| A majority of House Members are opposed to Tom Craddick. It's documented. So who do you trust right now -- the Republican spin machine, or Burnt Orange Report? I present you with some evidence: From Capitol Inside (subscription required): Craddick's camp has been contending that the incumbent House leader has 80 votes of support or more in his bid for a fourth term as speaker. While Craddick hasn't made that list public, Solomons was presumed to be on it until now.
From my reports on Burnt Orange Report (no subscription required): Based on public documentation, the new tally of where House Members stand on the Speaker's race is: Not Craddick - 76, Craddick Ceiling - 62, Toss-Up - 12
From Rep. Will Hartnett (Craddick supporter): For a variety of tactical reasons, I recommend that, for the time being, you not discuss with the media your decision to support Tom Craddick. As you know, Tom prefers to keep his cards close to his chest until the optimal time to show them!
From Burnt Orange Report (truth supporter): It seems that the "optimal time" two years ago was the day after Election Day [when Craddick announced 109 supporters]. And then, after losing 26 names in nearly two months, just after Christmas. To compare, let's look at what's happened this year: - Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2008 - Democrats win a net of 3 seats on Election Day
- Monday, Nov. 10, 2008 - Craddick announces
109 83 80 13 supporters, and releases names.
From Craddick spinner Dave Carney: Dave Carney, a consultant to the political committee that backed GOP House incumbents in this year’s elections, told me Craddick will win another two-year stint as speaker, further suggesting that anti-Craddick sentiment doesn’t reflect general voter concerns. He said it’s driven instead by “guys sitting around in their underwear” writing political blogs.
From me: Not Craddick - 76, Craddick Ceiling - 62, Toss-Up - 12
I've released my numbers. Tom Craddick (and Dave Carney) -- where are yours? |
