@ the front lines defending faith, family, freedom

MICHIGAN: LIVONIA RESIDENTS STAND FOR LIFE

2009-10-10T19:07:00.000-04:00

CANDIDATE SPOTLIGHT: MICHAEL WILLIAMS

2009-09-22T14:48:00.001-04:00

Texas Railroad Commissioner Michael Williams is running for Texas' open Senate seat, up for election in 2010. Williams is pro-life, pro-gun rights, and an all-around solid conservative.

You can contribute online at his website, follow @michaelwilliams on Twitter, and become a fan on Facebook.

Below are some quotes from Michael, taken from www.williamsfortexas.com/issues.

On Government's Role in our Lives
"We are made in the image of God and endowed with rights inherited from Him. Government's primary responsibility is to advance the cause of freedom and promote, protect, and secure the inalienable rights that were endowed to us by God..."

On Immigration
"We value legal immigration... Amnesty is an affront to the rule of law.

On the Environment

"We have a moral duty to be good stewards of God's creation... Pro-growth energy and environment solutions -- those that rely on innovation, entrepreneurship and new technology -- will yield more clean, affordable, and reliable energy for America's families and business.

On the Federal Income Tax

"The federal income tax system is unfair. We should eliminated death and capital gains taxes, move to an optional single rate flat tax, allow the investment in new equipment to be written off in one year and make permanent the research and development tax credit."

On Faith in the Public Square

"The separation of church and state does not mean that there can be no reference to God in government-sanctioned activities or on public grounds. Our children should be allowed a moment of silence to pray if they desire. Crosses or other religious symbols should be able to remain on public property and the phrase “One Nation Under God” should remain in the Pledge of Allegiance."

On the Right to Keep and Bear Arms

"The 2nd amendment is clear. I have never understood the wisdom of restricting access to firearms by law-abiding citizens as if that will also keep guns out of the hands of people already predisposed to committing crimes. The 2nd amendment, and its free exercise by law-abiding citizens, makes our communities safer. And I am proud to be a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association."

On the Right to Life

"The Declaration of Independence states, “we hold these truths to be self evident”, namely, that we are all created equal and are endowed by our Creator with certain inalienable rights, the first of which is the right to life”. Life begins at conception. We should vigorously oppose abortion on demand, embryonic stem cell research, partial birth abortion, and allowing babies who have survived an abortion to die. As people of compassion we must defend the rights of the most vulnerable, the unborn. With millions of couples seeking to adopt a child, we must do everything possible to encourage life."

On the War on Terror

"Al Qaeda, Iran, Hezbollah, Hamas and similar terrorist organizations pose serious threats to the United States. We must help defend America and our allies, remain vigilant to survive an attack on our soil and defeat our enemies."

VALUES VOTERS SUMMIT: MIKE HUCKABEE SPEAKS AND WINS STRAW POLL

2009-09-19T19:35:00.005-04:00

Governor Huckabee gave a great speech at the Values Voter Summit yesterday morning. His speech covered a wide array of issues, from abortion to taxes to Obama to marriage. Following Friday's morning session, a 2012 straw poll was held. Governor Huckabee came away with a stunning victory, and it was clear that the audience present supported the Governor. David R. Schmidt, executive director at HucksArmy.com, wrote a great review of the speech here.

Mike Huckabee 170 votes – 28.5%
Mitt Romney 74 votes – 12.4%
Tim Pawlenty 73 votes – 12.2%
Sarah Palin 72 votes – 12.1%
Mike Pence 71 votes – 11.9%
Newt Gingrich 40 votes – 6.7%
Bobby Jindal 28 votes – 4.7%
Rick Santorum 15 votes – 2.5%
Ron Paul 13 votes – 2.2%

PRESIDENT OBAMA: RACE NOT OVERRIDING ISSUE IN HEALTHCARE DEBATE

2009-09-19T19:07:00.004-04:00

Vicious verbiage toward President Obama is not different than that that hit other Presidents who tried to make other major changes. Racism isn't the major problem here, he said, in an interview with CNN's John King set to air tomorrow.

“Are there people out there who don’t like me because of race? I’m sure there are. That’s not the overriding issue here,” he said. “I think there are people who are anti-government. I think there’s been a long-standing debate in this country that is usually that much more fierce during times of transition, or when presidents are trying to bring about big changes.
“I mean, things that were said about FDR (Franklin Delano Roosevelt) were pretty similar to things that were said about me. ‘He’s a communist, he’s a socialist.’ Things that were said about Ronald Reagan when he was trying to reverse some of the New Deal programs, you know, were pretty vicious as well.”

Obama deserves praise for this statement. While Republicans across the country are accusing him of being a racist, he has set that false notion to rest.

Thank you, Mr. Obama.

VALUES VOTERS SUMMIT: LIVE

2009-09-18T11:27:00.006-04:00

The 2009 Values Voters Summit is underway. Governor Huckabee gave a great speech around 9:00 this morning. Click here to listen.

UPDATE: Star Parker and Sarah Palin both scheduled to speak between 2:00 pm and 5 pm this afternoon.

MICHIGAN: MIKE BOUCHARD TAPS TERRY LYNN LAND FOR RUNNING MATE

2009-09-17T12:42:00.004-04:00

Oakland County Sheriff and Republican Gubernatorial candidate Mike Bouchard announced yesterday that he has selected two-term Secretary of State Terry Lynn Land for his 2010 running mate.

Both our pro-family leaders in our state, and both have been successful in cutting their office budgets without slashing jobs. Land's Secretary of State offices are now the epitome of efficiency (I know from experience) and Bouchard's Oakland County Sherriff's office has been one of the most successful in the nation.

I'm not sure yet who I'm going to vote for. Attorney General Mike Cox is my favorite at this point, and I still haven't forgiven Bouchard for lampooning Keith Butler's 2006 bid for U.S. Senate. My feelings may soften before 2010, however.

Land dropped out of the race for Governor and immediately endorsed Bouchard, but this early announcement is interesting, given that it will be almost a year before 2010 when the state GOP convention nominates a candidate.

You can visit BouchardforGovernor.com to learn more about his campaign.

GUEST COLUMN: RESPONSE TO DETROIT: BUDGET CUTS NECESSARY

2009-09-17T12:28:00.004-04:00

I don’t know where to start, so I will just start with “his own residence” remark. First of all, Mayor Bing doesn’t own anything in the city of Detroit, he rents the apartment. He also still owns his ‘real’ home in Franklin MI. Also, since we have to pay for the mansion whether Dave Bing lives in it or not is now a waste of money.

Dave Bing is taking a salary, he is just giving to the general fund, but rest assured, we are still paying him a salary. What he does with it after that is his business.

30% of Detroit households don’t a car, that’s 30% of Detroiters that need the bus all the time. You do not take the bus, I do. I know what people go thought when they have to wait an hour for a bus. Do you? No bus service is not what this city needs, cut down on the bus routes, but do not eliminate them, as with his first proposal.

I suggest we have Sunday bus service on both Saturday and Sunday.

I suggest we raise the fair by $0.25 to generate more revenue from the bus service.

I suggest we have longer wait times on certain routes I.E. Instead of a 30 minute wait for a bus, we have a 40 minute wait. In this way, we can cut only one job from a route instead of 2 or 3.

Look into the numbers and try to find other ways to save Detroit money. Don’t just say “Let’s do this and not that.” Give us why, and how to fix it. How will these cuts affect others? Mayor Bing’s first proposal was to eliminate bus service completely from 6 P.M. Saturday evening to early Monday morning. That is a long time with no public transportation at all. We can’t, as a city, do that to our citizens.

I agree that cuts should start from the top, but do they really? As I said before, Mayor Bing is still drawing a salary he is just giving it away. Furthermore, Bing has appointed more people than any Mayor before him, all with six figure salaries in a debt filled Detroit budget. I call for the Mayor, City Council, and City Clerk to take a 30% reduction in salary, lead by example. None of them are willing to do this. None of them are willing to give up perks, save one. Cuts should start at the top, but no one from the top is taking your advice.

Herbie Felton was a 2009 Detroit City Council Candidate.

MICHIGAN: PRO LIFE ACTIVIST GUNNED DOWN

2009-09-11T13:49:00.004-04:00

According to news reports, an elderly pro-life activist protesting abortion was gunned down this morning outside a high school. Police say that he was likely targeted, since several other people were around at the time. He is something of a local celebrity in that area.

Pro-life leaders from around the country praised his work and expressed condolences for his family.

Lila Rose of LiveAction Films had this to say: "We are greatly saddened and disturbed by the murder of pro-life activist, Jim Pouillon.

We condemn the violent act which robbed Jim of his life, and we stand with him in his protest against our nation's violence to the unborn. Now is the time for the pro-life community to stand with even more courage and unity against abortion. We will work tirelessly until our nation recognizes the right to life of every human being, even the smallest and weakest."

One of Pouillon's close friends said that Jim had said he was willing to die for his beliefs.

We will keep all those involved in our prayers.

More available at MLive.com.

MICHIGAN: WHY MIKE COX IS DIFFERENT THAN MARK SANFORD

2009-09-10T13:51:00.006-04:00

Mark Brewer, chairman of the Michigan Democratic Party, recently challenged Michigan Attorney General and gubernatorial candidate Mike Cox to explain how he will be different than South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford. Of course, Brewer is referring to the extramarital affair that Cox confessed to in late 2005. It had happened to several years prior to that, but was not public knowledge. He had earlier confessed to his wife and they had worked it out. So in my opinion, shouldn't have been an issue then.

The MDP released this statement on Tuesday:

“This 92-step plan ignores what the voters really need from Mike Cox,” Brewer said. “Cox should be focusing on a two-step plan. First, he needs to explain how, as Governor, he would be different from South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford. Second, Cox needs to practice what he preaches and fully disclose his role in the Manoogian Mansion party cover up."

Since Mr. Brewer apparently hasn't figured it out, here's how Mike Cox is different from Mark Sanford.

He and his wife worked out the situation.
He proved his true repentance by staying clean since that time.
Cox didn't claim that his affair was "a true love story." He was sorry and proved it.
He and his wife are still together.
He didn't travel on state funds to see his lover.
He didn't lie about the affair.

I am not supporting Attorney General Cox for Governor, at least not yet. But I definitely will get behind him should he get the nomination. He's been successful in the offices he's held so far, so give him a chance.

And rest assured, Mr. Brewer: As long as Cox is different than your friend Jenny, we'll be in good hands.

DETROIT: BUDGET CUTS NECESSARY

2009-09-09T08:00:00.000-04:00

Mayor Dave Bing has recently come under fire for suggesting that Detroit cut bus service on some routes, in order to assist in stopping an ever-increasing budget deficit. In my view, the bus service is an important aspect of our city government and should be a last resort. However, because of our dire financial situation, a little pain will be necessary.

The bottom line is this: Our city services are set up for a population of well over a million residents. It's been some time since our city has had that size population; we stand at about 800,000 currently.

We have to cut somewhere, and cuts need to start at the top. Mayor Bing has done this, by not taking a salary and living in his own residence, rather than the city-owned mansion.

Over 30% of Detroit households do not own a car, which complicates the situation. Busses are one of the most important services Detroit provides to its residents. Many of the proposed routes to be cut are unfrequently used and liabilities to the city.

We've gotten into trouble before by spending money that we don't have, and it's time to stop. Mayor Bing is to be commended for putting the cities longterm interest ahead of opinion polls and his political future. I'd rather see busses cut than police officers taken off the street, and if you look at our rising crime statistics, you will likely agree.

CANDIDATE SPOTLIGHT: MARCO RUBIO

2009-09-08T20:53:00.007-04:00

Former Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio is running against Gov. Charlie Crist for Florida's open United States Senate seat. Rubio is a pro-life Cuban-American, the son of immigrants, who has displayed remarkable leadership and an unwavering comittment to the values that matter.

On abortion, Rubio says “I am pro-life. As a state legislator, I supported various pieces of pro-life legislation that, among other things, would require doctors to perform ultrasounds before performing abortions."

Marco Rubio has been endorsed by Mike Huckabee and Huck PAC as well as Jim Demint.

You can contribute to Rubio at www.MarcoRubio.com.

This is an uphill race. Charlie Crist has locked up virtually all of the inside-the-beltway endorsements, including the NRSC and Florida GOP's chairman.

Share Rubio videos on YouTube, post links to his site on Twitter, and recruit your Facebook friends to help his campaign.

God bless,

Daniel Miller

Changes Coming this Saturday

2009-09-02T14:47:00.004-04:00

Beginning this Saturday, our blog will feature regular columns and stories. My idea is that we have a definite structure and daily updates. Below is a basic outline:

MONDAY

On Mondays, we will spotlight important legislation, clue our readers in on vital bills before congress, as well as invit

TUESDAY

On Tuesdays, we will highlight candidates for state and federal offices and invite you to support their campaigns.

WEDNESDAY

Wednesday columns will feature issues of importance to Detroit and the surrounding communities.

THURSDAY

On Thursdays, we will address important concers to the state of Michigan. These posts will also be featured on ConservativeMichigan.com.

FRIDAY

Friday will feature our blogger spotlight. We will write an objective assessment of notable bloggers and their blog(s). I will post a form through which bloggers can apply to be featured.

SATURDAY

Saturday will feature our response to both President Obama's weekly address and the Republican response.

SUNDAY

Sunday posts will highlight issues of religious liberty and justice, and ministries that deserve your support.

I hope we can be helpful to you and that you will join me in taking back America for conservative values.

Thank you.

Daniel Miller

Kennedy's Legacy (from Change.org and FLB)

2009-09-02T09:38:00.001-04:00

From change.org: (with translations from FrontLinesBlog):

It's rare that a person touches the hearts and minds of so many activists across so many causes. This week, people around the globe honored the life of Sen. Ted Kennedy, the third longest-serving U.S. Senator in history and a champion for many of the issues that Change.org readers believe in so passionately.

Because we are losing the support of the American people, we must exploit the death of Ted Kennedy to receive funding for the liberal causes we hold dear. Send us money, send us money, send us money.

There was global warming, and Kennedy's pioneering work to curb climate change. He was among the first legislators - more than 30 years ago - to sponsor legislation to establish fuel economy standards, and up until his departure from the Senate helped shepherd legislation to cut greenhouse gas pollution.

Ted Kennedy was one of the first legislators to attempt to dismantle the American auto industry through draconian fuel economy standards. Until his departure from the Senate, he attempted to pass cap and trade legislation that would doom America's manufacturers and enact high taxes on the American people. Send us money, send us money, send us money.

There was global health, and the Senator's drive to combat global HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria, and to make sure that the U.S. was setting the standard when it came to preserving the power of antibiotics.

The Senator believed in the right of every American politician to the best private medical care, but that other Americans should be forced into a government-run single-payer plan. Send us money, send us money, send us money.

There was women's rights, and Kennedy's tireless efforts to push the Equal Rights Amendment, and his support for legislation that created family and medical leave time, equal pay for equal work, Title IX equal access for women, and more.

Okay, you're joking, right? Send us money, send us money, send us money.

And of course health care, which will perhaps be the cause for which Sen. Kennedy leaves the biggest legacy. Sen. Kennedy's main priority these past few years was to make sure everyone had decent, quality health care as a fundamental right and not a privilege. That work remains unfinished. It's now up to us to complete it.

We're losing on Obamacare, and we need a reason for the public to support it. Send us money, send us money, send us money.

Whether it was these causes or other such as homelessness, gay rights, human rights abuses, immigration, or poverty, Sen. Kennedy taught us that no issue was too small when it came to defending what is right. It's that spirit that we celebrate here at Change.org each and every day.

Send us money, send us money, send us money.

Michigan Resident Confronts Dingell at Townhall Meeting

2009-08-15T17:26:00.005-04:00

Mike Sola of Michigan confronted Congressman John Dingell (D, Dearborn, MI) recently at a health care "townhall" meeting. Sola's question was simple: Would his son be covered in the new health care "reform" bill before congress? The congresman went around the question but finally told the Sola that it was in an amendment. Dingell told him to "just sit down," but Sola kept at it and really made an impact. As he was ushered out by police, the crowd roared in support.

Updated: Palin Spokeswoman Denying Rumors

2009-08-01T14:17:00.012-04:00

UPDATE: 4:25 EST
Balanced Article from The Examiner:

The website Alaska Report has released a story that Todd and Sarah Palin are set to divorce. If the website is correct it will be another big break for the organization that claims to have also first reported Sarah Palin's Governor candidacy and her Vice Presidential candidacy. Alaska Report claims to have confirmed the story with multiple sources in Wasilla and Anchorage.
At this point I am holding out for more confirmation from other sources before trusting this report. The story run by Alaska Report does not name its confirmation sources which gives me reason to doubt. In addition, just in browsing the Alaska Report website it appears to be slanted toward the anti-Palin side of the media. Finally, the one source the report does cite is The National Enquirer which does not always maintain a great deal of credibility. However, The National Enquirer was the first to release the story of former Senator John Edward's affair so they have been known to break a big story every now and then. (The Examiner)
******

UPDATE: 3:14 EST

Palin's spokeswoman just issued the following statement:

"Yet again, some so-called journalists have decided to make up a story. There is no truth to the recent “story” (and story is the correct term for this type of fiction) that the Palins are divorcing. The Palins remain married, committed to each other and their family, and have not purchased land in Montana (last week it was reported to be Long Island).

Less than one week ago, Governor Palin asked the media to “quit making things up.” We appreciate that the more professional journalists decided to question this story before repeating it."

Meg Stapleton

******

I privately wondered what scandal was brewing last month when Alaska Governor Sarah Palin suddenly resigned from office. Now, it appears my worst fears may have been realized. The Immoral Majority blog (aptly named) is reporting that the Palins are divorcing (I have contacted the writer of this site and requested that he cite a source and provide more details. I will relay any information gained to my readers). To be fair this same blog claims that Trig is not really Sarah's son. They have admitted to being wrong about Bristol Palin's alleged second pregnancy, but today's accusation is worth checking out, when you consider some other recent events.

For example, Palin left Todd alone at an event last Sunday at which the couple allegedly did not speak to each other.

Sarah Palin not only left her perch in the governor's office; she also left behind her husband Todd after yesterday's ceremony in Fairbanks.

After swearing in the new governor, Palin made a quick exit with daughter Piper and son Trigg in tow. She jumped in a Chevy Silverado twin cab driven by her security detail.
Todd Palin followed just seconds behind, and was left struggling to avoid a phalanx of cameras. The problem: His family had already left.
After reviewing our camera tape, you can hear someone ask, "No car for Todd?" Then Todd, the former First Dude, laughs and says, "They left me." (MSNBC First Read)

Some Alaskans have reported seeing Palin not wearing her wedding ring, and one report is that in a fit of anger she threw it into a lake. The alleged lake has not been identified.

I am not accusing; I am merely searching for facts.

Letter To The Detroit News Published

2009-08-01T12:41:00.003-04:00

Tim's letter regarding the pay to play politics in Detroit was published in Thursday's edition of The Detroit News:

Decry corrupt endorsements
With former Detroit City Council member Monica Conyers' bribery scandal still unfolding, it is amazing that some political organizations are still selling endorsements. These endorsements virtually ensure the victory of the candidate who pays to be on the endorsement list. City Council candidates James Tate and Herbie Felton have pledged not to play the paid endorsement game, and it's time for the rest of Detroit's candidates to follow suit and decry the price of corrupt politics.
Timothy Miller , Detroit

Obama Acted "Studidly" In Gates' Arrest

2009-07-28T21:52:00.004-04:00

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My first thought when I heard of the arrest of Henry Louis Gates, Jr., was "racial profiling." Not because I distrust the police department, nor have any automatic accusation of racism ready every time something bad happens to a person of color. But the fact is, racial profiling happens, and happens often. Just speaking of people I know: A friend who matched the description (black) of someone who had stolen a Cadillac (his own) was arrested and spent a night of jail. He had his license, title, and registration in hand but that still wasn't enough. Hundreds of times I've seen people stopped and their car searched, their hands cuffed. But they get released without a ticket or citation. My point is, I frequently see racial profiling happen. But as more details were released about the arrest, I began to change my mind. President Obama was asked about it, and said the following:

"But I think it's fair to say, number one, any of us would be pretty angry. number two, that the Cambridge police acted stupidly in arresting somebody when there was already proof that they were in their own home. And number three -- what I think we know separate and apart from this incident -- is that there is a long history in this country of African-Americans and Latinos being stopped by law enforcement disproportionately, and that's just a fact."

He spoke without the facts; here they are.

Officer James Crowley was investigating a report of a break-in. He had no idea whose house this was, and when he arrived, saw Gates inside. He asked for ID (standard procedure in that particular situation) and Gates immediately began calling him a racist and making cracks about "your mama." He refused to show identification, so Mr. Crowley arrested him for disorderly conduct. The officer was on scene with an African-American officer as well as an officer of Hispanic descent. A rather diverse team, in my opinion. Both are supporting his story and the way he handled the confrontation.

Gates was wrong, plain and simple. Had he shown ID when the officer arrived and said "Well, I just was breaking in because my door was jammed. This is my house. Here's proof," he would not have been arrested. Now, we have the President of the United States calling the police stupid during a press conference on health care.

Let's not ignore the fact: Racial profiling happens, and happens often. But Gates' arrest was not racial profiling, and his calling it such racism.

Why N.O.W. Supports Obama's Health Care Plan

2009-07-28T20:01:00.000-04:00

"The National Organization for Women adopted a resolution in 1993 that supports a single-payer type approach (Medicare for all) as the best way to control costs and cover everyone. Women, especially, will benefit from a single-payer system because all medically-necessary services are covered and the single-payer system's approach is the only way to bring costs under control. No up-front deductibles would be required and no exclusions for reproductive health care services would be allowed." [from the National Organization for Women e-mail newsletter, emphasis added]

The National Organization for Women (NOW) is supporting single-payer health care because it will mean that all Americans have to pay for "reproductive health care services," i.e., abortion -- which is one reason Republicans have called the health care plan an "abortion industry bailout."

It is becoming clear that the apparent goals of the left, such as national health care, are hiding their actual goal: to institutionalize liberalism in America until the ideological battles are won bureaucratically rather than politically. Abortion, the environment, wealth redistribution -- it's all part of a longterm goal to institutionalize liberalism and the Democratic Party.

NOW Facing Defeat ... That's Change I Believe In!

2009-07-23T23:56:00.000-04:00

National Organization for Women Complains about Pro-lifers in Both Parties

According to an e-mail newsletter the National Organization for Women (NOW) sent today:

"While there have been several wins in health care reform legislation concerning reproductive health services, a number of serious threats have emerged in recent days. Abortion rights opponents in both parties are moving to prohibit coverage in any public plan that is part of reform legislation. There is even an effort to prohibit private health insurance companies participating in the proposed health insurance exchanges to stop covering abortion services. Most private insurers currently provide coverage for abortion.

"Anti-abortion rights groups are flooding members of Congress with thousands of calls, opposing any provision in health care reform that would permit the use of government funds to pay for abortion care as well as trying to stop private insurance coverage of these services. Please call or email your representative and senators right away. You can use our formatted message below or create one in your own words." [Emphasis theirs]

Publicly, Front Lines Blog has advocated a pro-life first, Republican second stand. Now, the National Organization for Women has publicly admitted that the actually-pro-life Democrats in Congress are getting in the way of their agenda. Democrat Bart Stupak of Michigan, to name one, has been a reliable voice and vote for the unborn his entire time in Congress. For his clear stand on the moral issue of the day, he earns my support.

I have no problem with strongly opposing blue-dog Democrats (such as Evan Bayh) who often turn a blind eye to the plight of the unborn and, when push comes to shove, often end up voting with the people they claim they disagree with. But those Democrats, such as Stupak, who are consistently pro-life, deserve the unstinting support of pro-lifers regardless of their party affiliation.

If this free-abortion, national healthcare bill fails, it will fail because pro-life Democrats torpedoed it. For that, they deserve our praise.

Detroit Needs Change, Not Empty Words

2009-07-21T23:20:00.004-04:00

The Motor City, once the Arsenal of Democracy and the economic envy of the world, has in recent years been reduced to the laughingstock of the United States after the Kwame saga and the corruption scandal that's been brewing for a long time. Now, our city council President pro-tem, Monica Conyers (the same person who called Ken Cockrel "Shrek" and was reprimanded by an eighth-grader) has pleaded guilty to bribery charges. One of our most respected political minds has also pleaded guildy to bribery charges. Ironically, Sam Riddle blames George W. Bush for his troubles.

The fact is, Detroiters put people in office without knowing who they were voting for. We elected Kwame Kilpatrick because he was a young charismatic politician who made us feel good. We elected Monica Conyers because her name was Conyers and her husband is a senior United States Congressman.

It's time to change the makeup of the city government, and we've begun the process. Mayor Dave Bing has begun an overhall of the executive branch and our new Police Chief Warren Evans is building on his proven record of crime reduction.

The legislative branch, the City Council, is up for primary election on August 4, 2009. The general will be held on November 3. It is critical that Detroiters understand the issues at stake and those who are running.

My personal friend and fellow Detroiter Herbie Felton will be on the ballot, and I encourage you to support him. Herbie has served our nation in the Coast Guard and Naval Reserves, and now is seeking a seat on the Council to continue his service to Detroit and our country.

This election is important. Detroit has been ravaged by politicians who care only about personal finances and success. It's about time we had leaders of the people, by the people, and for the people.

Herbie will work in the best interest of Detroit, not Herbie Felton. He will listen to you, the voters, yet his principles are sound and will not change. Integrity is a rare quality not often found in Detroit polticians, but you'll find it in Herbie.

Interested? Become a friend of Herbie on Facebook and visit his blog.

If you live in Detroit or a surrounding city, why not volunteer for his campaign. We need people to work the polling places and hand out literature in support of Herbie. If you're interested, leave a comment here or at www.HerbieFelton.com, call me at 313-422-5753 or email me at daniel@herbiefelton.com.

God bless,

Daniel Miller

Mark Sanford Needs to Resign

2009-06-24T16:32:00.000-04:00

Mark Sanford has joined John Ensign, Larry Craig, David Vitter and others by betraying his wife, failing those he promised to serve in political office, and ensuring his party's defeat at the polls.

Nobody wishes to kick somebody when he's down; however, a governor who would leave for Argentina for four days without leaving a forwarding address is a public danger and needs to go.

This has resulted in a decision regarding the upcoming elections. I will not vote for somebody who has broken his vows to his spouse. It bespeaks a dangerous, self-serving willingness to violate trust, and Republican domination is not worth putting these selfish, arrogant politicians in a position of public trust when they are unworthy of private trust.

That means Mike Cox will not be getting my vote for Michigan governor should he win the nomination, and neither Newt Gingrich nor Rudy Guiliani will receive my support in 2012.

After eight years of Bill Clinton, it was a huge relief to have somebody we could trust in office. George W. Bush was known for his devotion to Laura (as Barack Obama's heart for Michelle is well-documented), and America sat back and relaxed.

These guys may well be able to find good jobs elsewhere, but they have violated the public trust and need to go.

Mark Sanford, especially, violated the public trust and should be removed from office by unanimous vote as soon as possible.

Iran Streets Getting Bloody

2009-06-20T22:46:00.000-04:00

Tim Miller contributed to this.

According to news reports, the Iranians' stand for freedom has been squashed by a militant dictatorship intent on maintaining leadership at any cost. Apparently the Iranian leadership has unleashed unspeakable horror in Tehran by committing violence against peaceful protesters in cold blood.

Today, for the first time in six days, President Barack Obama mustered up the courage to issue a vocal condemnation of Iran's murderous actions:

"We call on the Iranian government to stop all violent and unjust actions against its own people. The universal rights to assembly and free speech must be respected, and the United States stands with all those who seek to exercise those rights."

(Obama still hasn't seemed to realize that dictators don't listen to people. They do whatever it takes to gain power and control. McCain was right; he's naïve and doesn't know what he's doing.)

Although acting President Robert Gibbs made some interesting statements about the rigorous "debate" going on in Iran, the Obama administration has made no apparent effort to officially intervene to protect innocent life in Iran.

America would not be free today if France had not been willing to step in and fight with us in our War for Independence, and unto whom much is given, much shall be required. We owed our involvement, and we failed.

Our hands are bloody.

Although the deaths of the protesters were senseless, let us resolve that they will not be worthless; that the protesters who have given their lives have not died in vain.

Here's what YOU can do to help, and also some helpful advice from Kevin Tracy. Kevin has done an excellent job reporting on these events in Iran.

It's been brought to my attention that there's another list of things you can do to help the Iranian protesters in addition to the list I provided earlier. I want to combine what I wrote earlier with these new strategies and tactics. Obviously, wearing green in public is an excellent way to show your support here and every little bit helps. But next to the ground war that the protesters are launching against their government, the most important battle field is online: more specifically, on Twitter. Read more here.

Bye, Bye, Bayh

2009-06-18T21:01:00.001-04:00

Don Bates, Jr., a Richmond, Indiana, banker, has announced his intention to run for the United States Senate seat currently held by Evan Bayh (D-Indiana). Senator Bayh has the reputation of a moderate despite his record of enabling the far-left Obama agenda to succeed. Although, like Marco Rubio, Don Bates lacks the National Republican Senatorial Committee's support, his candidacy is already creating excitement and enthusiasm across Indiana.

Bayh was re-elected in 2002 with over 60% of the vote, making him unbeatable in the eyes of many Republicans. But perhaps a history lesson is in order. As Bates pointed out at a recent God and Country Rally, another "unbeatable" candidate was destroyed by the very-liberal policies of Jimmy Carter:

"Another phenomenon took place as well as a result of the 1980 Presidential election. Here in the great State of Indiana, 33 year old Dan Quayle defeated 3 term incumbent Birch Bayh to become the youngest person ever elected to the Senate from the State of Indiana. Senator Bayh was an entrenched politician with high approval ratings, a massive campaign war chest, and the power of the incumbency. And yet the American spirit, which longs for freedom, lower taxes, American patriotism and pride, said enough is enough. Senator Quayle went on to become the 44th Vice President of the United States."

Don Bates, Jr., could be an important part of a Republican resurgence in 2010 by creating a credible challenge to Evan Bayh. Bates is already building a network of committed supporters across Indiana and crafting strong policy alternatives to Evan Bayh who looks moderate only in comparison with George Soros, Nancy Pelosi, and the other leaders of the Democrat Party.

In addition, Bates brings with him significant leadership experience in the financial industry, an industry that requires federal oversight, but which is suffering (as the auto industry is) from government officials who want to legislate but do not understand the industry.

Most importantly, Don Bates is solidly committed to the sanctity of life that every human being has intrinsic worth and value, and deserves equal protection under the law. Bates will be a strong voice for the unborn and the aged in the United States Senate.

As a supporter and friend of Don Bates, Jr., I urge our Hoosier readers to visit his website (www.DonBatesJr.com), study his record and his positions, and consider voting for him in your primary next spring.

If you're not from Indiana, you're not off the hook!

First, consider supporting Bates financially. We cannot count on the NRSC, and without significant financial support, Don Bates (and the other Republicans considering running) will not be prepared to compete with the well-heeled Evan Bayh.

Second, recommend that the PACs to which you contribute consider supporting Bates.

Finally, do your best to publicize the candidacy of a principled, dedicated Hoosier conservative who will bring balance and accountability to the Senate.

Dan Quayle pulled it off so can we!

Medicine Should NOT be Socialized

2009-06-12T12:29:00.002-04:00

If you think healthcare is expensive now, just wait until it's free.

Mark Levin says it best, in his sarcastic tone: "Uh, I'll take one of those "Forever Stamps" and a kidney transplant." He has also asked whether you want to have a colonoscopy done at the Post Office.

In all seriousness, however, a national health care system is scary, and here's why: the government would be in charge. Yes, the same government that caused the banks to fail and then tried to fix them, only to fail. The same government who messes up everything it does. And they want to dictate your health care! Governments are notoriously less efficient than the private sector and our dear Republic's is no exception.

The fact is, healthcare services are extremely expensive here, which begs the question, Where will the government get all this money? It still has to be paid for, so here are some solutions that have 'worked' in other countries:

Rationing: There's only so much of one medicine available. If you need it, too bad. Go without. And doctors can only see so many patients, and since they get paid less, there are fewer doctors. Good luck finding one.
Assisted Suicide: Sometimes insurance won't cover lifesaving treatment, but hey, no problem! You can kill yourself!

In the US, one can walk into any hospital without insurance, money, or a job, and get treatment. It's the law, and no one is turned away. In Canada, Britian, France, and others, that's not the case. The government dictates whether or not you get treatment, and you're just a number. They don't care.

Keep health care in the private sector, lower costs by cutting frivilous lawsuits (that are a major reason for skyrocketing costs.. ahem John Edwards), and we'll all be better off.

GOP Signs of Life ... And Cornyn's Suicidal Tendencies

2009-06-11T13:15:00.005-04:00

Like a cliched surprise ending, the Republican Party, recently left for dead on the sidewalk, appears to be stirring. A groundswell of opposition to massive spending, the forced bankruptcies of Chrysler and General Motors, and closing the terrorist holding facilities at Guantanomo seems to be resulting in some potential electoral victories.

Already, two Democrat state senators in New York have chosen to caucus with the GOP, a sure sign that the Democratic Party in New York is suffering from internal problems and external perception.

Recent polling data indicates that Obama is suffering from his high deficit spending (his main attack against President Bush), and that the majority of Americans disagree with his decision to close Gitmo (perhaps a reason he is dragging his feet and Congress refuses to cooperate).

The Republicans are finding their voice, and are leading in governor's races in Alabama and New Jersey. This is a hopeful sign, because prior to 1994, the Republicans managed to win significantly at the gubanatorial level with governors like Tommy Thompson (Wisconsin) and John Engler (Michigan) emerging as leaders in free market economics and conservative principles. They applied these principles at the state levels, which led to significant budget gains and electoral gains in 1994.

The Democrats also won a majority of governor's offices prior to their winning control of the federal government.

There is definitely reason for hope in the 2010 election.

However, there are people in the Republican establishment like John Cornyn, who is bravely leading the National Republican Senatorial Committee to certain defeat in 2010 by backing committed moderate-to-liberal Republicans in primary races and by refusing to campaign competitively in key states such as Indiana, where the only declared candidate, Don Bates, is a charismatic, committed conservative who can give Democrat Evan Bayh a run for his money. (Other potential candidates could also pose a serious challenge to Bayh.)

Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele (endorsed by frontlinesblog) said that the Republicans would give up no territory to the Democrats and would give up no districts to them. Unfortunately, the Republican leadership appears uncommitted to victory everywhere or to conservative principles anywhere, and in this case, we could be our own worst enemy.

How do we win? In the words of Indiana blogger Kevin Tracy,

The corrupt Republican Establishment and the corrupt National Republican Senatorial Committee rely on your money to conduct their corrupt business. End the corruption by immediately ending your support of the establishment! Only donate money to trusted Political Action Committees (like HuckPAC) and, even better, give your money directly to quality candidates like Marco Rubio in Florida and Bob McDonnell in Virginia.

Senator Cornyn and the NRSC are either too corrupt or too incompetent to realize the importance of endorsing conservative Republicans. Make them realize the importance by shouting, writing, typing, and declaring as loud and as publicly as you can that you're not going to help them elect more liberals to political office! Make absolutely clear to Senator Cornyn that you're a conservative before you're a Republican. Let's make it undeniably clear that you vote on your values, not the politics of Senator Cornyn and the NRSC.

We can make significant gains in 2010 if Republicans are willing and able to fight a clean but tough fight for victory.