Daily Kos

Running in 2006

by Paul Hackett

Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:10:51 PM PDT

It was great to see everything come together during the Special Election. Except for the people who didn't think it was actually me last time I posted, I want to thank each and every one of you - what you did for our campaign was awesome.

Good times are ahead for progressives with the guts to fight.

If you are ready to fight, then lead the charge - run for office.

Out of the hundreds of thousands who come here each day, I'm guessing we have some people who would make excellent public servants. You don't need a classical political pedigree to drive change, you just need to follow your heart, fight, and never give up.

I know that people here are going to step up and run, when they do be sure to help out your brothers and sisters. Give them the resources and the confidence to tell their story.

We need more candidates for congress, we need more candidates for state legislatures, we need more candidates for local offices and school boards. Think about the people you know and respect, the people who would make you proud and get them to run. And then take care of them as you took care of me.

Tags: Paul Hackett, 2006, congress, senate, school board, legislature, democrats, Ohio, OH-Sen (all tags) :: Previous Tag Versions

Permalink | 476 comments

  •  what do you got for me (4.00 / 150)

    questions?

    www.HackettForOhio.com

    by Paul Hackett on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:11:27 PM PDT

    •  Are you going to run for Senate? (4.00 / 4)

      I think you will have blog support?

      Build the Wilshire Subway!

      by SoCalLiberal on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:12:54 PM PDT

      [ Parent ]

      •  More than that (none / 0)

        He'll have public support.

        by busternjake on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:14:04 PM PDT

        [ Parent ]

        •  you could too if you run (4.00 / 18)

          democracy is about participation, jump on in

          www.HackettForOhio.com

          by Paul Hackett on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:18:06 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

          •  Awesome! (none / 1)

            Major Hackett! This Californian supports you all the way!

            And later when you're a Senator, we can all get you a great new Democratic President to work with (no Chicken-Hawks need apply)!

            *John McCain is aware of the Internet*

            by MichaelPH on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:00:50 PM PDT

            [ Parent ]

            •  Californians For Hackett (4.00 / 2)

              Californians For Hackett

              Could there be such a group?

              I would be interested. I assume the value would be to raise awareness of his campaign. Obviously we believe in him so it wouldn't have to be a hard sell.

              Reply to this comment and we could see if there is interest. I'll repost this to every other Californian on this thread or chime in if you are interested.

              by Bill Section 147 on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 05:16:55 PM PDT

              [ Parent ]

              •  Californians For Hackett (none / 0)

                Sign me up! I donated to the special election cause, and I would dearly love to support Paul's run for the Senate.

                I also heartily agree with you that more impassioned progressives need to run for office.

                "More than an end to war, we want an end to the beginning of all wars --." -- Franklin D. Roosevelt.

                by lisaderitis on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 06:22:47 PM PDT

                [ Parent ]

                •  added to the CfH list (none / 0)

                  I will post a Diary titled Californians for Hackett on Monday at 11:30 am PDT.  I will try to flesh out some thoughts and give some direction. I would hope that the initial Diary will serve as a forum for brain storming.

                  Please think about any ideas or contributions (thoughts not money) for the Monday Diary. To get a broad consensus up front I will try to distill all of the Monday content and have a follow up on Wednesday to post at 11:30 am PDT.

                  My initial idea is, as much as is possible, we handle this as a community and not move immediately to a heirarchy or physical structure. Eventually we may need to be more formal with a web page or some such idea--but that is up for discussion.

                  by Bill Section 147 on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 12:34:31 PM PDT

                  [ Parent ]

              •  Hackett will be coming to California (none / 0)

                We need to put the pieces in place to give him the welcoming he deserves.

                by Bob Brigham on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 07:26:47 PM PDT

                [ Parent ]

              •  Count 2 in my household. (none / 0)

                I wish we could claim Paul for ourselves.

                America: Arsenal of Democracy

                by YukonJack on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 08:18:49 PM PDT

                [ Parent ]

                •  Added to the CfA list (none / 0)

                  I will post a Diary titled Californians for Hackett on Monday at 11:30 am PDT.  I will try to flesh out some thoughts and give some direction. I would hope that the initial Diary will serve as a forum for brain storming.

                  Please think about any ideas or contributions (thoughts not money) for the Monday Diary. To get a broad consensus up front I will try to distill all of the Monday content and have a follow up on Wednesday to post at 11:30 am PDT.

                  My initial idea is, as much as is possible, we handle this as a community and not move immediately to a heirarchy or physical structure. Eventually we may need to be more formal with a web page or some such idea--but that is up for discussion.

                  Added to the CfA list

                  by Bill Section 147 on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 12:35:47 PM PDT

                  [ Parent ]

              •  Sure, why not? (none / 0)

                Every race should be a "50-state" campaign.

                In TX-32, track the voting record of Pete Sessions at SessionsWatch.

                by CoolOnion on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 05:37:24 AM PDT

                [ Parent ]

            •  Hackett Action Alert (none / 0)

              Californians for Hackett Diary is up.

              by Bill Section 147 on Mon Oct 17, 2005 at 12:40:31 PM PDT

              [ Parent ]

          •  I've often thought about it (none / 0)

            But I was too fscked up as a young man, and there's too much dirt out there that could be dug up. (no jail time, though, that's a plus!) :D

            I've been called "overly moral" (in a non-religious sense) in my later years, and would probably get run out of office because I wouldn't "play ball."

            Doesn't mean I can't do footwork for the right person, when that person comes along!

            FREEDOM AND JUSTICE FOR ALL!* some restrictions apply. See Patriot Act for details.

            by Rat on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:21:09 PM PDT

            [ Parent ]

            •  Yeah, but (4.00 / 2)

              You could run for dogcatcher, you know.

              Or try a county commissioner position.

              It's not just the big and showy offices that need progressives in them.  And the background you have is shared by a lot of normal, every day Americans; they still need representatives who'll advocate for them.

              In my case, it's about my kids; they need a parent available full-time when the other parent is an executive who travels a lot.  But when the kids are older, look out...I'll be running for dogcatcher, too!

              by Rayne on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:32:17 PM PDT

              [ Parent ]

              •  Absolutely! (none / 0)

                The most important page we could ever lift from the Repug playbook is that you have to build from the bottom up.

                We need to spend less time obsessing over who'll be the Democratic Presidential nominee in 2008, and more time running for dogcatcher, town council, school board and every other local office you can think of. Winning these kind of offices gives us more control over the way we live in our communities,  an experienced bench of potential candidates for higher office, and the political apparatus for highly effective GOTV.

                The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.

                by sidnora on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 08:03:56 AM PDT

                [ Parent ]

            •  Run On The "I Did It" Platform (none / 1)

              George Clooney was talking about it in a recent interview. Did you do this drug? "Yes I Did." Did you sleep with this girl? "Yes I Did."

              Well in any case as far as actors go, my plan is to get bad politicians out of politics and into acting, rather than the other way around.

              by NewDirection on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:55:12 PM PDT

              [ Parent ]

            •  I agree with NewDirection (none / 1)

              You are just one of many who have done "things" that some would see as ammunition to sling dirt.  But, I admire someone who is willing to put himself/herself out for public work, knowing they have "a past" that others will "use" and be able to say, "Yeah I did it and?  Not proud, just made mistakes and I tried to learn from them."

              It's the "get the log out of your eye before you try to remove the mote in mine."  Besides, in my opinion, a lot of those who have "no past" have just succeeded in keeping it pretty well covered, which means they have started off on the wrong foot by "practicing to deceive".  Lying is addictive anyway.  

              I would never run for office because I can't stand the pressure - PTSD from long-term abuse.  Plus, I have the very nasty unfortunate habit of wanting approval.  I don't cave; I just get hurt and then I get angry and then it's not a pretty sight!  

              I own and race thoroughbred horses.  The winners are those that "run through the pain", have a strong immune system, can handle the stress of training and change and pain, love competition itself and have a huge desire to get their noses out in front!  Some, if not all, winners have "that look" in their eye .... seem to be looking into the future to that winner's circle.   Some would say they have "a vision."

              Having the bloodlines and the conformation are important, but there are many very well-bred beautiful horses that can't outrun a fat woman because they lack the things mentioned above.  They are not that different than people!  A winner is a winner!  

              by Southern Mouth on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 05:31:26 PM PDT

              [ Parent ]

              •  Running in large cities (none / 0)

                I've considered running but I live in San Francisco, and it seems like it would be slim pickings for seats, with many great candidates who have a whole lot more $$, and I wouldn't have a shot. And I've got a few embarrassing things in my past, and I'm afraid people would just say, "She's gotta be kidding!"

                Otherwise, I'd do it - for any position, including assistant to the assistant to the assistant dogcatcher! :P

                by grayscale on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 10:34:05 PM PDT

                [ Parent ]

            •  You could be Mayor (none / 0)

              The prophet is a fool, the spiritual man is mad; For the multitude of thy iniquity, and the great hatred...

              by Tirge Caps on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 05:34:52 PM PDT

              [ Parent ]

          •  We the People (none / 0)

            It's time for "the people" to take the country back from career politicians.  I'm a precinct chair, & willing to work hard for other people's campaigns.  For those like me who don't want to be the candidate, work on a campaign.  They also serve who phonebank, canvass, enter data, and order the pizza!

            Good luck to you, Paul; you're an inspiration.

            In TX-32, track the voting record of Pete Sessions at SessionsWatch.

            by CoolOnion on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 05:34:18 AM PDT

            [ Parent ]

      •  yes (3.97 / 130)

        I'm in the race. My message to Sherrod Brown is: "the water's nice, come on in."

        www.HackettForOhio.com

        by Paul Hackett on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:14:04 PM PDT

        [ Parent ]

        •  Don't let them push you out. (none / 1)

          Sherrod Brown can't win that race.  It simply won't happen.  You at least have a chance.  Thank you for taking it.  

          It takes a second to wreck it. It takes time to build.

          by lando on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:16:18 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

          •  Two good candidates, in my opinion (none / 0)

            May the best man win.  I wish we had such stellar Democrats in every state!

            Old Man McCain.com - the best McCain attack blog on the web!

            by existenz on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:30:42 PM PDT

            [ Parent ]

            •  No (4.00 / 4)

              Not two good candidates, at least for Senate in Ohio.  Brown is a good guy, but he simply won't get elected in Ohio because he is too liberal and he is a career politician.  Hackett's views are more in tune with the state, and his background (Iraq war vet) offers something really compelling to voters.   If Brown is the nominee, then you can just pencil DeWine in for re-election.  If its Hackett, we have a fighting chance.  Its ridiculous that the national party people want to push Hackett out.  

              It takes a second to wreck it. It takes time to build.

              by lando on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:55:56 PM PDT

              [ Parent ]

              •  What's more (4.00 / 1)


                Its ridiculous that the national party people want to push Hackett out.  

                And it's equally ridiculous that Sherrod Brown was asked directly and specifically by PH whether or not Brown intended to run, and Brown said, "No," and then changed his mind.

                Brown should have displayed the courage of his convictions, stuck to the up or down response which he had given, and not pulled the silly stunt of rescinding his decision a few weeks later (after PH had already made campaign investments).

                I'll be contributing to, and possibly volunteering for, the Hackett campaign. I won't be doing that for Brown. Brown blew the call and should step back out of the ring.

                by marquer on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 06:43:12 PM PDT

                [ Parent ]

                •  I don't think (none / 1)

                  we should bash Congressman Brown for his supposed flip-flopping. I think we should welcome him for running and judge him fairly on what he says and believes. I believe the real target of our attention should be Senator Mike DeWine, not Sherrod Brown. We've got to focus on DeWine's record of failure - failure on jobs, failure on health care, failure on security, and failure as a senator - regardless of the Democratic nominee and stop chewing on each other. Regardless of who wins the nomination - Brown or Hackett - we must support them. Let's wait for what Brown says. Ans please stop bashing Brown and give him, at least here, the benefit of the doubt for now.

                  Too many people have died.

                  by Blue387 on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 10:55:56 PM PDT

                  [ Parent ]

                  •  I am totally for Hackett (none / 0)

                    But, may I politely suggest, drop the word "flip-flop" from your vocabulary when discussing Dems. Flip-flopping is when you change your morality to get money or votes--it's a Republican thing.

                    Brown has benn undecided, uncommitted, undetermined, on the fence, on the pot...which is not flip-flop. And you are correct that the enemy of the people is DeWine.

                    by Bill Section 147 on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 04:13:49 AM PDT

                    [ Parent ]

                •  Yeah! (none / 0)

                  And it's equally ridiculous that Sherrod Brown was asked directly and specifically by PH whether or not Brown intended to run, and Brown said, "No," and then changed his mind.

                  Yeah! That bastard flip-flopper! How dare he change his mind! Especially on something so important as deciding whether to run for office! I mean, really, re-evaluating your position based on new information about what you think would be best for you and for the state in general, that's just plain wrong!

                  "I am George W. Bush, and I Approved This Message."

                  -fred

                  by Fred Fnord on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 09:28:33 PM PDT

                  [ Parent ]

              •  Can we stop? (none / 0)

                >>>>
                ...Hackett's views are more in tune with the state, and his background (Iraq war vet) offers something really compelling to voters....
                >>>>

                Can we stop with the 'war vet' stuff?  Hell, John Kerry was a 'war vet', and he proved himself to be a jerk.  For that matter, Richard Nixon was a 'war vet'.

                Let's expect more from a candidate than that he or she once wore a uniform.  Some of America's greatest heroes REFUSED to wear a uniform.

                We should be asking what a candidate's experience (whether in the military or some other endeavor) has taught him or her about life.  Heck, I spent time in the military (on the ground in Vietnam) and I learned a lot from the experience; but I suspect that what I learned from my uniquely personal experience in the Army might be considerably different from what Mr. Hackett learned from his...and I'm sure we've both learned a lot from experiences other than military service.

                What scares me about the current rush (among many Democrats) to prove they're 'not wimps' by rallying around anybody who shows up wearing a uniform, is that it seems to have blinded them to what counts most--what qualifies that person to hold office, to represent, and advocate for, the values that we believe in.

                So, can we look beyond the uniforms?  Can we judge candidates on the basis of more than one criterion?  There is more to ANY candidate (or any individual for that matter) than just one facet of his experience. I would hope that Mr. Hackett recognizes that fact as well as anybody.

                "You go to war and you could lose your heart, your mind, your arms, your legs - but you cannot win. The soldiers don't win." -- Anonymous Soldier

                by aybayb on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 12:21:30 AM PDT

                [ Parent ]

                •  That is what I like about Hackett (none / 0)

                  He ran as a Democrat. He was running because he felt  Ohio needed better representation. Read the info on his web site. It is obvious you haven't done any research on Hackett.

                  If you go back and look at the campaign you will see that people and the media fixated on his status as a Vet. He also had more colorful quotes regards being a Vet and his position that the Bush Administration was failing the troops and botching the mission.

                  Was he supposed to deny it?

                  He wasn't walking around thumping his chest and calling himself hero.

                  And what is the problem with being a Vet or finding someone's service to their country to be a noble thing and an important thing when we are a country at war. I happen to think that the War in Iraq is a very important issue. I happen to think that someone who can speak truth to power is awesome.

                  If I thought Union-Busting was an important issue would I be wrong to like a candidate who had been in a Union?

                  by Bill Section 147 on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 04:30:49 AM PDT

                  [ Parent ]

                  •  Huh? (none / 0)

                    >>>>
                     Read the info on his web site. It is obvious you haven't done any research on Hackett.
                    >>>>

                    If you can get any info off the website you linked to, you are a lot smarter than I am.  I went there last night before I posted and couldn't get it to work.  I just (at your suggestion) tried it again, thinking I had missed something.  Still nada!

                    From what info I've been able to pick up elsewhere, I find nothing that impresses me.  He still talks up the war (winning it) and has nothing to say about its illegality (that I've been able to find). What little I can glean about his views on healthcare lead me to believe he's just another one of these candidates who wants to make it 'more accessible' (which, to me, is code for keeping it largely in the hands of profit-making insurance companies).  That's not good enough for me.  His views on same-gender marriage don't strike me as particularly bold or straightforward.

                    As for the rest of your post, it seems you have set up a straw man to argue against.  I suggest you go back and read my original post, wherein I paid (I think) proper respect for Mr. Hackett's military experience.  My point was, as I said, wearing a uniform does not in itself qualify someone to be President, or anything else.  We have to look inside the person wearing the uniform; because, frankly, many jerks have also worn the uniform.  Pardon me for not being bowled over by the sight of a uniform.

                    Now do you get it?

                    "You go to war and you could lose your heart, your mind, your arms, your legs - but you cannot win. The soldiers don't win." -- Anonymous Soldier

                    by aybayb on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 06:46:32 PM PDT

                    [ Parent ]

                    •  Ooopsie (none / 0)

                      I missed that they were re-building the web site and so the information about his stance on the issues wasn't available anymore. Anyway, its not like you really cared. So, you scored a big point there. 1-0

                      After reading that you weren't impressed I thought, "Gee this person is correct. Paul Hackett does not impress them." I can't argue that. So that's two for you and still zero for me.

                      I love your straw man argument. That is awesome. I'll have to remember that one. Perhaps I will be able to set up a straw man argument that someone has a straw man argument. But then I am not really trying to make sense so you can reply and illuminate me--or not. 3-0.

                      I am glad you respect Hackett's service. So we can agree on something. I'll admit I admire Sherrod Brown. Wow. We both scored points. 4-1.

                      Please be sure to post your Diary about your candidate.

                      by Bill Section 147 on Mon Oct 17, 2005 at 02:20:55 AM PDT

                      [ Parent ]

                      •  Good way to win votes (none / 0)

                        >>>
                        Please be sure to post your Diary about your candidate.
                        >>>>

                        I have no candidate....only positions on issues.  I work for those issues, and vote only for whatever candidate comes closest to representing the positions I advocate.  I thought that was the way it was supposed to work...

                        BTW...was that an apology you were offering for sending me on a wild goose chase?  Pretty lame!  With that attitude 'Your' candidate sure has his work cut out for him.  

                        "You go to war and you could lose your heart, your mind, your arms, your legs - but you cannot win. The soldiers don't win." -- Anonymous Soldier

                        by aybayb on Mon Oct 17, 2005 at 11:39:51 PM PDT

                        [ Parent ]

                        •  I am sure you spent a minute or two (none / 0)

                          So yes I am sorry to have posted a bad link. I might have been a bit snarky, but you make it sound like you spent all night. Either you don't write very clearly or you overstate the effort.

                          And there is no inherit superiority of issues over candidates. Unless you are running yourself or only have a very narrow set of issues, it is always a compromise. It was all well and good to vote for Nader because one agreed with all of his positions on the issues in 2000 but it wasn't the best plan for turning those issues into action.

                          So I usually find candidates who promote the issues I care about in a broad sense and don't fixate on issues directly. But I do accept intangibles and my instincts when backing that candidate. If I don't trust a candidate they may have some very good speeches and give lip service to issues I care about. But I am not going to fund raise for them. It is obvious we approach politics differently.

                          BTW: I could also just as easily say that with your attitude your issues aren't going any farther than my candidate.

                          by Bill Section 147 on Tue Oct 18, 2005 at 04:49:31 AM PDT

                          [ Parent ]

              •  Circular Firing Squad (none / 0)

                Way to push those RNC talking points! Boy your political instincts are stellar! Hey let's just bash one of the strongest progressives in congress and say there's NOOOOOO way he could ever get elected in Ohio (even though he's been elected statewide before). There's absolutely no chance that he could ever actually win a primary given Cleveland's democratic population advantage is there?

                Are you sure you don't work for the DLC?

                Unionize Wal-Mart.

                by weatherunderground on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 05:19:32 AM PDT

                [ Parent ]

                •  Wrong (none / 0)

                  Brown was Secretary of State when Ohio had two Democratic Senators and was a Democratic state.   Ohio today is nothing like that.   Also, no one gives a shit about Secretary of State.   The money that goes into that kind of race is about 1/100th of what goes into a Senate race.  

                  There is a good chance that Brown could win the primary, and that's the problem.  He won't beat DeWine.  Not in Ohio.   Not as "one of the strongest progressives in congress."  That's a big negative in Ohio.  If Hackett gets through the primary, he will have a shot.

                  No matter how you slice it, Brown's "flip-flop" was a shitty thing to do.  Hackett's decision to run was based in part on Brown's earlier representations.  Putting aside the political aspects, on a personal level that's just a total dick move by Brown.

                  Are you sure you don't work for Mike DeWine?   I bet no one in Ohio was more excited to hear that Brown was running.

                  It takes a second to wreck it. It takes time to build.

                  by lando on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 07:20:18 AM PDT

                  [ Parent ]

                  •  Thanks Mr. DLC (none / 0)

                    A few things:

                    I am glad you believe progressives cannot get elected.

                    If you think the GOP is not afraid of Brown, then why did they improve his dsitrcit to keep him from running for gov? They know Brown can win.

                    I am glad to see your intellegent, dispassionate analysis "dick move" "shitty thing to do," it lends you credibility.

                    The reason the Dems did better back then was not that people changed. it was that the Dems had better candidates, and better orgnaization. Brown is a great candidate, and he has great organization.

                    by jschiffer3 on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 07:24:16 PM PDT

                    [ Parent ]

                    •  Thanks Mr. Re-elect Mike DeWine (none / 0)

                      Paul Hackett asks Sherrod Brown whether he is going to run, because whether or not Brown runs will affect Hackett's decision.  Brown tells him no, and Hackett subsequently decides to run and starts putting money into the campaign.  Brown then changes his mind.   In my book, that was a "dick move" and "a shitty thing to do."  Hackett relied on Brown's representation, which turned out to be false.  I don't know how much more analysis you need.  I think a 10 year old could recognize why what Brown did sucks.  

                      I think that progressives can get elected, but they cannot get elected to the Senate from Ohio in 2006.   Go ahead, vote for Brown, but don't be surprised when he gets his ass kicked by DeWine.

                      Is Paul Hackett the DLC candidate now?  That's rich.  A few months ago he was the hero of the blogosphere.  

                      It takes a second to wreck it. It takes time to build.

                      by lando on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 08:16:41 PM PDT

                      [ Parent ]

                      •  Blog hero or not (none / 0)

                        The DLC's purpose was to push the myth that more conservative Dem's are more ejectable. This is what I see being pushed now by people on this progressive blog. "Brown is too liberal, Hackett is ejectable." It sounds pretty DLC to me. I have no idea where the DLC is on this race. I am saying that the "Brown is too liberal" sentiment is DLC.

                        The whole purpose of the progressive resurgence was to say that  economic populism could trump the so called "gun's God and gays." I have said at many points here, brown has done this in what is socially conservative district, and was more socially conservative before 2002. A lot of people want to say that Lorain County and the rest of Brown's district are The Upper West Side of Manhattan or some  equivalent section of San Francisco. They are not. Brown has won over the kind of swing voters we need time and time again. So the Brown is not ejectable argument does not wash.

                        I think it is rich that many "progressive blogers" are pushing this DLC type line. I think they are doing it partially out of SERIOUSLY OVERESTIMATING the importance of the fact that Brown changed his mind, but mostly because people loved Hackett, since the special election, perhaps for good reason. But this is no reason to attack Brown. And it is no reason to parrot lines like `this bleeding heart liberal could not get elected." I have seen this on this blog. We should not be parroting the lines of right wing Dems or the GOP.

                        I will vote for Brown, I will volunteer for Brown, I will donate to Brown. I am confident he will be the sworn in to the Senate in January 2007

                        by jschiffer3 on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 08:48:20 PM PDT

                        [ Parent ]

        •  Phew! (4.00 / 2)

          My stomach kinda skipped while I was reading your diary cause I thought it was your way of bowing out. Glad to here you're in for the fight. It's the best news I've heard all week.

          by JaneKnowles on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:22:33 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  Thank you , Major Hackett (4.00 / 6)

          You are truly an example of what is right with America.  You have served our country well as marine and hopefully you will serve our country well as a senator.  

          I really think that you will be one of the most credible and respected voices on the Iraq War in the U.S. Senate.  I greatly fear the type of foreign policy that President Bush and his administration have carried out.  Very few of his people, who casually advocate preemptive war and torture, have ever actually served in the armed forces.  This is why we need you to run for the Senate.  

          Again, Thank you.  

          Build the Wilshire Subway!

          by SoCalLiberal on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:24:32 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  Awesome! (4.00 / 11)

          Kick ass!

          I'm of the opinion that contested primaries are good for the party (as long as they don't get too nasty).  Here's hoping you and Sherrod Brown have a vigorous contest which excites Ohioans about what you both have to offer, and then that the winner KICKS DEWINE'S ASS in November 2006!!!

          Netroots Nation: Changing the face of progressive politics.

          by pontificator on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:25:06 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

          •  But it's gotta stay clean (none / 0)

            Fight the good fight -- point out your own strengths and not your opponent's weaknesses. Keep it clean and out of the mud, and it will help immensely for whomever wins the primary. Also, pledge to support the winner if you end up being the loser, and put any campaign money you have left over into the primary winner's campaign.

            Let's show them how to play nice, and win Ohio fair and square.

            NFTT Progressively supporting the troops

            by Timroff on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 09:15:28 PM PDT

            [ Parent ]

        •  You Got My Support (none / 0)

          Both in the primary and in the general election.  Let's try to keep the race between you and Congressman Brown from becoming a war of mutual destruction.  Focus your fire on the Republicans; it's your strength.

          This aggression will not stand, man.

          by kaleidescope on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:27:38 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  Great News. (4.00 / 3)

          One of the important things about the last campaign was that you showed how a Democrat can stand up to right wing lies and sleaze and the public will respect him for it.  So many in the party have bent over backwards trying not to offend anybody.  Problem is they turn themselves into oatmeal doing that, and nobody votes for oatmeal.

          Keep it up, not just so you win in '06 but to show the rest of the party how it's done.

          Editor of the Harvard Law Review and top 7% of his class vs. Mr. 894 out of 899. How has having a stupid President worked out the last eight years?

          by Tod on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:33:55 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  yeah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (none / 1)

          by stodghie on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:03:09 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  paul, anything you need, just ask (4.00 / 4)

          I've done my share of researching Ohio, voting procedures, traps, etc.

          Also, I can do some pretty good rapid response.  It would be an honor to help you out on your campaign.

          If you want, email me at g10liberal at yahoo dot com.

          And good luck!

          I only read the Constitution for the Articles.

          by georgia10 on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:07:26 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  This is the best news (none / 1)

          I've read in a while. Your experience and straightforward approach will appeal to all voters and provide Democrats with a reinvigorated message. Thank you very much for running!

          by gsp on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:11:15 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  Awesome! (none / 0)

          I'm willing to fly out from California to help any way I can.  And thanks for the postcard.

          Visit RemoveRepublicans.com and follow every 2006 Senate race.

          by AnthonySF on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:11:20 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  WHOO HOOO !! (none / 0)

          That's. Just. GREAT!

          -7.88/ -7.44

          by Jules Beaujolais on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:23:14 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  HELL YEAH! (none / 0)

          That's all I had to say.

          This space for rent.

          by Danno11 on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:28:13 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  I am SOOO glad you are running... (none / 0)

          ...you have my total support!

          Republican't Leadership is a dangerous combination of cut-backs and incompetence.

          by casamurphy on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:33:29 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  WooWeeee! good news! (none / 0)

          Dems will not hold impeachment hearings while Bill is campaigning with Hillary.

          by annefrank on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:45:23 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  Yeeee-HAH! (none / 0)

          I'm thrilled you're standing up to the Powers That Be!  Don't stop till you see the whites of their eyes... and let THEM back down.

          Awesome!

          John McCain: on fire, reversed, stopped.

          The Music Room.

          by madhaus on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 05:05:04 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  Woo Hoo...... (none / 0)

              Good on ya.  I wish I lived in Ohio so I could vote for you.

          by CoConut on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 05:08:11 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  Sherrod who? (none / 0)

          ;)

          that out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope. - Barack Obama

          by acuppajo on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 05:12:20 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  Thank you SIR! (none / 0)

          You are on my short list of heros! The country has never needed people like you more than now.

          I am pro-life. Bring our troops home ALIVE!

          by Doc Allen on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 05:25:04 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  All right! (4.00 / 2)

          I've been hoping to hear this from you. I was out pounding the pavement for your campaign in Portsmouth and Rosemount; job and life circumstances permitting, I will do so again.

          Right after the primary last summer we were expecting to get clobbered again in this conservative district. By the time I reported back to the Plumber's and Pipefitter's union hall after one last knock-and-drag in my home precinct, we knew we had a chance. Given that the rest of the state is less red than OH2, you can win it. Mr. Brown would better serve the state by continuing to represent his district.

          Another OWW4O (thanks, Cyber Kat!)

          by Ahianne on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 05:29:14 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  Excellent! (none / 0)

          Got my support, and I even live in Ohio. Go get em'

          by tjqhzonff on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 07:17:09 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  Mr. Hackett, you have 2 votes (none / 1)

          from this Worthington household.

          Sherrod Brown is a great guy but he doesn't generate the "buzz" that you do.  I was envious of the voters down in southern Ohio this summer - I wanted a chance to vote for you!!  And now I have it.

          Ohioans - of all political persuasions - are starving for a candidate they can rally around and get "jazzed" about.

          Guess what?  You're it.

          Thanks for stepping up and going for it!

          Support The Troops, Demand The Truth

          by MamaBear on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 09:06:13 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  You're Running? (none / 0)

          Oh, there is a God!!!!!!!  I'm soooooo happy.  When I first saw you, I swear my first thought was "Oh my God, this guy is another JFK."  I haven't felt this much hope since Clinton was elected.  It's guys like you that are going to save this country.  I LOVE JARHEADS.

          Female bodybuilders; high performance, not high maintenance.

          by Strawberrybitch on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 12:39:41 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

      •  Hackett Action Alert (none / 0)

        Californians for Hackett Diary is up.

        by Bill Section 147 on Mon Oct 17, 2005 at 12:41:11 PM PDT

        [ Parent ]

    •  Sorry for the question mark (none / 1)

      That was a mistake.  Thanks for posting on Daily Kos!

      Build the Wilshire Subway!

      by SoCalLiberal on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:13:33 PM PDT

      [ Parent ]

    •  Any response (4.00 / 2)

      to Sherrod Brown's newly-confessed run?

      'Everybody's born-again these days; if you're not born-again you're dead, you're out of touch, yours is a minority view, you lose.' Barthelme 'Nat.Sel.'

      by jorndorff on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:13:55 PM PDT

      [ Parent ]

      •  quit sticking your toe in (4.00 / 38)

        jump in or get out

        www.HackettForOhio.com

        by Paul Hackett on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:14:58 PM PDT

        [ Parent ]

        •  amen sir (4.00 / 11)

          Brown needs to BLEEP or get off the BLEEP, if ya know what I mean.

          Mr. Hackett, you're a bright light in dark days. It's great to know that you're running for Senate.  I'm in Minnesota, but your campagin will definitely be getting a big check from my family.

          I know many people here will be telling you versions of this, but here's my two cents:

          Thanks for coming out swinging, and taking no crap from the rightwing noise machine.  Many of us are beyond fed up with the reluctance of our Democratic officeholders and candidates to take the fight to the Republicans, and be a REAL opposition party.  

          No-bullshit, plain-speaking, FIGHTING candidates like yourself give us great hope.  Please keep punching back -- you're tougher than any of 'em, and that's why they fear you.  

          Good luck, sir.  We're with you.

          JOHN McCAIN = George W. Bush's 3rd term.

          by chumley on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:41:34 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

        •  You opened the door... (none / 0)

          it would be nice for you to walk through!

          Will the elite be happy living behind gated communities in the potential meltdown? Peace now. -7.00, -2.92

          by mattes on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:37:32 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

    •  No questions-- you go, boy! (none / 0)

      Run again, please. Thanks.

      -9.0, -8.3. History is more or less bunk.--Henry Ford
      Henry Ford is more or less bunk.--history

      by SensibleShoes on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:13:56 PM PDT

      [ Parent ]

    •  Are you staying in the Senate race? (none / 0)

      A lot of us a rooting for you in the Ohio Senate race, Paul.  Are you staying in the race?  You can count on a lot of support here and elsewhere online.

      Swing State Project: A sexy, sassy look at the 2008 elections. Get a four-digit UID while you still can!

      by HellofaSandwich on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:14:16 PM PDT

      [ Parent ]

    •  Next race? (none / 0)

      Will you go for the senate seat or wait for the next  house seat in '06?

      And your welcome, I was very happy to be able to support your campaign and will do so again. 8-)

      "You must be the change you wish to see in the world" Mohandas Gandhi

      by baracon on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:15:27 PM PDT

      [ Parent ]

    •  Alright, another question... (4.00 / 2)

      What kind of campaign will you focus on?  Are you going to play up economic issues, corruption issues, cultural/military issues?

      Are you going to emphasize social and economic justice?
      Good governance?
      An exit strategy from Iraq?

      Some people need to hear more on actual policy than merely the Hackett charisma (which we all know and love).

      Give 'em hell. :)

      Swing State Project: A sexy, sassy look at the 2008 elections. Get a four-digit UID while you still can!

      by HellofaSandwich on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:17:07 PM PDT

      [ Parent ]

      •  all of the issues are critically important (4.00 / 13)

        But one of the problems with the Democratic Party is we spend too much time talking about the ingredients on the box. The nature of campaigning and media makes it extremely difficult to articulate with any depth the substance behind the issues.

        Yet our website will allow us to provide a real detailed look at the issues.

        www.HackettForOhio.com

        by Paul Hackett on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:22:31 PM PDT

        [ Parent ]

        •  But... (none / 0)

          People always say that they "don't know what we stand for".  How do you counter that by not emphasizing the ingredients on the box?

          Also, another question: who and what will you fight for as a U.S. Senator?  The obvious answer is Ohioans and Americans, of course, but how about some specific changes that you'd like to see this country take?

          Swing State Project: A sexy, sassy look at the 2008 elections. Get a four-digit UID while you still can!

          by HellofaSandwich on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:24:50 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

          •  I say... (4.00 / 7)

            We counter with broad themes, not specifics. We are not "for affirmative action", we are for "equality in society", we are not "for abortion", we are "for individual liberties", we are not "for taking God out of the classroom", we are for "tolerance of all viewpoints"...I think most of these themes we could agree with...and every time they attack us, we ask, "are you against equality, individual liberties, and tolerance?"

            TexasDemocrat
            Giggity giggity giggity...Iraq's a Quagmire

            by TexasDemocrat on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:34:55 PM PDT

            [ Parent ]

            •  Exactly right (none / 1)

              I was listening to Ed Schultz yesterday and he nailed this better than anyone I have heard so far.  In response to a caller bemoaning the Dem lack of a message other than being against Bush, He said that  the  Democratic party is the party of equal rights, civil rights, human rights, social security and public education.

              Equal rights, Civil Rights, Human Rights, Social Security and Public Education.

              rinse, repeat

              by surfk9 on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 06:16:31 PM PDT

              [ Parent ]

            •  Spot On! (none / 0)

              Brilliant analysis, Texas Dem. This is ABSOLUTLEY how we need to start to re-frame the issues and avoid playing into the hands of the enemy!

              "More than an end to war, we want an end to the beginning of all wars --." -- Franklin D. Roosevelt.

              by lisaderitis on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 06:30:56 PM PDT

              [ Parent ]

            •  Be serious... (none / 0)

              >>>
              ...and every time they attack us, we ask, "are you against equality, individual liberties, and tolerance?"
              >>>>

              ...and what would you expect 'them' to answer?  EVERYBODY (even right-wing Republicans) claim to be for equality, individual liberties, and tolerance; and I have to believe that ALL of them really mean it when they make such claims.  The devil is in the details...but so is the understanding.  

              It's necessary to define terms.  When someone says he's for 'equality', what does he mean by that?  Does he mean (as I would hope) that 'equality' means gay/Lesbian people should be guaranteed equal rights to marriage?  

              When someone claims to be in favor of 'individual liberties', does that mean (as I would hope) that everyone should be free to practice--or NOT practice--religion without the government's presuming that we ALL share the SAME religion (usually assumed to be some form of monotheism)?

              If someone favors 'tolerance', does that mean he will tolerate behavior that he considers to be immoral?  Is homosexuality immoral?  Is abortion immoral?  Is cutting taxes for the rich immoral?  Is pre-emptively attacking a sovereign nation immoral?  

              No candidate can be successful by speaking in such wide generalities that no one can be sure of how he stands on particular issues.  Nor SHOULD any candidate succeed by being deliberately vague and, consequently, misleading.  The wiseguys among the Democratic Party leadership have tried that strategy over and over; and (not surprisingly) it hasn't worked.

              John Kerry, in the most recent campaign, tried to win votes by being vague and attempting to have it both ways on every damned issue.  He believed, he said, in 'equal rights for gays/Lesbians'; but supported a move in Massachusetts to pass a constitutional amendment that would have consigned their relationships to 'back of the bus' status.  At the same time, he opposed an Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that would have defined marriage as an option open only to heterosexuals...he opposed it (he said), because it 'wasn't needed'.  The guy showed that he never met a principle that he couldn't run away from...whether it was on the war in Iraq or on his support for the Patriot Act.

              Is it any wonder that the Democratic Party has become notorious for running away from issues...for waffling, flip-flopping?  A party that allows--and even ENCOURAGES--candidates to obfuscate their positions in order not to offend some potential voter ends up alienating ANY voter who wants straight answers.  Hence the Democrats' abysmal showing for the past 25 years (except for the flukish two Clinton terms where Willy was slick enough to pull it off by 'walking' like a Republican while 'talking' like a Democrat...but somebody as slick as Willy comes along only once in a blue moon...thanks be to the gods!)

              Anyway, let's forget all of this 'framing' bullshit and all the marketing schemes that go with it.  Marketing only works if you have something to sell; and it's gotta be 'steak' rather than 'sizzle'.

              "You go to war and you could lose your heart, your mind, your arms, your legs - but you cannot win. The soldiers don't win." -- Anonymous Soldier

              by aybayb on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 01:15:53 AM PDT

              [ Parent ]

          •  This "message thing" is important (none / 0)

            I am rooting for you, and one thing I'd like to see you address, and would expect to be important in both primaries against Sherrod Brown and in the general against DeWine is:

            Can you go into more of a "jobs plan" for the state?  I know that it's been a consistent big issue in the last few elections, and Brown has talked a lot about protecting unions and blue-collar jobs.  Just as importantly, what is your plan to save white-collar jobs in Ohio, so that college graduates don't leave the state in the ever-too-well-documented "brain drain?"  I have spent many months looking for work as a chemical engineer, both in and out of the state...

            Ahmadinejad is a conservative

            by BlueEngineerInOhio on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:15:08 PM PDT

            [ Parent ]

            •  My Ohio more Jobs Plan (none / 1)

              elect more Democrats. Dan Dodd would be a great start.

              Buckeye State Blog

              by Pounder on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:19:49 PM PDT

              [ Parent ]

            •  I feel for you, man. (none / 1)

              I left in 1990 and pretty much never looked back.

              You're absolutely correct.  Our manufacturing industries died with nothing to replace them.  Funding for higher education (which spawns the sort of research companies that hire chem E's) dried up along with the decreased tax revenue.

              Republicans never fought for the workers.  They always supported the companies.

              So what did we get for all that?

              Companies that pay slave wages overseas, no taxes at home, high unemployment and a shaky, fragile middle class to foot the bill.

              I love my home state.  There are many times that I wish I could return.  Whoever runs against DeWine needs to ask some simple questions of Ohioans.  Are you better off now than you were twelve years ago, before these guys took over?
               - are your communities safer?
               - is your job better?
               - are the schools better?
               - is your future brighter?

              And how many of your high school classmates have to come in from out of state to attend the reunion?

              Ohioans deserve so much better.

              by suzq on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 06:04:09 PM PDT

              [ Parent ]

              •  Leaving Ohio (none / 0)

                AlL I can say is I'm leaving Ohio too if Kenneth "Katherine Harris" Blackwell gets elected governor next year. I sure hope that doesn't happen because I plan to be out there working my butt off for Senator Paul Hackett, just as soon as we get Reform Ohio Now passed on November 8!

                by AnastasiaP on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 06:38:51 PM PDT

                [ Parent ]

                •  Right on! (none / 0)

                  Right on Anastasia...my priorities exactly.  Congrats Paul on the decision and best of luck wiht the campaign.  I came down to Portsmouth from Delaware and will help you this time around too!

                  "You better get politics or politics will get you!" - My grandmother

                  by ves man on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 08:21:14 PM PDT

                  [ Parent ]

          •  what we stand for?? (4.00 / 2)

            how about

            Truth

            Justice

            and the American Way!

            Truth: no more lies. no more spin machines. no more BS talking points. no more switch and bait. no more smoke and mirrors. Nothing but the facts and a candidate that insists that the media report them Accurately.

            Justice: no more million dollar bonus's for CEO's who bankrupt their own companies rather than pay their eployees their fair wage. . no more tax cuts for the rich when they wouldn't be rich if it weren't for the laborers. no more starving the beast because the people are NOT BEASTS, we are America. No more 'everyman for himself' idealogy because we are all in this together -- if my neighbor drowns, so do I. No more nation building when our own nation is falling apart at the seams. No more arrogance. No more incompetence. Arrogant incompetence puts the American people in danger, as well as the rest of the globe.

            American way: When we take care of the least of us, we all win. When we invest in our health and in our children and in our infrastructure we all reap rewards and make our country strong and worthy. A decent living and hope frees the mind to aspire great things and fulfill dreams. A worried people clinging to what little they have are disabled from producing the kinds of ideas that will make this country a better place for our children.  When we level the playing field, the American dream is available to all.

            If a candidate said these things, they would get my attention.

            NOT THIS TIME!

            by donailin on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 08:12:11 PM PDT

            [ Parent ]

            •  Right on, Donailin! (none / 0)

              >>>>
              If a candidate said these things, they would get my attention.
              >>>

              ...and if they MEANT them, they'd get my vote!  Excellent post, Donailin...it could serve as a foundation for a GENUINELY progressive platform.

              It remains to be seen whether any Democratic candidate might be willing to advocate for those things.  Frankly, it sounds very much to me like a GREEN PARTY platform...and one that ITS candidates aren't afraid to run on.

              "You go to war and you could lose your heart, your mind, your arms, your legs - but you cannot win. The soldiers don't win." -- Anonymous Soldier

              by aybayb on Sat Oct 15, 2005 at 01:28:02 AM PDT

              [ Parent ]

    •  I guess I will join (none / 0)

      the chorus asking, what's up with the Senate race?? If you dont run for Senate, I do hope you run for something, cuz you would make such a great public official, it would be a shame if you werent involved at some level.

      by jj32 on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:17:40 PM PDT

      [ Parent ]

    •  You can beat Dewine. (none / 0)

      Do you think Congressman Brown could?

      by Matthew Gertz on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:20:29 PM PDT

      [ Parent ]

      •  Personally.... (none / 1)

        ...I think Brown could have a tougher time. I don't think there are any foregone conclusions here, but I think Brown, while his positions on trade and the economy would be beneficial to all those rural southern Ohio voters, might not be able to articulate them in a way that will resonate. He's a very urban/Northeast Ohio intellectual type. If DeWine can separate himself effectively from the culture of corruption that pervades the Ohio Republican party, he might be able to hang on. I think if Hackett runs against him, he could be dead meat. Hackett can talk to those swing voters and disgruntled Republicans and those "just don't take my hunting guns" farm types in a way Brown never could. And the urban Democrats just aren't voting for DeWine anyway.

        Also, Iraq is a huge issue and is only going to get bigger. Hackett has shown a willingness to confront it head-on. I can't find any evidence Brown has confronted it at all. I'm sure he's voted right on things like benefits for soldiers and their families and for veterans, because only Republicans for the most part find giving our soldiers and ex-soldiers what they have coming a problem. But he doesn't seem to have dealt with the issue of why are we in Iraq?

        Anyway, I'll be out working Cuyahoga County for Hackett!

        by AnastasiaP on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 06:47:33 PM PDT

        [ Parent ]

        •  Will anyone (none / 0)

          be running against Congresswoman Jean Schmidt in 2006?

          Frankly, I'd run for office in New York's 8th congressional district but I'm too young and there are barriers to public service like the Brooklyn Democratic machine who rewards loyalty with power; they won't like outsiders like me. I believe this system turns away too many bright and capable people such as Paul Hackett from public service. I believe money is too deeply entrenched in modern politics which is why we Democrats all must support some form of campaign finance reform.

          Also, Major Hackett, have you read this article from the National Interest named The Democrat Armed? I was wondering what you thought. Thank you.

          Too many people have died.

          by Blue387 on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 11:14:29 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

    •  Back to Iraq? (none / 0)

      Back to more immediate concerns, you'd said earlier that you were thinking of returning to Iraq in the near future? Is that off the table now?

      Also, what was the deciding factor in throwing your name into the race?

      'Everybody's born-again these days; if you're not born-again you're dead, you're out of touch, yours is a minority view, you lose.' Barthelme 'Nat.Sel.'

      by jorndorff on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:20:54 PM PDT

      [ Parent ]

      •  yes (4.00 / 13)

        I want to be the one who derails the DeWine Disaster.

        www.HackettForOhio.com

        by Paul Hackett on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:23:20 PM PDT

        [ Parent ]

        •  So (3.07 / 13)

          yes, you are headed back to Iraq?

          'Everybody's born-again these days; if you're not born-again you're dead, you're out of touch, yours is a minority view, you lose.' Barthelme 'Nat.Sel.'

          by jorndorff on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 03:26:05 PM PDT

          [ Parent ]

          •  Can you read or are you trying to discourage him? (2.33 / 3)

            He said he's running. Good for him!

            The hottest places in hell are reserved for those who, in times of crisis, remain neutral.

            by ten10 on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:07:46 PM PDT

            [ Parent ]

            •  It's a simple question (4.00 / 2)

              That was all. I'm not discouraging him to run. I'm for what Hackett would bring to the Senate.

              But, go ahead and troll-rate me, zealotous Hackett-heads! I'm obviously just a shill for the evile Sherrod Brown, looking to sabotage Hackett's chances.

              I asked for clarification because there's still a year before the election. He could be for three months and be back in plenty of time.

              'Everybody's born-again these days; if you're not born-again you're dead, you're out of touch, yours is a minority view, you lose.' Barthelme 'Nat.Sel.'

              by jorndorff on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 04:56:47 PM PDT

              [ Parent ]

              •  Gotcher back (none / 0)

                i had a feeling that they had misunderstood. here's a 4 to balance you out.

                Today's Special: Chickenhawk, slow-baked in its mother's basement.

                by Earl on Fri Oct 14, 2005 at 05:10:10 PM PDT

                [ Parent ]

              •  at the risk of speaking for Major Hackett... (none / 1)

                ...I think his "Yes" was "Yes, it's off the table."

                Is it the winter of our discontent or just an early frost? - Kevin Gilbert

                by spuds on <