08/16-18/08 Wyoming Democratic Party Daily News Roundup
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Aug 19, 2008 Posted by Lauri Elbing
“Plans for ethanol plant stall….”
Farmers feel impact of increasing costs
POWELL (AP) -- Wyoming farmers are receiving higher prices for their products this year, but it also cost them more to produce them.
Governor to ask for backup howitzer for Sylvan Pass
“Gov. Dave Freudenthal said he will ask the Legislature for money to buy a backup howitzer to use for avalanche control on Sylvan Pass.”
Candidates differ on government involvement in economy
“To help the economy, the government should develop a comprehensive energy policy, increase regulations for the mortgage industry and get its spending under control, said Nick Carter, Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate.”
COLUMN: Change and the elections
“…Between February and August, the total number of registered voters increased by 5,603 to 222,311. Of those 5,603 additional voters, 3,362 registered as Democrats while only 1,132 registered as Republicans. Yes, that is good news for the Dems. But they have so very, very far to go to arrive at parity with the Republicans. According to the secretary of state's Web site, the Republicans still have 137,976 voters compared to 60,689 Democrats as of Aug. 1. The figures have changed slightly since then as absentee ballots are counted and people switch from non-affiliated to a party registration so they can vote in the primary election or move from one party to another…We may find out Tuesday what effect, if any, these changes in the demographics and registrations will have on the primary election results.”
COLUMN: How and why we endorse candidates
“…We publish hundreds of editorials offering our opinions on important local issues every year, in an effort to stimulate healthy discussion and debate. It's only natural that we would comment on one of the most important issues of all: deciding whom to elect as our leaders and representatives.”
EDITORIAL ENDORSEMENT: Gordon has edge in Republican primary
“The four-way race in the Republican primary to succeed U.S. Rep. Barbara Cubin has two strong candidates in Mark Gordon and Cynthia Lummis. Both are intelligent and knowledgeable about the major issues. Ordinarily, the experience of Lummis, a former legislator and state treasurer with an excellent record of expanding the state's portfolio, might give her an edge. She is likely to have the support of the same conservative base that carried Cubin to a record seven terms. But the fact she is much more of a politician than Gordon isn't a plus in a year when nationally voters' confidence in Congress has slipped to below 10 percent. Gordon is a rare candidate who overcomes his lack of experience with his ideas, his vision for Wyoming and his enthusiasm for the job. He represents a fresh approach compared to old-style politics.…”
EDITORIAL ENDORSEMENTS: Keating , Doyle are top commission candidates
LTE: Apathy breeds administrative greed by Bob Calbert of Afton
“…According to Wyoming Public Radio (WPR), the Wyoming Republican Party is quite confident that lower taxes and less government is still a winner in 2008. In 2006, Afton had a ballot measure to continue the 1 percent increase to the state's 4 percent sales tax. In a knee jerk reaction, it was defeated. But when voters realized the impact 1 percent had on goods and services, the vote was repealed. Unlike the feds, cities need taxes to pay bills. Less government, aka deregulation, has long been a successful Republican strategy, enabling an Enron and sparking the greed leading to today's economic conditions. Wyoming has been told to brace for high heating costs this winter. Any of you remember public utility commissions? Utility increases then required justification for approval. I'm for "my country right or wrong," but, "my political party right or wrong," never!”
LTE: Loophole big enough for pipelines by Bill Foy of Cheyenne
“…"Don't worry, we are just passing through," quoted the Wyoming Tribune-Eagle, "There is a certain amount of luck involved -- good luck or bad luck," in the price of natural gas. Really? I surely hope not. Hopefully our Public Service Commission does more than roll the dice in protecting the beleaguered natural gas consumer in Cheyenne and the state of Wyoming…. Remember the energy-marketing industry currently has extraordinary power over the price of gas produced and marketed in Wyoming and only pipelines and local distribution companies are directly regulated with respect to the services they provide. Natural gas producers and marketers are not directly regulated.”
LTE: Voters test their beliefs at ballot box by Kevin D. Limb of Evanston
“A Brain Dead Voter's Guide to Term Limits”
LTE: Recognition leads to enlightenment by Mary Lou Morrison of Casper
LTE: Candidate sides with lay-wasters by John Fandek of Cora
“The political reincarnation of Barbara Cubin has appeared on the scene in the sneering form of Cynthia Lummis, who identifies herself as a "true conservative Republican." How strange to me that any person's viewpoint on anything could be so narrow that the thought process is confined by political boundaries. …”
LTE: Candidate sets example of leadership by Karen Petrossi of Casper
“Casper's City Council race seems pretty clear in Ward III. Maury Daubin has shown he supports sensible spending on the necessary things, rather than expensive special interests. He seems willing to do what it takes to get the right things done.…”
LTE: Affiliation lingers in loss of prosperity by Bill and Mimi Yetter of Meeteetse -- Anti-Gordon
“The listing and protection of Wyoming’s wildlife under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) has taken a significant economic toll on our state’s agriculture, mineral, and logging industries, and often negatively impacts outfitters and sportsmen. … When a candidate has a thin public record, his associations must serve as the basis for determining whether he shares our values and convictions. Mark Gordon has demonstrated a willingness to advance his personal environmental agenda at the expense of Wyoming citizens, and he won’t get our vote.”
LTE: Focus on issues, not adversary by Haylee Bolinger of Laramie -- Pro-Gordon
“I would like to commend Mark Gordon on his early focus on the issues. From improving health care, to stopping illegal immigration, to reducing taxes, Mark released beautiful and substantive ads on these issues while introducing himself and his family to voters. It is unfortunate that none of these ads have been discussed or covered….”
LTE: Clean-campaign promise breaks early by Peg Bramson of Casper -- Anti-Gordon Pro-Lummis
“Negative sexist retort? In a former letter to the editor, Mark Gordon's wife sang his praises as she proclaimed that his campaign would be positive and that he would not be making any slanderous remarks against his competitors. The next thing we know, Mark has taken out a TV ad that shows a little girl digging a grave, portraying Cynthia Lummis! With his zero legislative experience, he is portraying our former state treasurer -- a woman who has accomplished an incredible reputation in her 14 years as a Wyoming legislator -- as a little girl digging a grave site! This repulsive ad certainly indicates negative and disrespectful character attack aimed toward Mark's opponent, Cynthia. One would think that perhaps he could advertise his qualifications instead of slamming a competent and respected legislator who is responsible for leading our state to successful leadership in investment policies, hoping it would make his inexperience look better. Cynthia has worked so well with the Legislature that the membership is endorsing her candidacy for Wyoming's representative. Mark's wife's assertion toward a non-negative campaign has somehow been negated, obviously.”
LTE: Vociferous writing pushes tipping point by JOYCE CLEMONS of Sheridan
“Billy Lee Ackerley was "educated" by the Republican hate machine invented to put down any and all Democrats who "dare" to put their names on a ballot or speak their minds or show their true feelings on any subject. They even want to put Democrats down who have the same ideas they have, like they have a monopoly on thinking….”
LTE: Criticism casts unfounded fear by STEVEN ERTELT, Cheyenne, President, Right to Life of Wyoming
“Recently, there has been some question concerning the pro-life views of Republican congressional candidate Cynthia Lummis. I’m excited to say we can count on her to have a strong pro-life voting record if she represents us in Washington. Today’s pro-life movement is filled with millions of people who formerly supported legalized abortion but, after education or personal experiences, now support the pro-life position. Like Sen. John Barrasso, Cynthia Lummis has come around on pro-life issues. Contrary to what a recent letter to this newspaper suggested, Cynthia Lummis has told us that she believes abortion violates her Christian views. She strongly supports the partial-birth abortion ban, opposes federal funding for abortions, and opposes the bill Barack Obama wants that would overturn every abortion limit our state Legislature has enacted. Moreover, Cynthia Lummis opposes making taxpayers fund embryonic stem cell research that involves the purposeful destruction of human life for research that has never cured a single patient. As the president of Right to Life of Wyoming, I support Cynthia’s bid for Congress and the entire board of Right to Life endorses her as well. Cynthia also enjoys the support of Casper Rep. Bob Brechtel, who has spearheaded pro-life efforts in the Legislature for many years. The overwhelming majority of Wyoming voters who are pro-life can vote for Cynthia Lummis next week confident she will represent pro-life values in the same way we have been excellently represented by statesmen like Sen. Enzi and Barrasso and our late dear friend Sen. Thomas.”
LTE: Candidate puts people above politics by Lita Fagan of Casper Pro-Goodenough
“Want to make a difference in Congress? Want a representative who cannot be bought with campaign funds? The man I have in mind is Keith Goodenough. He has a logical intellect and will not say things just to please voters; you may be certain where Goodenough stands on the issues.…”
LTE: Candidate knows without corruption by Sherry Lovato of Cheyenne Pro-Gordon
“…As a fourth generation Wyomingite, I was raised in the traditional Republican values of a responsible and limited government, wise fiscal management, protection of states’ rights, respect for the individual, and independence of thought. It is time for voters to return to those ideals and elect Mark Gordon as the Republican nominee. If you have met Mark and discussed issues with him, you already know him to be a man of intelligence, integrity, independence, and energy. And you’ve probably decided to vote for him.…”
LTE: Compromise means selling out by Brian Moon of Evansville – Pro-Lummis
“…"Reaching across the aisle" in political speak is giving in to the opposition party. I challenge any member of the Democrat Party to demonstrate any campaign, national or local, that touts that they have "reached across the aisle" to the Republican Party. They don’t because the Democrat Party considers that a weakness; I couldn’t agree more. The constituents elected officials to represent them and their values not brag about being able to "get along." Send a true conservative Republican to Washington, send Cynthia Lummis.”
LTE: Distortions don't fool Wyoming voters by PHIL DILLINGER, Buffalo Pro-Gordon
LTE: Candidate counts on forgetfulness by Gail Evans of Casper-- Anti-Matt Keating, Natrona County Commissioner
LTE: Candidate takes fiscal responsibility by L. BRUCE HENDRICKSON of Cheyenne -- Pro-Lummis
LTE: People recognize candidate's potential by Becky Costantino of Douglas -- Pro-Lummis
LTE: Honest answers rise above rhetoric by John Edwards of Rock Springs -- PRO-TRAUNER
“…Trauner’s straight talking style makes me believe strongly that he is the best man to represent Wyoming in Congress. He believes in the people of Wyoming and instead of blindly following party. Gary will fight for what is best for us….”
LTE: Voting fulfills election process By Terry Lane of Casper, Candidate, Casper City Council Ward III
“I just want to encourage everyone to get out and vote in the primary this next Tuesday, Aug. 19th. We need to become a more active public and choose true representatives that reflect our values and thoughts. Those who live in Casper Ward III whether you vote for me, Terry Lane, or my opponents Maury or Peggy, just make sure you voice your opinion and research the issues so that you know you are picking the candidate you feel is the right one. This applies to all races across the state. If you don't know you're voting location contact the local county clerk's election office or check in the local newspaper.”
LTE: Doubt confuses those without vision by Mark Gordon, Candidate for US Senate
“…It is a bit like being told about a shortcut when the smoke from a fire seems to conceal the best course. If rumors about the shortcut prove inaccurate, the destination may never be found. This year is a year when a fresh breeze can help clear away the smoke, so we can better see where we need to go. Let us hope for that breath of fresh air.”
LTE: Consistency shows personal integrity by Ralph H. Knode of Sheridan -- Pro-Lummis
LTE: Candidate offers proven expertise by Martha Rakestraw of Casper -- Pro-Lummis
***Republicans voice views on civil liberties
“House candidates disagree on how far government can go for national security. Republican candidates for the U.S. House of Representatives in Wyoming disagree as to how far the government should go to protect Americans from terrorist attacks. But none of them say torture is acceptable to protect the national security….”
“In the Democratic race for this state's six-year seat in the U.S. Senate, the Wyoming Tribune Eagle Editorial Board recommends Chris Rothfuss. His opponent is perennial candidate Al Hamburg of Torrington, who declined to be interviewed. The winner will face U.S. Sen. Mike Enzi, R-Wyo., in the general election in November. Mr. Rothfuss, an instructor at the University of Wyoming who has a Ph.D. in chemical engineering, was impressive during his visit with the board. While he has never run for office before, he did spend time working in the U.S. Department of State. That gives him a perspective that few candidates in Wyoming have. What we particularly like about Mr. Rothfuss is his desire to end the partisanship that has marked Congress in recent years. He says there is nothing wrong with reaching across the aisle. Mr. Rothfuss also says he believes in consensus building, and he thinks that by doing so, other senators would be willing to listen to him on issues important to Wyoming. He may be right. In terms of issues, Mr. Rothfuss supports a balanced energy plan that involves renewables while not ignoring coal or oil. This is different from the general themes of many Republicans. When it comes to Iraq, Mr. Rothfuss said he would get the troops out as soon as possible. He emphasized diplomacy and seeking solutions to the root causes of terrorism ahead of military intervention. Mr. Rothfuss' positions on taxes are mixed. He would end the Bush tax cuts and put more pressure on the upper end of the income scale, seeking to "lessen the disparity." But he would do away with the death tax. One of his lofty goals is to get rid of earmarks. That might be impossible because they are so imbedded in the congressional mindset. Still, it's always nice to dream. Mr. Rothfuss came across as level-headed during his interview, and he showed he has put a lot of thought into running for U.S. Senate. Too bad Mr. Hamburg hasn't. Indeed, his response to his invitation from the WTE was an expletive-laden, handwritten note. That, in itself, shows how unprepared he is to serve. What we know about Mr. Hamburg is that he has sought office many times. He ran for the U.S. House in 2004 and 2006 and has run for a number of other political offices, including president. Mr. Hamburg has said that reducing the speed limit to 55 mph will help conserve energy. That might work in some parts of the country, but in Wyoming? We do agree with him that people should try to plan their trips to best use their fuel. Mr. Hamburg is not a serious candidate, and Wyoming voters should not take him seriously. When it comes time to pull a lever, Wyoming Democrats should back someone who has given real thought to the issues facing the nation. That person is Chris Rothfuss.”
“Wyoming is in a unique position this year with all three of its seats in Congress up for grabs. One of those was left by the late U.S. Sen. Craig Thomas, who died last year. Republican legislator John Barrasso is filling the position until this fall's elections. Vying for the Democratic nomination for this four-year seat are attorney Nick Carter and Casper City Councilman Keith Goodenough. In this race, the Wyoming Tribune Eagle Editorial Board recommends Nick Carter as the clear choice to challenge Mr. Barrasso. Mr. Carter comes across as someone who would be active as a freshman senator. He also was articulate and thoughtful, and he offered well-thought-out answers. He is passionate about doing something with the nation's health-care system, especially when it comes to catastrophic illnesses. He believes every American should have this kind of coverage, which would be provided by the federal government though a plan similar to Social Security. He adds that Americans would care of "the sniffles" themselves. He's also avid about having the federal government invest more in clean-coal technology and in sharing it with the rest of the world. He says this is important with countries like China and India turning to coal-powered plants. On taxes, Mr. Carter was more reasonable that o his opponent, Mr. Goodenough. Mr. Carter is in favor of repealing the death tax and would focus tax cuts more toward the middle class. Mr. Goodenough, on the other hand, came off as a typical Democrat. He complained that the Bush tax cuts were a boon to the rich and asserted that the death tax is essential to prevent people from "passing down enormous amounts of wealth." Mr. Carter also wants Congress and Americans to get back to the original intent of the Social Security Act. He rightfully doesn't see this as a dip-in fund but would preserve it for its original purpose of caring for older Americans. For the most part, Mr. Carter was impressive. He seems willing to do whatever it takes to help bring change to Congress, which is refreshing. As for Mr. Goodenough, he appears knowledgeable on the issues, but too often he adopts the standard party line rather then showing independent thinking. This state has had enough of that from its all-Republican delegation in recent years. On energy, he doesn't believe in the need to conduct off-shore drilling to deal with this nation's needs, saying he would preserve that for future generations. He adds that the country should be concentrating more on wind and solar energy along with conservation. Mr. Goodenough does say the U.S. should move to a balanced budget, which he says is the key for this nation's future. He's right about that. Still, based on his thoughtful approach to issues, the WTE Editorial Board recommends Nick Carter for the Democratic nomination for the four-year seat in the U.S. Senate.”
***House seekers to spar over hot topics
“Domestic energy production and tax cuts key for Republican candidates. Michael Holland would fight to do away with the Federal Reserve if he is elected as Wyoming's lone representative in U.S. House. The 55-year-old Republican Party primary candidate from Green River said that would be a start to improving the U.S. economy: putting it back in the control of the American people through a central bank. The Fed allows foreign bankers to control U.S. currency and threatens the nation's sovereignty, he said. "Ultimately all roads lead back to more money flowing to a cartel of bankers and politicians," he said. The other three Republican candidates are not so radical in suggesting a cure for the current downturn in the U.S. economy. Candidate Cynthia Lummis, 53, of Cheyenne said Congress "should reduce debt, balance the budget, keep taxes low and produce domestic energy." Candidate Mark Gordon, 51, of Buffalo said Congress needs to revisit truth-in-lending legislation to create common disclosures. It also needs to simplify projections on loans so consumers can make good choices since at least part of the problem is due to problems with foreclosures in the housing mortgage industry….”***GOP candidates doubtful about global warming
“All four Republican candidates for the state's one seat in the U.S. House of Representatives are skeptical of the science surrounding the subject of global warming and its causes. But U.S. House hopefuls stand behind clean coal….”Governor wants state to pay for Sylvan Pass equipment
“Governor Dave Freudenthal says the state will help pay to keep Sylvan Pass safe from avalanches.”Candidates Weigh In on Cubin
“Republican candidates for the U.S. House of Representatives say Barbara Cubin did a good job listening to constituents and preserving private property rights. But they say they would take the office in a new direction.”***Farmers Getting Higher Prices, But Paying More
“Wyoming farmers are receiving higher prices for their products this year. But it also cost them more to produce them.”Carter hits the road with mobile billboard in bid for U.S. Senate
“Plastered to the side of the motor home is an array of political logos and slogans. Inside, there is little evidence that this a campaign bus, other than the odometer, which shows it has logged nearly 15,000 miles since the campaign began. Several times a week, the candidate slides behind the wheel as his aides hop in back. And then they’re off, lumbering down the highway in their 29-foot rolling billboard, a campaign office on wheels. This is the “Straight Talk Express” Nick Carter style.”
Mineral industry, shopping apparently do mix
“When it comes to collecting sales tax in the Cowboy State, Campbell County is king. Wyoming Department of Revenue reports show the county collected nearly $174 million in sales and use tax in the 2008 fiscal year, more than $40 million more than the next highest county in the state, Sweetwater County. It also represents an 11 percent increase over last year’s total of $155 million. It’s part of a trend that’s been going on for several years, as Campbell County consistently has posted the highest sales tax amount in the state since 2000. At the heart of the massive increase is one of the usual suspects: mineral extraction….”
Democrats gather to talk to local residents
Democrats running for office this year gathered Saturday at Kendrick Park to meet local residents and honor John B. Kendrick, the late Wyoming governor and U.S. senator from Sheridan. “It all started because the Democratic Party wanted to have a function in the summer, and when we thought about who it should honor, John Kendrick seemed like the perfect choice,” said Carol LeResche, Sheridan County Democratic Party chair. “After all, he was a great Democrat who served Wyoming.” According to LeResche, between 120 and 150 people attended the meet-and-greet throughout the day. Those who came had the opportunity to enjoy free food as they mingled with candidates. Hot dogs, soda and other treats were served. Sheridan musician Ethan Chartier also performed. Local, state and national candidates attended the event. All four Wyoming Democrats running for national office came to Sheridan. U.S. Senate candidates Nick Carter, Keith Goodenough and Chris Rothfuss were at the event along with U.S. House candidate Gary Trauner. The candidates each gave brief speeches, and attendees had the opportunity to speak one on one with all of them. “Congress is so profoundly broken, we need to see new faces at work in Washington,” Rothfuss said. “It is difficult at this point to even blame one party.” Rothfuss also said this is a good year to be a new candidate running for office, because interest in replacing members of the current government is so high. “There is just a lot of excitement, Gary [Trauner] has a lot of support, I’ve gotten a lot of support, really all of us,” Rothfuss said. “The amount of support for not only new faces but some Democratic candidates is up.” “It is going to be an interesting election,” LeResche said. “This was a good opportunity for local voters to come out and meet the candidates and ask them questions.”
“Polling places throughout Sheridan County will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. for Tuesday’s primary election. According to Elections Supervisor Brenda Miech, the busiest times to vote will be before and after work hours and during the lunch hour….”
“Voters will head to the polls Tuesday to decide who will make the November ballot in a host of important local, state and federal races, and weigh in on several community issues. The race for Teton County Board of Commissioners offers three choices for Democrats and five for Republicans. On the Democratic front, incumbent Chairman Andy Schwartz faces political newcomers Brian Grubb and Claire Fuller….”
Candidates for state seats detail fundraising
“In House District 22, unopposed Democrat Jim Roscoe of Wilson raised $25,000 for the latest cycle, far outpacing Republicans seeking the seat.”Town Council to look at higher housing fees
“The Jackson Town Council today will discuss a proposal to force developers to pay three times as much if they choose not to build all the housing required under the town’s housing-mitigation rate….”Billionaire Bankrolls Alternative Energy
“Texas oilman T. Boone Pickens is gathering support for an alternative energy options, from wind farms to natural gas….”
08/17/2008
Shell Develops Oil Shale Technology
“Shell Oil conducted a series of secretive experiments that may blow open the status quo of US oil production, unlocking the vast reserves of oil shale in Colorado….”
08/17/2008
“Nearly 1,000 coal-bed methane wells in Wyoming's Powder River Basin have produced nothing but water for 5 years, & the state engineer's office wants to know why….”
08/17/2008
Barrasso: Gas Dip Due To New Attitude
“Sen. John Barrasso said the recent backward slide in oil prices from record levels may be the result of Americans getting serious about energy production….”
08/16/2008
West Leads US In Cutbacks On Driving
“Americans are driving less due to high gas prices, with western states driving 6 to 7% less than a year ago….”
08/16/2008
Editorial: Sage Grouse Safe Or Not?
“Gov. Freudenthal's recent executive order establishing core areas for sage grouse is being praised, but will it effectively protect the endangered bird enough?...”
08/16/2008
Gov Seeks Funds For Pass Howitzer
“Gov. Dave Freudenthal said he will ask the Legislature for money to buy a backup howitzer to use for avalanche control on Sylvan Pass….”
08/16/2008