I've spent some time over the past few weeks working with folks down in CD 2 on a John Kline exposed/greatest hits post.
If you'd like to send more of his greatest hits, simply reply to this post. Otherwise, here's a quick snapshot of some of John Klines "greatest hits". Leadership and courage at its finest ladies and gentlemen.
Talking to several Veterans buddies who have tried to work with John Kline:
During the race against Colleen Rowley, Kline was overheard the finals days of the campaign saying he had the endorsement of the Diabled American Veterans. This was a bold faced lie by John Kline, DAV does not endorse candidates.
DAV sends groups to Washington to lobby members of Congress on important Veterans issues. While Kline met with Veterans in 04, 05, and o6, he blew off the Minnesota delegation in 2007, saying he was too busy to meet with the decorated Veterans.
Kline's voting record according to the DAV? Not very good, especially for a Vietnam Veteran.
In 2004 and 2005 he was rated 0. Zero!
He also only supported the interests of the Vietnam Veterans of America 50% of the time in 2003-04, but the National Retail Asscoation recieved 100% support from John Kline.
John Kline's record on Veterans issues is simply unacceptable and esspecially troubling since Kine is a Veteran himself.
Kline refuses to work in a bi-partisan manner on Veterans issues. He told the leader of a local veterans’ group, who had presented Kline with a number of bills his group wanted support for, “These are all Democrat bills, and I do not support Democrat-authored bills.”
*Update* A concerned Veteran forwarded me this video. John Kline snubs a Veterans forum. He also blew off Veterans forums in Goodhue County and at the Zumbrota VFW too.
On oil and the environment:
In response to a parade-goer in Eagan, a gentleman encouraged Kline to get out of Iraq , Kline responded, “Don’t you want oil?”
And lets recall the John Kline energy tour this past July, the one where he refused to meet with any constituents again.
Classy!
And what about Congressman Kline's lack of townhall meetings? Why won't he meet with constituents?
Probably because he got tripped up by this college student the last time he let common folk like us talk to him.
He doesn’t hold town hall meetings because he’s said they’re “too political,” and because “20 people in the district have this notion that it is my job to provide them with a venue just to protest."
He's no Jed Bartlett, that's for sure.
Kline even has a bit of time to display his "compassionate conservatism"!
He told the mother of a kid with cancer, that “hundreds of people a year try and parade their sick kids in front of me for money.”
So, while Norm Coleman uses them for political gain, John Kline just spits in their face and tells them to "move along now"
Sorry, but that's just sickening.
So, anyone else have any good John Kline stories? Post them in the comments or shoot them to me in email!
We support Steve Sarvi for many reasons and cannot afford to remain silent about John Kline's record and demeanor as a Congressman.
Showing posts with label CD 2. Show all posts
Showing posts with label CD 2. Show all posts
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Hold On! The Strib Editorial Board Didn't Even Interview Sarvi?
WTF is that all about?
Wow, incredible!
What you probably didn't know is that the editorial board probably already had its mind made up. Instead of meeting with the full editorial board, Steve met with two retirees. These retirees are brought back in during high politcal season to "help" when it gets busy. No members of the editorial board were present for Steve's screening.
Wow, incredible!
ECM Endorsements for Sarvi
Check it out here!
ECM ENDORSEMENT: Sarvi's the choice in 2nd District
Friday, 24 October 2008
Second District U.S. Rep. John Kline, R-Lakeville, and challenger Steve Sarvi, D-Watertown, both served their country as members of the military.
Although they have this common experience, when it comes to the pressing issues in the 2008 campaign, that is largely where the similarities end.
Their differing opinions of the war in Iraq, rebuilding the economy, funding transportation projects and governing philosophies give voters a clear choice in this election.
We feel Sarvi has a better approach on a wide range of issues, and we endorse his candidacy.
With regard to the issue that has risen to the forefront in this election - the economy - we feel Sarvi is better equipped to make decisions in these troubling times.
We feel Sarvi's experiences as a mayor, city manager and U.S. Army sergeant in charge of rebuilding infrastructure in Iraq are the kind needed to rebuild the U.S. economy.
Sarvi has managed budgets and will champion tighter regulation of the financial markets, which didn't happen under Kline and the hands-off Republican administration.
We applaud Kline for his vote for the $700 billion bailout package, but Sarvi said more needs to be done help the middle class through incentives to lenders to help those facing foreclosure. Sarvi notes the economic collapse could have been worse if Kline had his way on privatizing Social Security by investing more retirement savings in the stock market.
With regard to the Iraq war, Sarvi's experience on the ground in Iraq will help as the United States moves forward with a plan to stabilize, reduce troop levels and rebuild the country.
Sarvi and Kline do not favor a timetable for withdrawal from Iraq, relying on conditions on the ground to dictate when to reduce troop levels. Sarvi adds that it is urgent to stabilize Iraq as soon as possible, so it is no longer a financial drain on U.S. spending. He's also been vocal in saying that the Iraq war diverted the nation's attention from post-9/11 target Osama bin Laden, whose continued presence is causing more concerns in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
We acknowledge Kline's support of an increase in troop levels that has helped reduce violence in Iraq, but we feel he, as a member of the Armed Services Committee, should have been more critical of the Bush administration's handling of the war for much of the past five years.
In communicating with the people of the 2nd District, Kline has been criticized for his lack of public availability and was pressed to hold a "town hall" style forum in 2007 after constituents repeatedly asked for it as opposition for the Iraq war mounted.
We don't foresee Sarvi having such communication problems. He has a leadership style that relies more on coalition building, as demonstrated by his grassroots campaign, which has drawn the Independence Party endorsement and focused on communicating with voters in person, by e-mail and through his Web site.
Sarvi has a wealth of information on his Web site, where people can find his views on a range of issues and ideas for improving education, health care and veterans' benefits. Kline doesn't provide this depth of information on his Web site, relying more on his endorsements to speak for him.
Sarvi has proposed good ideas to reform veterans' medical benefits by changing eligibility requirements, reducing deductibles and changing the priority-care model.
ome local officials have criticized Kline's refusal to accept earmark spending, and we don't feel it is a responsible way to serve the 2nd District by neglecting constituents for Kline's principled stand against earmarks.
Although the earmark system may be flawed, we feel it currently provides needed projects to the 2nd District, like the ones Kline touted he returned to the district in 2005. The projects, totaling $16 million, included the design and construction of the Cedar Avenue Busway in Dakota County and a contribution toward reconstruction of the intersection at County Road 5 and Highway 13 in Burnsville.
Kline, who has served in Congress since 2003 and missed fewer than 1 percent of votes during that time, is an apparent good fit for the Republican-leaning 2nd District. He has gained re-election in 2004 and 2006 with 57 and 56 percent of the vote, respectively.
We applaud his service, but we feel it is time for new ideas and a new approach on behalf of constituents in the 2nd District. This editorial is a product of the ECM Editorial Board.
ECM ENDORSEMENT: Sarvi's the choice in 2nd District
Friday, 24 October 2008
Second District U.S. Rep. John Kline, R-Lakeville, and challenger Steve Sarvi, D-Watertown, both served their country as members of the military.
Although they have this common experience, when it comes to the pressing issues in the 2008 campaign, that is largely where the similarities end.
Their differing opinions of the war in Iraq, rebuilding the economy, funding transportation projects and governing philosophies give voters a clear choice in this election.
We feel Sarvi has a better approach on a wide range of issues, and we endorse his candidacy.
With regard to the issue that has risen to the forefront in this election - the economy - we feel Sarvi is better equipped to make decisions in these troubling times.
We feel Sarvi's experiences as a mayor, city manager and U.S. Army sergeant in charge of rebuilding infrastructure in Iraq are the kind needed to rebuild the U.S. economy.
Sarvi has managed budgets and will champion tighter regulation of the financial markets, which didn't happen under Kline and the hands-off Republican administration.
We applaud Kline for his vote for the $700 billion bailout package, but Sarvi said more needs to be done help the middle class through incentives to lenders to help those facing foreclosure. Sarvi notes the economic collapse could have been worse if Kline had his way on privatizing Social Security by investing more retirement savings in the stock market.
With regard to the Iraq war, Sarvi's experience on the ground in Iraq will help as the United States moves forward with a plan to stabilize, reduce troop levels and rebuild the country.
Sarvi and Kline do not favor a timetable for withdrawal from Iraq, relying on conditions on the ground to dictate when to reduce troop levels. Sarvi adds that it is urgent to stabilize Iraq as soon as possible, so it is no longer a financial drain on U.S. spending. He's also been vocal in saying that the Iraq war diverted the nation's attention from post-9/11 target Osama bin Laden, whose continued presence is causing more concerns in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
We acknowledge Kline's support of an increase in troop levels that has helped reduce violence in Iraq, but we feel he, as a member of the Armed Services Committee, should have been more critical of the Bush administration's handling of the war for much of the past five years.
In communicating with the people of the 2nd District, Kline has been criticized for his lack of public availability and was pressed to hold a "town hall" style forum in 2007 after constituents repeatedly asked for it as opposition for the Iraq war mounted.
We don't foresee Sarvi having such communication problems. He has a leadership style that relies more on coalition building, as demonstrated by his grassroots campaign, which has drawn the Independence Party endorsement and focused on communicating with voters in person, by e-mail and through his Web site.
Sarvi has a wealth of information on his Web site, where people can find his views on a range of issues and ideas for improving education, health care and veterans' benefits. Kline doesn't provide this depth of information on his Web site, relying more on his endorsements to speak for him.
Sarvi has proposed good ideas to reform veterans' medical benefits by changing eligibility requirements, reducing deductibles and changing the priority-care model.
ome local officials have criticized Kline's refusal to accept earmark spending, and we don't feel it is a responsible way to serve the 2nd District by neglecting constituents for Kline's principled stand against earmarks.
Although the earmark system may be flawed, we feel it currently provides needed projects to the 2nd District, like the ones Kline touted he returned to the district in 2005. The projects, totaling $16 million, included the design and construction of the Cedar Avenue Busway in Dakota County and a contribution toward reconstruction of the intersection at County Road 5 and Highway 13 in Burnsville.
Kline, who has served in Congress since 2003 and missed fewer than 1 percent of votes during that time, is an apparent good fit for the Republican-leaning 2nd District. He has gained re-election in 2004 and 2006 with 57 and 56 percent of the vote, respectively.
We applaud his service, but we feel it is time for new ideas and a new approach on behalf of constituents in the 2nd District. This editorial is a product of the ECM Editorial Board.
John Kline inconsistent on earmarks
At the Same Time, He’s Still Celebrating the “Corrupt” Funding He Sought in the Past and Misrepresenting the Process
EAGAN, Minn. – You’ve seen the ad: Rep. John Kline (R-Lakeville) walks and talks to viewers in front of giant screens representing some of the congressional high priority projects – or earmarks – he finds most egregious. His voice dripping with exasperation, he decries money that has gone to “fruit fly research in France.”
What viewers might not know is that this is a national GOP talking point: Vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin also has been talking about it. And because of the attention afforded Mrs. Palin, we now know the truth about fruit fly research: It isn’t research about fruit flies; it’s research on fruit flies for the benefit of human beings – namely, human beings with brain function abnormalities.
Scientists use fruit flies (Drosophila) for many types of research because humans share important genes with them. Due to research on fruit flies, scientists at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill showed that a protein called neurexin is required for nerve cell connections to form and function correctly. The discovery may lead to better understanding of autism spectrum disorders, as human neurexins have been identified as a genetic risk factor for autism.
The irony is that like Palin, Mr. Kline also is talking about fruit fly research alongside a call to fully fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Mr. Kline began talking about the need to fully fund special education – which has been under-funded since 1982 – during his first debate with DFL opponent Steve Sarvi. Unfortunately, the very research he and Mrs. Palin are belittling could help eliminate one of the disabilities that put children in special education in the first place.
Also like Palin, Mr. Kline is counting on people not to make the connection between the two. But MSNBC’s Keith Olbermann did on Oct. 24.
A Continuation of John Kline’s Confused and Confusing Position on Earmarks
Mr. Kline’s position against all member high priority projects, which he calls “corrupt and corrupting," has been called “shocking and disturbing” and recently, by the Star Tribune, “absolutist” and “a concern.”
It’s also hypocritical. Before 2007, John Kline sought and accepted funds for high priority projects in his district. When he decided to stop accepting them, one might have expected him also to stop celebrating them. But he hasn’t.
In August, the Star Tribune reported that Kline attended the ribbon cutting for County Road 21 in Scott County, a road for which he secured $2.1 million in federal funds in 2004 and 2005. Kline said he saw no hypocrisy in his presence at the opening.
Just yesterday, Kline attended the opening of the Northwood Parkway Bridge, now connecting Central Parkway and Northwood Parkway/Denmark Avenue over Interstate 35E in Eagan. During the opening ceremony, Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire called Mr. Kline a “first-dollar investor” in the project (video available), which is also referred to as the Ring Road. Kline worked with Sen. Norm Coleman to secure $984,000 in funding for the bridge.
“John Kline appears to take whatever position is convenient for him,” said Bridget Cusick, deputy campaign manager, Steve Sarvi for Congress. “This proves that all his squawking about earmarks is politically driven. The good news is that it doesn’t take voters long to figure out this kind of thing. We believe given everything that’s going on in their lives that John Kline isn’t talking about – like the effects of a sour economy and skyrocketing health care costs – they’ll vote for change next week by voting for Steve Sarvi.”
Kline Misrepresents Process for Securing Transportation Funds
For months, we’ve been hearing John Kline talk about how the process for securing money for high priority projects is “corrupt and corrupting” because, as he tells it, it’s entirely based on seniority, party, and back-room dealing.
Prior to 2007, many agreed that the process for securing these funds needed reform, as the number of earmarks had skyrocketed during 12 years of
Republican congressional leadership. So, as part of the new Democratic Congress’s “100 hours agenda,” rules changes were enacted that have resulted in a drastic reduction in the number of requests. John Kline voted against this rules change.
On Fri., Oct. 24, at a joint press conference with Steve Sarvi, Rep. Jim Oberstar, chairman of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure, called out Mr. Kline on his characterization of the process by which member high priority transportation projects are allocated funding. He pointed out that to secure funding in his committee, members must complete a 20-point interview or form in which they argue the merits of their request. Among other things, they must demonstrate the project has local backing from citizens and/or community groups and discuss why the project can’t be fully financed at the state or local level.
“John Kline has decided not to serve the 2nd Congressional District,” said Steve Sarvi. “No one said being in Congress was easy. Part of the job is
helping secure federal funds for critical projects back home. The process isn’t perfect, but Mr. Kline could both advocate for reform and work for his district. Doing anything else is abdication of responsibility.
“For too long, the 2nd Congressional District has been represented by someone who isn’t representing us; instead, he has served the president, his party, and big corporate interests. It’s time to change course.”
About Steve Sarvi
Sarvi, the DFL- and Independence Party-endorsed candidate for Congress in Minnesota’s 2nd Congressional District, is running for Congress because he believes our nation needs to change course and that the people of Minnesota’s 2nd District deserve a representative who will serve the people – not the president, not their party, not big corporate interests. Sarvi is a decorated veteran of the U.S. Army and National Guard who served in both Kosovo and Iraq. He’s a former three-term mayor of Watertown, Minn., who managed local governments for more than 13 years. For more about Sarvi and his vision for changing our country’s course, visit www.stevesarvi.org.
###
EAGAN, Minn. – You’ve seen the ad: Rep. John Kline (R-Lakeville) walks and talks to viewers in front of giant screens representing some of the congressional high priority projects – or earmarks – he finds most egregious. His voice dripping with exasperation, he decries money that has gone to “fruit fly research in France.”
What viewers might not know is that this is a national GOP talking point: Vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin also has been talking about it. And because of the attention afforded Mrs. Palin, we now know the truth about fruit fly research: It isn’t research about fruit flies; it’s research on fruit flies for the benefit of human beings – namely, human beings with brain function abnormalities.
Scientists use fruit flies (Drosophila) for many types of research because humans share important genes with them. Due to research on fruit flies, scientists at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill showed that a protein called neurexin is required for nerve cell connections to form and function correctly. The discovery may lead to better understanding of autism spectrum disorders, as human neurexins have been identified as a genetic risk factor for autism.
The irony is that like Palin, Mr. Kline also is talking about fruit fly research alongside a call to fully fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Mr. Kline began talking about the need to fully fund special education – which has been under-funded since 1982 – during his first debate with DFL opponent Steve Sarvi. Unfortunately, the very research he and Mrs. Palin are belittling could help eliminate one of the disabilities that put children in special education in the first place.
Also like Palin, Mr. Kline is counting on people not to make the connection between the two. But MSNBC’s Keith Olbermann did on Oct. 24.
A Continuation of John Kline’s Confused and Confusing Position on Earmarks
Mr. Kline’s position against all member high priority projects, which he calls “corrupt and corrupting," has been called “shocking and disturbing” and recently, by the Star Tribune, “absolutist” and “a concern.”
It’s also hypocritical. Before 2007, John Kline sought and accepted funds for high priority projects in his district. When he decided to stop accepting them, one might have expected him also to stop celebrating them. But he hasn’t.
In August, the Star Tribune reported that Kline attended the ribbon cutting for County Road 21 in Scott County, a road for which he secured $2.1 million in federal funds in 2004 and 2005. Kline said he saw no hypocrisy in his presence at the opening.
Just yesterday, Kline attended the opening of the Northwood Parkway Bridge, now connecting Central Parkway and Northwood Parkway/Denmark Avenue over Interstate 35E in Eagan. During the opening ceremony, Eagan Mayor Mike Maguire called Mr. Kline a “first-dollar investor” in the project (video available), which is also referred to as the Ring Road. Kline worked with Sen. Norm Coleman to secure $984,000 in funding for the bridge.
“John Kline appears to take whatever position is convenient for him,” said Bridget Cusick, deputy campaign manager, Steve Sarvi for Congress. “This proves that all his squawking about earmarks is politically driven. The good news is that it doesn’t take voters long to figure out this kind of thing. We believe given everything that’s going on in their lives that John Kline isn’t talking about – like the effects of a sour economy and skyrocketing health care costs – they’ll vote for change next week by voting for Steve Sarvi.”
Kline Misrepresents Process for Securing Transportation Funds
For months, we’ve been hearing John Kline talk about how the process for securing money for high priority projects is “corrupt and corrupting” because, as he tells it, it’s entirely based on seniority, party, and back-room dealing.
Prior to 2007, many agreed that the process for securing these funds needed reform, as the number of earmarks had skyrocketed during 12 years of
Republican congressional leadership. So, as part of the new Democratic Congress’s “100 hours agenda,” rules changes were enacted that have resulted in a drastic reduction in the number of requests. John Kline voted against this rules change.
On Fri., Oct. 24, at a joint press conference with Steve Sarvi, Rep. Jim Oberstar, chairman of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure, called out Mr. Kline on his characterization of the process by which member high priority transportation projects are allocated funding. He pointed out that to secure funding in his committee, members must complete a 20-point interview or form in which they argue the merits of their request. Among other things, they must demonstrate the project has local backing from citizens and/or community groups and discuss why the project can’t be fully financed at the state or local level.
“John Kline has decided not to serve the 2nd Congressional District,” said Steve Sarvi. “No one said being in Congress was easy. Part of the job is
helping secure federal funds for critical projects back home. The process isn’t perfect, but Mr. Kline could both advocate for reform and work for his district. Doing anything else is abdication of responsibility.
“For too long, the 2nd Congressional District has been represented by someone who isn’t representing us; instead, he has served the president, his party, and big corporate interests. It’s time to change course.”
About Steve Sarvi
Sarvi, the DFL- and Independence Party-endorsed candidate for Congress in Minnesota’s 2nd Congressional District, is running for Congress because he believes our nation needs to change course and that the people of Minnesota’s 2nd District deserve a representative who will serve the people – not the president, not their party, not big corporate interests. Sarvi is a decorated veteran of the U.S. Army and National Guard who served in both Kosovo and Iraq. He’s a former three-term mayor of Watertown, Minn., who managed local governments for more than 13 years. For more about Sarvi and his vision for changing our country’s course, visit www.stevesarvi.org.
###
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
John Kline's In Over His Head...
Congressman John Kline came out earlier today, in a pathetic effort to save Erik Paulsen, and attacked Ashwin Madia's use footage of a Marine Corp ceremonial unit in his ad "Discipline".
First of all, I don't see a problem with it. Madia is a Marine. He served his nation honorably in Iraq. Paulsen can't compete with Madia on the issues, so he and his surrogates have to attack him.
But what makes this more interesting, is that Kline used military "props" in one of his ads too!
OMG! John Kline showed the nuclear football in a political ad? Al Queda knows what the nuclear football looks like! OMG, talk about conduct unbecoming of an officer!
Yeah...um, John Kline needs to remove the stick from his ass and get over this...quickly enough to continue being outworked by Steve Sarvi.
Just a thought...from a Veteran!
First of all, I don't see a problem with it. Madia is a Marine. He served his nation honorably in Iraq. Paulsen can't compete with Madia on the issues, so he and his surrogates have to attack him.
But what makes this more interesting, is that Kline used military "props" in one of his ads too!
OMG! John Kline showed the nuclear football in a political ad? Al Queda knows what the nuclear football looks like! OMG, talk about conduct unbecoming of an officer!
Yeah...um, John Kline needs to remove the stick from his ass and get over this...quickly enough to continue being outworked by Steve Sarvi.
Just a thought...from a Veteran!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Sarvi in a statistical tie in CD 2
John Kline is in trouble!
A poll released by the Alliance for a Better Minnesota shows John Kline with a 37-33 lead over Steve Sarvi.
Sarvi has made tremendous progress in this race and is gaining significant momentum at the right time.
More to follow on this great story out of CD 2.
A poll released by the Alliance for a Better Minnesota shows John Kline with a 37-33 lead over Steve Sarvi.
Sarvi has made tremendous progress in this race and is gaining significant momentum at the right time.
More to follow on this great story out of CD 2.
Friday, September 05, 2008
Steve Sarvi Launches Strong Campaign Ad
My first thought when I saw this video was...
Wow. A powerful ad.
The issues Sarvi talks about are real issues, amongst the most important issues for myself.
On the heels of a story that solider suicides could set a record this year in the Army, Sarvi's work for Veterans and soldiers alike is important.
Congressman Kline's record on veterans issues needs to be exposed. As a veteran himself, he has failed those he served with, failed those who followed in his footsteps.
Sarvi gets it and will work hard to advocate for the entire 2nd Congressional District and our nation's Veterans.
Wow. A powerful ad.
The issues Sarvi talks about are real issues, amongst the most important issues for myself.
On the heels of a story that solider suicides could set a record this year in the Army, Sarvi's work for Veterans and soldiers alike is important.
Congressman Kline's record on veterans issues needs to be exposed. As a veteran himself, he has failed those he served with, failed those who followed in his footsteps.
Sarvi gets it and will work hard to advocate for the entire 2nd Congressional District and our nation's Veterans.
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
John Kline's Dirty Campaign Tricks
Mike McIntee at the Up Take has an awesome video of John Kline's dirty campaign tricks.
Getting the word out on this is very important! We cannot allow Kline to do this again.
Kline sent one of his attack dogs after Steve Sarvi and now they have been exposed for the fraud they are! Great work!
Getting the word out on this is very important! We cannot allow Kline to do this again.
Kline sent one of his attack dogs after Steve Sarvi and now they have been exposed for the fraud they are! Great work!
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Sarvi and CD 2 boosted
From CQ story on key House races shifting towards Democrats.
One big fundraising quarter by Sarvi and he will really make Kline shake in his boots. This is great news for the Sarvi camp!
Minnesota’s 2nd(New Rating: Republican Favored. Previous Rating: Safe Republican). Steve Sarvi is an Iraq War veteran and the former mayor of Watertown whose biography and experience make him a strong recruit for Democratic efforts to take over the 2nd District from three-term Rep. John Kline . CQ Politics is changing its rating on the race to Republican Favored from Safe Republican, indicating it is a race to watch. The DCCC has categorized the race similarly. It lists the 2nd District race as one of its 20 “Emerging Races,” which means the party is keeping an eye on the race and will get involved if Sarvi meets certain criteria to prove the strength of his campaign. However, weak fundraising for Sarvi and overall demographics give Kline the advantage in holding the district, which covers the southern Twin Cities suburbs. Sarvi reported raising $262,000 and had $98,000 on hand by June 30 while Kline raised $1.1 million and had $647,000 on hand by the same date. Voters in Minnesota do not register by party, but results from the presidential race indicate Republicans hold the advantage in the 2nd — President Bush carried the district with 51 percent of the vote in 2000 and increased his take in 2004 to 54 percent of the vote. Kline easily defeated FBI whistleblower Coleen Rowley 56 percent to 40 percent in 2006.
One big fundraising quarter by Sarvi and he will really make Kline shake in his boots. This is great news for the Sarvi camp!
Friday, July 25, 2008
Kline distorts record on National Guard "Yellow Ribbon Rintegration Act"
"That's why I introduced and helped pass the bi-partisan Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Act. This legislation provides special training events at 30-, 60-, and 90 day intervals, after their return.
Interesting.
Recall the antics House Republicans played this past May on the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (HR 2642).
Within HR 2642 was an amendment for $65.4 million for the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program. The Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program helps members of the National Guard and Reserve transition from combat to civilian life.
Congressman Kline didn't vote nay.
Didn't vote aye.
Veterans do not need political leaders playing games with these issues. Kline eventually voted for the legislation but his May vote of Present disrespects Veterans and these important issues.
More to follow on Kline's bad record on Veterans issues.
Kline abusing franking privilege on Veterans?
Two Putt Tommy has put together a great story over at Mn Blue on the issue.
Part 1
Part 2
Review of 1 and 2
Part 3
Part 4
Two Putt is right to be ticked off here. There is a difference between constituent outreach, which for Kline, Veterans ought to be at the top of his list, and campaign propoganda.
Two Putt puts together a pretty compelling argument that Kline uses his privilege to create a false sense of support to Veterans outside of CD 2.
Now that I have a copy of Kline's letter, we'll put together an analysis of his votes on the key issues he touts. I've already found at least one issue he listed that he recently voted against...
More to follow, but go check out Two Putt's story!
Part 1
Part 2
Review of 1 and 2
Part 3
The Freedom Of Information Act request I submitted to the VA has been filed and approved; any day I'm expecting a hardcopy list of zip codes that John Kline requested for sending his personal propaganda to veterans - at government expense.
I know that Kline shouldn't have "franked" me, at taxpayer expense - the VA already told me that. You see, I'm not in Kline's district; I'm in CD-03 and it's against the law for a Member of Congress to do a franked, unsolicted, mass-mailing to addresses outside of the Member's district.
Part 4
Two Putt is right to be ticked off here. There is a difference between constituent outreach, which for Kline, Veterans ought to be at the top of his list, and campaign propoganda.
Two Putt puts together a pretty compelling argument that Kline uses his privilege to create a false sense of support to Veterans outside of CD 2.
Now that I have a copy of Kline's letter, we'll put together an analysis of his votes on the key issues he touts. I've already found at least one issue he listed that he recently voted against...
More to follow, but go check out Two Putt's story!
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Sarvi on WCCO this morning! Update
You Tubes will be up shortly.
He did a very good job!
*Two Putt Tommy over at MnBlue has a post up about the show, as well as other poignant commentary.
As soon as the YouTubes are ready, we'll post them. Can't believe it's taking this long today.
Better yet, go to the link at WCCO.com.
He did a very good job!
*Two Putt Tommy over at MnBlue has a post up about the show, as well as other poignant commentary.
As soon as the YouTubes are ready, we'll post them. Can't believe it's taking this long today.
Better yet, go to the link at WCCO.com.
Thursday, July 03, 2008
The CD 2 Race Is Getting More Competitive
Hence Mr Brodkorb's lamest attack piece to date. It's a tough bar to get under, but MDE may have just done it.
Why attack Sarvi now?
It's simple. On the heels of positive polling for Sarvi in the district, the Cook Political Report has elevated the CD 2 race from Solid Republican to Likely Republican. The CPR reflects the DFL growth in CD 2, pushing Brodkorb and his cronies to attack Sarvi on the most mundane subjects out there.
It's good news for Sarvi though. Brodkorb and the right wing blogosphere did a great job taking down Keith Ellison and Tim Walz last cycle.
Why attack Sarvi now?
It's simple. On the heels of positive polling for Sarvi in the district, the Cook Political Report has elevated the CD 2 race from Solid Republican to Likely Republican. The CPR reflects the DFL growth in CD 2, pushing Brodkorb and his cronies to attack Sarvi on the most mundane subjects out there.
It's good news for Sarvi though. Brodkorb and the right wing blogosphere did a great job taking down Keith Ellison and Tim Walz last cycle.
John Kline's CD 2 No Constituent Tour
If you're reading this...you're probably not important enough to attend.
Steve Sarvi held a public press conference this past week to talk about energy issues.
John Kline will go on a secret tour of energy facilities.
The saga in CD 2 continues. Kline's constituent outreach is pathetic. So, in order to smooth things over with a disgruntled electorate, Kline decides that he must embark upon a super secret energy tour.
Now, I understand the security measures needed for nuclear power plants and a refinery. The measures are pretty high, and should be. Kline will surely emerge from from the tour and issue a press release that says...
"Offshore drilling is a must."
"We must drill in ANWR."
"We must increase the number of refineries in America."
He'll probably puppet a few points Congresswoman Bachmann made in her infamous gas station press conference a few weeks ago.
Although, the constituents of CD 2 are not invited. Kline does not want to meet with the electorate that is growing more and more disenfranchised by Kline's embodiment of Bush Cheney energy policy. In fact, his secret meetings are consistent with Cheney's secret energy policy meetings.
"I have a specific itinerary, not for public consumption, which is why I’m not issuing a press release." Troy Young, Congressman Kline's Communications Director.
Seems like John Kline's day to day activities are never for public consumption for his constituents in the second. Unfortunately for Congressman Kline, people are beginning to wake up to Kline's lackluster Congressional record and shoddy constituent services.
Steve Sarvi held a public press conference this past week to talk about energy issues.
John Kline will go on a secret tour of energy facilities.
The saga in CD 2 continues. Kline's constituent outreach is pathetic. So, in order to smooth things over with a disgruntled electorate, Kline decides that he must embark upon a super secret energy tour.
Now, I understand the security measures needed for nuclear power plants and a refinery. The measures are pretty high, and should be. Kline will surely emerge from from the tour and issue a press release that says...
"Offshore drilling is a must."
"We must drill in ANWR."
"We must increase the number of refineries in America."
He'll probably puppet a few points Congresswoman Bachmann made in her infamous gas station press conference a few weeks ago.
Although, the constituents of CD 2 are not invited. Kline does not want to meet with the electorate that is growing more and more disenfranchised by Kline's embodiment of Bush Cheney energy policy. In fact, his secret meetings are consistent with Cheney's secret energy policy meetings.
"I have a specific itinerary, not for public consumption, which is why I’m not issuing a press release." Troy Young, Congressman Kline's Communications Director.
Seems like John Kline's day to day activities are never for public consumption for his constituents in the second. Unfortunately for Congressman Kline, people are beginning to wake up to Kline's lackluster Congressional record and shoddy constituent services.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
End of Quarter Push!
The end of the FEC quarter means one thing...a mad dash for cash!
Remember the record breaking caucuses this past winter. The momentum is still there!
As the parade and door knocking season is now in full swing, it's time for all of us to step forward and help our candidates in any way we can.
They can't do this without money. Coleman, Bachmann, Kline and Paulsen have significant amounts of COH at this point and we need to step up and help turn Minnesota a very dark shade of blue this November.
Steve Sarvi, Ashwin Madia, Elwyn Tinklenberg and Al Franken provide us with a strong shot at making every federal seat blue come November.
In cahoots with other progressive bloggers across the state, MnPublius, Minnesota Campaign Report, Power Liberal, Christopher Truscott, and Centrisity, we are working to raise $1000 total by the end of the quarter.
An ActBlue page has been set up to take your contributions! Any amount you provide will assist our candidates in turning Minnesota a deeper shade of blue!
Please spread this message across all lists!
Remember the record breaking caucuses this past winter. The momentum is still there!
As the parade and door knocking season is now in full swing, it's time for all of us to step forward and help our candidates in any way we can.
They can't do this without money. Coleman, Bachmann, Kline and Paulsen have significant amounts of COH at this point and we need to step up and help turn Minnesota a very dark shade of blue this November.
Steve Sarvi, Ashwin Madia, Elwyn Tinklenberg and Al Franken provide us with a strong shot at making every federal seat blue come November.
In cahoots with other progressive bloggers across the state, MnPublius, Minnesota Campaign Report, Power Liberal, Christopher Truscott, and Centrisity, we are working to raise $1000 total by the end of the quarter.
An ActBlue page has been set up to take your contributions! Any amount you provide will assist our candidates in turning Minnesota a deeper shade of blue!
Please spread this message across all lists!
Monday, June 23, 2008
From The Right Wing Hypocrisy Files (Update)
The line of attack for right wing bloggers has changed, and changed significantly!
Right wingers seized the "Liberate Iraq, Support Our Troops" mantra and challenged any progressive with the courage to oppose the biggest foreign policy error of our generation, Iraq.
Now, with progressive Veterans emerging to run for Congress and other elected seats, the right wing attack machine is forced to reach into the bottom of the barrel.
Check out the latest dumpster diving escapades of the right wing blogosphere!
Apparently, someone has a problem with Steve Sarvi being an Active Duty Captain, but coming back years later into the National Guard as a Sergeant. They hint that Sarvi must have done something wrong to go from a junior officer rank to a non-commissioned officer rank.
National Guard units are "staffed" in a much different fashion than most outside of the military think. One's "MTOE" will only allow for a specific amount of soldiers and equipment. When I left active duty in 2001, I needed a MTOE slot in Mechanized Infantry for an 11M30J3(Mechanized Infantry Staff Sergeant Bradley Master Gunner). Minnesota had no openings for me then, although I could have taken a Sergeant position somewhere, Moorhead I believe.
I knew officers that got out during the Clinton years and joined the 20th Special Forces Group in Florida. They ended up as enlisted folks as well. It's really not a big deal. Hell, in my eyes, moving from a tanker Captain to an Infantryman Sergeant is a helluva promotion!
Lets be clear here, IF an Active Duty Captain gets "busted" as the right wing bloggers assert, there is no chance that soldier comes back into a National Guard tour and makes Sergeant First Class. Promotion boards look at that stuff. You don't make SFC with baggage.
While these ridiculous accusations are easy to get fired up about, it's the right wing blogger assertion that Sergeant's don't lead.
Well Mr Ecker, Colonel Kline was led too. You see, the military has a pretty easy rank structure, where everyone is "led". You always have someone to answer to.
As a Sergeant, one is leads a team of soldiers, 4-5 men. As a Staff Sergeant, one typically leads a 8-10 man squad. As a Sergeant First Class, you lead a 25-35 man platoon.
Mr Ecker, Sergeants lead and they lead from the front, everyday. We spend countless hours working with our soldiers on gunnery training, basic infantry drills and tactics, and live in close proximity to them. The best Colonels I knew had the utmost respect for the Sergeants in their unit. Sergeants are the "Backbone of the Army" and despite what Ecker thinks, most military minded individuals get that.
While carrying the "nuclear football" is surely a position of honor, it falls short the right wing authors own definition of a leadership position.
Regardless, attacking Sarvi on his military record is a treacherous path for the right wing bloggers to take. I respect Congressman Kline for his service to our nation, but completely disagree with his voting record on Veterans issues and Iraq.
When can we call into question the patriotism of the right wing bloggers who attack the service record of a distinguished Iraq Veteran?
(Update): Dave Mindeman at mnpACT! has a post up about this as well.
Right wingers seized the "Liberate Iraq, Support Our Troops" mantra and challenged any progressive with the courage to oppose the biggest foreign policy error of our generation, Iraq.
Now, with progressive Veterans emerging to run for Congress and other elected seats, the right wing attack machine is forced to reach into the bottom of the barrel.
Check out the latest dumpster diving escapades of the right wing blogosphere!
Apparently, someone has a problem with Steve Sarvi being an Active Duty Captain, but coming back years later into the National Guard as a Sergeant. They hint that Sarvi must have done something wrong to go from a junior officer rank to a non-commissioned officer rank.
National Guard units are "staffed" in a much different fashion than most outside of the military think. One's "MTOE" will only allow for a specific amount of soldiers and equipment. When I left active duty in 2001, I needed a MTOE slot in Mechanized Infantry for an 11M30J3(Mechanized Infantry Staff Sergeant Bradley Master Gunner). Minnesota had no openings for me then, although I could have taken a Sergeant position somewhere, Moorhead I believe.
I knew officers that got out during the Clinton years and joined the 20th Special Forces Group in Florida. They ended up as enlisted folks as well. It's really not a big deal. Hell, in my eyes, moving from a tanker Captain to an Infantryman Sergeant is a helluva promotion!
Lets be clear here, IF an Active Duty Captain gets "busted" as the right wing bloggers assert, there is no chance that soldier comes back into a National Guard tour and makes Sergeant First Class. Promotion boards look at that stuff. You don't make SFC with baggage.
While these ridiculous accusations are easy to get fired up about, it's the right wing blogger assertion that Sergeant's don't lead.
Sarvi is trying to use his supposed leadership in the military against Kline. However, unlike Sarvi, Kline continued to be promoted and continued to lead. Sarvi on the other hand gave up his leadership position and instead picked a position where is led. A true leader doesn’t typically like to be led.
Sure there are legitimate reasons for the above situation, but given that the supposed reason for it keeps changing, it’s hard to trust Sarvi’s word. One would imagine that if he released his military service records, it would set aside many questions. I don’t think that is an unreasonable request since he’s chosen to make himself a very public figure, running for public office on his military service.
Or else we just have to take his rather questionable word that a Sergeant is a better leader than a full-bird Colonel.
Well Mr Ecker, Colonel Kline was led too. You see, the military has a pretty easy rank structure, where everyone is "led". You always have someone to answer to.
As a Sergeant, one is leads a team of soldiers, 4-5 men. As a Staff Sergeant, one typically leads a 8-10 man squad. As a Sergeant First Class, you lead a 25-35 man platoon.
Mr Ecker, Sergeants lead and they lead from the front, everyday. We spend countless hours working with our soldiers on gunnery training, basic infantry drills and tactics, and live in close proximity to them. The best Colonels I knew had the utmost respect for the Sergeants in their unit. Sergeants are the "Backbone of the Army" and despite what Ecker thinks, most military minded individuals get that.
While carrying the "nuclear football" is surely a position of honor, it falls short the right wing authors own definition of a leadership position.
Regardless, attacking Sarvi on his military record is a treacherous path for the right wing bloggers to take. I respect Congressman Kline for his service to our nation, but completely disagree with his voting record on Veterans issues and Iraq.
When can we call into question the patriotism of the right wing bloggers who attack the service record of a distinguished Iraq Veteran?
(Update): Dave Mindeman at mnpACT! has a post up about this as well.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Steve Sarvi: Kline Votes Against Veterans
Higher Education and Veterans benefits are two issues of utmost importance to me, all based on my personal experiences.
I tend to support candidates and elected officials who are progressive on these issues. Even if they have opposed specific legislation in these areas, they offer an honest explanation and remain supportive overall on these issues.
John Kline is not one of these elected officials.
Back about a month ago, I touched upon the antics played by Kline and other Congressional Republicans on the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (HR 2642).
On the first amendment, Congressman Kline joined Michele Bachmann by voting "Present". Cute game...while voting "Present", I contend that Kline actually went AWOL on our nations soldiers, sailors, Marines, and Veterans.
Kline voted "Present" on an amendment that would provide $500 million for Facilities Sustainment, Restoration and Modernization (FSRM). Anyone else recall the Walter Reed problem? Fort Bragg?
$3.6 Billion to address the increasing price of fuel and other petroleum products. Keep in mind, a Bradley Fighting Vehicle gets just over 2 miles per gallon of JP-8 Diesel and an M1 Tank less than a mile a gallon!$
65.4 million for the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program. The Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program helps members of the National Guard and Reserve transition from combat to civilian life. With the enormous increase in Veteran suicides, programs like this save lives.
$52 million to hire more than 200 additional contract managers to prevent waste, fraud and abuse in Department of Defense contracting in Iraq and Afghanistan.
$102 million for "Land Warrior" equipment to equip one "next to deploy'' brigade combat team with Land Warrior equipment sets.
$6 billion for the procurement of combat aircraft.
Overall, the recommendations total $96,622,127,000 and are structured to maximize support to our men and women in uniform. They meet important force protection, equipment and personnel needs, while fully funding the operational requirements to conduct the Global War on Terror.
Amendment 2 (check it out, it's pretty interesting)
Kline voted against this amendment.
The amendment contained provisions to ensure that a unit that is not "fully mission capable" cannot be sent to Iraq, which could be waived by the President on a unit by unit basis. Sending units that are not "fully mission capable" is a bad idea, which Congressman Kline supports.
The amendment also provides for year long deployments with a year back in the United States before another deployment. Again, it's a common sense part of the amendment. OPTEMPO on our forces over the past 7 years has been tremendous. Providing 1 year back in the US before another deployment makes sense. Kline opposes the common sense of this.
It also has a clause dealing with war profiteering!
Sergeant Sarvi's "boots on the ground experience" in Iraq provide him with insight on these issues that provide instant credibility.
Amendment 3
This amendment contained the new GI Bill language as well as Katrina related relief.
Does John Kline understand the need for increased education benefits for our Veterans? The "new" GI Bill would:
Work to decrease the backlog of VA education benefit claims waiting to be processed (over 120,000 at this point).
Benefits provided under the bill would allow veterans pursuing an approved program of education to receive payments covering the established charges of their program, and a monthly stipend of $1,000.
It would extend the time to use the benefit from 10 years to 15 years.
The estimated $2 billion a year needed for the program equals less than one week of war in Iraq.
Sergeant Sarvi voes to not only support Veterans educational opportunities, but also those who volunteer for civic service.
This is just one example of the lack of leadership displayed by Congressman Kline. His rhetoric does not match his voting record.
Change is needed in the 2nd and other districts across Minnesota. Steve Sarvi is the right candidate at the right time for the change needed in Minnesota's 2nd Congressional District.
I tend to support candidates and elected officials who are progressive on these issues. Even if they have opposed specific legislation in these areas, they offer an honest explanation and remain supportive overall on these issues.
John Kline is not one of these elected officials.
Back about a month ago, I touched upon the antics played by Kline and other Congressional Republicans on the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (HR 2642).
On the first amendment, Congressman Kline joined Michele Bachmann by voting "Present". Cute game...while voting "Present", I contend that Kline actually went AWOL on our nations soldiers, sailors, Marines, and Veterans.
Kline voted "Present" on an amendment that would provide $500 million for Facilities Sustainment, Restoration and Modernization (FSRM). Anyone else recall the Walter Reed problem? Fort Bragg?
$3.6 Billion to address the increasing price of fuel and other petroleum products. Keep in mind, a Bradley Fighting Vehicle gets just over 2 miles per gallon of JP-8 Diesel and an M1 Tank less than a mile a gallon!$
65.4 million for the Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program. The Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program helps members of the National Guard and Reserve transition from combat to civilian life. With the enormous increase in Veteran suicides, programs like this save lives.
$52 million to hire more than 200 additional contract managers to prevent waste, fraud and abuse in Department of Defense contracting in Iraq and Afghanistan.
$102 million for "Land Warrior" equipment to equip one "next to deploy'' brigade combat team with Land Warrior equipment sets.
$6 billion for the procurement of combat aircraft.
Overall, the recommendations total $96,622,127,000 and are structured to maximize support to our men and women in uniform. They meet important force protection, equipment and personnel needs, while fully funding the operational requirements to conduct the Global War on Terror.
Amendment 2 (check it out, it's pretty interesting)
Kline voted against this amendment.
The amendment contained provisions to ensure that a unit that is not "fully mission capable" cannot be sent to Iraq, which could be waived by the President on a unit by unit basis. Sending units that are not "fully mission capable" is a bad idea, which Congressman Kline supports.
The amendment also provides for year long deployments with a year back in the United States before another deployment. Again, it's a common sense part of the amendment. OPTEMPO on our forces over the past 7 years has been tremendous. Providing 1 year back in the US before another deployment makes sense. Kline opposes the common sense of this.
It also has a clause dealing with war profiteering!
Sergeant Sarvi's "boots on the ground experience" in Iraq provide him with insight on these issues that provide instant credibility.
Amendment 3
This amendment contained the new GI Bill language as well as Katrina related relief.
Does John Kline understand the need for increased education benefits for our Veterans? The "new" GI Bill would:
Work to decrease the backlog of VA education benefit claims waiting to be processed (over 120,000 at this point).
Benefits provided under the bill would allow veterans pursuing an approved program of education to receive payments covering the established charges of their program, and a monthly stipend of $1,000.
It would extend the time to use the benefit from 10 years to 15 years.
The estimated $2 billion a year needed for the program equals less than one week of war in Iraq.
Sergeant Sarvi voes to not only support Veterans educational opportunities, but also those who volunteer for civic service.
This is just one example of the lack of leadership displayed by Congressman Kline. His rhetoric does not match his voting record.
Change is needed in the 2nd and other districts across Minnesota. Steve Sarvi is the right candidate at the right time for the change needed in Minnesota's 2nd Congressional District.
Steve Sarvi Video: 4
With gas hitting $4 across the Metro yesterday, the video hits us at the right time!
It's a great video, enjoy!
It's a great video, enjoy!
Friday, June 06, 2008
Steve Sarvi Blog Day!
The Big E over at Mn Blue has spent quite some time recently working to organize a Steve Sarvi Blog Day in Minnesota, on June 10th.
My focus will be on Veterans Issues and Higher Education.
Sarvi is a great candidate. The mainstream media has ignored the race the 2nd CD. We'll work to bring some much deserved attention to Sergeant Sarvi and the issues important to those in the 2nd.
So with this good news, I'm happy to announce the Steve Sarvi Blog Day is coming up next Tuesday, June 10th.
The idea is for as many blogs as possible to talk about Steve and encourage their readers to go to Steve's Act Blue page and donate.
Steve has a chance to beat a Republican who has a partisan voting percentage of 93+% in a district that is turning blue. He has a chance to oust a retired Marine Colonel who was given a 0% rating from the Disabled American Veterans and a D grade from the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. He has a chance to privatize a Representative who has been wrong on Iraq, healthcare, the economy and transportation.
My focus will be on Veterans Issues and Higher Education.
Sarvi is a great candidate. The mainstream media has ignored the race the 2nd CD. We'll work to bring some much deserved attention to Sergeant Sarvi and the issues important to those in the 2nd.
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