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December 07, 2005
Candidate Round-Up
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
+ Vote for John Courage to garner Russ Feingold's Progressive Patriot Award (worth $5k). Lampson is the only other Texan in the running but John is tied for first as it is, and that $5k will go a lot further right here, right now than it will out in DeLay's seat. Plus, I think Grassroots All-Star and Progressive Patriot Award go together real nice. So Vote.
+You've got to read the latest from the Larry (Stallings) for the Lege (HD-122) blog. That goes for any day of the week. It's probably the most entertaining, and yet incredibly informative campaign blog in the state. You'd almost think they were the Kirk Watson campaign with how excited they are sometimes.
+ A report from the Henley for Congress campaign in CD-7 from Lamar High student Michael Hurta.
The last time I emailed you all, I was informing about an upcoming announcement by Mr. Jim Henley to run for Congress in Texas' District 7. Now the announcement has passed, and I am pleased to say that it was a great success.
On Sunday, December the 4th, an estimated crowd of over 250 filled a popular West University resteraunt for an announcement that was expecting to only use less than half of the space within the building. Mr. Henley was introduced by former students Grace Sun and Muthu Alagappan followed by sister Susan McDougal.
In a meeting to kick off a campaign, Channel 2 News was covering along with print media. On top of that, the campaign raised several thousand dollars during the night.
Twenty Five "Meet the Candidate" Home Parties are expected to be scheduled throughout December and January. Please check the calender of scheduled events at the campaign's website in order to learn of more information. Mr. Henley also welcomes any invitations to speak at Democratic and Independent groups.
+ Mary Beth Harrell had a great top listed diary at kos the other day, a good read still after the fact.
+ Rep. Carlos Uresti (D-San Antonio) is officially running against Sen. Frank Madla in SD-19. Support him, and read up on what the Red State has to say about it.
+ Valinda Bolton, running for HD-47 against Jason Earle at the moment, will have her website up soon and recently gave a great speech at the last UDems meeting. Here is some background on her. Glen Maxey is consulting for her campaign.
As a direct descendant of General Sam Houston, Bolton has deep roots in Texas and a life long commitment to Texas families. Her work preventing child abuse, advocating for affordable housing and leading the battle on domestic violence and sexual assault issues has afforded Bolton the opportunity to build the leadership skills needed to work with Legislators, both Democrat and Republican, to get Texas back on track. As a speaker at conferences throughout the country, Bolton provided training on the value of building collaborative efforts.
Bolton has served as the Training Director for the National Center on Domestic and Sexual Violence (NCDSV), as a staff consultant to the Department of Defense Task Force on Domestic Violence, as a trainer on Interpersonal Violence to numerous police and sheriff departments, and to the military. An advocate for affordable housing, Bolton helped found WOMAN, Inc., a community housing development organization that works to develop transitional housing for women and their families.
A lifelong Democrat, Bolton has volunteered for several Democratic candidates including Ann Richards and most recently Kelly White. She is a member of South Austin Democrats, Southwest Austin Democrats, Austin Women’s Political Caucus and a sustaining member of the Travis County Democratic Party.
+Keep a watch on Kuffner, he's able to keep up with the filing madness faster than I can try to this week, including this post which tells the tale of a Republican turned Democrat running for the statehouse.
December 05, 2005
CNN/Gallup Poll: Delay Would Lose CD 22 Today
By Phillip Martin
A CNN/USA Today/Gallup Poll taken from December 1-4 shows that, if the election were held today, Congressmen Tom Delay would lose his CD 22 seat to an unnamed Democratic candidate. Here are the numbers from CNN's website:
QUESTION: If Tom DeLay runs for re-election in 2006, in general, are you more likely to vote for the Republican candidate Tom DeLay or for the Democratic Party's candidate for Congress?
Democrat 49%
Tom DeLay 36%
Opinion of Tom DeLay
Favorable 37%
Unfavorable 52%
Unfamiliar 11%
Charges Against DeLay Are...
Definitely true 15%
Probably true 40%
Probably false 26%
Defintely false 8%
From the DCCC:
This poll merely confirms what we already know: Texas families are sick and tired of the culture of corruption and pay-to-play politics that have come to define Tom DeLay. Next November, Texans will have the opportunity to send someone to Washington more concerned with the solving of the challenges facing Texas than paying his own legal bills.
This poll comes on the heels of the announcement that, while Congressmen Delay will not have to stand trial for conspiracy charges, he will still have to stand trial for the serious charge of money laundering.
November 29, 2005
Stacey Tallitsch for LA-1
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
What happens when you get displaced because of a hurricane? What happens if you were running for Congress?
Listen in to the tale of Stacey Tallitsch running in LA-1.
November 28, 2005
Candidate Round-Up
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
Republican Rep. Cunningham resigns over in California, opening up another special election in California. Francine Busby is our candidate, one who made the final round of the DFA All Star endorsement earlier this fall. Republican Rep. Mary Denny will seek retirement at the end of her term, rather than face re-election in her Denton House seat. She used the traditional "devote more time to the family" reason for leaving, though after this cycle, Texas Republican retirement is based more in wanting to spend more time with the family than with fellow Republican legislators which have got to be giving the body a collective headache. From her official press release.
Denny’s tenure is marked with legislative accomplishments for work on election, campaign, and ethics reforms. The Judicial Campaign Fairness Act of 1995 and her work on the landmark state ethics reform in 2003 (HB 1606) won her praise from the group Common Cause and ethics reform groups statewide.
This past session, Denny aided voters with "turnout burnout" by passing legislation that reduced the number of uniform election dates from four to two. She also worked to crack down on voter fraud by proposing that voters present a valid form of identification when attempting to vote.
PinkDome has a nice roundup but I happen to like this photoshop of theirs best. David Harris was featured on Air America tonight in their series of Fighting Dems. U.S. Senate candidate Barbara Ann Radnofsky will file for the primary election and hold a press conference 2:00 p.m. on December 5, 2005 at the Texas Democratic Party HQ here in Austin in another attempt to get the statewide media to mention her name in a story about the Senate race. Listening to them, you'd think there weren't any elections in Texas next year.
At the press conference she will deliver her proposals for solving the critical issues Texans care about, including health care, education, and veterans’ affairs. She will also discuss the top ten cynical, anti- Texas positions her opponent has taken in 2005.
DATE: December 5, 2005
TIME: 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Democratic Party Offices, 707 Rio Grande, Austin
November 16, 2005
Barb Makes it Official
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
Barbara Radnofsky made her official public announcement yesterday to become a candidate for the United States Senate. Yes, she's been running for a year, but why not make an announcement tour right?
As such, bloggers across the state are encouraging you to donate to her campaign through TexasTuesday's ActBlue page (or directly through the campaign site here)
While many bigger "name" candidates backed out from challenging longtime incumbent, Kay Bailey Hutchison, Barbara Radnofsky never blinked from the challenge. Good reason as Hutchison only polls at 52% despite being in office since 1993. Barbara has already effectively challenged Hutchison on her veterans record, her commitment to spending funds in Alaska over Texas, a host of other issues important to Texas. We hope you'll take a look at some of the recent (and even some of the old) coverage of Radnofsky's announcement, as well as some of the work she's done to lay the groundwork for this campaign. Radnofsky has made effective use of grassroots campaign techniques and her campaign should go a long way towards training and empowering many new Democratic activists for years to come.
November 14, 2005
Congressional Catch-Up
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
I've been remiss in getting some Congressional coverage in amongst all the Proposition goings ons, so here is a round-up of some of our Texas races. One thing you may notice is that each of these three races are in districts that while challenged last year, were no where near the top tier races that sucked up all the money and attention, and save for Chet Edwards, went down as Republican victories.
As our attention turns away from districts that we can't win with even incumbent Democratic Congressmen, we look to those districts in the state where we need to fight the fight that has been forgotten with some impressive candidates for whom a military background has been part of their lives. Get involved, visit their site, and donate if you wish. These are three races I'll be keeping an eye on for sure.
TX-21: John Courage: Last month there was an interesting Congressional Quarterly with mention of the Courage campaign.
But Courage contends that he could be an unintended beneficiary of the mid-decade redistricting plan spearheaded by Rep. Tom DeLay and implemented by the Republican-controlled Texas legislature prior to the 2004 elections.
The remap shrunk the size of the formerly sprawling 21st District and gave it a much-larger portion of Democratic-leaning Austin than it had before. As a result, the district appears somewhat less overwhelmingly
Republican: Smith slipped to 61 percent in 2004 against a Democratic opponent, Rhett R. Smith, who was about as unheralded as Courage had been two years earlier.
"Circumstances have changed," Courage said. "When I ran before it was 14 counties, a lot of them rural. Now it’s down to five counties." He said he believes that half of the vote in the 2006 election will come from Travis County, which includes Austin.
Courage, who said he will run a more professional media campaign this time, plans to emphasize both the controversial redistricting plan and Smith’s ties to DeLay, who is under indictment in Austin on charges related to his campaign fundraising activities.
"People in Travis County are very upset [about redistricting] and Lamar Smith is a crony of Tom DeLay," said Courage, who noted that Smith had contributed to DeLay’s defense fund.
Courage, a veteran and teacher, has also hired a campaign director from here in Austin and now that the amendment election is over, a lot of time and talent is started to be redirected towards the local campaigns, his included.
TX-6: David Harris: David is taking on "Smoky" Joe Barton and has an impressive web operation. Designed by Moxie Design Studios, it's a departure from traditional congressional sites. (Courage's is quite different as well, made here in Austin.)
Seeking a professional site for a Congressional hopeful that doesn't scream "stuffy", David T. Harris and his team at Follow Me to D.C. wanted something that harkened to his days in the military, but also accurately represented his other facets as a family man and community leader. We used Expression Engine extensively for this project, creating photo galleries, event calendars and my favorite, the Virtual Campaign Office.
Other features of this site as e-commerce capabilities with Paypal and Verisign and a dynamic photo fading feature with random photo selection. It's built utilizing primarily CSS and PHP, in addition to EE's powerful features.
David was a fellow Democratic National Convention delegate to Boston with me last summer and has this to say on his bio page...
I currently serve as an Assistant Professor of Military Science and Training Officer for the Department of Military Science at the University of Texas at Arlington. I am currently a Major in the Army Reserves and serve as a Strategic Planner for a support unit in Houston, Texas for U.S. Forces, Korea. I also am a graduate of the U.S. Army’s Ranger and Airborne schools.
I was a county delegate from my precinct, state delegate for Tarrant County to the Houston Convention, and national delegate for the state of Texas to the 2004 Democratic National Convention in Boston. I am a founding member of the Texas Democratic Veterans and serve as a Finance Council Member for the state Texas Democratic Women organization.
Bottom line, why am I running? I want to restore representation to the citizens of Congressional District 6 by creating policies that foster Strong Defense, Strong Families, and Equal Rights for All Citizens and I hope to leave a respectable legacy to the children of the future.
Strong defense, strong families, and equal rights for all citizens...sounds pretty awesome to me.
TX-31: Mary Beth Harrell: Running against Rep. John Carter, Harrell just launched a Veterans for Harrell group. District 31 is just north of Austin and is centered on Bell County, with Ft. Hood and other military operations being a huge part of the life of the district. And how better to represent the area, than someone who...
...embodies the mainstream values and middle-class work ethic of central Texas. As the wife of a retired military officer and mother of two active-duty soldiers in the war on terrorism, she is running to restore the kind of accountability, integrity, and faith in the future the citizens of Central Texas demand – and deserve.
The grandchild of immigrants, Harrell was born in New York’s legendary Hell’s kitchen neighborhood and raised in the hopeful era of John F. Kennedy, where she learned the powerful difference one individual can make in the lives of many through public service.
Make us proud, Mary.
UPDATE: I forgot about Shane Sklar running in TX-14 against Ron Paul. He doesn't fall into our military candidates field, but he has an awesome background as having served for 4 years as Executive Director of the Independent Cattlemen's Association of Texas. He may be a self labeled conservative Democrat, but against Ron Paul, I'll take that and his background any day of the week.
November 11, 2005
Veteran's Day: Veteran Candidates
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
The following is a list that Anna put together (now front paged at Kos and MyDD) which is even more extensive than the one sent out by the DCCC today. Kudos to her, and kudos to each of these candidates for their efforts to serve their country yet again. -kt
Before I begin this post, I'd like to take a moment to say THANK YOU to all the men and women who've worn the uniform. I am in awe of your courage and fortitude. Now I'd like to take a moment to introduce everyone to the entire contingent of Democratic veterans who are running for the US House of Representatives in 2006. These men have answered the call to service in more ways than one, and each and every one of them deserves our support in their fight to take back Congress.
Ladies and gents, here they are, your Fighting Democrats:
 Chris Carney,
PA-10: A Lieutenant Commander in the United States Naval Reserve, Chris has received several medals honoring his service in multiple tours overseas. He was activated for operations Enduring Freedom and Noble Eagle. From late 2003 to August 2004, Chris served as the Special Advisor to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations, focusing on the integration of intelligence in the effort to destroy international terrorist networks. In the last year, Chris served as a Special Consultant on Terrorism and Intelligence Issues to the Deputy Secretary of Defense.
bio :: issues :: donate
 David Harris, TX-06: Harris enlisted in the Army in 1992 and served in the infantry, receiving his commission as an Infantry Officer after attending Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, GA in 1994. He was mobilized for Operation Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom and was deployed to Iraq in February, 2003, spending the next 14 months there as a Logistics Officer where he received a Bronze Star. He is now an Assistant Professor of Military Science and Training Officer for the Department of Military Science at the University of Texas at Arlington, and is taking on "Smoky" Joe Barton.
bio :: issues :: donate
 Patrick Murphy, PA-08: Murphy is a young attorney who served in Iraq and was awarded the Bronze Star in February 2004. In Iraq, Captain Murphy advised on offensive operations, initiated reconstruction efforts within the justice system, trained the new Iraqi Civil Defense Corps on the rules of engagement and was instrumental in the prosecution of Sheik Moyad, a radical lieutenant of Muqtada Sadr. At a time when even journalists are having trouble getting the real facts about the war in Iraq, Murphy's knowledge is invaluable.
bio :: issues :: donate
 Eric Massa, NY-29: After graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland, Massa was commissioned as a Naval Officer and went on to spend a total of 24 years on active duty. He served in Desert Storm, and later as Special Assistant to General Wes Clark, in Panama and then when he became Supreme Allied Commander of NATO forces. Massa left a position on the staff of the House Armed Services Committee, where he spoke his mind on behalf of the troops, to join the presidential campaign of his former boss Wesley Clark.
bio :: issues :: donate
Andrew Duck, MD-06: Duck's distinguished military career has found him as a Platoon Leader of the Joint STARS Platoon in Bosnia, Chief of a Counter-Intelligence
Operations Cell, a Commander, and later an Intelligence Liaison Officer and Intelligence Staff Officer in Iraq. Duck is a native of Maryland, one of seventeen children, and has ample business and community experience supplementing his military background.
bio :: issues :: donate
 Bryan Lentz, PA-07: In Iraq, Lentz commanded a civil affairs unit responsible for reconstruction in Mosul, following unique and extensive experience in international reconstruction projects with MFO and NATO peacekeeping missions in the Sinai Peninsula and Bosnia. A decorated veteran, he has received the War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal and the Bronze Star amongst other commendations.
bio :: issues :: donate
 Steve Filson, CA-11: Steve Filson joined the Navy in 1970 and became an Aircraft Carrier Jet pilot. He served his country faithfully and diligently for more than 20 years before retiring from the Navy in 1994. During his service, Filson served aboard the aircraft carriers USS Hancock and USS Ranger, and then continued his military career in the Naval Reserves at Alameda, California.
bio :: issues :: donate
 Tim Walz, MN-01: Command Sergeant Major Walz retired from the 1-125th Field Artillery Battalion in the spring of 2005 after 24 years in the Army National Guard. After he was named the Outstanding Young Nebraskan by the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce for his service in the education, military, and small business communities, Walz served overseas with his battalion in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
bio :: issues :: donate
 Jay Fawcett, CO-5: At seventeen, Jay joined the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs as a Cadet with the class of 1977. Upon graduation he went to Navigator training and was selected as a Weapon Systems Officer in the F4 Phantom, serving in fighter squadrons in Korea and Spain. He became Air Liaison Officer for the First Brigade of the 101st Airborne Division, and was deployed into military action in the first Gulf War. Major Fawcett was awarded a Bronze Star for his actions in Desert Shield and the initial helicopter assault into Iraq during Desert Storm.
bio :: issues :: donate
 Joe Sulzer, OH-18: Joe Sulzer is an Army veteran who volunteered to serve during the Vietnam War from August 1967 to August 1968. He was in Saigon during the Tet Offensive. He has since come back to serve on the city council and later as mayor in Chillicothe, Ohio, as well as a serving as a state representative. He is now taking on the scandal-plagued Republican Bob Ney in his heavily Republican district.
note: site is under construction :: bio :: donate
 Tim Dunn, NC-08: Colonel Tim Dunn has served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves since 1994. He recently returned from Iraq and his posting with the Regime Crimes Liaison Office, where he helped build the case against Saddam Hussein. In 1995, Dunn established his own law firm, which concentrates in criminal and military law. The mission in Iraq will need expertise and experience to see it through to the best possible conclusion, and Tim Dunn can bring a strong dose of both to the "People's House."
site is currently under construction, however, you can still donate
On this Veteran's Day, let's support our troops by sending them to Congress. I urge everyone to support all of our Fighting Dems, mainly because you know that once they get elected, our Fighting Dems will do everything within their power to make sure their fellow troops are taken care of.
note: images shamelessly stolen from the candidates' websites. if anyone of the candidates wants them removed from this post, just drop a comment in the thread. also, i could not locate pictures for Andrew Duck, which is why there's no picture next to his entry.
update: Alex tells me that there are some other Democrats who didn't make the DTrip list. They are:
 David Ashe, VA-02. When the September 11th attacks occurred, David was visiting his family in Virginia Beach. 48 hours after the attacks, David rented a car and made his way to Manhattan. He entered the perimeter with a group of police officers and spent several days at GroundZero searching for survivors with the rest of the "bucket brigades." Two weeks later, David was recalled to active duty. Upon return to active duty, David was assigned as deputy legal counsel to the commanding general of all west coast Marine forces with geographic responsibility for the Middle East. For most of 2002, David was part of Operation Enduring Freedom deployed to Kuwait as sole-legal counsel to the commanding general of a special-purpose coalition task force, working with Czechs, Germans and Kuwaitis. [...] In March 2003, David was deployed again. Within a few weeks, he was attached to an infantry battalion assigned to the Al Muthanna region of Iraq. David was the sole coalition legal representative assigned to restore the judicial system in an area which covered approximately 1/9 of Iraq.
bio :: issues :: donate
 Terry Stulce, TN-03. Terry Stulce is a life-long resident of Ooltewah and can trace his ancestry back 5 generations in Hamilton County. He graduated Phi Beta Kappa and Magna Cum Laude from U.T.K. in 1967 and earned a Master of Science in Social Work in 1974. He served two tours of combat duty in Vietnam, one as a Combat Platoon Leader in the 101st Airborne Division (December, 1967 to September, 1968) and one as a Senior Advisor to the 69th and 79th Border Ranger Battalions (November, 1970 to November 1971). In addition to the Combat Infantryman's Badge, he earned the Bronze Star with "V" device for Valor and the Bronze star for Meritorious Services in Ground Combat.
site is under construction, but check out the bio anyway.
 Jeff Latas, AZ-08
. Jeff Latas arrived in Arizona in 1978 to attend first Pima College and then the University of Arizona, where he graduated with a degree in Aerospace Engineering. After a career as a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force, and after earning a Master's degree in Public Administration, Jeff chose to settle in his beloved southern Arizona for good. A lifelong environmentalist and patriot, Jeff is ready to serve southeastern Arizonans as their representative in Congress.
bio :: issues :: donate
John Graham, CA-48. During
1970-74 Graham served as an officer in U.S. Navy Underwater Demolition Team Eleven in Coronado, CA and the Philippines. From 1974-79 he served in the U.S. Navy Reserves with UDT/Seal Team 119, also based in Coronado. He is currently a Professor at the Paul Merage School of Business at the University of California, Irvine (UCI).
bio :: issues :: donate
 John Laesch, IL-14
. Driven by his desire to serve his country, John enlisted in the United States Navy in 1995. In 1996, Laesch graduated at the top of his class as an Intelligence Analyst for the United States Navy and was transferred to the Middle East for the next three years. While stationed in Bahrain, Laesch analyzed terrorist organizations and foreign political and military structures. Before being medically evacuated from the Middle East and honorably discharged, John meritoriously rose 5 ranks within 3 short years. He received numerous citations for his outstanding service to our nation. Following his service in the Navy, Mr. Laesch attended Illinois State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in History and minors in Political Science and Communications.
bio :: issues :: donate
 Pete Duffy, NH-01. Pete Duffy is a citizen-soldier, community activist, small businessman and a father. His commitment to country is exemplified by his more than 30 years of military experience as a Judge Advocate General officer in the active Army, the Army Reserves and the New Hampshire National Guard—where he recently retired with the rank of Colonel.
bio :: issues :: donate
 Tom Kovach, PA-18. Tom is "proud to be one of the millions of Americans who has served this country and its defense. I enlisted in the Navy and was trained as a nuclear machinest mate. Most of my career was spent on USS Nimitz minding the tea kettle. That experience, training, and confidence led me to become a fighting Democrat in Pennsylvania's 18th District as I will take that seat away from the do-nothing, rubber stamp of Tim Murphy next November."
bio :: issues :: donate
 Jim Brandt, CA-46. Jim served as a Naval aviator in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. As an officer (rank of captain), he was responsible for both aircraft and personnel under the most stressful of circumstances. The competition to become a Naval aviator is intense; only the best are awarded wings. His experience in the Marine Corps gave him a global vision with a lasting appreciation for the importance of making the right decisions and understanding diplomacy.
bio :: issues :: donate
 Ted Ankrum, TX-10. From his website: "I was Special Assistant to the only Astronaut to ever be Head of NASA; Deputy Chief of Facilities Engineering and Chief of Environmental Compliance at NASA; a Diplomat in Australia; and held other Senior Executive positions at EPA, the Department of Energy, and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. I went from Seaman Recruit to Navy Captain in 15 years of active duty and 15 years of Reserve service. I served four tours in Vietnam, where I was wounded and received medals for valor. I have a BS Degree in Electrical Engineering from a Navy scholarship to the U. of Colorado and an MBA from the GI Bill at Loyola. My wife, Ann, and I live in Cypress, Harris County; and two of our four children also live in Congressional District Ten."
bio & issues :: contribute
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November 10, 2005
In Ohio
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
This inspires me right now. Well said, well done.
September 27, 2005
Courage Wins DFA Endorsement
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
 Soon to be announced by Democracy for America, I'd like to let y'all know that John Courage has won DFA's first 2006 endorsement. Following in the footsteps of another Texan, Richard Morrison who was propelled to national recognition after winning DFA's first 2004 endorsement, I'd like to thank all of you who voted and came together across Texas to support one of our own.
From the Courage Campaign...
"There’s been an overwhelming response in Central Texas to my call for reining in the budget deficit, developing an exit-strategy for Iraq, restoring ethics to Congress and supporting policies that meet the needs of mainstream working families, not just millionaires and Tom DeLay," explained Courage. "The local excitement about a change in Congress produced a win this week and will carry me to victory next November."
Courage defeated 60 other Congressional candidates in two rounds of voting on the DFA website. DFA recently supported Iraq Veteran Paul Hackett, a Democrat who nearly won a special Congressional election in a Republican-dominated district in Ohio. DFA’s endorsement of Courage signals that his race against Lamar Smith will be second in national attention only to the Nick Lampson’s campaign against Tom DeLay in Texas.
Courage, who has served as a member of the U.S. Air Force, a teacher, church youth group leader and elected official, announced his candidacy last week during a tour of Bexar, Blanco, Comal, Hays, and Travis Counties.
"This shows that Texans really are fed up with Tom DeLay disciples like Lamar Smith. Democratic, Republican and independent voters here have told me they want a change in Congress," stated Courage. "This national endorsement is one more step towards delivering that change."
From the DFA release...
Today, Democracy for America (DFA) announced their first congressional endorsement of 2006 -- John Courage for the 21st District of Texas -- making him the newest member of the DFA-List, Candidates for America.
"John Courage is the ideal candidate to be named as the DFA Grassroots All-Star. He encompasses the true spirit of grassroots democracy and is fighting to restore honesty and integrity to our government and to the people of Texas," said Jim Dean, Chair of Democracy for America. "He will bring new vision and new leadership to both the state of Texas and our nation's capital. I am excited to extend the first DFA-List endorsement of 2006 to Courage for Congress."
"I am excited and appreciative of the honor of having been voted DFA's first Grassroots All-Star for the November 2006 Campaign," said Courage. "We have a great challenge facing us in changing the course of America next year, but with the continued united efforts we've shown in Paul Hackett's campaign in Ohio, and now coming to fruition in our campaign in Texas, it is obvious the momentum has shifted and 2006 will be a great year for DFA and candidates across the country."
September 23, 2005
Courage on Kos
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
John just posted his first diary over on Daily Kos and I'm glad to see that his personality and some storytelling come across quite clearly in his writing, not the standard campaign spiel that you sometimes see. If you have an account there please recommend it, if not, give it a read over and remember to vote with Courage in the DFA Endorsement election before tomorrow!
I love this paragraph...
On that September weekend Howard Dean came to my campaign office and shook hands, made phone calls and went door-knocking with me in my district. He hadn't formally announced his presidential candidacy, but he was preparing to. He didn't ask people to vote for him that day, he asked them to vote for John Courage. He asked them to take a Courage sign for their yard and a Courage bumper sticker for their car. He personally asked them to make a contribution to my campaign. That weekend I took him to a union picnic and accompanied him to his awards ceremony from the Stonewall Democrats of Texas. I knew then and there that I was for Howard because he was for America.
September 20, 2005
A Husband, A Candidate. A Congressman?
By Zada True-Courage
As of this posting John was currently #1 in Democracy for America's All Stars Online Endoresment Election. Please help the only Texan in the race, endorsed by Richard Morrison, and vote for him in the DFA Election. -KT
I figure it is important for the public to know from someone, who knows him very well, what kind of guy John Courage is and why I want him representing me, and you, in the 21st Congressional District. First, I have to say John is about the nicest man I know besides my 92 year old Dad.
He is also extremely smart. He has an amazing ability to read, comprehend and retain knowledge and to communicate that knowledge back to others. So if you are looking for a legislator that will actually be able to read a bill before it comes up for a vote, John is your guy. He is also living with me and if he votes for a bill without knowing what is in it, he will be answering to US - that is you and ME!
John cares about kids. John and I have a blended family. We have been married for 20 years and we love ALL of our 4 children, Jim, John Jr. Cari and Nikki very much. (We also have a grandchild Mikey). John was Dad to my girls, but he always respected their Dad too. He stepped in when needed and gave the parental guidance. He taught my girls to drive when I was a screaming maniac and could not be in the car. No person that did not love them as a parent would do that. He was never afraid to step in as a Dad in the gentlest way even when our kids found it appalling at the time.
I came home one night when our oldest daughter's friend, who she had invited to the Jr./Sr. prom, had decided he could not afford it-a week before the prom because he had to buy new contacts. She was in tears and mortified because John was on the phone with the young man explaining that people did not back out on a commitment one week before the event after the dress and tickets had been purchased and arrangements made. He also offered to pay for the prom expenses, respecting that the the young man had a legitimate reason of expenses that he could not afford.
Despite all the trauma, the prom date occurred and fun was had by all. The young man learned commitments will be kept, and our daughter although first feeling mortified at the time of the call, realized her dad cared a lot for her and her friends. John is not afraid to stand up for what he thinks is right and to offer solutions to enable things to work. John cares about kids and you can be assured as a legislator his votes will reflect that.
John & I used to handle the Youth Group at our Church, the Episcopal Church of Reconciliation. We worked with the Middle School Group. We worked with a lot of the other parents and it was very fun. John was the guy who kept an eye on all the shennanigans throughout the retreats. We counted on him to look out for us. He kept things in-check but did not come off as some heavy. So I guess if you want to frame John's parenting and working with kids in Lakoff's terms, I call him "nurturant". This is the type of person I want representing me and you. With Congresspersons like John, we will get our country back!
Morrison Endorses a Vote for Courage
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
Richard Morrison just posted over at DailyKos his endorsement of John Courage in the DFA-List second round voting that is going on. If you have a kos account, please reccommend his entry.
(UPDATE- also recommend it over at MyDD if you have an account there as well.)
Morrison also points out something that I will flesh out more here on BOR soon, which is a an intercepted faxed memo in which Smith make some rather interesting comments.
"Immigration needs to be considered in the context of: (1). Media Bias, (2). Animosity toward the president and (3) the feelings of the Republican base," Smith's memo states.
Smith is a member of the Subcommittee on Immigration, Border Security, and Claims as well as the Subcommittee on Economic Security, Infrastructure Protection, and Cybersecurity. No issues regarding the legislative jurisdiction of these committees are mentioned.
Smith goes on to suggest that "Liberals can easily and accurately be painted as opposing enforcement." His office did not return a call seeking comment.
Smith will be one of those 'leaders' on the immigration wedge issue that we all know is coming in 2006. Just as Rep. Musgrave has become well known for her Federal Marriange Amendment sponsorship, Rep. Smith will be there for all your Immigrant Bashing legislative needs. In fact, the Supreme Court has alrady overturned parts of the 1996 Immigration Laws which he authored. I'll try to get a cite up soon, but this goes to show, here in Texas, we need Courage to take our Lamar Smith. Please vote for him in the DFA Second Round.
September 15, 2005
The Courage to Vote (for)
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
John Courage, candidate for CD 21 against Lamar Smith who represents the University of Texas and downtown Austin, I-35, and outer parts of San Antonio, will be having his official announcement tour this Saturday across the District. The schedule is as follows so please join him as he travels by school bus throughout the day.
10:00 am - Texas State Capital, Austin
11:30 am - Veterans Memorial Park, Dripping Springs
1:00 pm - Old Blanco County Courthouse, Blanco
2:30 pm - Bulverde Senior Center, Comal County
4:00 pm - Bradley Middle School, North Central San Antonio
But what you can do RIGHT NOW to help his campaign by an incredible amount is to vote for him in Democracy for America's Open Congressional Poll on who will be their first candidate to endorse for the 2006 races. He has moved up from 26th to 3rd already and is the only Texan seeking DFA's endorsement. Voting closes on Saturday afternoon so get those votes in now and spread the word about the online poll as well as his announcement tour.
http://www.democracyforamerica.com/housevote
This will be one of the banner races in Texas, one in which the 230 students that showed up for tonight's first University Democrats meeting will be heavily involved in over the next year since near all of us are in CD 21.
September 13, 2005
Nay on Naishtat
By Drew Clinton
Earlier today, Veteran House Representative Elliot Naishtat formally ended any speculation about his intentions to run for the Senate seat being vacated by Barrientos.
Naishtat told reporters that it was "not worth being out of the Legislature." Naishtat continued, "I'm keeping the door open for a future Senate race if the door opens up, and I decide that's where I should be."
I tip my cap to Representative Naishtat and his rational solidarity with Kirk Watson on this one. We desperately need representatives of his caliber in the Legislature, and it would be nice to dispense with an overly expensive and bitter primary.
Both men have prioritized consumer advocacy, healthcare, and poverty assistance throughout their political careers. Naishtat went out of his way to emphasize his respect and admiration for Kirk Watson. There seems to be a notion within the Democratic ranks and elsewhere that Kirk Watson offers a real opportunity for Democratic leadership and voting fidelity. I concur.
Nay on Naishtat
By Drew Clinton
Earlier today, Veteran House Representative Elliot Naishtat formally ended any speculation about his intentions to run for the Senate seat being vacated by Barrientos.
Naishtat told reporters that it was "not worth being out of the Legislature." Naishtat continued, "I'm keeping the door open for a future Senate race if the door opens up, and I decide that's where I should be."
I tip my cap to Representative Naishtat and his rational solidarity with Kirk Watson on this one. We desperately need representatives of his caliber in the Legislature, and it would be nice to dispense with an overly expensive and bitter primary.
Both men have prioritized consumer advocacy, healthcare, and poverty assistance throughout their political careers. Naishtat went out of his way to emphasize his respect and admiration for Kirk Watson. There seems to be a notion within the Democratic ranks and elsewhere that Kirk Watson offers a real opportunity for Democratic leadership and voting fidelity. I concur.
September 08, 2005
Compassionate Conservatives Gone Wild
By Drew Clinton
Texas bears the distinction of having two representatives vote against H.R. 3673, which included fifty-one billion dollars of necessary aide to Hurricane Katrina victims.
Though Ron Paul's (R-Clute) nay vote is no surprise given his history of libertarian do-nothingism, such behavior is inexcusable. He and Joe Barton (R-Ennis) embarrass the state and its delegation with their callousness.
Far worse than Hastert's comments about the location of New Orleans being unsuitable for reconstruction, these representatives seem to challenge the concept of rebuilding at all. I know that these districts are far from competitive, but it is still an outrage that such votes could go unpunished. More at Kos.
September 07, 2005
State Rep. Richard Raymond Officially Running in CD28
By Drew Clinton
State Representative Richard Raymond (D-Laredo) will announce his candidacy for Congressional District 28 on the south Capitol steps at 10:00 AM on Thursday.
Though this is merely a formality given the rather palpable hype and speculation surrounding the representative lately, it will mark the beginnings of what will prove to be a captivating and spirited primary amongst several well-known South Texas Democrats.
September 06, 2005
Mr. Smith Comes from Washington
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
You know what to do....
Lamar Smith Travis County public meetings 9/10/05
Saturday Sept. 10th, 2005
9 AM -10AM
Highland Park Elementary School Cafeteria
4900 Fairview Drive
11 AM -12 PM
Kocurek Elementary School Cafeteria
9800 Curlew Drive
August 31, 2005
"Not the Guacamole, Avocados are pretty good for you."
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
Barbara Ann picked up a rather interesting bit of media today in the Statesman, in the Life section.
I think the message of this that story? She's "fit" to lead Texas.
 I'd also like to point out that Radnofsky was in Fredericksburg this past weekend where my father (who's website was just relaunched) played host while she visited with Gillespie County Democrats and was in our Country Fair Parade float. She also managed to get a great article in the Kerrville Daily Times, not the easiest task as it is very Republican.
It was good to meet Barbara again, and I have to say, she's really on top of her stuff. I don't think I've met a first time candidate before that knows as much about her opponent and about the process (possibly more than KBH in some cases, as it seems that she keeps reacting to Radnofsky's Press Releases if nothing else). Like her bumber sticker says, she is a "smart dame" one which would be a huge asset to Texas if this uphill battle can be won.
This is the Yellow Dog Convertible that other such as Liz Carpenter have ridden in in our Parades.
This is the new float for the Gillespie County Democrats.
August 18, 2005
A Brief Account of Debate Night for CD 28
By Drew Clinton
Wednesday night found former Congressman Ciro Rodriguez (San Antonio) and State Representative Richard Raymond (Laredo) packed into a tiny courthouse in Floresville, Texas. This would be the site of the first debate for the 2006 Congressional election in the newly formed CD 28.
Both were eager to discuss the finer points of Texas educational performance, immigration, energy reform, and the ongoing violence in Iraq. Cuellar's absence, due to his previously scheduled trip as part of the Congressional delegation to Iraq, did little to remove him from the evening's exchanges. Both candidates sought to distance themselves from Cuellar's recent votes on CAFTA, the REAL ID, and the Bankruptcy Reform Bill.
Ciro emphasized his humble beginnings and his continued investment in higher education, mental health, and veteran's rights. Raymond mentioned his small-town roots and his high-profile role in fighting the Republican redistricting. The audience was split largely down the middle between mostly unionized Ciro reporters and vocal Raymond enthusiasts.
The evening was largely dominated by talk about change and the need for a Congressional Representative that "looked like the solid Democrat district that CD 28 is." However, sparks flew when Ciro suggested that it was "unethical" for Raymond or Cuellar to run due to the fact that both are not living within the boundaries of CD 28. Both Cuellar and Raymond were redistricted out of the district in 2003. Raymond responded that such charges amounted to "a complicit acceptance of what the Republicans did through redistricting."
When questioned about immigration, Ciro stated that he would be "unwilling to accept another bracero program" that didn't provide for the ordinary and most basic human rights of immigrants. Raymond added that "employers must be held responsible for illegal employment" and that the United States must "reach out to Fox for added border security and accountability."
The rest of the dialogue saw a very animated Ciro decrying the "theft" of the last election and Raymond denouncing voter fraud and failed economic policies. Both candidates were clear to separate their dislike of CAFTA from a general anti-trade sentiment. Raymond likened the deplorable treatment of workers to "a virtual race to the bottom." Ciro referenced the "need for investment in ourselves and our livelihood as Americans."
Most of the impacting and hard-hitting rhetoric was saved for the absent and current Representative Cuellar. Look for an intensive campaign season in which Cuellar absorbs nearly all of both candidates' criticism. Both were careful to reaffirm their dislike of Cuellar's policies and their respect for each other.
This district provides an interesting race for Democrats statewide in an election cycle dominated by Republican gubernatorial prospects. The reality remains, a large portion of the votes in this district will come from rural areas like Floresville. In a race with two legislators from Laredo and one from San Antonio, none can afford to ignore this demographically fertile area.
August 11, 2005
Shane Sklar for Congress
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
As I dig through the archives of my e-mail I wanted to make a quick post on a couple of candidates who I've forgotten to give some Blog links to that have stepped to run for office.
Shane Sklar for CD-14, a fourth generation rancher who grew up in the 14th District. From his bio...
For the last four years, Sklar has served as the Executive Director of the Independent Cattlemen's Association of Texas (ICA) and has earned a reputation for innovation and hard work.
Under his leadership, ICA's membership doubled at a time when most agricultural groups saw their numbers shrink. Sklar also played a key role in making sure the 2002 federal Farm Bill required country-of-origin labeling for retail beef.
Recently, news reporters from across the country turned to Sklar for accurate information and knowledgeable opinions regarding the outbreak of mad cow disease in Texas.
Prior to joining ICA, Sklar was a key member of the staff of Congressman Chet Edwards, who represents a Central Texas district. As Edwards' Field Representative, Sklar traveled throughout the district updating constituents about important issues and representing the Congressman at district events.
Sklar also served as the Field Director for Edwards' 2000 successful re-election campaign.
Also, though mentioned already here, a BOR reader Ivan Espinosa (who has been very active over on the Step Up Texas boards) sent a short letter from Democratic Lt. Governor candidate Maria Alvarado which I have included in the extended entry.
I am Maria Alvarado. As a native Texan, and military veteran, I have a right to expect that our state government act and enact positively in the interests of all Texans. Like you and many other Texans, I see that all the current state leadership has delivered are broken promises and false assurances. As a witness of the latest debacle of the 79th legislative session, I declare to have sufficient cause to seek the elected office for Texas Lieutenant Governor as a Democrat. I look forward to an honest discourse with other candidates and all Texans that are like-minded to establish a more fair and effective state government.
I am a retired Texas Air National Guard master sergeant with 21 years of experience in the military. More recently, I have spent my time as a research project coordinator at the University of Texas in Austin. I look forward to meeting you to earn your trust and confidence as we move forward to helping restore Democratic leadership in Texas. Whereas I personally can identify myself with several groups: Woman, Hispanic, Native Texan, Veteran, & Catholic. I could not choose to represent any one of them more than the others. The lowest common denominator between us all then must be our humanity. This common thread can not fail us and such the 2006 election will not pass us by without significant gains of Democratic leadership in Texas.
I invite you to visit my campaign website to follow my campaign over the next few months. Or, you may email my campaign of events in your area that I can attend in order to meet & talk to you & your group personally.
Thanks,
Maria Alvarado
Democratic Candidate for Texas Lieutenant Governor
227 South Congress Avenue, Box 123
Austin, Texas 78701
August 09, 2005
John Courage Site Launch
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
I wanted to make a post to highlight the really top notch job down by some tech friends of mine who redesigned and launched the new John Courage for Congress website. (Refresh the page or delete the cache if you still see the old one). Included on the front page is a fundraising idea that I had my hand in, with a concept of challenging the two population anchors of the district to outraise each other.
Take a look around, and donate some money, as John has already started hitting the phone and hired fundraiser Jeff Hewitt of Austin's Hewitt Consulting (which has done work for John Sharp and Richard Morrison more recently). The first e-mails have gone out and there is also a blog which bears some checking out as regular BOR commentor David Mauro seems to be writing alongside Mr. Courage himself!
I'm encouraged by what I've seen and how fast to organize this campaign has been. It's going to be professional and serious while having a huge grassroots component to it. I've already donated $25 and I know it won't be the last. DeLay and Chet Edwards aren't going to be the only shows left in Texas...
July 19, 2005
Richard Raymond Running
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
Not that this is an announcement, but an official BOR linking to the Richard Raymond for Congress website. First rumored back in the good old days of the regular session by Rep. Aaron Pena, Rep. Raymond is officially seeking to become a Rep. of a different kind, the congressional kind, hoping to replace Henry Cuellar.
I think most of us here would agree in my encouragement of spending some time or money over on Raymond's site. Let's put some oomph behind that D in Congress.
UPDATE: I forgot that former holder of the seat, Rep. Ciro Rodriguez has said he would challnege in the primary as well. An interesting show that will be indeed and Rodriguez would be a good guy as well should that be the case.
UPDATE: Some thoughts from a reader...
Richard Raymond is running for cd28. He has already formed an exploratory committee and is raising money. Ciro rodriguez has also formed an exploratory committee and is raising money. Both raymond and Ciro are good Democrats. Although Raymond voted for HJR 6 and the parental consent bill he is otherwise as good as Democrat as anyone in the house. He proposed a constitutional amendment to ban private school vouchers and is very strong on public education.
The district goes from Bexar county to Webb county (Laredo) with a few rural counties in between, including a part that comes up through New Braunfels all the way to San Marcos. The conventional wisdom is that, because of his small town roots, Raymond will run fairly well in the rural areas as will Cuellar because of his incumbency. There are a few more thousand voters in Webb county than Bexar, so unless ciro can pick up some webb county voters or do extremely well in the rural areas, than he has absolutely no chance.
Rumors are that every Webb county elected official will soon endorse Raymond. He already has the support of the Webb county sheriff. Raymond is strong in the rural areas because he himself has a rural background, having lived in Alice for many years. It will be unwise for progressive Democrats (or any anti-Cuellar) to support Ciro because, to put it plainly, he doesnt have a chance. This is a Laredo district now. The worry is that Ciro will knock Richard to third and it will end up Ciro v Cuellar in the runoff and than Cuellar would kill him.
Raymond is a much better public speaker than Cuellar or Ciro and, despite his anglo surname, speaks much better spanish. Cuellar's fundraising has not been very impressive for an incumbent, perhaps because Democratic special interests and pacs have stayed away. He voted for the Schiavo bill and the flag burning amendment and also is with Republicans on the estate tax.
Edwards Gets Blinging with It
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
The Chet Edwards Campaign lets us know that they have just finished raising $429,000 in the last quarter, bring him up to $560,000 Cash on Hand which is a quarter million more than where he was this time last cycle when he was facing the Wohlgemonster. Full release here.
Who is he running against? One of five Republicans...
None of the five potential candidates lining up to challenge U.S. Rep. Chet Edwards, D-Waco, has held public office before, but one came close.
Serving in Iraq during the ongoing conflict, Marine Capt. Van Taylor told a publication he was asked by locals in the town of Afak to become its new mayor. He declined and has since moved from the Dallas area to West in McLennan County and is considering his first campaign for Congress.
...
The potential candidates come from a variety of backgrounds.
A rocket attack last year in Iraq while Bentley Nettles, 41, was preparing to take a shower gave him the second of his two Purple Hearts during an 18-year Texas National Guard career that has sent him to Afghanistan and Bosnia.
Tucker Anderson, 34, quit his job in Washington, D.C., as an aide to U.S. Rep. Pete Sessions, R-Dallas, to return to the Robertson County hometown of Calvert where he grew up and begin the first campaign of his own political career.
Fred Wood, 45, of Scurry, is selling his 56-acre ranch to move to the 17th Congressional District, preparing a campaign that may focus on his ideas for using new technology to curb illegal immigration on the Mexican border.
Texas A&M University political science instructor and longtime political consultant Todd Kent, 45, of College Station, is also considering a campaign. He has strong regional roots as the son of Brazos County Republican Party Chairman David Kent.
Of course, this will be targeted by the Republicans so any kaching you can pony up for Chet would be appreciated of course.
July 11, 2005
Lampson Raises Half a Million
By Karl-Thomas Musselman
From a Nick Lampson e-mail, the man to take on DeLay in 2006.
Today we're proud to announce that, as of June 30th, you've helped us raise $502,736 towards our campaign to return honor and integrity to the 22nd Congressional District of Texas. It's an amazing total for any House candidate in any quarter -- and all the more amazing that you helped us achieve it in only 8 weeks.
I'm impressed, I'm sure the reports should be out online soon enough and we'll be able to tell if this is because he shifted money from any other accounts or from actual new dollars. It seems though that the online community is taking the whole Lampson/Morrison dust-up quite well. Though personally, I look forward to Morrison's 2008 prospects, the year in which he's stated he will be running for something, just what is up in the air.
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