]

Mayor's Race Heating-Up

The primary for the Mayor's race is more than 6 months away, and without the 2008 elections having yet been decided, talk has begun about the potential mayoral candidates. Mayor Francis Slay has announced that he will be seeking a third-term, a feat not enjoyed by many St. Louis mayors. In fact, only 5 of the city's 45 mayors have enjoyed 3 or more terms, and only 2 since the Civil War.

There is a sizable list of possible candidates for the March 3, 2009, Democratic primary, and a few names are rumored to be seriously looking at running. Among those rumored to be looking at running are Circuit Court Clerk Mariano Favazza, state Representative Thomas Villa, and former President of the Board James Shrewsbury.

The Favazza name might sound familiar, even to those unfamiliar with the Circuit Clerk. Favazza recently ran his son for state Representative in the 65th district against incumbent state Representative Michele Kratky, and his brother for Committeeman of the 16th ward against incumbent Tom Hayes. Both of those campaigns were unsuccessful and were rumored to be tests of the Favazza name for a possible mayoral run. If Favazza were to run, he would likely draw heavily on his 10th ward (the Hill) ties and his 16th ward (St. Louis Hills) supporters.

The Villa name is almost a historic-landmark in St. Louis. State Representative Thomas Villa has spent 16-years (not contiguously) in Jefferson City as a state Representative, and is no stranger to running for mayor, as he attempted the run before in 1993, while he was President of the Board of Aldermen. His father, the late former Alderman Albert "Red" Villa, has been enshrined in a bronze bust in the Villa southside base of the 11th ward's Carondelete neighborhood, which Thomas Villa's nephew, Matt Villa, currently represents as Alderman. Thomas Villa has taken on an elder-statesman aire of late with his support of his recently elected successor, state Representative-elect Jacob Hummel. Further, Villa has engendered good-will with the northside by not running in the recent 5th district state Senate race, where many predicted he would win handily should he have run, which ensured that an African-American candidate would retain that seat. Villa, if he were to run for mayor, would likely draw on his strong 11th ward base, and significant northside reciprocal support.

Former President of the Board of Aldermen, James Shrewsbury, who has recently been seen at various political functions seems to be getting back in the swing of local politics, which means he might keep true to his words after his loss of the Presidency to Lewis Reed, that he will be back. Shrewsbury certainly has the name recognition and the ability to fundraise needed in order to mount a mayoral run. Those close to Shrewsbury haven't been willing to state how seriously he is looking at running. Shrewsbury would also draw heavily on his home ward of the 16th, where he served as a popular Alderman, and where he has kept-up his name recognition by making very public endorsements of candidates running in that ward.

All three of these possible candidates would draw on the southside base of Mayor Slay, and would likely garner support from the northside, which is rumored to be willing to vote for "anybody but Slay."

Although KMOX reported earlier this week that License Collector Michael McMillan has a start at the funds--over $300,000 currently on-hand--necessary to launch a successful bid for the Mayor's office, rumors have him sitting this one out. This leaves state Representative T.D. El-Amin as the only northside possible candidate rumored to be seriously looking at running. El-Amin, a junior state Representative, does not appear to have the northside base necessary to unify behind his candidacy. Add to that the fact that he was unable to pass any legislation during the past term, and there is serious doubt whether he could really run.

We will know soon enough who has the fortitude to run, when filing opens on November 24, 2008.

Lewis Reed's Got the Blues

President of the Board of Aldermen, Lewis Reed, is throwing a fundraiser at the 3rd Degree Glass Factory, this Friday, August 29th, from 6:30 to 10:30 pm.

Reed won't be the only beneficiary of the event, however. Reed is encouraging guests to bring non-perishable items, which will be donated to local food pantries.

Young Dems' Convention Watch Party

As seen on Fox 2 news, last night, at the Schlafly Bottleworks in Maplewood, the Young Democrats of Greater St. Louis cheered as they watched, via big screen TV, Senator Claire McCaskill give her speech at the Democratic National Convention.

McMillan Widely Supported

I received in the mail yesterday, my invitation to License Collector Michael McMillan's annual fundraising event. The host committee of no less than 235 members has many notable St. Louisans, including Joyce Aboussie formerly of Congressman Gephardt's office, former Mayor Freeman Bosley, Jr., Thomas Carnahan of Wind Capital, Alderwoman Marlene Davis, Mary "One" Johnson of real estate fame, Sal Martinez of the Monsanto Family YMCA, the Roberts brothers, Bill Schicker of McMahon Ford and Schicker Auto Group, Kim Tucci of the Pasta House and former state Supreme Court Justice Ronnie White.  This is just a small excerpt of the entire list, but it does show McMillan's diverse support.  With such support, McMillan could go far.

Those interested in attending the event or sending a donation should call (314) 652-1922.

November Election Will Include At Least Four Ballot Proposals

The following was penned by state Representative Jeanette Mott Oxford:

On August 5th Secretary of State Robin Carnahan certified two measures for the November 4 ballot that had been proposed by initiative petitions while rejecting three others. With the addition of two measures placed on the ballot by the General Assembly, Missouri voters will decide on at least four ballot proposals in November.

One of the initiative measures set to go before voters would repeal Missouri’s unique-in-the-nation casino loss limit of $500 per two-hour gaming session. It would also cap the number of casinos in the state at 13 and boost taxes on casino operators to 21 percent of gross receipts from the current 20 percent. The effort to place the measure on the ballot was funded by the gambling industry.

Another approved initiative proposal would change state law to allow home health care workers to unionize. The language for this measure will read:

Shall Missouri law be amended to enable the elderly and Missourians with disabilities to continue living independently in their homes by creating the Missouri Quality Homecare Council to ensure the availability of quality home care services under the Medicaid program by recruiting, training, and stabilizing the home care workforce?

The exact cost of this proposal to state governmental entities is unknown, but is estimated to exceed $510,560 annually. Additional costs for training are possible. Matching federal funds, if available, could reduce state costs. It is estimated there would be no costs or savings to local governmental entities.

Due to insufficient numbers of valid signatures, Carnahan rejected a proposed statutory change to require utilities to use more renewable energy and two separate, but related, constitutional amendments to restrict the use of eminent domain. The renewable energy proposal fell just 526 signatures short of the required number while the eminent domain measures missed the mark by nearly 29,000 signatures each. Groups that put these petition initiatives forward may appeal through the courts if they believe valid signatures were rejected, so one or both issues might still appear on the November ballot.

Also appearing on the ballot are two proposed constitutional amendments placed on the ballot by the General Assembly. The first was passed by the legislature in 2007 and would make English the official language of all governmental proceedings. (I voted no since no governmental proceeding has yet been conducted in any language other than English in Missouri, so this is a solution searching for a problem and not a worthy reason to amend our Constitution.) The other, which the legislature approved earlier this year, would alter existing constitutional provisions relating to the issuance of storm water control grants.

---

Travis' Note: The group pushing the renewable energy measure is planning to contest the rejection of the measure in court. So, hopefully we will see that measure on the ballot in November.

Surrounding Our Schools with Care expands in Year 2

The following was received via email from state Representative Jeanette Mott Oxford:


Members of the Board of Aldermen Join Reps & Senators
In Friendly Competition To “Surround Our Schools With Care”

What: Kick-off of Year Two of the Surrounding Our Schools With Care (SOS CARE) campaign

Who: (List in formation)
• State Senator Maida Coleman, St. Louis City, District 5 (Minority Floor Leader)
• State Senator Jeff Smith, St. Louis City, District 4
• State Representative Jeanette Mott Oxford, St. Louis City, District 59
• State Representative Jamilah Nasheed, St. Louis City, District 60
• Alderman Jeffrey Boyd, Ward 22
• Alderman Gregory Carter, Ward 27
• Sean Nichols, Director, Fresh Start at Turner School (a program to help dropouts graduate)

When: Monday, Aug. 18, 9:30 a.m. (the first day of school for St. Louis Public Schools)

Where: The Fresh Start Program at Turner School, 2615 N. Billups, St. Louis, MO 63113

Background: In the 2007-08 school year, several St. Louis City representatives and senators engaged in a friendly competition to bring volunteers and resources to the schools in their districts. In Year Two of the “Surrounding Our Schools with Care” (SOS Care), they will be joined by members of the Board of Aldermen. The Fresh Steps program will be highlighted as an example of collaboration.

Through SOS Care, elected officials join concerned citizens to find effective ways to work with the schools in their neighborhoods and to celebrate successes. SOS Care has five components:

• MOTIVATE – be a guest speaker and role model at schools and invite others to do so as well.
• COMMUNICATE - announce volunteer opportunities and school needs at meetings with neighborhood associations and area businesses, in newsletters, on websites, etc.
• CELEBRATE – honor students and staff for special achievements and help spread the good news of the many successes that occur within SLPS.
• LEGISLATE - co-sponsor legislation to lift families out of poverty, to improve the quality of education, and to ensure that SLPS students have access to post-secondary education.
• “MATCHMATE” - act as a matchmaker between our schools and those who are able to provide needed supports identified by each school.

Note: Additional elected officials may join the press conference; watch for announcements of names as speakers and attendees are added.

Oil Terrorism by the Republican Party

If the Republicans can't scare you into voting against Barack Obama with the terror that he is to blame with rising gas prices, they will just buy your vote with cheaper gas prices just before the election, again. I wrote about this subject nearly two years ago. And, the Republicans, the party that has been in control of both energy policy and foreign policy for the past 7 years, are at it again.

Considering the fact that gas prices have been on a steady increase over the past 6 months, it seems convenient that going into the Presidential election they consistently retreat from their all-time highs over the past month, according to St. Louis Gas Prices.com.



We saw this two years ago, as well.


And, as we saw two years ago, right after voters go to the polls, the prices will return to their skyrocketing trajectory. What I wrote in 2006, still holds true today, just increase all of the dollar values:

If we look at the local gas prices, which certainly effect most St. Louisans in the pocket book, we will note that over the last three five years prices have continued to climb from an average of $1.24 per gallon of regular unleaded gas to $3.07 $4.02 on July 26 17, of this year. Since the end of July, prices have continuously declined to today's average of $2.11 $3.53. And, prices will continue to lower as we near the November elections. After all, voters feel like they are getting a bargain at nearly $2 $3.50 per gallon when in recent memory they were paying over $3 $4. And, when voters are content, they are more likely to stay the course and keep the status quo rather than risking change.

Fortunately, the tactic didn't work in 2006, when Democrats took back leadership of the US House, and hopefully, it won't work this year with not only a Presidential election at stake, but also our Gubernatorial, state Treasurer and state Attorney General races at contest.

Update on the 59th State House District

The following was received in email from state Representative Jeanette Mott Oxford:

Friends, Allies and Constituents -

My heartfelt thanks to all who went to the polls on Tuesday. I was grateful to receive a vote of confidence from 1696 voters on August 5 (in my uncontested primary). More importantly, I asked for your support (yard signs, donations, canvassing, etc.) for Robin Wright-Jones in Senate 5, and each action you took mattered and helped produce her victory by 111 votes. (Whew!) I will be meeting with Robin frequently so that we can press forward with a progressive agenda to improve the quality of life in St. Louis City and throughout Missouri.

Outcomes in Other Endorsed RacesCongratulations to the candidates I endorsed who won their primaries - Sam Page (lt. governor), Jim Trout (Senate 15), Jeanne Kirkton (House 91), and Cara Jensen (8th ward committeewoman).

I forgot to mention a final person I endorsed in my most recent e-mail: Judy Baker. Judy has been a wonderful House colleagues these past four years and is one of my best friends in Jefferson City. Judy ran in the Democratic Primary for Congressional District 9 in a four-way race and won with 44.1% of the vote, a very impressive victory. Now she must defeat Blaine Luetkemeyer, the GOP winner, in order to take back a seat from the GOP since Kenny Hulshof, the GOP-pick in the gubernatorial primary, has held that seat for several years. This race will attract national attention and is a key to increasing the Democratic majority in Congress. Judy is very worthy of your financial support or of your volunteer hours, and I hope you will take time to read about her at: http://judybakerforcongress.com/

Having lost in a close election before (my first try in 2000), my heart goes out to Margaret Donnelly whose appears to have lost my a razor-thin margin in the Democratic race for Attorney General. We all continue to watch developments there to see if any change may be forthcoming. Personally I'm leaving my yardsign up as a way to stand in solidarity with Margaret as we wait for the possible recount process.

I also congratulate Stacey Newman for her hard work in the 73rd House district where she lost 2301 to 1549 to Steve Brown. Stacey and I have worked side by side for justice for many years, and I was proud to endorse her. I have heard many good things about Brown and expect to work with him for positive change, especially on energy issues.

Good News in the Effort to Take Back the HouseDemocrats performed very well in many districts that the Republicans have held. Of course there are many factors to be considered in primary vote outcomes, but I am encouraged by these results in districts where Democrats hope to pick up a seat (and there are at least 20 that are in play; we need 11 to take back the majority):

In District 1 - GOP incumbent Brian Munzlinger (a champion for CAFO's and for the NRA) received 1929 vs. 3022 votes for his Democratic opponent Keri Cottrell. We can win this one! Keri is a teacher, and we need more teachers in the House. Help Keri by going to: http://www.electkericottrell.com/

In District 24 - GOP incumbent Ed Robb (who I have often locked horns with on various issues, especially tax policy) reeived 3615 votes. His Democratic challenger, Chris Kelly, a judge and former legislator, received 3772. The high turnout in that race was probably impacted by both the Congress 9 race (with two Columbia natives in it for the Dems) and the very competitive GOP gubernatorial primary. This will be a very close race, and I'd appreciate your help for Chris at: http://www.chriskelly24.com/

In District 85 - GOP incumbent Jim Lembke is vying for Senate 1 against Joan Barry to replace termed-out Sen. Harry Kennedy, so the race will be between Dem primary winner Vicki Lorenz Englund and Republican Cloria Brown. Vicki can win this race. Help her by going to: http://www.politicalgateway.com/cand.php?id=769

In District 122 - GOP incumbent Mike McGhee (who sponsored the redundant religious freedom constitutional amendment, which he framed as "school prayer", as well as legislation to protect the right to fly the Confederate flag) received 1684 votes. His Democratic challenger for November, Beth Grubb, received 2453. Let's keep her on top in November! I hope to have a website address to offer for Beth soon, but for now you can read more about this race at: http://blog.showmeprogress.com/showDiary.do?diaryId=623 There's also a helpful bio of Beth in the comments section there.

How can you help me and my colleagues in our effort to Take Back the House? Two ways:

1) Volunteer or donate to my campaign. E-mail jmo4rep@juno.com to volunteer. To donate, mail a check to:Citizens to Elect OxfordP. O. Box 19112St. Louis, MO 63118

2) Make out a check to the Missouri House Democratic Campaign Committee. I'll accept the checks at my P. O. Box or they may be sent directly to: MO HDCC, P. O. Box 2235, Jefferson City, MO 65102. Any checks for the HDCC that I receive by next Tuesday morning, August 12, I will hand-deliver to Rep. Paul LeVota of Independence, MO, our Caucus chair, who is visiting St. Louis that day. He is traveling throughout the state next week to congratulate our primary winners and to strategize about our Take Back the House Campaign. I'll even come to where you are to pick up a check for the HDCC if that's more convenient for you. Call me at 314-775-8940.

Community Announcements
I was pleased to be one of the speakers at the opening of a new Barack Obama Headquarters at 2715 Cherokee at 5 p.m. on August 7. Several voter registration drives are happening over the next few weeks, including one that Travis Reems is helping with in the 25th Ward this Saturday. (Go Travis and team!) Please help on the 9th or at another time by calling Jack Coatar, 314-324-9539, or e-mailing him at jcoatar@mocampaignforchange.org.

The International Institute invites us all to the International Festival at Tower Grove Park on Aug. 23 and 24. Two of the most wonderful things about the 59th House District are our rich ethnic diversity and the good work of the International Institute. Come out and enjoy on Aug. 23 & 24. See a promotional video at: http://www.youtube.com/IISTL

Got Bail? I will be arrested and locked up on Aug. 27 - but don't panic - it's for a good cause - the Muscular Dystrophy Association. If you'd like to help bail me out, go to: https://www.joinmda.org/.../Default.aspx

From Kat Logan Smith at Missouri Coalition for the Environment: Will Godar, a 2008 graduate from St. Louis Priory, is premiering his Senior Thesis, a film about Doe Run entitled "Unleaded" at the Chase Park Plaza Cinemas at Lindell and Kingshighway in St. Louis from 11 a.m. to 12 noon this Saturday, August 9th. The Chase Park Plaza Cinemas are inside the Chase Park Plaza Hotel. The running time is around 35 minutes. Godar will also be showing a "short" film (8 min) that he did in collaboration with ten other young St. Louis filmmakers, in competition with other young filmmakers. See a trailer for Unleaded at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRvnPS9y0CA.

Don't forget the Summer Cool Down event at Five Star Senior Center on Arsenal by Kutis, beginning at 10 a.m. on Aug. 12 and the Back to School Fair at Joint Neighborhood Ministry, 2910 McNair, on Saturday, Aug. 16.

JMO

Jeanette Mott Oxford
State Representative - 59th MO House District
314-771-8882 (home); 314-775-8940 (cell)
2910 Lemp, St. Louis, MO 63118
http://www.jmo4rep.com/

Humble Pie

All's quiet the morning after the primary elections, like the calm after a hurricane. Now it's time to survey the status of things and pick-up the pieces. Rivals of yesterday, are now comrades-in-arms heading into the November general elections. Maybe not yet, but in the making, or at least better be, or we Democrats won't do what is necessary to get our candidates elected at the state and national levels.

Reviewing last night's results, there are some surprises, at least to me. And, there are some upsets that might mean change is on the wind for some parts of town, if not the city as a whole.

Humble pie is on the menu this morning for breakfast. So, let's start with the race where I was wrong.

While it was very close, the 5th district state Senate race has been decided in state Representative Robin Wright-Jones' favor. During the race, in my support of state Representative Rodney Hubbard, I criticized Wright-Jones in two major areas. First, her campaign tactics, and those of her supporters, which used misleading and incomplete information to mischaracterize her opponent. And, for her inability to get legislation passed in the state capitol.

I support state Representative Robin Wright-Jones fully for her bid for the 5th district state Senate seat against her Libertarian opponent. Further, being a constituent of the 5th district, I will endeavor to assist Wright-Jones to getting her legislative agenda passed, however I can.

This is the first time a candidate that I endorsed has not won, which is due in large part to the homework I do before I back a candidate. I am very humbled by the experience, and take no solace in the fact that the race was decided by a difference of 111 votes. As a side-note, this is a perfect example of every vote counting and the necessity of every citizen to be an engaged voter because decisions are made sometimes in the slimmest of margins.

As for the rest of the races, the winners were pretty clear from the outset.

State Representatives TD El-Amin, Jamilah Nasheed and Rachel Storch will all be returning to the state legislature, re-elected by wide margins--26.44%, 49.98% and 64.80%, respectively. State Representative Michele Kratky will also be returning, but faced a much more narrowly decided race.

They will be joined by freshman state Representative-elect Mike Colona (there is no opposition in November), who, in a 5-way race, received an overwhelming 42.68% of the votes--a decisive win which gives him the mandate he will need to reunite the district after a very brutal primary.

Another decisive victory was won by state Representative-elect Chris Carter with a massive 65.14% of the vote.

State Representative-elect Tishaura Jones will also be joining the freshman class, elected by a respectable margin, although she did lose her bid to retain her Committeewoman position of the 8th ward.

It was, in fact, the committeepeople races that offered, while not upsets in terms of unforeseen wins, upsets in terms of changing of the guard. The freshman-class of new committeepeople could well mean changes for not only their respective wards, but also the St. Louis Central Democratic Committee.

The new additions to the Central Committee are Johnnie Saddler, 3rd ward; Tammika Hubbard, 5th ward; Cara Jensen, 8th ward; Greg Christian and Jan Clinite, 15th ward; Ellen Todd, 18th ward; Michael McMillan, License Collector, 19th ward; Antonio French, 21st ward; Andre Williams, 22nd ward; Angela Newsome, 26th ward; and Chris Carter, 27th ward.

Committeepeople James Clayborne, Norma Leggette, Lucinda Frazier, Fred Steffen, Tom Hayes, Louis Tonkovich, Jesse Todd and Joe Palm. The rest of the wards did not have contested races, including the 7th ward, which returned Central Committee Chairman, Brian Wahby, to his post.

Congratulations to all the winners. It's time to take-on the Republicans (or, Greens or Libertarians, as the case may be). Onward to November.

Musings on Election Day

Today's political races in the city aren't the only hot tickets in town; it is a scorcher out there. Currently in my neighborhood it is 90 degrees with a heat index of 98, according to the Weather Channel's Weather.com. The website is currently forecasting a high of 93 with a heat index ("it feels like") of 104 degrees.


Anecdotally, the voter turnout seems to be higher than usual. I credit not only the Presidential race, which is not on today's ballot but is creating greater political awareness among the masses, but also the state-wide races.


Margaret Donnelly, candidate for state Attorney General, stopped by my polling place in the 25th ward. She said that her staff had targeted polling places in areas with contested races, like the 5th district state Senate race. I told her that she might want to also visit my ward's other polling place (we only have 2 for the 4 precincts) since there is a contested state Representative race in that area. I was wearing a Jeff Harris for Attorney General lapel sticker at the time, so I'm not sure if she took my advice or not.


As for the 5th district race, I was alone handing out literature for a candidate in that race. My ward and I endorsed state Representative Rodney Hubbard for that state Senate seat. Hubbard's opponent, state Representative Robin Wright-Jones, had an out-of-town union organizer at the polls for about an hour before he left. His replacement, an Illinois resident, dropped by for a few minutes and then left, herself. So much for ardent supporters.


Before my mid-day replacement came, I was able to snap this photo of a very new method of voter turnout. Now, I've seen yard signs in front of abandoned buildings and boarded-up store fronts, but never in front of port-a-potties.



Or, maybe this is a suggestion of where a vote for that campaign is going.


Well, I'm back to the polls in a few hours to finish out the day before my very busy night of victory celebrating begins, starting-off with National Night Out at Cleveland High School. Come join us, if you can make it.

Free and Fair Elections

The following came to me as an email:

From: Denise Lieberman,
Local Senior Attorney
Missouri Voter Protection Advocate
Advancement Project
1730 M Street, NW #910
Washington, DC 20036
http://www.advancementproject.org/
dlieberman@advancmentproject.org
cell: (314) 780-1833

Message:
Call 1-866-OUR-VOTE (1-866-687-8683)
MISSOURI VOTERS' BILL OF RIGHTS
If you feel your rights have been violated, call toll free: 1-866-OUR- VOTE (1-866-687-8683) . This hotline is here to help all voters. It is completely non-partisan and does not support any candidate or issue.

1. You have the right to vote if you are in line when the polls close at 7 p.m. §115.407.

2. Photo ID is NOT Required. Voters must show identification to vote. §115.427.1. But it does not need to include your photo or your signature. You can present any one of the following:

• ID card issued by a federal, state or local government authority or agency;
• ID card from a college, university, vocational or technical school located in Missouri;
• current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck or other government document that contains your name and current address;
• driver’s license or state ID card from Missouri or another state; or
• voter identification card sent to you in the mail by the election authority.

Voters without ID can vote a regular ballot if personally known by two election judges (one from each party).

3. You have the right to cast a provisional ballot if your eligibility can’t be established. § 115.430.2. But a provisional ballot cast in the wrong polling place will not count. Make sure you are directed to vote at your correct polling place or at a central polling place.

4. You have the right to assistance to help you vote. §115.445.3. You can get help from an election official, or may bring any person of your choice (including a child, relative or friend) to help before, during or after voting. The assistant does not have to be over 18 or a registered voter. You may bring children into the polling place with you.

5. Voters with disabilities have a right to accessible voting. If your polling place is not accessible, poll workers must come to your car and let you vote curbside outside your polling place upon request. You have a right to an accessible ballot (voting machines tilt, move up and down, and are equipped with accommodations for the visually impaired). You may move to the front of the line if your disability prevents you from waiting in line.

6. If you have moved within the same county and have not been removed from the list of registered voters, you have the right to vote at a central polling place or at the polling place that serves your new address. § 115.165.2

7. If you make a mistake or "spoil" your ballot before you submit it, you can request a new one. § 115.439.4

8. If you were convicted of a felony other than one related to voting, and have completed your sentence (including any probation or parole), you have the right to register to vote and vote. § 115.133.4. The deadline is Oct. 8, 2008.

9. No one is allowed to try to influence your vote within 25 feet of the polling place. § 115.637(18). No one at a polling place may intimidate you.

10. You have a choice of voting systems. You can use a paper ballot or an electronic voting machine.

* Questions about Your Rights? Call: 1-866-OUR-VOTE *

Do Endorsements Matter?

Over the past two weeks, I've received 19 pieces of political mail from 10 different candidates, and their supporters in the form of independent expenditures. Looking at the montage of political literature, I noticed the expansive use of endorsements from PACs, unions, ward organizations and elected officials. But, do these endorsements matter to the recipient of the mail? Sometimes.

Last week, I was phone-banking for Mike Colona, the front-runner in the 67th district state Representative race, and I spoke with a man who told me that he didn't know much about the race, but was voting however his labor tribune and union suggested. This guy is not alone in this type of decision making behavior.

Countless times, as a poll-worker handing out the sample ballots for the 25th Ward Democratic Organization, voters coming to the polls have thanked me for giving them the sample ballot with suggestions on our ward's endorsed candidates.

Some would chastise voters such as these for not investigating all offices and issues on which they are voting. But often, people with busy lives do put their faith in others--their union, ward organization, well-known and elected officials--who have done the homework to vet the candidates and make an informed decision.

I decided to analyze two candidates' campaigns--state Representative Rodney Hubbard running for the 5th district state Senate and 67th district state Representative candidate Mike Colona--and their endorsements to see whether the endorsements could help them on Tuesday.

Let's first look at who is backing Hubbard. Hubbard has an all-star list of supporters, including St. Louis Democratic Party Chairman Brian Wahby, Congressman Lacy Clay, License Collector Michael McMillan, President of the Board of Aldermen Lewis Reed, Circuit Attorney Jennifer Joyce, Collector of Revenue Gregg Daly, state Senator Jeff Smith, state Representatives TD El-Amin and Jamilah Nasheed, the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 25th and 28th Ward Democratic organizations, the Laborers' Union, the Teamsters, the Firefighters, the Carpenters and Service Employees International Union.

Analyzing this support in reverse order, the unions should be able to provide legitimacy of Hubbard's candidacy and support of their labor issues to not only their members and other unions' members, but also to those concerned about the labor cause. Certain unions, such as the Firefighters are good for more than that--working for the candidate on election day and throughout the campaign to secure sign locations and volunteers. Finally, unions are typically good for a donation to the campaign. Hubbard has good representation from the unions, especially those known to work for their candidates.

Ward organizations and their committeepeople, while no longer controlling the city's body politic, as they once did, are still vital to candidates' poll working efforts. Each ward that endorses, will on election day, supply workers at the polls to distribute sample ballots containing the names and races of each candidate that ward has endorsed. Having wards' endorsements severely reduces the amount of volunteer and paid poll workers the candidate needs to organize directly. Further, the unattractive, avocado green sample ballot is far more effective at the poll with certain voters than any slick piece of political literature, as it offers legitimacy and 3rd party support. Hubbard having the endorsement of nearly every ward organization in his state Senate district, will have a much easier time reaching voters on election day and with a message that he is well supported by the Democratic Party.

And finally, the 3rd party support of one's elected peers can be the deal-sealer or kiss-of-death, depending on who that elected official is, and how well they are received in the target community.

Take for example Mayor Francis Slay, who rarely publicly endorses local races, but is otherwise a good example. His endorsement to a candidate in a Southwest-city state Representative race would be far more valuable than a North-city Alderman's race because he is far better received in his home base than he is on the North-side.

Hubbard's campaign manager, Antonio French, has been wise about his use of the elected officials' endorsements. While none of Hubbard's endorsers are negatively received in the city, they all have their base of support where they are more positively received. French has used this to his advantage by micro-targeting the use of literature with specific endorsements distributed to those areas where they are best received. With not only the number, but also the calibre of the elected officials endorsing Hubbard, anyone with whom those names hold sway will be voting Hubbard on Tuesday.

Hubbard has hit all three bases with the endorsements and now just needs to bring it home on Tuesday.

As for Colona, although a state Representative race is much smaller than a state Senate race, his endorsements are equally impressive. Colona is backed by former state Treasurer Nancy Farmer, state Representatives Rodney Hubbard, Mike Vogt, Jamilah Nasheed, Alderwoman Jennifer Florida, Democratic Committeepeople Greg Thomas, Alice Nicols, Beth Murphy, Fred Steffens, the 13th, 15th, and 25th ward Democratic organizations, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Carpenters' District Council, Fraternal Order of Police, Missouri National Education Association, NARAL, St. Louis Police Officers Association, Communication Workers of America, St. Louis Association of Retired Professional Firefighters, International Association of Firefighters, Missouri State Council of Firefighters and the Gas Workers.

As has already be seen, the Firefighters have been working very hard for Colona, as have the Police, two professions well respected by voters in the city. Add to that the endorsement of nearly all of the ward organizations in the district, and Colona will have significant advantage on Tuesday at the polls, as state Representative races rely more heavily on volunteer and ward poll workers than bigger district races, which rely more on paid poll workers. Colona has also sealed the deal with his A-list of elected supporters, all of which are well liked and respected in the 67th district. The endorsements along with Colona's hard work in this campaign has made it much easier for him to win on Tuesday.

As these two cases show, endorsements can matter depending on from whom the endorsement comes, what else will be given with the endorsement and how well the endorser is received by the targeted voters. And, in these two cases, the right endorsement mix will assure victories on Tuesday.

Signs Don't Vote, but Their Owners Do

There is an old campaign adage that yard signs don't vote, which means that just because a potential voter has a yard sign with your candidate's name on it, does not mean that they will necessarily vote for your candidate, if they vote at all. Also, consider the fact that some households are split between candidates, which is occasionally represented by multiple signs in the front yard.

With that in mind, yard signs do offer a fairly good indication of support base. Take for example Chris Carter's run for state Representative in the 61st district. The district is a sea of Carter yard signs. Does this mean that each one of those households is voting for Carter on Tuesday? Not necessarily, but it does show an overwhelming base of support, especially considering the utter lack of signs for either of his rivals.

I was able to find one sign for Anthony Bell, however. But it wasn't in the 61st district; it was at City hall, in the basement, near the trash.

The Darkest before the Dawn

With only 5 days left until the votes are in, we can see light at the end of the tunnel. But, as is often said, we are going through the darkest part of night, until the dawn. Not only is there a very high level of voter fatigue in the most contested races, but the last minute mudslinging has begun.

While American voters say they don't like negative politics, there is evidence that it does work. Most campaigns refrain from such tactics, unless the need arises out of desperation. In the two most hotly contested races in the city, we see plenty of mudslinging.

State Representative Robin Wright-Jones in her bid against state Representative Rodney Hubbard for the 5th district state Senate seat, both through her campaign and through independent expenditures of PACs is attempting to smear Hubbard. The most notable of the accusations is that Hubbard voted for passage of a bill that Wright-Jones herself, and her supporters, voted for. These last-minute attempts via mail are unlikely to sway the minds of voters, who in polls, have shown an overwhelming preference for Hubbard. Also, in the old days of campaigning such baseless attacks would go unanswered as there would be no time for a response, but in these new media days, such antiquated tactics will not work.

Heir apparent in the 67th district state Representative race, Mike Colona, is no stranger to such attacks such as those leveled by 10th ward blogger/gad-fly, Christian Herman, that Colona encouraged candidates to enter his race. Colona's campaign has made it clear that Colona not only did not encourage any of his competitors to enter the race, but has never met, nor seen, the one in question. And now, Retta Crawford, stalwart anti-Steve Gregali rabble-rouser, has paid for a last-minute mailing extolling Colona's client base in the legal industry of adult entertainment. Not only does this client of Colona's represent less than .05% of his total client-base, but the biased information being floated by these misinformation campaigns also leave out Colona's extensive work over the past 15 years fighting insurance companies on behalf of patients whose claims have been denied. Also absent from the mailing is that the St. Louis Policie Officers Association and the National Educator's Association (teachers) have endorsed
Colona.

Misinformation, half-truths and blatant lies are the calling cards of candidates that are behind in races. I suppose the adage that desperate times call for desperate measures holds true more now than ever.

Sample Ballot for August 5th

The elections are less than a week away. So, here is a list of candidates that will be on the Democratic ballot in the City of St. Louis, along with some suggestions, in order listed on the ballot.

Governor
Jeremiah (Jay) Nixon
Daniel Carroll

Lt. Governor
Sam Page
Michael Carter
Richard Tolbert
Becky Plattner
Mary Williams
Lillian Metzger

Secretary of State
Robin Carnhan

State Treasurer
Clint Zweifel
Mark Powel
Andria Simckes
Charles Wheeler

Attorney General
Jeff Harris
Molly Williams
Chris Koster
Margaret Donnelly

US House of Representatives - 1st
Lacy Clay

US House of Representatives - 3rd
Russ Carnahan

State Senate - 1st
Joan Barry

State Senate - 5th
Rodney Hubbard
Robin Wright-Jones

State Representative - 57th
Joe Palm
T.D. El-Amin

State Representative - 58th
James Morris*

State Representative - 59th
Jeanette Mott Oxford

State Representative - 60th
Jamilah Nasheed
Kimberly Gardner

State Representative - 61st
Chris Carter
Curtis Royston
Anthony Bell

State Representative - 63rd
Tishaura Jones
April Harris

State Representative - 64th
Rachel Storch
Mike Roberts, Jr.

State Representative - 65th
Michele Kratky
Michael Favazza

State Representative - 66th
Mike Vogt*

State Representative - 67th
Mike Colona
Emily Jo Pierce
Chad Beffa
Joan Landmann
Rob Stelzer

State Representative - 108th
Jake Hummel*
Art Gansner

Circuit Attorney
Jennifer Joyce*

Sheriff
Jim Murphy*
Ken Griffey

City Treasurer
Larry Williams*
Dan Schesch

In addition to the above, each ward in the city will be voting on the Committeeman and Committeewoman for that ward. Due to th number of wards and committeepeople, I will only list a few contested races, as follows:

Committeeman -16th
Tom Hayes*
Lou Favazza

Commiteewoman - 16th
Louise Tonkovich*
Erica Grissom

Committeeman - 21st
Antonio French*
Arthur Washington


*A website could not be located for these candidates. Please post one in the comments, if you know of one.

State Rep. Round-up

There are several very exciting state Representative races in the city, a few with multiple candidates, all with well-known incumbents or heir-apparents. Here is a brief primer on these races, in order of House district number:

57th - Incumbent state Representative T.D. El-Amin, committeeman of the 1st Ward, is facing Joe Palm, committeeman of the 26th Ward. The interesting turn in this race is that Palm's entry into this race has placed his position of committeeman at risk. Alderman Frank Williamson, of the 26th, is not only supporting incumbent El-Amin, but also has recruited a candidate to replace Palm. We see a similar event also occurring in the 63rd district (see below). I have no ear-to-the-ground on this race, other than my personal acquaintance with both of these men and their campaign styles.

60th - Incumbent state Representative Jamilah Nasheed is facing Kim Gardner, an attorney in the Circuit Attorney's office. Again, I have no ear-to-the-ground on this race, but I've never known Dave Chilenski, campaign consultant to Nasheed, to lose a race.

61st - Heir apparent, Chris Carter, nephew of Alderman Greg Carter and grandson of state Senator Paula Carter, is facing Curtis Royston, committeeman of the 27th Ward, and Anthony Bell. Carter obviously has name recognition, organization and resources at his disposal, whereas Royston has been feuding with his own committeewoman over the Rodney Hubbard state Senate race. I apologize, but I don't know of Bell. My gut tells me that resources, name and organization will win the day.

63rd - 8th Ward Committeewoman Tishaura Jones, daughter of former St. Louis City Comptroller, Virvus Jones, is faced by April Harris, who worked on Jim Shrewsbury's re-election campaign. While Harris has the endorsement of state Representative Robin Wright-Jones, for her current seat, Jones has the support of St. Louis Democratic Central Committee Chairman Brian Wahby, License Collector Michael McMillan, and far too many other elected officials to list here. Again, organization, resources and name recognition are likely to win the day. An interesting side note is that when Jones declared her candidacy for this position, and that she would be seeking to retain her Committeewoman position, the 8th Ward committee regulars decided to run another candidate for that office.

64th - Incumbent state Representative Rachel Storch is faced by Mike Roberts, Jr., son of former Alderman Michael Roberts, who has since leaving office made a fortune with his brother in real estate and other ventures. Sources have disclosed that an internal Roberts' poll revealed dismal results for Roberts--12% favorable to Storch's 71%. Further, responses to Storch phone-banking efforts have also been phenomenal, showing how well Storch is liked and appreciated in her district. Additionally, the Roberts brothers, while able to hold the Aldermanic office, have not fared well in their runs for higher office. A run on name recognition alone, is ill-advised in this case. This is a clear win for Storch.

65th - Incumbent state Representative Michele Kratky is facing Michael Favazza, son of the perennial candidate Circuit Court Clerk Mariano Favazza. Kratky is the wife of very well-liked former state Representative Fred Kratky. From the outside, one might wonder what Favazza is doing running his son for state Representative and the elder Favazza's brother, Lou Favazza, for Committeeman of the 16th Ward. It looks as if the elder Favazza is testing his name for a potential Mayoral run. Which is furthered by the very poorly developed materials the Favazza camp is using, from yard signs to fliers--Favazza is running on name recognition alone. With former President of the Board of Aldermen Jim Shrewsbury and Alderwoman Donna Baringer both in Kratky's corner, and with her name recognition and good-will toward that name, it looks as if this one will go to the Kratkys.

67th - Heir apparent and front-runner, Mike Colona, Chairman of the 15th Ward Democratic organization, is faced in a crowded competition by Emily Jo Pierce, Chad Beffa, Joan Landman and Rob Stelzer. Pierce has been to no functions, as I've heard, and has no presence or name recognition. Beffa is mostly a single-issue candidate focused, as he has been the last few years, on the city's schools, which explains why he has the endorsement of the teachers' union, Local 420. Landman and Stelzer both seem to be working this campaign in earnest, but neither have really deep roots in the community. Landman, who recently moved to the 10th Ward, has no name recognition and not much organizational support. Stelzer, son of 8th Ward Committeeman Jack Stelzer, has been out of the country for the past 7 years and is receiving the benefits of being the son of a Committeeman with campaign experience. This has provided for an interesting ground campaign that has been very heavy on canvassing and phone-banking, but at the end of the day it looks like a win for Colona, another client of Dave Chilenski.

108th - Heir apparent Jake Hummel, Vice President of the St. Louis Labor Club, is faced by Art Gansner, who's name I had to look-up on the St. Louis Election Commission's website. Hummel, backed by state Representative Tom Villa, the current occupant of this office, has not rested on his laurels, but rather has been working this race very hard by canvassing and holding fundraisers. No effort has been seen by Gansner to date. This is a clear win for Hummel.

Comments St. Louis is Back

After a more-than-year-long hiatus, Comments St. Louis is back.

As we are nearing the end of the primary election cycle with 5 days left until the polls open, I will endeavor to author a few posts about the area races so that they are timely, and might be of some help to those watching the various races. In addition to the coming posts, many changes will come to the blog, as well.

Over the last year, a great many things have changed for St. Louis, and so changes will be made to Comments St. Louis too. Not only formatting, but also in structure and content. Some of the formatting changes have already occured. You will notice that the community calendar and polls are missing. They will be replaced at some point in the future. Also, be weary of any links on the sidebar, as I have not checked for broken links, yet. That, too, is forthcoming.

Most importantly, while I have possessed a MySpace account for some time, and have since acquired a FaceBook account, I have had little integration between the two and my Blogger account, not to mention my personal website. Heavy integration will also be coming.

So, be on the look-out for all these changes in coming time.