Direct Mail (or "they think you're an idiot")

My household has been deluged under a torrent of direct mail during the past week. Virtually all of this mail has been targeted attacks sponsored by either a state party or political action committee (PAC). Obviously this type of money would not be spent if the mail was not effective. I would maintain that this is really not the point. If you cannot make your case without resorting to distortions, personal attacks, etc. - then you have nothing substantive to bring to the table.

I am not naive and understand that politics is a contact sport, but perhaps it's time to change the game and appeal to reason. Of course this is crazy talk to such entities such as the Kansas Democratic Party (STOP sending me your crap) and the Bluestem PAC (STOP sending me your crap). During the campaign I have offered three specific initiatives (end the state sales tax on groceries, a vote on a constitutional amendment to end eminent domain abuse, end taxpayer-funded lobbying) that I will support in the Senate. These are initiatives that should have been implemented years ago. If I could afford some big, shiny direct mail piece this is what I would talk about. The sad fact is the big guys think you're stupid and appeal to your sense of fear. The LP treats you like an adult.

If you have not voted I would appreciate your vote on November 4. Thanks for listening.

I endorse....me

Most of you who follow politics are well aware that endorsements are often touted by candidates as a sign of credibility. There's a couple things to keep in mind when considering these endorsements:

1. There's often a price - before you think an endorsement is a civic-minded action by a selfless group serving their members check the campaign finance reports. You will be shocked (roll eyes) to find there are often sizable donations that come along with the endorsement. You will be even more shocked when you compare this to the voting records and lobbyist access to the candidate. Not telling you anything you don't know - just sayin' it's somethin' to keep in mind.

2. The not so careful evaluation process - many of these groups claim to have contacted/interviewed all candidates. Uhh - not so much. Many of the big spenders bypassed our candidates this year. Perhaps the most ridiculous sellout was by the NRA, which did not consider our Kansas candidates and inexplicably endorsed John McCain. This despite the fact Bob Barr had a spotless NRA gradecard while in Congress and McCain - well let's just say McCain did not.

My point here is that even if you belong to a union, professional group, etc. you are not a lemming. Your leadership likely has an agenda of their own and that could very well be contrary to your beliefs and values.

By the way - I am endorsing Patrick Wilbur for State Senate. I've invested enough in him to expect preferred access in Topeka.

Latest campaign news:

Appearance on KLWN-AM (1320) - 7:20am Friday
Online chat with the Lawrence Journal-World (ljworld.com) - 1:00 Friday
Canvassing on Sunday - call me (785-727-0506) if you can help

This week's calendar and a request

First of all - a belated thanks to the people of Perry and McLouth for their hospitality last weekend while I was canvassing.

Also - a big thanks to Bill Gollier and his Comparative Politics/World History classes at Bishop Seabury Academy in Lawrence for inviting me to speak on Friday. I enjoyed this a great deal and hope the Seabury students found it enlightening and productive.

Sunday we will be in Eudora (thanks to Al and Sally for their help). If you can help please contact me.

Tues, 10/14 - Candidate forum in Baldiwn City sponsored by Baker Univ students. The forum will start at 7pm and be held in Mabee Hall, Room 100 on Baker's campus.

Wed, 10/15 - ADVANCE VOTING STARTS**

Sat, 10/18 - Maple Leaf festival in Baldwin City all day. Our candidates will also be participating in a Rock the Vote event at the Lawrence Public Library. We are scheduled to speak around 3:25 pm.

Sun, 10/19 - Maple Leaf all day.

Wed, 10/22 - Please make plans to attend the Voter Participation forum at the Kansas Union (Alderson Auditorium). It will take place from 8:30-10pm.

** Please vote early if you are able. By most estimates the turnout will be phenomenal this year. Waiting until 11/4 could mean long lines and an unnecessary hassle.