Yesterday, we reported on the last minute ad buy by the national (international?) powerhouse U.S. Chamber of Commerce on behalf of Arizona House Speaker Andy Tobin in his battle for the GOP nomination in Congressional District 1. At that point, the total amount of the five-day buy (it started today) was not known.
Now, it is. The approximately $293,000 that the Chamber is plunking down will buy a lot of primetime air time. Prime sporting events this weekend (NFL preseason, PGA golf) will also be peppered with the spot comparing incumbent Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-CD1) to Nancy Pelosi and calling Tobin a "conservative" or "strong conservative" three times in less than 30 seconds.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
Thursday, August 21, 2014
WATCH: Gabby Giffords and Mark Kelly Take Ice Bucket Challenge, Hope They Can Find More Agreement With NRA; More Details On #IceBucketChallenge Craze
Former Arizona Rep. Gabby Giffords did not get doused in the viral social media craze that the Strike Out ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has become, but she did help turn the bucket on husband and former Space Shuttle Commander Mark Kelly.
Per the "rules", Giffords and Kelly then paid it forward by challenging NRA President Wayne LaPierre to either douse himself within 24 hours or make a material donation to the ALS Association, to help research a cure for the debilitating disease.
In the video challenge to the head of the National Rifle Association, Kelly states that "we do hope that, one day, we can agree upon more than just supporting ALS (Association) and Lou Gehrig's disease research."
Following her assassination attempt in 2011, Giffords and Kelly have founded and built up Americans for Responsible Solutions "to encourage elected officials to stand up for solutions to prevent gun violence and protect responsible gun ownership."
The Ice Bucket Challenge just became associated with the ALS Association a few weeks ago, but in that time, more than $41.8 Million has been contributed - compared with $2.1M during the same period in 2013! Here is how you can donate - you can donate AND dump ice on your head or you can do either, but you CAN'T do neither!
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
Per the "rules", Giffords and Kelly then paid it forward by challenging NRA President Wayne LaPierre to either douse himself within 24 hours or make a material donation to the ALS Association, to help research a cure for the debilitating disease.
In the video challenge to the head of the National Rifle Association, Kelly states that "we do hope that, one day, we can agree upon more than just supporting ALS (Association) and Lou Gehrig's disease research."
Following her assassination attempt in 2011, Giffords and Kelly have founded and built up Americans for Responsible Solutions "to encourage elected officials to stand up for solutions to prevent gun violence and protect responsible gun ownership."
The Ice Bucket Challenge just became associated with the ALS Association a few weeks ago, but in that time, more than $41.8 Million has been contributed - compared with $2.1M during the same period in 2013! Here is how you can donate - you can donate AND dump ice on your head or you can do either, but you CAN'T do neither!
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
DON'T FALL, GUY: OSHA Takes Next Step Vs. Arizona Re: Residential Construction Workers; AZ Legislature's Protection Reached Too High
(This article was researched and co-written by Phoenix attorney Paul Weich; headline and links added by Arizona's Politics.)
U.S. OSHA is today proposing to reject Arizona's safety standards that only protect construction workers from heights of 15+ feet, instead of 6+ feet. OSHA (the Occupational Safety and Health Administration) says the Arizona Legislature did not properly address the issue in the past legislative session and that the more protective federal standard needs to be enforced.
The Legislature added language requiring construction companies to provide fall protection mechanisms (harnesses, etc.) if workers are 6 or more feet above ground, but did not require their usage unless the workers are 15 or more feet up. Even then, the Legislature retained language that gives employers exceptions that are broader than the federal regulators think are feasible. The bill (SB1307) - that was approved unanimously by both the House and Senate - was signed into law by Governor Jan Brewer on April 22 - was in response to earlier correspondence from OSHA to Arizona to make sure that the more protective standards were put into place.
Today's publication (posted below) of the proposed rejection of Arizona's safety standards notes the new bill and the conditional repeal provision added by the Legislature, and suggests that it may result in a new agreement between OSHA and ADOSH (Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health) to enforce the more stringent federal standard.
In March, OSHA had threatened to pull the $2.4M annual grant it provides to Arizona for safety inspections and to move in federal inspectors, according to the Arizona Republic. However, OSHA's published memorandum today in support of the proposed rejection makes no mention of that and instead suggests that a new agreement between the federal and state agencies for state inspectors to continue inspections would be optimal.
The Arizona Republic article cites statistics and examples of deaths and injuries caused by construction worker falls of between 6 and 15 feet.
Responses to today's publication - including requests for a hearing - are due by September 25.
(h/t The Hill)
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
U.S. OSHA is today proposing to reject Arizona's safety standards that only protect construction workers from heights of 15+ feet, instead of 6+ feet. OSHA (the Occupational Safety and Health Administration) says the Arizona Legislature did not properly address the issue in the past legislative session and that the more protective federal standard needs to be enforced.
The Legislature added language requiring construction companies to provide fall protection mechanisms (harnesses, etc.) if workers are 6 or more feet above ground, but did not require their usage unless the workers are 15 or more feet up. Even then, the Legislature retained language that gives employers exceptions that are broader than the federal regulators think are feasible. The bill (SB1307) - that was approved unanimously by both the House and Senate - was signed into law by Governor Jan Brewer on April 22 - was in response to earlier correspondence from OSHA to Arizona to make sure that the more protective standards were put into place.
Today's publication (posted below) of the proposed rejection of Arizona's safety standards notes the new bill and the conditional repeal provision added by the Legislature, and suggests that it may result in a new agreement between OSHA and ADOSH (Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health) to enforce the more stringent federal standard.
In March, OSHA had threatened to pull the $2.4M annual grant it provides to Arizona for safety inspections and to move in federal inspectors, according to the Arizona Republic. However, OSHA's published memorandum today in support of the proposed rejection makes no mention of that and instead suggests that a new agreement between the federal and state agencies for state inspectors to continue inspections would be optimal.
The Arizona Republic article cites statistics and examples of deaths and injuries caused by construction worker falls of between 6 and 15 feet.
Responses to today's publication - including requests for a hearing - are due by September 25.
(h/t The Hill)
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
Here are the locations of the 4 UPS Stores in Arizona that were hacked
Naturally, I dug to find out whether there was a list of the affected UPS Stores. There is.
Here are the four Arizona locations that were hacked:
If you used a credit card(s) at one or more of these locations during the listed time period, here is UPS' page to obtain more information, including credit monitoring services.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
FIRST WATCH: Last Minute IE Barrage For Andy Tobin Continues To Come Into Focus; Jim Click Coordination Allegations Sure To Follow (FOLLOWING MONEY IN ARIZONA'S POLITICS)
The IE barrage supporting Arizona House Speaker Andy Tobin continues to come into focus today. Arizona's Politics has reported on the Main Street Advocacy Group and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce; now comes confirmation that Preserve America's Future, Tucson auto dealer Jim Click's new outside spending group, is spending $25,000 this week on television advertising.
As reported elsewhere, Click is also the finance chair for Andy Tobin's campaign and Click/family/employees have made up the largest contributor group to Tobin (more than $32,000 as of January).
Federal campaign laws prohibit coordination between an outside spending organization and a candidate. Demands for investigations and/or FEC complaints are sure to follow from GOP opponents Gary Kiehne and/or Adam Kwasman - and, possibly from incumbent Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-CD1). Kiehne already called the Main Street and U.S. Chamber efforts a desperate bailout.
The FEC report was filed this afternoon. Last week, PAF (formerly, "Protect Arizona's Freedom") filed a trigger report which did not give amounts or campaigns. That prompted Arizona's Politics to keep the Nathan Sproul-led group on its radar.
Since then, PAF has spent $45,000 putting up signs opposing both Jeff DeWit and Randy Pullen for State Treasurer. The third Republican candidate in that battle is former Tempe Mayor Hugh Hallman.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
As reported elsewhere, Click is also the finance chair for Andy Tobin's campaign and Click/family/employees have made up the largest contributor group to Tobin (more than $32,000 as of January).
Federal campaign laws prohibit coordination between an outside spending organization and a candidate. Demands for investigations and/or FEC complaints are sure to follow from GOP opponents Gary Kiehne and/or Adam Kwasman - and, possibly from incumbent Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-CD1). Kiehne already called the Main Street and U.S. Chamber efforts a desperate bailout.
The FEC report was filed this afternoon. Last week, PAF (formerly, "Protect Arizona's Freedom") filed a trigger report which did not give amounts or campaigns. That prompted Arizona's Politics to keep the Nathan Sproul-led group on its radar.
Since then, PAF has spent $45,000 putting up signs opposing both Jeff DeWit and Randy Pullen for State Treasurer. The third Republican candidate in that battle is former Tempe Mayor Hugh Hallman.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
BREAKING, REPORTS: Beheaded Journalist Jim Foley Previously Taught In Arizona
(This guest article was contributed by Phoenix attorney Paul Weich; headline and links added by Arizona's Politics.)
It's now been confirmed that freelancing journalist Jim Foley was beheaded by terrorists in Syria or Iraq. And, though there are conflicting reports, it appears that Foley taught for some period of time in Arizona before becoming a reporter.
The first report to catch Arizona's Politics' attention indicated that he taught prison inmates in Arizona. In attempting to find the originating report for that information, as well as more details, we came across this article indicating he taught Phoenix inner-city students through the Teach For America program.
Of course, both reports (or, even neither report) could be correct. If you have any further information, please email us at info@ArizonasPolitics.com or call 602-799-7025.)
Our sincere condolences to Mr. Foley's family and friends.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
It's now been confirmed that freelancing journalist Jim Foley was beheaded by terrorists in Syria or Iraq. And, though there are conflicting reports, it appears that Foley taught for some period of time in Arizona before becoming a reporter.
The first report to catch Arizona's Politics' attention indicated that he taught prison inmates in Arizona. In attempting to find the originating report for that information, as well as more details, we came across this article indicating he taught Phoenix inner-city students through the Teach For America program.
Of course, both reports (or, even neither report) could be correct. If you have any further information, please email us at info@ArizonasPolitics.com or call 602-799-7025.)
Our sincere condolences to Mr. Foley's family and friends.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
"DON'T LOOK, ETHEL" UPDATE: The McCain Dancing Video Finally Surfaces
On Monday, we reported on Arizona senior Senator John McCain dancing the robot in the Hamptons at a benefit for Harlem's Apollo Theater. We prefaced it with this warning:
(Warning: Although video is not (yet) out on the internet, the still photos of Arizona Senator John McCain at the bottom of this article may be as disturbing and inappropriate for some viewers.)
(Warning: Although video is not (yet) out on the internet, the still photos of Arizona Senator John McCain at the bottom of this article may be as disturbing and inappropriate for some viewers.)
Inevitably, the video DID surface. We just found it thanks to our friends at KFYI (who found it from TMZ). We re-iterate the previous warning. (And, we urge you to check out our Monday story for the similarly-scarily-entertaining video of "The Streak"!)
FIRST WATCH: U.S. Chamber of Commerce Makes Major Ad Buy For Andy Tobin, Starts Tomorrow; Gary Kiehne Labels It "Desperate Bailout"
The powerful U.S. Chamber of Commerce is stepping in to bolster Arizona House Speaker Andy Tobin in his battle for the GOP nomination in the hotly-contested #AZ01 race.
Here is the ad that begins airing tomorrow. It ignores Tobin's two primary opponents - fellow state Rep. Adam Kwasman and rancher/businessman Gary Kiehne - and instead focuses on incumbent Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-CD1) (and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, of course) and on touting Tobin as a "rock-solid conservative".
The Associated Press is reporting that the ad buy will be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. The only FCC report filed so far shows a $4,125 buy on the relatively-inexpensive KAZT, so the information is likely correct.
Kiehne immediately sent out an email to supporters (and reporters) blasting the "desperate...bailout" from a "liberal Republican group" and "the pro-amnesty U.S. Chamber of Commerce". (His complete email is below the jump.)
***
STANDING UP STRAIGHT FOR RON BARBER: Orthopaedic Surgeons' PAC Spends $53K On Radio Ads (FOLLOWING MONEY IN ARIZONA'S POLITICS)
The well-funded POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEONS is spending $53,000 running three weeks of radio ads in Tucson supporting incumbent Rep. Ron Barber (D-CD2).
The Orthopedists' PAC's independent expenditure arm supports mostly Republicans, along with a couple of more conservative Democrats. (Barber has also received $7,500 in contributions from the PAC in this election cycle, according to the Center for Responsive Politics.)
Barber is running for re-election in one of the most closely-watched and hotly-contested races in the country.
(If you find this ad online, please forward information to Arizona's Politics, at info@ArizonasPolitics.com.)
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
The Orthopedists' PAC's independent expenditure arm supports mostly Republicans, along with a couple of more conservative Democrats. (Barber has also received $7,500 in contributions from the PAC in this election cycle, according to the Center for Responsive Politics.)
Barber is running for re-election in one of the most closely-watched and hotly-contested races in the country.
(If you find this ad online, please forward information to Arizona's Politics, at info@ArizonasPolitics.com.)
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
ENCORE(?!?): Take Flake Out To the Ball Game (New Lyrics); Help Fund His 2018 Campaign (FOLLOWING MONEY IN ARIZONA'S POLITICS)
If the Arizona Diamondbacks are playing the Washington Nationals in D.C., it must be time for a Sen. Jeff Flake's 2018 re-election campaign to have a fundraiser.
With a ballcap tip to the Sunlight Foundation's Political Party Time, here is the information on tomorrow's fundraiser. (Maybe it'll be the one game in the 4-game series the D'backs will win):
Last year's effort may have raised a few PAC contributions that are dated shortly before/after the ballgame/fundraiser - although that is questionable. The only obvious expense related to it was $520 for the sweet suite tickets. (Although the fundraising consultants did receive $334 two weeks after the event.)
Arizona's Politics did get one (semi-serious) compliment last year on its attempt to channel our inner Weird Al Yankovic - so against my better judgment - here is a re-post of part of last year's article:
With a ballcap tip to the Sunlight Foundation's Political Party Time, here is the information on tomorrow's fundraiser. (Maybe it'll be the one game in the 4-game series the D'backs will win):
Last year's effort may have raised a few PAC contributions that are dated shortly before/after the ballgame/fundraiser - although that is questionable. The only obvious expense related to it was $520 for the sweet suite tickets. (Although the fundraising consultants did receive $334 two weeks after the event.)
Arizona's Politics did get one (semi-serious) compliment last year on its attempt to channel our inner Weird Al Yankovic - so against my better judgment - here is a re-post of part of last year's article:
Take Flake out to the ball game,Take along a lobbyist or two,We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
Give him more'n peanuts and Cracker Jack,
You don't care that its for 20-18.
Let's root, root, root for immigration reform,
If it stalls in the House it's a shame.
For it's ONE, TWO thousand, not more,
At the old fund raiser!
Well, the House campaigns are already revving up, and there is even jockeying for the 2016 Presidential race. But, here's a fun D.C. fundraiser for Arizona Senator Jeff Flake's re-election campaign. He will presumably be running for a second Senate term in 2018.
But, hey, everyone understands that we live in an age of perpetual campaigns. Flake's Re-Election Committee is already spending more than $22,000 per month (based on their recent quarterly filing).
If you attend this fundraiser on the 26th, please drop Arizona's Politics a line and let us know whether all of the attendees root for the Diamondbacks while the Senator is there, and then put on their Nationals' caps after he leaves!
Centrist-Conservative* GOP Group Buys $40K Radio Time Supporting Tobin In #AZ01, Is Opposing "Grifting Wing" Of Republican Party
The Main Street Advocacy Group just spent $40,000 producing and airing a radio ad supporting House Speaker Andy Tobin in his bid to move from the State House to the U.S. House. The centrist-conservative* group says it is supporting GOP primary candidates who will be part of the "governing wing" rather than the "grifting wing."
Meanwhile, dark money Main Street is declining to list its donors, although publicly-released tax documents note that the dark money group American Action Network - a Republican outside group powerhouse chaired by former Senator Norm Coleman - granted $500,000 to Main Street in 2013 (as part of its effort to maintain that most of its activities are not overtly election-related).
Main Street Chair Steve LaTourette (former GOP Congressman) has been outspoken in the intra-GOP battle between more centrist Republicans and more conservative Republicans. He has bemoaned the move to the right, saying the party will sacrifice a governing majority on the altar of ideological purity, and calling the ideologues the "grifting wing" of the party.
Tobin is facing two opponents in next week's GOP primary, with the nominee trying to unseat incumbent Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-CD1) in one of the few toss-up contests in the nation. State Rep. Adam Kwasman and rancher/businessman Gary Kiehne have both been running to the right of Tobin.
If you find an online recording of the ad, please send the information to Arizona's Politics, at info@ArizonasPolitics.com.
*Main Street prefers to call itself "conservative" while intra-party opponents try to lump it with Democrats and liberals. Most centrist Republicans refer to themselves as conservative, especially during primary season.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
Meanwhile, dark money Main Street is declining to list its donors, although publicly-released tax documents note that the dark money group American Action Network - a Republican outside group powerhouse chaired by former Senator Norm Coleman - granted $500,000 to Main Street in 2013 (as part of its effort to maintain that most of its activities are not overtly election-related).
Main Street Chair Steve LaTourette (former GOP Congressman) has been outspoken in the intra-GOP battle between more centrist Republicans and more conservative Republicans. He has bemoaned the move to the right, saying the party will sacrifice a governing majority on the altar of ideological purity, and calling the ideologues the "grifting wing" of the party.
Tobin is facing two opponents in next week's GOP primary, with the nominee trying to unseat incumbent Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-CD1) in one of the few toss-up contests in the nation. State Rep. Adam Kwasman and rancher/businessman Gary Kiehne have both been running to the right of Tobin.
If you find an online recording of the ad, please send the information to Arizona's Politics, at info@ArizonasPolitics.com.
*Main Street prefers to call itself "conservative" while intra-party opponents try to lump it with Democrats and liberals. Most centrist Republicans refer to themselves as conservative, especially during primary season.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
FIRST WATCH: $81K Online Ad By Mayday PAC Supporting Gallego In #AZ07; First Test For National "Super PAC To End All Super PACs" (FOLLOWING MONEY IN ARIZONA'S POLITICS)
A new $80,000 online ad buy supporting Ruben Gallego in his bid to replace retiring Rep. Ed Pastor (D-CD7) touts the former state lawmaker as "fighting for the middle class...committed to fixing a corrupt system for funding campaigns."
The Mayday PAC filed its independent expenditure report with the FEC (Federal Election Commission) today, detailing that it spent $6,666 putting together the 30-second spot (below) and $74,731 for online views.
The Mayday PAC has received a lot of national intention for the apparent irony of raising money for a Super PAC to support elected officials and candidates who support changing the campaign finance to get rid of Super PACs*. So far, they have raised $7.9 Million.
Gallego is facing a close race for the Democratic nomination, with the winner next week being the overwhelming favorite to replace Pastor. He is battling former Maricopa County Supervisor Mary Rose Wilcox, who is described by Mayday's Larry Lessig as “what some are calling a more corporate Democrat.”
Mayday cites Gallego's support for the Government By the People Act as basis for choosing him as one of the first candidates they are fighting for. Gallego's issues page does not mention campaign finance reform as a key plank, but it did post this position paper a couple of days before receiving Mayday's blessing (which went unnoticed by Arizona media).
Because of the impending primary, the Time article notes that the Arizona race will be "the first test of Mayday PAC's mettle."
* Mayday "embraces the irony" and uses the asterisk to say "yes, including ourselves."
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
 |
| Clip from Mayday ad (below), with remarkably-good cartoon likeness |
The Mayday PAC filed its independent expenditure report with the FEC (Federal Election Commission) today, detailing that it spent $6,666 putting together the 30-second spot (below) and $74,731 for online views.
The Mayday PAC has received a lot of national intention for the apparent irony of raising money for a Super PAC to support elected officials and candidates who support changing the campaign finance to get rid of Super PACs*. So far, they have raised $7.9 Million.
Gallego is facing a close race for the Democratic nomination, with the winner next week being the overwhelming favorite to replace Pastor. He is battling former Maricopa County Supervisor Mary Rose Wilcox, who is described by Mayday's Larry Lessig as “what some are calling a more corporate Democrat.”
Mayday cites Gallego's support for the Government By the People Act as basis for choosing him as one of the first candidates they are fighting for. Gallego's issues page does not mention campaign finance reform as a key plank, but it did post this position paper a couple of days before receiving Mayday's blessing (which went unnoticed by Arizona media).
Because of the impending primary, the Time article notes that the Arizona race will be "the first test of Mayday PAC's mettle."
* Mayday "embraces the irony" and uses the asterisk to say "yes, including ourselves."
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
Monday, August 18, 2014
DON'T LOOK, ETHEL*! McCain, Christie Dance On Stage In Hamptons (To Jaime Foxx's Amusement); Raises Money For Programs At Harlem's Apollo Theater
(Update, 12:30pm, Aug.20: The video has surfaced, and can be viewed - at your own risk - here.)
(Warning: Although video is not (yet) out on the internet, the still photos of Arizona Senator John McCain at the bottom of this article may be as disturbing and inappropriate for some viewers.)
Politico picked up on a New York Post story today, featuring video of New Jersey Governor Chris Christie dancing at an "Apollo at the Hamptons" benefit this weekend. Politico added the still photo of McCain dancing the robot; according to the Post, Christie "raced to the stage" and McCain followed - "not to be upstaged".
The benefit raised more than $4 Million for programs at Harlem's Apollo Theater.
Meanwhile, from the other side of the country, no word yet on whether Arizona Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-CD1) "boogied" with Nancy Pelosi and Google's Eric Schmidt.
To be honest, I did not know Ray Stevens did a video for this...'til today!
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
(Warning: Although video is not (yet) out on the internet, the still photos of Arizona Senator John McCain at the bottom of this article may be as disturbing and inappropriate for some viewers.)
Politico picked up on a New York Post story today, featuring video of New Jersey Governor Chris Christie dancing at an "Apollo at the Hamptons" benefit this weekend. Politico added the still photo of McCain dancing the robot; according to the Post, Christie "raced to the stage" and McCain followed - "not to be upstaged".
The benefit raised more than $4 Million for programs at Harlem's Apollo Theater.
Meanwhile, from the other side of the country, no word yet on whether Arizona Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-CD1) "boogied" with Nancy Pelosi and Google's Eric Schmidt.
John McCain also boogied with Foxx. Photo: WireImage
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
AUTO-GRAPHED* BUSH SOCKS: Which Arizona GOP Candidate Will Be 1st To Sport These Socks? Selfie Request
The latest Republican must-have fashion accessory popped up in an ad spot as I was starting my morning rounds. Or, is that a must-not-have accessory?
Very few Republican officials or candidates - especially in Arizona - regularly cite President George H.W. Bush as a role model. So, when the RNC (Republican National Committee) starts touting these Bush socks, you have to wonder if you will see them show up at any local campaign events.
The only candidate that Arizona's Politics has noticed referencing the elder Bush is Corporation Commission candidate Vernon Parker. In fact, Parker tried to utilize H.W.'s endorsement in his 2012 Congressional campaign. (Unfortunately, he left out the money quote, which made it appear that it was just a vague letter of praise for a former employee.)
In case you want to buy a pair, here is the direct link. If you wear it on the campaign trail (or, spot anyone else wearing them), please snap a selfie or a pic and send it to Arizona's Politics!
* The headline hyphen was intentional, as it is hard to imagine the aging former President spending his late summer afternoons with Sharpie in hand, signing darned socks.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
Very few Republican officials or candidates - especially in Arizona - regularly cite President George H.W. Bush as a role model. So, when the RNC (Republican National Committee) starts touting these Bush socks, you have to wonder if you will see them show up at any local campaign events.
The only candidate that Arizona's Politics has noticed referencing the elder Bush is Corporation Commission candidate Vernon Parker. In fact, Parker tried to utilize H.W.'s endorsement in his 2012 Congressional campaign. (Unfortunately, he left out the money quote, which made it appear that it was just a vague letter of praise for a former employee.)
In case you want to buy a pair, here is the direct link. If you wear it on the campaign trail (or, spot anyone else wearing them), please snap a selfie or a pic and send it to Arizona's Politics!
* The headline hyphen was intentional, as it is hard to imagine the aging former President spending his late summer afternoons with Sharpie in hand, signing darned socks.
It's a wonderful day in Maine -- in fact, nice enough for a parachute jump.
— George Bush (@GeorgeHWBush) June 12, 2014
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Friday, August 15, 2014
SCHMOOZING IN NAPA: Rep. Kirkpatrick Chosen To Address Pelosi Mega-Donors In Napa Valley Tomorrow
No doubt after weighing the financial benefits against the attack ad costs, Arizona Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-CD1) accepted House Minority Leader's invitation to address an annual conference of Democratic mega-donors tomorrow in Napa Valley. Kirkpatrick is running for re-election in a one of the most closely-watched, tossup House races in the country.
Politico reported last night that Kirkpatrick is one of five "vulnerable Democratic lawmakers* to mix and mingle with some of her biggest supporters." Expected attendees at the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Speaker's Cabinet include Google Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt and billionaire environmental activist Tom Steyer.
As of last week, Kirkpatrick had $1.36 Million in her campaign's bank account. However, once the Republicans choose their nominee on August 26, it is guaranteed to be a very expensive race to the finish in the sprawling district. Both Democratic and Republican groups have booked millions in television advertising time for the race.
It is also a safe bet that this weekend's event will make an appearance in some of the ads attacking Kirkpatrick. However, given that attack ads already try to link the two (example from 2012 on right), that prospect was probably outweighed by the opportunity to seek big name, big dollar support from the conference's attendees.
* One non-incumbent candidate for the House is among the five listed as "lawmakers".
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Politico reported last night that Kirkpatrick is one of five "vulnerable Democratic lawmakers* to mix and mingle with some of her biggest supporters." Expected attendees at the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Speaker's Cabinet include Google Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt and billionaire environmental activist Tom Steyer.
As of last week, Kirkpatrick had $1.36 Million in her campaign's bank account. However, once the Republicans choose their nominee on August 26, it is guaranteed to be a very expensive race to the finish in the sprawling district. Both Democratic and Republican groups have booked millions in television advertising time for the race.
It is also a safe bet that this weekend's event will make an appearance in some of the ads attacking Kirkpatrick. However, given that attack ads already try to link the two (example from 2012 on right), that prospect was probably outweighed by the opportunity to seek big name, big dollar support from the conference's attendees.
* One non-incumbent candidate for the House is among the five listed as "lawmakers".
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Tuesday, August 12, 2014
FIRST WATCH: New 60-Second McSally Ad Details Her Fight For Women Servicemembers
Martha McSally has released a new 60-second ad detailing her eight-year battle with the Defense Department on behalf of her and other women serving in the U.S. military in Saudi Arabia in the 1990's.
The new ad - titled "Stand Up" - is part of her campaign to win the Republican nomination to defeat incumbent Rep. Ron Barber (D-CD2) in one of the closest and most closely-watched Congressional races in the country.
It features McSally speaking from a kitchen (hers?) about how she took on Donald Rumsfeld and the Pentagon regarding the decision to compel female servicemembers to wear headcoverings off base in Saudi Arabia.
The ad starts running today in the Tucson market.
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The new ad - titled "Stand Up" - is part of her campaign to win the Republican nomination to defeat incumbent Rep. Ron Barber (D-CD2) in one of the closest and most closely-watched Congressional races in the country.
It features McSally speaking from a kitchen (hers?) about how she took on Donald Rumsfeld and the Pentagon regarding the decision to compel female servicemembers to wear headcoverings off base in Saudi Arabia.
The ad starts running today in the Tucson market.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
FIRST WATCH, ANTI-HORNE AIR BARRAGE RESUMES: Outside Groups, Rep. Salmon Bring New Ads To Primary Battle
After a few weeks of radio silence from the array of Republican forces opposed to the re-election of Arizona Attorney General Tom Horne, two groups have launched ad campaigns. One zeroes in on Horne's legal and ethics problems, while the other - featuring Rep. Matt Salmon - focuses on Mark Brnovich and urges viewers to "make the change".
Salmon is now the face of the new "State Conservative Reform Action PAC", which was formed two weeks ago and has only targeted the Arizona AG race thus far. It touts Brnovich as a "principled conservative" and barely mentions Horne. (Per the ad (below), making the change seems to be as simple as hitting the side of your computer monitor.)
SCRAPac's ad begins airing in Tucson today, and it appears that the group is trying to raise additional money to buy airtime in the Phoenix market.
While Salmon's group may be taking the high(er) road, the new ad from the Arizona Public Integrity Alliance continues its relentless focus on Horne's problems - combining hide and seek with peek-a-boo to urge viewers to "tell Tom Horne to stop using the courts to hide from investigators."
APIA - which does not release its contributors - is spending $138,000 airing this ad:
In May, APIA spent more than $345,000 airing anti-Horne ads.
The winner of the August 26 GOP primary will face Democrat Felecia Rotellini in the general election.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
Salmon is now the face of the new "State Conservative Reform Action PAC", which was formed two weeks ago and has only targeted the Arizona AG race thus far. It touts Brnovich as a "principled conservative" and barely mentions Horne. (Per the ad (below), making the change seems to be as simple as hitting the side of your computer monitor.)
SCRAPac's ad begins airing in Tucson today, and it appears that the group is trying to raise additional money to buy airtime in the Phoenix market.
While Salmon's group may be taking the high(er) road, the new ad from the Arizona Public Integrity Alliance continues its relentless focus on Horne's problems - combining hide and seek with peek-a-boo to urge viewers to "tell Tom Horne to stop using the courts to hide from investigators."
APIA - which does not release its contributors - is spending $138,000 airing this ad:
In May, APIA spent more than $345,000 airing anti-Horne ads.
The winner of the August 26 GOP primary will face Democrat Felecia Rotellini in the general election.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
Monday, August 11, 2014
BREAKING: Tobin Doesn't Want McCain Endorsement, But Will Accept His Money (FOLLOWING MONEY IN ARIZONA'S POLITICS)
Arizona House Speaker Andy Tobin has pointedly avoided getting the endorsement of Sen. John McCain (R-AZ)in his contested GOP primary race to battle Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-CD1). However, he just accepted a $2,500 check from the senior Senator's Leadership PAC.
Congressional candidates are now (from Aug. 7 until Aug. 23) in a period where they are required to disclose contributions (of $1,000 or more) within 48 hours.
Country First PAC - McCain's own - gave $2,500 to the Tobin campaign on Friday. Tobin also disclosed $1,000 contributions from two Representatives' committees (Michigan Rep. Dave Camp and NC Rep. Richard Hudson).
McCain has not been very popular among rank-and-file Republicans in Arizona, as evidenced by polling and party censures. The former GOP Presidential nominee was an honorary co-host - with Sen. Jeff Flake and former Sen. Jon Kyl - for a Tobin fundraiser in May that was headlined by Mitt Romney.
However, while the Tobin endorsement page touts the endorsements of Flake, Kyl and Romney, McCain's name is noticeably absent.
Partisan blog Sonoran Alliance concludes from the McCain/Flake/Kyl support that Tobin has quietly agreed to support their version of comprehensive immigration reform if he is elected.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
Congressional candidates are now (from Aug. 7 until Aug. 23) in a period where they are required to disclose contributions (of $1,000 or more) within 48 hours.
Country First PAC - McCain's own - gave $2,500 to the Tobin campaign on Friday. Tobin also disclosed $1,000 contributions from two Representatives' committees (Michigan Rep. Dave Camp and NC Rep. Richard Hudson).
McCain has not been very popular among rank-and-file Republicans in Arizona, as evidenced by polling and party censures. The former GOP Presidential nominee was an honorary co-host - with Sen. Jeff Flake and former Sen. Jon Kyl - for a Tobin fundraiser in May that was headlined by Mitt Romney.
However, while the Tobin endorsement page touts the endorsements of Flake, Kyl and Romney, McCain's name is noticeably absent.
Partisan blog Sonoran Alliance concludes from the McCain/Flake/Kyl support that Tobin has quietly agreed to support their version of comprehensive immigration reform if he is elected.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Andrew Walter (#AZ09) Gets Support From Semi-Dark "Liberty For All Super PAC" (FOLLOWING MONEY IN ARIZONA'S POLITICS)
Republicans and independents in Congressional District 9 can expect to see a mailer supporting Andrew Walter in his battle with Wendy Rogers for the GOP nomination. Although $7,000 does not seem to buy much in the world of politics these days.
The national super PAC Liberty For All filed an independent expenditure report with the Federal Election Commission today, noting that it spent $6,950 on voter mail and $542.10 on voter calls, in support of Walter. (That brings their total spending on his behalf to $14,334.20.
Liberty for All garnered attention in 2012 for its young founders/funders (college students John Ramsey and Preston Bates), and for putting $382,425 behind Jeff Flake in his Senate primary battle against Wil Cardon. (ALL of its IE's in 2012 came in Republican primary battles.)
In their endorsement of Walter earlier this year, Liberty for All praised his "American values of personal and economic freedom" and decried the "extreme partisanship" of incumbent Rep. Kyrsten Sinema (D-CD9).
Much of the super PAC's monies - $80,000, as of June 30 - are run through "Liberty for All, Inc.", which does not disclose its donors.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
The national super PAC Liberty For All filed an independent expenditure report with the Federal Election Commission today, noting that it spent $6,950 on voter mail and $542.10 on voter calls, in support of Walter. (That brings their total spending on his behalf to $14,334.20.
Liberty for All garnered attention in 2012 for its young founders/funders (college students John Ramsey and Preston Bates), and for putting $382,425 behind Jeff Flake in his Senate primary battle against Wil Cardon. (ALL of its IE's in 2012 came in Republican primary battles.)
In their endorsement of Walter earlier this year, Liberty for All praised his "American values of personal and economic freedom" and decried the "extreme partisanship" of incumbent Rep. Kyrsten Sinema (D-CD9).
Much of the super PAC's monies - $80,000, as of June 30 - are run through "Liberty for All, Inc.", which does not disclose its donors.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
Doug Ducey Will Be A Ted Cruz Puppet, So Give Us Money NOW! (DEAR MOM AND DAD, PLEASE SEND (lots of) MONEY)
Arizona State Treasurer Doug Ducey is now a "handpicked" Republican candidate for Governor. Who picked him? According to this fundraising email from the national Democratic Governors Association, Texas Senator Ted Cruz is the maniacal "puppet master" trying to gather power by getting "involved in an ugly primary fight in Arizona."
BREAKING: Ted Cruz makes a play to gain control of state governments. He has puppets in Washington, now he wants them in state capitals. Click here to fight back and defeat him!
(Full DGA email at bottom of this article.)
The hysterical missive - under the subject line "You’ll_never_believe_where_Ted_Cruz_is" - suggests that "Beating Cruz’s handpicked candidates across the country is the fastest way to marginalize and humiliate him."
Cruz endorsed Ducey last week, as early primary ballots were hitting mailboxes.
It is not quite clear whether the DGA is trying to raise money to help elect presumptive Democratic nominee Fred DuVal or whether it is simply using the Cruz endorsement of Ducey to shake loose some anti-Cruz money.
Cruz endorsed Ducey last week, as early primary ballots were hitting mailboxes.
It is not quite clear whether the DGA is trying to raise money to help elect presumptive Democratic nominee Fred DuVal or whether it is simply using the Cruz endorsement of Ducey to shake loose some anti-Cruz money.
***
Pay attention to this, MItch: Cruz is the puppet master controlling the extremist House GOP and now he’s trying to grow his power in the states.
Cruz has gotten involved in an ugly primary fight in Arizona and electing his choice candidate would put him FRIGHTENINGLY close to the White House in 2016.
This guy SHUT DOWN the government. Maniacally tried to REPEAL Obamacare.
Beating Cruz’s handpicked candidates across the country is the fastest way to marginalize and humiliate him.
Donate now – give anything you can right this minute – to get your gift DOUBLED to stop Cruz. We need to raise $75,000 in the next 48 hours.
GIVE AS MUCH AS YOU CAN SPARE RIGHT AWAY.
If you've saved payment info with ActBlue Express, your donation to the DGA will go through immediately:
We have to stop Cruz before he picks up support in another state.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.Friday, August 1, 2014
NRCC Spends First Dollars Opposing Reps. Barber and Kirkpatrick - Surveying and Media (FOLLOWING MONEY IN ARIZONA'S POLITICS)
The National Republican Congressional Committee ("NRCC") has officially spent its first money in the two Arizona Congressional races that will be closely watched across the nation.
The NRCC filed an Independent Expenditure report with the Federal Election Commission this evening to cover a number of races across the country. Of interest to Arizonans are the $41,500 which it spent on "survey research" and "media" to oppose southern Arizona Rep. Ron Barber (D-CD2) and the $22,500 spent on the same items to battle Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-CD1).
(Interestingly, the NRCC paid two separate companies to survey CD2, and they hired different companies to handle CD1 and CD2 - spreading the business.)
Actually, the NRCC has already spent money on these Arizona races, as documented in a previous Arizona's Politics' article. However, that did not need to be filed as a separate IE report because it was not within 60 days of the primary election; so perhaps the NRCC compliance consultants neglected to add it in.
The NRCC has also announced its intent to spend $3.0M in TV advertising in the two races in the weeks leading up to the general election.
The contested Republican primaries to select the candidates to oppose the Democratic incumbents will take place August 26, although early ballots were mailed out this week.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
The NRCC filed an Independent Expenditure report with the Federal Election Commission this evening to cover a number of races across the country. Of interest to Arizonans are the $41,500 which it spent on "survey research" and "media" to oppose southern Arizona Rep. Ron Barber (D-CD2) and the $22,500 spent on the same items to battle Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-CD1).
(Interestingly, the NRCC paid two separate companies to survey CD2, and they hired different companies to handle CD1 and CD2 - spreading the business.)
Actually, the NRCC has already spent money on these Arizona races, as documented in a previous Arizona's Politics' article. However, that did not need to be filed as a separate IE report because it was not within 60 days of the primary election; so perhaps the NRCC compliance consultants neglected to add it in.
The NRCC has also announced its intent to spend $3.0M in TV advertising in the two races in the weeks leading up to the general election.
The contested Republican primaries to select the candidates to oppose the Democratic incumbents will take place August 26, although early ballots were mailed out this week.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
AD WATCH: Union Groups, Tohono O'odham Nation Make $70,000 Ad Buy Supporting Ruben Gallego In CD7 Primary Race (FOLLOWING MONEY IN ARIZONA'S POLITICS)
Various union groups and the Tohono O'odham nation are primary funders of a new TV ad supporting former state Rep. Ruben Gallego in his battle for the Democratic nomination in Congressional District 7.
Revitalize Arizona filed its Independent Expenditure report with the Federal Election Commission this week, but no FCC filing appears to yet be available. (It could simply be running only on cable TV, but the size of the expenditure makes that unlikely.) According to the IE report, the ad will be titled "Health Care".
Revitalize Arizona received the money from the group Residents for Accountability. In its May report with the Arizona Secretary of State, Residents for Accountability indicates that it received $73,500 from three union groups (Arizona Pipe Trades 469, UFCW 99, and AZ Labor Management) and $30,000 from the Tohono O'odham Nation. (Revitalize Arizona has been the only beneficiary to date, and both RA and RfA are run by the same Tempe-based political consulting and law firm.)
Gallego and former Maricopa Supervisor Mary Rose Wilcox are the leading candidates for the Democratic nomination to replace retiring Rep. Ed Pastor; the successful nominee will be the overwhelming favorite in the general election.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
Revitalize Arizona filed its Independent Expenditure report with the Federal Election Commission this week, but no FCC filing appears to yet be available. (It could simply be running only on cable TV, but the size of the expenditure makes that unlikely.) According to the IE report, the ad will be titled "Health Care".
Revitalize Arizona received the money from the group Residents for Accountability. In its May report with the Arizona Secretary of State, Residents for Accountability indicates that it received $73,500 from three union groups (Arizona Pipe Trades 469, UFCW 99, and AZ Labor Management) and $30,000 from the Tohono O'odham Nation. (Revitalize Arizona has been the only beneficiary to date, and both RA and RfA are run by the same Tempe-based political consulting and law firm.)
Gallego and former Maricopa Supervisor Mary Rose Wilcox are the leading candidates for the Democratic nomination to replace retiring Rep. Ed Pastor; the successful nominee will be the overwhelming favorite in the general election.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
AD WATCH: Ohio-Based Dark Money Group Makes $70,000 Ad Buy To Support Kwasman In CD1 Primary (FOLLOWING MONEY IN ARIZONA'S POLITICS)
A new dark money group has plunked down $70,000 to buy television ad time supporting state Rep. Adam Kwasman in his bid for the Republican nomination in the Congressional District 1 race.
The Hometown Freedom Action Network ("HFAN") filed its independent expenditure report today, indicating that on July 29, it bought "television advertising" favoring Kwasman (that "also opposes Andy Tobin and Gary Kiehne").
This is only the 2nd expenditure that HFAN has made, after being formed by well-known dark money group attorney David Langdon in 2012. The first IE came earlier this year, opposing Nebraska Senate candidate Ben Sasse; the group conveniently funneled $91,000 through a corporation (the somewhat-ironically-named "A Public Voice, Inc."). The corporation thus shields the original contributors.
The broadcast information on the ad has not yet been publicly filed, and HFAN has no website or YouTube channel.
Kwasman, Tobin and Kiehne are all seeking the nomination to oppose Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-CD1) in one of the few toss-up districts in the nation.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.
The Hometown Freedom Action Network ("HFAN") filed its independent expenditure report today, indicating that on July 29, it bought "television advertising" favoring Kwasman (that "also opposes Andy Tobin and Gary Kiehne").
This is only the 2nd expenditure that HFAN has made, after being formed by well-known dark money group attorney David Langdon in 2012. The first IE came earlier this year, opposing Nebraska Senate candidate Ben Sasse; the group conveniently funneled $91,000 through a corporation (the somewhat-ironically-named "A Public Voice, Inc."). The corporation thus shields the original contributors.
The broadcast information on the ad has not yet been publicly filed, and HFAN has no website or YouTube channel.
Kwasman, Tobin and Kiehne are all seeking the nomination to oppose Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-CD1) in one of the few toss-up districts in the nation.
We welcome your comments about this post. Or, if you have something unrelated on your mind, please e-mail to info-at-arizonaspolitics-dot-com or call 602-799-7025. Thanks.