After carefully looking at Dantona, Jackson and Strickland I will be voting for Jim Dantona. Strickland appears incredibly unethical and Jackson seems like just another career politician. I look forward to having Dantona represent me in Sacramento.

I'll take Strickland over Dantona. He will represent the interests of the district he serves far better than Dantona will.

Which one spoke out against the mess & coverup at Rocketdyne, since it has a direct affect on the interests of this district?

If my memory serves me, Stricklands have both kept mum about contamination at Rocketdyne. Dantona has made it a public issue and strongly supported clean-up to the most highest level. Then again, when has Strickland ever come out against big business and for the environment? As Mongo Flamo said, Strickland will represent the interests of the district. What he didn't say, is what district. If you have enought money to buy a politician, Strinkland is your boy.

Well...it is true that this District provides the finest personal service that money can buy.

How about the landfill expansion: which candidate has spoken out for a broad review of it's impact on the District?

Mongo,

How do you figure he will "represent the interests of the district he serves far better"?

Based on his record, Tony was never an "across the aisle" kind of guy in the state assembly. He is in the minority party. His positions within his that minority party are on the fringe. To top it off, he is no fan of his own party's governor.

Tony does not sound like the kind of candidate who could get anything done in the Senate representing this districts interests or any other!

Issues in Simi Valley, while they may affect neighboring tons, are still only Simi Valley issues.

What candidate has spoken out in regards to the LNG situation off the coasts of Oxnard and Santa Barbara...that would directly affect a huge portion, if not the entire, district?

It is indeed a big, district-wide issue but where Rocketdyne & the landfill are tangible issues that affect middle class health, land values and the local tax base the LNG issue may be seen by many of those same voters to be one of enviro-aesthetics. The former may help win crossover votes. The latter will probably have no effect.

Actually Heather, Dantona AND Jackson have spoken out against LNG. And Strickland - well we know where he stands.

I agree that Rocketdyne and landfill is important to discuss, but I have never heard anyone outside of Simi Valley say that is THEIR ISSUE, if that makes sense.

LNG is a pretty predominant issue and not just for the environmentalist or enviro-aesthetics...the Lands Commissions hearings in March brought THOUSANDS of local CITIZENS (not activists) who were concerned with their lives. Perhaps it is environmental for the Sierra Club, but the issue is framed as an issue of health and public safety.

If you think Rocketdyne is a "local" issue Heather - then you truly are out of touch and care little for important environmenmental issues as you claim. It is an issue of major importance that threatens the health thousands. A real "progressive" would certainly know that...

Have any of these candidates received contributions from Waste Management Inc? Does anyone know........

I'm not debating the numbers involved in the LNG affair(it was very strong showing) but instead trying to make a point: the LNG issue will probably NOT be an issue that will gain many conservative votes for a Dem candidate while family health risks, real estate depreciation and loss of tax revenues probably WILL resonate with many conservatives.... perhaps enough to get them to vote for a Dem who's on top of those issues.

Heather is the big expert on the issues in the district. Isn't there some big Democrat meeting this weekend that you should be at protesting to save the whales?

Wah Wah....Poor Heather, she sets herself up so well for these beat downs, doesn't she? I think she may be out there bravely fighting global warming in Ventura, like the lame Mayor, or perhaps hugging a tree, like Christy Weird.

Because of the Star's propensity for zoning their news and putting East County issues in the back of the B section and West County issues front and center, the Rocketdyne issue is pretty much off the radar in Ventura. I doubt the folks in Santa Barbara, Carpinteria, etc. and places north in CA-19 know much about it either.

For that mater, Dantona is not well known here at all. I would say he has some heavy campaigning to do in West County and S.B. County to just get name recognition. HBJ's probably counting on that.

Yep, Marie, you're so right. And Strickland is counting on those two to punch each other's lights out, which he will, of course, benefit from the ensuing blood bath.

Heather,

One question: does the callous, parochial and/or empty-headed position you stated here regarding SSFL as it impacts the lives of people living in the south end of the senatorial district represent the position of your candidate (Jackson) or is it strictly your own point of view?

If it is strictly your own view, where does Jackson stand? In fairness to Jackson, maybe you had better tell us what she did while in office to address the SSFL environmental and health disaster since the problem goes back for decades.

I think you had better clarify this. Lots of us down here in the local wasteland would like to know.

Jackson was born with a silver spoon and does not see herself as part of society outside of Montecito. She parties with the rich and has never been a candidate who has a close bond with the working stiff. This was her downfall with her Party and will be her downfall in this election. It is sad because she does work hard for her convictions. The problem has always been that her convictions are what she can see from her hilltop home down the block from Oprah. One has to wonder if the woman has ever been through Moorpark or Simi Valley? She views this end of the 19th District as 200,000 day laborers.

Heather, I agree that a rep should be able to represent an entire district. You seem mad that Dantona is strong on issues important to hundreds of thousands of people in our area. You do know the SSFL also impacts people in other districts too including into Los Angeles.

Is it an important enough issue to change the outcome an election? I am not sure but that doesn't mean we don't care about it. It might not be an exciting partisan issue but the non-sexy issues are where true leadership are shown. I look forward to LNG, SSFL, and other issues being discussed by all the candidates.

Why are you so dismissive of any and every single issue that impacts Simi valley? You did realize that Sen. Sheila Kuehl wrote the most important bill on the issue?

CAP 812, both HBJ and her husband built law practices from the ground up in Ventura and are well known for their good work with people from all socioeconomic levels.

She did all kinds of pro bono work for victims of rape and domestic abuse, established a battered women's shelter, worked with victims of gun violence ... the list goes on and on.

If you are going to banish candidates for being successful in their professional lives, then you will have mighty slim pickings to choose from.

No one should be bashing either candidate. I only made a point to argue what sort of issues might draw crossover votes, not to judge the character of either JD or HBJ, while Heather's brought up her own valid point about an issue that's very important to a lot of district voters. The primary may well be fought around issues that aren't so local while the general will be a fight for DTS & crossovers votes.

GS,

You are then of the opinion that Heather was presenting her own point of view? If so, is she raising it because her candidate holds that position, too? If not and her candidate's position is the same as Dantona's, why should she object to Dantona's position?

It matters because cleanup and management at SSFL is not now nor has it ever been a priority of our current state senator for this district and it is something the State of California should and does have a responsibility to work in. (See link.)

You and your neighbors in the Knolls and adjacent communities, know that more neglect for this issue the last thing we need in from our representatives in Sacramento.

We know where Dantona stands on the issue, can Heather or anyone else with Jackson's campaign let us hear what position Jackson holds? What she did about it while in Sacramento in the assembly?

Heather tried to divide the candidates on the LNG issue, completely unaware that Dantona and Jackson are on the same side of this issue. Dantona even brought it up during his Supervisor campaign, even though it was not a "local" issue. Heather, not Jackson, also identified SSFL as a "local Simi Valley," issue so she must be completely unaware of the true importance of this issue. Jackson, whom Dantona's statesman-like campaign complemented at his fundraiser, is not the issue. Heather's unawareness and insensitivity to the fears we "locals" have lived with for decades, is the issue that should be critiqued here. However, if this is the best Jackson has to offer to lead her campaign, then she suffers by association.

What's the deal with all the Heather bashing? You Democrats eat your own! Did I miss something? She even said, "I agree that Rocketdyne and landfill is important to discuss." Her main mistake here seems to be geografo-centrism, assuming that issues in her neck of the woods are more important. Which, by the way, appears to be mutual . . . I'm just surprised we haven't gotten to building in the Knolls yet.

Owen, how's it going? I actually met you at the VCRCC meeting in September. How's the McCain campaign coming along?

I actually think Heather has made some very good points on this blog. She doesn't seem as wedded to a lot of the traditional, liberal Democratic Party propoganda that gets bantied about so often on this blog, so she tends to get criticized a lot by members of her own party. Excuse her for having a brain of her own that forms her own opinions based on research and facts, rather than the emotional hyperbole spewed so often by some of these other folks.

Baloney Mongo! She throws out "progressive" bias on a regular basis and has no love for centrists (especially if they dare tread on HBJ's hallowed ground). If you misrepresent others' viewpoints (as many have on this blog) that makes you as easy a target as the rest of us. If she understood SSFL to begin with, she would not have labeled it a "local" issue. Her mouth - her foot... again.

I've never heard you defend Jim Dantona when his views and personal life are (mis)represented here, so why the sudden chivalry towards Schmidt? But I guess any enemy of Dantona is a friend of yours, no matter how far apart on the issues. And since Republicans believe running against HBJ is a turkey shoot for Strickland, why not support her?

This Dem shares more in common with Owen (whose support for McCain I respect) than Schmidt (whose outdated liberalism is a death knoll for Democrats).

Supporting HBJ doesn't make someone a non-liberal. In fact HBJ has stood up for many of the best things about liberalism including women's rights ( domestic abuse etc), environmentally safe schools and more.

I agree with her that LNG is a potent issue and so is the clean up of the SSFL. But LNG is easier to take a clear position on ( either for or against it) which is why more people will base their vote on it.

I have never met someone that is against cleaning the field lab. Just people with differing opinions of how bad it is, who should be in charge of cleaning it up, and what should happen to the land.

A great candidate will not shirk away from either issue.

When is the last time HBJ came to Simi Valley or when does she plan to come out here next? I plan to hear her speak and learn more about where she is coming from.

Taxin Jackson has never come to Simi Valley. She thinks of us as nothing but dirt beneath her Santa Barbara liberal feet.

It's amazing how Heather attacks Jim Dantona on only caring about Simi Valley issues. Nothing could be further, from the truth Dantona has supported clean up of the SSFL for years an issue which affects Ventura County, Los Angeles County and Thousands of people for many years to come. Heather seems to think that issue is only a Simi Valley issue, sorry Heather you're very wrong. As far as Waste Management Dantona is opposing tripling the size of the landfill and the back room deal that was making it possible. Without Dantona Waste would have skipped through the process unchecked. That issue is very important to everyone who cares about our enviroment and the back room politics that we have to stop. Also if you check Dantona's past Heather you will find he fought the Oil Companies from any off shore oil drilling long before it was part of SD 19, he worked with then Senators Omar Reins and Gary Hart in an effort to stop Oil Companies from any more drilling off the Santa Barbara Cost. He also stopped developers during that same time period from building on the Santa Barbara Coast and even helped stop the Fess Parker Doubletree (Than Red Lyons) from building a much larger and 4 story hotel on Cabrillo blvd. In addition he has supported the efforts of Richard Francis and SOAR to stop uncontrolled development throughout all of Ventura County and opposed developments in the cities of Ventura and Oxnard just to name a few.

You might also do some research to find out Jim Dantona was a teacher for many years and has worked to try and make public schools better thoughout the state. He has been a big supporter of teachers and believes they deserve more support, since they are working with our children.

Jim Dantona also was the first public appointee to the Ventura County Transportation Committee by a Unanmious vote of the Ventura County Board of Supervisors.

Jim Dantona has over 30 years of working for all the people of California and that includes all who reside in SD 19. So don't be so quick to criticize him on the issues. I can assure you he has not said anything negative about your candidate HBJ. Your attacks on Jim Dantona only fuel the fire of the Republicans who at this time are agreeing with you but after the primary will be attacking you and HBJ if she is the nominee.

Jim Dantona who has always loved baseball and kids founded a non profit organization with his own money that has worked with thousands of kids to keep them off drugs, out of gangs and in school. He has held clinics across the United States with Major and Minor League Baseball, and for the record clinics for kids in Santa Barbara and every city in Ventura County.

In closing I think you and all who are critizing Jim Dantona know little about all his past accomplishments and work for the people of California. State your positives if you'd like about your candidate without attacking Jim. I have known Jim for over 30 years and he has done a great deal for alot for working class people, seniors and kids. I live in Santa Barbara and have first hand knowledge of what I say.

Thanks and lets remember Tony Stickland is the man we need to go after.

Mongo @ VCRCC talks Heatherspeak. What a duo. Keep playing her.

Former Santa Barbara Elected, if you're legitimate, why are you so scared to use your real name. This could only add legitimacy to what you are saying. By the way, Tony Strickland is enjoying this debate immensely so far.

If Tony is enjoying this, is it because he thinks he will be running for congress in 2008?

And I am sure "Mongo Flamo" is a real name?

Hey here's a hearty laugh for us all:

On another thread, hypocritical Mongo Flamo said (in a response to reveal his own identity):

"Sorry I can't post a pic. I'm actually pretty well known around Ventura, so I don't want to blow my cover on this blog."

HAHAHAHA...HOOWEEEEE... What a hoot!

ROTFLMAO, not sure what you're talking about here. Which thread did this post appear on? I don't recall it, nor can I find it anywhere. Sounds like you've been puffing on a little "wishing weed", bro.

"Hi, Sharon. Sorry I can't post a pic. I'm actually pretty well known around Ventura, so I don't want to blow my cover on this blog.

Posted by: Mongo Flamo at November 17, 2007 09:17 PM"

????????????????????????????????????????????????

Thank you GS...

I abhor drugs Flamo, but since you seem to have vast experience in this regard - let me refocus your failing drug-induced memory: Barbra Williamson's Merry Christmas blog.

Your perceived self-importance and hypocritical posts speak for themselves.

HOO-HOOO...HAAAAA - you're killing me BRO... Oxygen - oxygen!!!

ROT-FACE, I plead completely innocent of all charges. I did not post this. This is apparently someone trying to besmirch my impeccable reputation. Sorry, but nice try, your phony posts under my name have been revealed, ROT-FACE.

The laugh is on me this time, I'm afraid.

Mongo,
All you have is a huge MOUTH. Like to meet Face to Face you WIMP?

EVEN Funnier- now I AM TO BLAME for the post. Your reputation is anything but impeccable and I don't waste my time posting under your sorry same. Go flame someone else Flamo - we've already wasted to much time on you.

Rolling on the floor laughing my ass off HOO HAA WHOOOOA!

LETS MEET,

Any time you think you're man enough, my friend.

ROT-GUT,

Just as with any other icon, there are always plenty of people trying to bring me down. But, as many times as you may try, it shan't happen as a result of your little games, ROT-GUT.

Hardly hear from Bubba Kidd, but Mongo has surfaced from under a rock. Perhaps the same gopher, but in a new suit (fur).

Mongo, Bubba, Kunicki, VCRCC, all one and the same. Dopes united, the union of the VCRCC.

Go Dantona!!

Marie, Jackson's husband has a great resume and many supporters in the legal community in both Ventura and Santa Barbara. I've never heard much praise sent in HBJ's direction however. She was difficult to deal with in the practice of law and even more difficult to deal with in the State Assembly. Ever wonder why her own Party put her out to pasture?

Since Flaming Mongoose suffers from paranoia, perhaps we can dedicate a thread just to him. We can all guess his lowlife identity as well as guessing who is behind the identity theft of which he falsely accuses another. It should be fun since he has more BS and accusations to offer than real political discourse about any subject matter4 offered up. Once his identity is confirmed, we can take the same pathetic shots at him, his livelihood, his family and everything else he and his lying Klan have taken at other non-Republicans on this blog.

Oh - except for Heather. He admires that Democrat's facts and research.

HAAAAAAAAAA - you slay me BRO - you slay me!

CAP-182,
You are just not going to get anywhere with me. I am a walking advertisement to HBJ's effectiveness as a legislator. My child was one those who got sick after walking through a cloud of pesticide sprayed from a neighboring field onto the grounds of Mound School in 2000. In response to this, she passed important legislation to protect kids who live or go to school near agriculture fields. She also helped pass legislation in response to the pleas of another grassroots group I was involved with. She was a HIGHLY productive member of the Assembly until she was termed out.

In response to your allegations about her reputation in her own practice, that just isn't true. One of my best friends worked for her and she speaks very positively of her.

She will always have my support and I will stick up for her on this blog when I feel I need to.

Wow, ROT-BRAIN, you seem so angry. Did you get along this well with others at school? Perhaps Mommy and Daddy mistreated you when you were a little tyke, yes?

While you continue to spew venom and hate towards one of your fellow bloggers and, dare I say, one of the more politically astute that has ventured on this blog, I continue to sit aloft in my perch and gaze down upon you lowly Dems who continue to cut each other to ribbons with your hourly diatribes (witness Marie's and CAP-182's latest exchange as an example of this).

As I have stated before so eloquently, Tony Strickland is enjoying this to no end. Let the entertainment continue...........

Marie, glad to hear that a person who worked for Jackson liked her. That really sets the record straight about how she was liked by her fellow lawyers. The fact that she has so few friends in the State's Democratic leadership further strengthens your position that she was so effective in the Assembly. But everyone needs a friend, Marie, so hang in there. On election night you can cry with her and say "we love you Hannah Beth. Thanks for trying".

As far as Strickland, Mongo, with law enforcement looking closely at his record, I'm sure he does need a light moment now and then.

Brian, can we have a separate blog entry for Mongo and Rotflamo to post their adolescent gibberish?

I don't think CAP-812 and I are cutting each other to ribbons. We are having a perfectly logical political discussion, which is the intent of this blog, last time I looked. I am just being a little nicer because I post under my own name.

CAP-812, Sheila Kuehl asked HBJ to run again, so I know she has one other friend besides me. :-) I just received a fundraiser invitation and there are quite few other names there, too.

Look, Dantona may be a great guy. I don't know much about him other than he lost a race for supervisor and he works as a political consultant. It may be that as a he would do better in a match-up against Strickland. But he has no record as a legislator to back up his centrist claims.

He also doesn't have that much name recognition in West County and S.B. County. I mentioned this race to a group of local movers and shakers in Ventura the other day and not one person knew who he was. These people, mostly Democrats, will be who you need to spread your message to in the primary. There are more registered Dems out on this end of the District.

Tony couldn't give a damn about you or our little repartee, as he's busy counting the bribe delivered from his "Christian" brothers at Salem Broadcasting and party thugs at VCRCC to endorse empty suit Peter Foy. It still didn't get him a coveted State seat vs... what was his name again... oh yes John Chiang.

Hey -I've got nothing against HBJ (except that she cannot win) or Marie (whose opinions are expressed considerably better than spoiled child-politico Heather). The issue is you - you self-serving blow-hard twit. And please don't insult the intelligence of other bloggers by ranting about venom and hate. As poster child for both of them, they are the very qualities you mistake for your "political astuteness." But thanks for the laughs here just the same.

ROT-SCAB, you're certainly welcome for all the laughs. I entertain as well as educate. I've never claimed anything different.

My acerbic wit and relentless spirit thrive despite your venomous attacks on this blog, your Scabiness. But look at you, attacking everyone within reach of your keyboard - including poor Heather, who is just trying to make a difference in a troubled world, by God. Leave the poor child alone would you? It will undoubtedly come back to get you, as John Lennon prophesized in his memorable - "Instant Karma".

Now, off with you, ROT-SCAB, you're clinging to the heel of my shoe as I walk.

Marie,

There is enough time between now and June for Jim Dantona to get his name recognition in the northern reaches of the district. Santa Barbara and Ventura are not afterall Siberia or the Yukon. And once people meet and hear Jim Dantona they will remember his name. After 50 or more blog entries, this is the first time anybody really took the time and effort to write out the other candidate's entire name, Hannah-Beth Jackson. HBJ sounds like a sleazy corporation.

Dantona does afterall have the better "sounding" name of the two Dem candidates. Strickland sounds like something you caught, like a cold or the Plague.

If Dantona's argument that he is the better positioned candidate prevails in the primary then I would hope you would see the wisdom of his appeal. It would be unwise to be dismissive of him. He is a good campaigner and can be counted on to bring a spirited attack come election day.

This is all very reminiscent of the discussions I have with my friends over Hillary.

I want to see Strickland go down, too. You just haven't convinced me yet that Dantona's the person to do it. I will look forward to learning more.

Thanks for getting us back on track R.J. Here is a news editorial that supports your contention. Interestingly, it comes from Santa Barbara.

***

Santa Barbara News Press
Opinion: Travis Armstrong:
A Kennedy support for Dantona's Senate bid
October 28, 2007 8:55 AM

There's going to be a Democratic slugfest for the party nomination for the state Senate position held by Tom McClintock. Two Democrats have announced -- and is Assemblyman Pedro Nava waiting in the wings?

The defeat of a statewide proposition in February to ease legislative term limits could persuade Mr. Nava to pursue the 19th District Senate seat. Observers say voters may be reluctant to mess with term limits unless the governor throws his weight behind it big-time.

Mr. Nava's entrance could mean an ultimate match-up between him and Republican candidate Tony Strickland in the November 2008 general election.

Little-known in Santa Barbara, a centrist from Ventura County named Jim Dantona has lined up big-name endorsements and may be the Democratic front-runner for the time being.

His endorsements include a Kennedy -- retired Maryland Lt. Gov. Kathleen Kennedy-Townsend, who was in Ventura on Oct. 18 for a Dantona fundraiser. Other endorsers include State Senate President pro tem Don Perata, state Sens. Alex Padilla and Gil Cedillo, and city council members from Los Angeles, Oxnard and Simi Valley.

Mr. Dantona barely lost a county supervisor's race in Ventura County in a district dominated by Republicans. In other words, he's got appeal across the board. Republicans have an edge in the 19th Senate District, which includes Santa Barbara, Goleta, Carpinteria, Lompoc, Buellton and Solvang, and communities in Ventura and Los Angeles counties.

"It's not about being a Democrat, Republican or a decline-to-state," Mr. Dantona said in a statement discussing the Kennedy fundraiser. "It is about getting results for all of us. The major difference between me and my opponents is that I can work with both sides of the aisle now. I can work with the pro tem and the leadership of the party, and that's what we need."

That would be in contrast to Hannah-Beth Jackson, a former assemblywoman who's also announced her candidacy. The Montecito resident gained a reputation in the county and Sacramento for being difficult to deal with personally.

How difficult?

State Democratic leaders redistricted her out of the chance to move up to the state Senate before being termed out of the Assembly. To spite her, they placed Santa Barbara in Mr. McClintock's district when redrawing the lines.

Then local Democrats worked early on to line up support and endorsements for Salud Carbajal to become 1st District supervisor so she couldn't later enter that race.

Let's play the political version of Where's Waldo?
Mongo Flamo says he is from Ventura.
Mongo Flamo is a legend in his own mind.
Mongo Flamo is a rude, condescending bully.
Since there were only about 25 people at the September VCRCC meeting, and there were only about four from Ventura: including Osborn, City Council candidates Lou Cunningham and Mike Gibson, VCRCC member Paul Thompson (who is an Osborn stooge, but is well mannered and has his ego in check)
Who's Flamo?

Mongo Flamo was the insane and crazy guy in Blazing Saddles, so no wonder this Flamo supports Strickland. I will be voting for Dantona as he is the only real candidate in this race. Strickland is only out for Strickland and the small group of far right crazy wacko's who support him because of the cash he funnels to them.

As entertaining as this thread has become after nearly 60 posts nobody has bothered to discuss the basis of this thread, which is the article outlining Dantona's stand on the issues. Many around here, myself included, have complained that Dantona has often dodged taking a stand on important issues, so naturally any article that could provide more information would be enlightening. I took the time to read the article but still could find little substance that gave any clear indication where Dantona stands.

As an example, on the issue of women's reproductive rights Dantona stated, "I care about the ability of women to be able to choose what they want, that they’re working on the same level". Sorry, but that hardly clarifies his stand on abortion.

Another example is when Dantona says, "I am not against globalization, what I’m against is when major corporations end up outsourcing jobs, Americans, Californians in particular, lose their jobs, they can’t afford any health care, they can’t afford anything else in terms of putting food on the table".

According to Websters Dictionary globalization is: the act or process of globalizing : the state of being globalized; especially : the development of an increasingly integrated global economy marked especially by free trade, free flow of capital, and the tapping of cheaper foreign labor markets

So by definition globalization results in the free flow of trade, capital and labor. This is how every economist in the world would define globalization. Yet Jim Dantona says he is for globalization but against the outsourcing of jobs. That is a contradiction. If Jim Dantona is against the outsourcing of jobs then he is against globalization. You can't have it both ways.

What I see here is Dantona calling himself a centrist, but he is vague on exactly what makes him a centrist. Dantona has taken a strong stand on Rocketdyne, the landfill, and LNG, however these are typical environmental issues that you would expect from any democrat. From that standpoint he is no different from HBJ. Dantona also claims support from education and firefighters, but once again this is the typical support that democrats get from organized labor, no different than would be expected from HBJ.

What exactly is the difference between Dantona and HBJ on the issues? What makes him a "centrist"? Is it because he will not give a clear answer on where he stands on abortion? Is it because he is both for and against globalization? The only people claiming that Dantona is a "centrist" seems to be Dantona and his supporters, most of whom seem to be typical far-left liberals. This seems to be a case of putting lipstick on a pig and calling it kosher. I see no difference between Dantona and any typical democrat, and this article on where Dantona supposedly stands on the issues didn't shed any additional light.

I'll give this to HBJ, at least she doesn't try and pretend to be something that she is not.

Of course we know where Strickland stands on the issues. Tony believes that political office is there so he and his wife can become rich at taxpayer expense. He believes whatever his big corporate and far right donors who mainly live outside the district tell him to believe. He believes it is up to the government to tell a woman if she can have an abortion even if she was raped by her mentally challenged uncle. He believes that he must do what God and the VCRCC tell him to do. He believes voting no on everything is the right thing to do. He believes he and his wife should have healthcare provided to them by the government but it is not okay for anyone else. He believes it is okay to use taxpayer funds to mail out anti-illegal alien literature to voters right before election time and to call it a "survey". Yes, we know what Tony is all about and that is why the people want Dantona!

I have a question for the Jackson detractors. If she was as disliked as you say, how did she manage to get more than 60 pieces of legislation passed and signed into law in the six short years she was there?

From a constituent's point of view, this seems remarkable. I really felt she was working hard for us. I guess I don't care if she was snubbed at the Democratic cocktail parties.

The only thing I seem to recall Tony Strickland working on in the Assembly was those Reagan license plates, but I'm sure he did more.

I am your typical voter. These are the things that stick in my head.

And once again we have the typical response from Team Dantona attacking Tony Strickland instead of responding to the questions. What makes Dantona a "centrist" besides the fact that he calls himself a centrist? Why is it that Dantona's supporters keep calling him a bi-partisan moderate, yet they can't seem to answer simple questions about their candidate?

All I see in all these threads are repeated, random attacks against Strickland, the VCRCC, Osborne, Foy, Mikels, and various bloggers. Even liberals such as HBJ, Marie, and Heather are not immune from attacks from Team Dantona as they seem to readily turn on anyone who doesn't accept their propaganda at face value. Yet we are all still waiting for simple answers to simple questions. If you guys can't intelligently support your candidate on a blog then he certainly has no chance in a high-profile election against experienced, well-funded opponents. Personally I'm not certain that Dantona will even survive the primary.

Why is Dantona the only one who is supposed to "answer questions?"

I've seen little regarding "issues" from anyone at this early date.

And why would anyone running for a State office Strickland, HBJ or Dantona respond to "intelligent" questions from people hiding behind names like Bubba, Mongo Flamo or ROTFLMAO?

Give it a rest Bubba.

Bubba, I'm not really much of a liberal. I was a registered Republican for many years until the Republican Party and I parted ways on a few issues.

I admire politicians with guts and the ability to get positive things done. If Chuck Hagel, a Republican, ran for president, I'd vote for him.

Your Mr. Strickland has not impressed me at all. Too bad there isn't a better Republican choice for CA-19. There seems to be a bounty of good Dems running.

Hey Marie - glad to see we are on the same page re: Strickland and Hagel. Of course you realize Hagel is now considered a "liberal" by our former party for daring to stand up against the President.

We are simply on different pages regarding Jackson and Dantona.

You will notice that Bubba did not deny he is Mongo. You will also notice that even though he is a hardcore member of the VCRCC he did not try and defend Strickland as you cannot defend the indefensible. Bubba is mainly angry that some of us use the tactics he and the GOP use which is to attack, attack, attack. I too would vote for Chuck Hagel, even though his own party calls him a RINO. I saw a big sign yesterday that said "Vote for Ron Paul. Restore the Republic". It is clear that even though Ron Paul is a republican he is saying that Bush has destroyed the Republic and Bubba supports Bush, remember that folks whenever you read any of the crap that Bubba/Mongo/Kunicki posts.

Watch for Tony the Tiger to encourage all his donors to fund HB Jackson's race in an attempt to pick off Dantona in the Democratic Primary. He's rather run against Jackson than Dantona.

He stays up nights plotting these things.

Tony the Tiger? I heard he changed his name to Tony the PUSSYcat.

I'm pretty sure I know who Mongo is, and it's NOT Bubba.

Mongo can be civil when he wants to be. If you look on old threads he has a glimmer of humanity when nobody is looking.

He reminds me of the little boys who used to chase me around with garter snakes on the playground when I was 7. If you ran and screamed they would keep doing it. If you ignored them, they went away.

He hangs out here because it is entertaining to poke Democrats and watch them scream. Ignore him and he'll go away.

Mongo pretends well. Not an ounce of humanity in 'im.

I have been accused in the past of being Mongo, Voter, Ron, Owen, Kunicki, Osborne, Mikels, or somehow closely associated with Foy, Strickland, Becerra and even Gallegly. You guys really need to get your story straight. It must be nice living in your own narrow world where you can pretend that every post you disagree with somehow magically comes from the same person. That way you can ignore the growing multitudes of people who have legitimate questions about Dantona and simply want straight answers. Sorry to disappoint you but wishing for something to be true does not make it true. I am none of the above. But it clearly seems to bother Dantona's supporters to the extent that they feel it necessary to try to invent their own personal blog reality. The fact is that this blog is evidence there are plenty of people, both democrats and republicans, that have serious reservations about supporting Jim Dantona. And he better start doing a better job reaching out to these folks instead of allowing his followers to continually insult and smear anyone who doesn't join their little cult.

And in response to Just Wondering, he asks "Why is Dantona the only one who is supposed to answer questions?" The answer to that question is obvious, but I guess I will have to state the obvious for Team Dantona. If you scroll to the top of this thread it is titled "Jim Dantona on the issues". Brian even posted a link to an article and states, "Here is an article about Jim Dantona and where he stands on a variety of issues."

Seems simple enough. Brian created a thread that is specifically about where Dantona stands on the issues. Yet Team Dantona is somehow offended that questions are being asked about where Dantona stands on those issues. That is some pretty convoluted logic.

And yet through all of this Team Dantona will not answer my basic question as to why Dantona is a "centrist", other than all of us just accepting that at face value because he says so. Dantona is involved in a primary against HBJ, so what distinguishes his stand on the issues from her? And please explain how Dantona is seemingly both for and against globalization based on his statements in the linked article.

C'mon folks, these are softball questions. Certainly you can come up with something more creative than just the regular tired attacks against the evil Strickland empire. If you guys can't handle simple questions in a blog how do you expect to win an election against a real opponent?

Bubba - don't get me wrong, but for all your talking, have you stated whom you are supporting to replace Tom McClintock?

You will now notice that as soon as it was pointed out that Mongo was Bubba, that Bubba appeared and Mongo went silent, this is Bubba's usual M.O., when you catch him trying to be someone else he then returns quickly as himself and the other person is gone. You will also notice that once again he did not try to defend the unethical behavior of Strickland, instead he again tried to attack Dantona, why? Because Bubba and the VCRCC are scared sh*tless of Dantona because they know he can and will beat the living crap outa Tony the PUSSYcat!

Brian,

Way to spark a discussion.

Brian,

Way to spark a discussion.

I already stated long ago who I support in this race. I'm for extending term limits and I will be supporting Tom McClintock.

See how easy that was. Now your turn.

What are some key differences between Dantona and HBJ on the issues? How do you reconcile Dantona's statements that make him appear to be both for and against globalization?

Gopher alert. Gopher out from under rock. Grab your poison and traps. This is an official gopher alert.

You got that right CAP. Thanks for beating me to the ALERT. Sometimes the gopher sneaks out when I'm not watching. It is good to have a few of us watching for crop damage. You never know when the gopher will come out from the dark underground and utter a few grunts. "Dantona is bad. McClintock is good. Dantona is evil. Dantona is fat." Best action is to not speak when we hear the grunts. Instead, grab your traps, poison and club and look for the pile of fresh dirt. He always runs back underground to his dark tunnel.

Sorry CAP. Surf's up. See you at the pier in the early morning. For now, let's get us a gopher.

Is that all you Dantona guys have? Tired old attacks against Strickland and the VCRCC? Attacks against other bloggers? Gopher alerts? LMAO!!

This thread is about where your candidate stands on the issues, yet Team Dantona repeatedly punts and refuses to answer even the most basic questions. Dantona is a self-annointed "bi-partisan moderate" and "centrist", but he and his followers refuse to back up those claims with anything of substance. They even go as far as to accuse their opponent in the primary of being too far left, yet simultaneously refusing to differentiate their candidate's position on the issues from HBJ.

What are some key differences between Dantona and HBJ on the issues? This is not a trick question.

How pathetic that you guys can't even answer a simple question. Your gopher alerts only prove that Dantona is an empty suit.

Gopher alert. Gopher out from under rock. Grab your traps and poison. This is an official gopher alert. Never waste time talking to a gopher. Gophers are very dumb animals, living in the dark, and only coming out for brief seconds during which they may make odd grunts and eat a weed.

One of the main problems with conspiracy theorists is that they often believe in theories that contradict each other. I thought that Strickland controlled the VCRCC, but now it's apparently them who control him.

Bubba, you've been accused of being me?? Must have been when I wasn't looking . . .

I am he as you are he as you are me and we are all together.

See how they run like pigs from a gun, see how they fly.

I'm crying.

-Lennon and McCartney, "I am the Walrus"

It's been a while since I've been accused of being you. These days I'm mostly accused of being Mongo or Kunicki. But I'm sure the accusations will continue to evolve depending on the popular conspiracy theory of the moment and which individual happens to be the current enemy du jour of the lefties around here.

OK. I'll ask. Please tell me how Jim Dantona differs from Hannah-Beth Jackson on the issues. I would really like to know. Convince me of the error of my ways.

Or are you guys just in "clear the field" mode right now without fully formed talking points? Or maybe you don't want to give the "enemy" any early clues about your campaign.

I love the Beatles as much as anyone. But I already know the lyrics by heart, thank you.

Bubba,

Do you really think that Dantona and his supporters are leftists? They live in an upper class community and I doubt many of them quote Lenin, Trotsky, or Marx often.

It seems odd to be mad at name calling and then throw leftist around so often.

For everyone else, Bubba Kidd is not Mongo.

Hey Marie, sorry your little garter snake is loose again. But in listening to all this banter between the Hannah-Beth Jackson and Jim Dantona camps I couldn't help but wonder where this is all going to lead. One of the 2 has to win and the one you want to win is the one that can beat Strickland, right? In this district, the only Dem that has a prayer of doing this is Mr. Dantona You should be putting all your eggs in that basket and stop dividing the party.

What I want is a solid, issues-based reason why I should desert my loyalties to a woman I owe a debt of gratitude to and vote for an unknown quantity. I don't want to hear about her personality issues, when I know she authored more than 60 bills that were signed into law.

The numbers are too close right now in this district and the DTS will decide this race. I'm not convinced Strickland is the rock star everyone says he is. He's got way too much negative baggage. I don't think he is going to play well in W. County and Santa Barbara at all.

I'm not dividing the party. I'm asking honest questions that I am sure other Democratic voters will have.

Just because Brian has named this thread "Jim Dantona on the Issues," does not mean this is a hot line to Jim Dantona. This is not Jim Dantona's blog. This is Brian's blog and he can call the threads whatever he wishes. He simply made reference to one article.

None of us here can speak FOR Dantona, anymore than Marie can speak FOR Jackson or Bubba can speak FOR any of the people he is accused of being (unless of course he is ALL of them). We can only speak ABOUT them.

But let me address Bubba's question on abortion. I do not know Dantona's stance on abortion. Neither do I know if McClintock and Strickland believe like Tom Tancredo that we should nuke the Middle East. And neither issue is relevant HERE since the President makes the call on pushing the button and the Supreme Court debates and decides procreation rights. But knee-jerk Republicans and Democrats still use the divisive abortion issue as the black and white litmus test of allegiance.

This is a State Senate seat. I DO know Dantona does not believe in raising State taxes. He recognizes government waste, even from within his own party. Anybody can say that of course but not many Democrats do. He DID say so out of the gate in his Supervisor campaign. I believe Jackson said taxes were “an investment in our future.� That Amway sounding marketing tag line might be an easier sell for Ms. Jackson if California was showing more bang for its buck and the average working man and woman were not struggling so hard to make ends meet.

I also trust that Dantona can work with California leadership, something McClintock and Strickland cannot do because they have positioned themselves as conservative ideologues acting as contrarians to anything Democrat or anything “moderate.� When Strickland made an attempt to cross party lines (by supporting Dantona for a local non-partisan Supervisor seat) the party reined him in and threatened his multi-million dollar campaign allowance, thereby blackmailing him for support of Foy.

Dantona supports capital punishment, opposes eminent domain, and has come out strongly for securing our porous borders where the biggest danger involves the drug runners and potential terrorists who wait in line.

He has a positive working relationship with our Republican Governor. Tom McClintock cannot claim that.

These are not the talking points of the talk-show demonized Democrat Bubba. But these are points he made as he canvassed for the Supervisor’s race. I know because I questioned him and was pleasantly surprised by the straight forward answers I received. I originally met Dantona some years ago through Baseballers Against Drugs. I was impressed by his organization and its dedication to kids. I knew very little about his political ideas until the campaign.

His environmental support was made clear in a post by “Former Santa Barbara Elected� above. (And please don’t lecture us about his anonymity - or my own- until the rest of you come clean.)

His call for cleanup and accountability for SSFL was louder than our current or previous Mayor and City Council’s EVER was. And these people live in the shadow (and denial) of SSFL! Of course, once the Sheila Kuehl bill was signed, they all made sure they were quoted in local papers. (You would have thought Glen Becerra was instrumental in getting this bill signed – though he previously uttered nary a word about SSFL). Sorry – I digress...

I support his opposition to the landfill expansion and am grateful he exposed it.

Globalization? Businesses were leaving California for other states before “globalization� became the buzz word and the excuse for its exodus. You CAN support keeping more jobs in California with a business-friendly environment without opposing globalization. We can export our products and our technology without exporting our livelihoods. For the record – this is MY take on the question raised, not Dantona’s. In rebuttal to Bubba - I think you CAN have it both ways.

Dantona and I do not agree on everything (for one – he is a Chicago Cubs fan). I really don’t care who Bubba is and I wish the “To Tell the Truth� panel would stop throwing out its tired guesses and offer up some political dialogue. I hope there is some food for thought and civil discourse.

Bubba - Can you tell me why you support McClintock (not why you hate Dantona)? Marie - Can you tell me about HBJ's 60 bills?

Bubba supports McClintock because Tommy Boy is a wack job, just like Bubba. McClintock thinks it should be legal to strap a baby into a car seat, roll up the windows and smoke a pack of cigs (Tommy Boy received big money from tobacco companies), but he also thinks the government should forbid women from having an abortion even if they were raped by a mentally challenged ex con and the government should act like big brother. Tommy Boy has also never brought anything to this District, all he is is a career politician who feeds at the public trough!

BK is a rodent. A gopher in fact. It is best not to talk to a rodent. Grab your traps and poison. A gopher doesn't say anything worth listening to. Let the gopher make its silly noises right up until the trap springs or it eats the poison. Talking to a gopher makes no sense. Just let it babble.

Thank you, "Former Republican," I really appreciate the time you took to answer questions and provide thoughtful debate. This blog frustrates me because for every person who wants to talk about the issues there are two or three who just want to act like little kids.

I have looked for a detailed and comprehensive list of ALL Jackson's legislation. She doesn't have a campaign web site up yet. I'm a member of Jackson's Speak Out California group, which does have a site. This is straight off the site:

"She is a tireless advocate for progressive change, having authored more than 60 bills that were signed into law on issues including education, health care, environmental protection, financial privacy, crime victims, reproductive rights, domestic violence, childcare and protecting the rights of consumers."

There are two bills which I was very interested in and know a lot about:
AB947 that allows county agricultural commissioners to place restrictions on the use of all pesticides applied on farms within a quarter-mile of schools. It increased the maximum fine for serious pesticide-related violations from $1,000 to $5,000. It also includes language encouraging school districts to address in their safety plans steps to take in the event of pesticide drift.

She also authored legislation which allows local governments to create increased fine zones in marked areas near schools. Money from the fines issued to traffic violators helps fund programs to promote safety in school zones. The money may also be used to hire crossing guards and to create community education and awareness programs.

She also authored bills which protect victims of stalking and domestic abuse and many bills which deal with coastal cleanup.

I heard that she was a pistol in the Assembly, too, but obviously she was able to get a lot done.

So Bubba, what legislation did Tony the PUSSYcat get passed that helped bring money to his assembly district? Do you think it was ethical of Strickland to accept money to work as a lobbyist while he was still in the assembly? Do you think it was ethical for Audra Strickland to accept thousands from Saperstein and then to deceive Caltrans and the City of Simi Valley?

I will respond to Former Republican now Proudly Independent because he is the only Dantona supporter around here who has even attempted to provide a thoughtful, reasoned post in defending his support for Jim Dantona. It is unfortunate that Dantona doesn't have more supporters like FRNPI who can articulate the reason why they support him instead of simply attacking and trying to tear everyone else down.

On the issue of speaking for a candidate, I realize that nobody can really speak for a candidate. But if you are passionate about supporting a candidate you should be able to articulate why they are a better choice and what you would expect them to do when in office. Nobody really knows for certain what a candidate would actually do if elected, but we should at least have somewhat informed positions based on research and the candidate's history in elected office or other occupations. Unfortunately in an era of campaign flyers and soundbytes it is often hard to seperate the wheat from the chaff. All the more reason why voters should insist on better information before casting their ballot.

My question on the contrast between Dantona and HBJ was simple. If I understand FRNPI's response correctly, he believes that the key difference between the two is that Dantona is opposed to raising taxes while HBJ favors increasing taxes. He also stated that Dantona supports border enforcement and capital punishment, which also would be a sharp contrast to HBJ (Really, that wasn't so hard, was it? Why do so many of Dantona's supporters insist on trashing everyone else instead of a simple response to a simple question).

Assuming that the information from FRNPI is accurate, and I have no reason not to believe him/her, then I think that makes a powerful argument for Dantona as a more moderate democrat compared to HBJ. However I'd like to see Dantona actually take all of these stands publically, not just privately. In this fairly conservative district those positions would play very well. I'd especially like to see Dantona take a firm, public stand against increasing taxes. Maybe Marie should weigh in on why she thinks that HBJ is the better progressive, or any other thoughts she might have on the subject.

The primary reason why I have supported Tom McClintock is because he has a long, consistent record of opposing tax increases. There have been numerous attempts by the State Legislature over the years to jack up taxes and fees every time the state spends itself into another fiscal crisis. McClintock has been very successful in fighting those efforts, and he was successful in stopping the recinding of the VLF. McClintock is also a staunch opponent of increased borrowing and has always argued in favor of spending cuts, or at least more sensible increases in spending, something that has often put him at odds with not just democrats but even our own republican governor. In short, he is a true fiscal conservate, and there doesn't seem to be a lot of fiscal conservatives in Sacramento these days.

I have no problem with McClintock being add odds with the governor and his democratic counterparts on some issues. A good elected official should be true to their ideals and their constituents instead of caving for the purposes of political popularity. Sometimes there is a role for somebody who bucks the status quo, especially when the status quo is a broken system that caters to special interests.

The ONLY question for those who'd like to see a Dem in the seat is which candidate has the best chance of beating Strickland? Dantona or Jackson?

Bubba and Tommy Boy McClintock have a lot in common, they are both as long winded as a bad fart. McClintock did not end the VLF, Arnold did, and now we have a billion dollar hole in our sate budget because of it. McClintock talks a good game but he doesn't deliver for the people he is supposed to represent, he only delivers for those who give him money like the tobacco lobby!

Being at odds with people on some issues is expected Bubba. Being at odds all the time is counterproductive to our district. And McClintock is only at odds with Dems and moderate Reps. Somewhere along the line fiscal conservativism got tangled up with values ideology and hijacked the Republican Party. Just as 70s liberalism overtook the liberalism of John Kennedy and hijacked the stifled independent voices of the Democratic Party. McClintock has been a nice voice of fiscal conservatism but an ineffectual representative. Strickland caving in to the party last year only reinforces more of the same to me.

As for HBJ and Speak out California, I quote from their web site:
"Together we we (sic) are making great progress against Governor Schwarzenegger's backwards agenda for our state."

I see Schwarzenegger's mistakes as those made by a first time office holder who has now become a stronger voice for moderation because of it. I don't want an official campaigning on fighting a moderate point of view. Though, neither do I want a someone who changes with the wind. I want someone who can be productive, no matter which party, and search for common ground, not divisiveness between the parties. That current divisive philosophy is hurting us all.

The issue isn't (just) taxes. The issue is leadership. Dantona is a Democrat and I am not. But neither am I a Republican anymore. His party affiliation and his experience in the party do not scare me away. It tells me he can get things done in California while still maintaining an independent voice. We will find areas of agreement and disagreement but I trust his leadership will be constructive and results-driven for our district. I just don't see results from McClintock. I see a tired Republican mantra and a Reagan wanna-be.

In response to Brian, I don't think that all of Dantona's supporters are leftists, however I think that many of his strongest supporters on this blog are. This is characterized by the outright distain and hatred that some Dantona supporters seem to display on a regular basis for all republicans. Which is one of the reasons why I consider Dantona's self-proclaimed "centrist" qualifications so dubious. I think it is fair to judge a candidate not only on what he says but also on the company he keeps.

I do find it curious why you take issue with my use of the term leftist. The term leftist means that an individual or a group is on the political left. I suppose that would be inclusive of all those on the left of the political spectrum, including both moderate and far-left liberals. However, I did not call anyone a marxist or a communist as you imply by your response. If that is what I meant then that is what I would have said.

As far as the issue of name-calling is concerned, I think you are splitting hairs if you are going to characterize the use of the word "leftist" as name-calling. I find it funny that terms like neocon (and other things that are far worse) are used with regularity on this blog to describe conservatives, and you seem to be OK with that, but take exception to the term leftist to describe liberals. If you are OK with one then you should be OK with the other.

Gopher alert. This is an official gopher alert. Gopher out from under rock. Grab your poison and traps. Warning. Do not communicate with a gopher. They grunt but have nothing to say. Avoid all contact. This is an official gopher alert.

Bubba - Believing that term limits will be extended in February with Prop. 93, benefitting incumbents, is a pipe dream.

The poster child for Prop. 93 is Speaker Fabian Nunez, who's indiscretionate high living on taxpayer dollars and arrogant comments about the masses has given the opposition all the fuel they need to shoot it out of the water.

On top of that, Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner just pledged a bundle of his own money (and he's got LOTS) towards the defeat of Proposition 93.

The people will jump at a chance to tell legislators to go home. I predict Prop. 93 will lose 62% to 38%.

So, Bubba, you will need to have a backup plan for a candidate, because the chances of McClintock running now are slim and none.

You will notice that once again Bubba did not try to defend Strickland against any of the charges leveled on this blog, the reason for that is because Bubba knows it is true. He also knows that if Dantona goes up against Strickland he will beat him badly and Strickland inc will come to an end and then the Stricklands will actually have to work for living, instead of living off the taxpayer. In terms of Tommy Boy McClintock he will most likely become a lobbyist for the tobacco companies after he leaves office.

I prefer not to speculate about the outcome of the term limits legislation as it is way to early to know what public sentiment will be on the issue in February. If term limits are changed then my guess would be that both Strickland and Dantona will drop out of the race and all of this would be moot. No sense on getting on anybody's bandwagon until I know for sure that they are running.

BTW, I didn't weigh in on the HBJ/Dantona comparison, but I do believe you may be accurate with regard to taxes. Not accurate about her stance on border enforcement and capital punishment, however.

Raising taxes is not popular. Neither is cutting services, though, as Schwarzenegger learned. So he borrowed his way into another huge deficit. Past governors have raised taxes and gotten away with it. I believe there is a middle ground; a combination of cuts and modest raises in taxes is acceptable in my mind. But that is purely MY point of view.

It is ridiculous to assume we can travel on this path of deficit spending on a state and national level forever. Again, purely my opinion.

I will look forward to seeing what comes out of this campaign. And I agree, 93 doesn't have a chance.

Good point Leslie.

Bubba your points about being not being a "centrist" just because you say you are are true.

But neither is someone a "leftist" just because their adversary labels them as such.

I have no affinity for either Party anymore but I am not a "lefty" and I was NEVER a "neocon." Though the truth is, neocons and "Kool-Aid drinkers" drove me from away from the party.

Yes left and right refer to the sides of the aisle of the parties - nothing more - BUT not all Democrats are "leftists" which IS a negative innuendo that has replaced the labels of communist and Marxist in today's political arena; nor are all Republicans "extreme right wingers" and "neocons."

As for Dantona supporters. I knew many from his Sup campaign and, like my own neighbors and friends in this town, they truly were a grand mix of Dems, Reps and Independents, social liberals, fiscal conservatives, moderates, smart growth advocates, environmentalists, public safety advocates, business owners and labor. He could never have fared as well as he did if it was stacked with "leftists."

As for Bubba=Kunicki and CAP-812 - PLEASE put your gopher hunt on hold! I share your support for Dantona but since there was actually a discussion going on here, just maybe we can allow that to develop???

What about an alternative candidate to Strickland that will still serve the party well and still hold true to the basic tenants and principles that we so greatly value as a political organization such as no gay marriages, a strong military defense, support for the continuing right to bear arms, strong familiy values, retaining property right for those who have been victimized by emininent domain rulings by the courts, that is in essence forcing people off their property to allow for high-rise, high density development projects in their town.

I think a moderate-conservative like Mike Gibson could have a huge impact on this race and be a very viable alternative to Stickland. He's already stocking the well for another City Council run in 2 years, which he could very well win, with Brian Brennan bowing out. I know several people from the Chamber have bee urging him to get in it again (Zoe Taylor, Bob Alviani & Steve Doll, to name a few).

But, the Senate race might be more uniquely suited for him, given his broader understanding of how government works, plus his many connnections in the political world, and his connecttions to $$$. I don't know guys, if Tony the Tiger is not up to the challenge, this guy could sure make a difference in a relatively short period of time.

What about an alternative candidate to Strickland that will still serve the party well and still hold true to the basic tenants and principles that we so greatly value as a political organization such as no gay marriages, a strong military defense, support for the continuing right to bear arms, strong familiy values, retaining property right for those who have been victimized by emininent domain rulings by the courts, that is in essence forcing people off their property to allow for high-rise, high density development projects in their town.

I think a moderate-conservative like Mike Gibson could have a huge impact on this race and be a very viable alternative to Stickland. He's already stocking the well for another City Council run in 2 years, which he could very well win, with Brian Brennan bowing out. I know several people from the Chamber have bee urging him to get in it again (Zoe Taylor, Bob Alviani & Steve Doll, to name a few).

But, the Senate race might be more uniquely suited for him, given his broader understanding of how government works, plus his many connnections in the political world, and his connecttions to $$$. I don't know guys, if Tony the Tiger is not up to the challenge, this guy could sure make a difference in a relatively short period of time.

What about an alternative candidate to Strickland that will still serve the party well and still hold true to the basic tenants and principles that we so greatly value as a political organization such as no gay marriages, a strong military defense, support for the continuing right to bear arms, strong familiy values, retaining property right for those who have been victimized by emininent domain rulings by the courts, that is in essence forcing people off their property to allow for high-rise, high density development projects in their town.

I think a moderate-conservative like Mike Gibson could have a huge impact on this race and be a very viable alternative to Stickland. He's already stocking the well for another City Council run in 2 years, which he could very well win, with Brian Brennan bowing out. I know several people from the Chamber have bee urging him to get in it again (Zoe Taylor, Bob Alviani & Steve Doll, to name a few).

But, the Senate race might be more uniquely suited for him, given his broader understanding of how government works, plus his many connnections in the political world, and his connecttions to $$$. I don't know guys, if Tony the Tiger is not up to the challenge, this guy could sure make a difference in a relatively short period of time.

Of course you're kidding. Gibson finished in 8th place behind council gadfly Brian Lee Rencher in Ventura. The Chamber didn't even endorse him!

Charles/Mongo/Tim: A head's up. There are very viable Rep. candidates with huge name recognition waiting in the wings in Ventura. They were smart enough to wait this one out because they knew incumbents are tough to defeat here. There is also a very viable Dem thinking about it.

The Ventura election is over. Time to move on, buddy.

I would like to see somebody run against Strickland so that this election can be somewhat interesting. IMO a primary campaign would be a good thing for the community to flesh out the candidates and their positions. But it would need to be somebody with reasonably good name recognition that has a record of holding public office and can raise money. That would be a short list. But it would be tough given Strickland's name recognition and funding, and most likely a losing battle. The fact that the republican race appears uncontested is disappointing. I don't think that Gibson could be a serious candidate. He needs to win a local race first.

Darling Charles, GOP political strategist:

Mike Gibson, park and rec guy and 8th place finisher in the Ventura City Council race, is the great white hope and alternative moderate candidate to Tony Strickland for Senate? Broader understanding of government? Big time political connections? His daddy's money?

That's not political strategy, Chuck, that's masturbation.

"Hey don't knock masturbation. It's sex with someone I love."

I wish Herb Gooch would run for something. I'm a big fan. He's one of the nicest guys around.

Can we draft him to run against Strickland?

Sorry, fellow Dems... :-)

BK is at it again. Nothing to say, but grunts and groans.

Gopher alert. This is an official gopher alert. Gopher out from under rock. Grab your poison and traps. Warning. Do not communicate with a gopher. They grunt but have nothing to say. Avoid all contact. This is an official gopher alert.

I don't know about counting Gibson out in a race like this completely. He'd obviously need to pump a few bucks into it, but he got a little name recognition from the City Council race and he has some local Republican support. You're right, though. He'll probably wait for the next City Council race in 2 years, since it looks like Brennan and Andrews are bowing out. That will leave two open seats and give him a decent shot at getting in, for sure.

Bubba,

My undergrad work included political theory. In political theory American style Democrats were liberals but were not leftists. Leftists were reserved for socialists, collectivists, and other more revolutionary groups.

As far as Neoconservative being a slur I don't agree. Neoconservatism is a legit part of the larger conservative movement. I have Neoconservative friends and although I don't agree with them they are decent Republicans.

I don't know how you use it but neoconservatives started groups like PNAC to push for a strong and aggressive foreign policy but did not concern themselves with issues like gay rights and tax cuts as much.

But if you just meant leftist to describe partisan Democrats I understand.

But just because someone is partisan doesn't mean they aren't moderate. Bush has not governed as a true conservative and he is hyper partisan but that doesn't take away the fact that on many issues he is a moderate.

For everyone that is looking to genuinely discuss the issues, that time will come when ALL the candidates come to the table.

I guarantee you that each campaign, including Dantona, HBJ, Strickland and a rumored female GOP candidate soon to be throwing her hat into the ring, are putting together comprehensive position papers for publication and debate. You're just going to have to wait until that happens, because until it does, there is no one here from any campaign that can argue the positions with any credibility or authority.

The debate on Prop 93 is interesting, with most people convinced that it will go down in flames in February. History favors this prediction, but you never know. The issue of Statewide party endorsement for this proposition (and several others) was on the Executive Board agenda this past weekend. The resolution committee recommended that the Party give it a "yes" endorsement. (the choices being: yes, no or neutral). Recommendations from the Resolutions committee are presented to the Eboard at the General Session for acceptance or a series of motions, debate and vote to choose another stance. On Prop 93, a motion was made to overturn the Resolution committee recommendation of "yes" and to go with "Neutral". Some heated debate occurred, and a vote was taken. Many of the protests were from members from red districts, who felt upset about the prospect of another several terms of their Republican reps. The challenge was defeated 91 - 81. A second motion was made to chance the recommendation to "no" and that went down even harder. (obviously if you can't win a neutral from a yes, getting a no is highly unlikely)

How did I vote? I voted to uphold the "yes" recommendation on 93. It's not a perfect solution, and obviously the implications for the 19th & 37th are difficult for Dems right now, but, I'm against term limits and this would be a step in the right direction toward fixing the problems caused in the past 16 years. And we do have redistricting coming up in 2010. Sometimes you have to vote for what is best for the Party statewide and frankly, good government, instead of what would most quickly get rid of the local GOP goon in your own backyard. Besides, those goons aren't invincible.

Brian,

Now that you explain your perspective I understand your reaction. However my use of the term leftist was never intended to mean revolutionary style left-wing extremists. I suppose these types of terms can mean different things to different people.

The same could be said of other terminology as well. I know that you and others have complained about the use of the term "democrat party". In other threads there were several democrats that interpreted that as a slur, while others said that there was no negative intent. There are some democrats that I know that don't like to be called "liberal" and instead prefer "progressive" because of the frequent use of the word "liberal" in a negative context.

The same applies to Neoconservative, or it's more common variation of "neocon". I'm not aware of any conservatives that refer to themselves as neocons, or that like being called a neocon. It is also commonly used in a negative context much the same as the word "liberal". There are many on this blog that use the word, combined with other creative adjectives, that are clearly intended to be interpreted in a negative way.

Consider the following sentences:

1. This legislation is supported by democrats in the state assembly.
2. This legislation is supported by progressives in the state assembly.
3. This legislation is supported by liberals in the state assembly.

Although all sentences say the same thing, the first sentence is neutral, the second sentence has a positive tone, and the third sentence has a negative tone.

The same applies to the sentences below:

1. This legislation is supported by republicans in the state assembly.
2. This legislation is suported by conservatives in the state assembly.
3. This legislation is supported by neocons in the state assembly.

IMO term limits have hurt more than they have helped and have created a generation of political amateurs and carpet baggers who move from one political office to another. Entrenched incumbancy is a problem, but I don't think that term limits are the right solution.

Gopher alert. This is an official gopher alert. Gopher out from under rock. Grab your poison and traps. Warning. Do not communicate with a gopher. They grunt but have nothing to say. Avoid all contact. This is an official gopher alert.

More gerrymandered districts in 2010 are not the answer either. It is time to balance all districts. When the playing field is balanced across the State, voters will get real choices and we wont need term limits because voters will have a better chance to "vote the bums out."

Marie,

Your criticism of someone running for local office is pretty amazing. At least Gibson put in the effort and garnered almost 2,000 votes with virtually zero name recognition, no local political involvement or experience, and a relatively low profile campaign. Would you have expected the Chamber to endorse a political newcomer?

It's true that Brian Lee Rencher, whom you dismiss as a gadfly, got more votes than Gibson, but then again the guy's been involved in Ventura City politics for how long now? How many times has he run for Council? Maybe a slight name recognition advantage, perhaps? I think you give him short shrift as a candidate too. As wild as he can be sometimes, the guy knows his stuff.

Let us all know when you decide to run for Council, Marie. We'll see if you can muster 2,000 votes.

Laura, you wrote a well thought out piece, then ended it with calling the Rep. candidate a "goon". As I was reading it, I was getting depressed that you had sold out. Then, low and behold, the end arrived and you still had the spirit. Go get 'em girl! Happy Thanksgiving. See you at the pier in the morning for a couple of hours on the waves before we pork out.

Spare me the mock indignation. After the stuff Team Gibson (Mongo et al) have pulled on this blog, if that's the worst thing I say, you are getting off easy. Because I was working for a nice lady, and I post under my own name, I spent a lot of time before the council election pulling my punches. I don't have to do that now.

I just pointed out the facts. A political newcomer who pulls in eighth in a city council race is aiming mighty high to all of a sudden jump into a State Senate race.

I have no plans to run for office now or any time in the future. I prefer grassroots activism and have done this for 25-plus years with many organizations. You can get more done that way. Give it a try.

One of the main problems with political terminology is that many people use it without really understanding what it means. Case in point, "Neocon." What is a neocon? We've had this discussion on here before.

Republican and Democrat are party affiliations. Conservative and Liberal are philosophical labels. Not all Republicans are Conservatives, just as not all Democrats are Liberals.

I would use Leftist to refer to anyone left of center, I don't think it's reserved for just the extreme elements. Note, of course, that while there are some general characteristics of this left-right divide that are more or less universal, the labels do not transfer well to different countries. In Europe, for example, when talking about economics, a Liberal is someone who is in favor of the free market and opposed to protectionism. In the US, it is the exact opposite.

So your true colors come out, eh Marie? You're sounding just like Laura Winchester now (a goon for the Dem's).

Let me point out a little fact for you. The only reason you work for candidates and do so-called "grassroots activism" is that you couldn't muster 20 votes if you ran for dog catcher.

Instead of lobbing molotov cocktails on a blog, why don't you say something constructive and useful for a change? I can only guess why - because you have nothing good to say. Spare me your lectures, my lady. You are nothing in this town - just some pretender on a blog!!!

My write in for a superior Republican choice over the crook Strickland is Supervisor Linda Parks...........GO LINDA!

Darling Charles, I've never been a fan of Marie, but she has always been pretty accurate. You, on the other hand, are a certified jerk. The guy comes in last and he is praised? Bully! He did a lousy job and the voters thought nothing good of him. To attack Marie for being a grassroots activist is unfounded. Many times it is the egotistical loud mouths who run for office and the quiet,far smarter, supporters who faithfully keep the torch alive for the issues. You, my friend, are a first class jerk.

YES! Go Linda Parks. Give the majority of Republicans a choice in the 19th primary. Linda will make an excellent choice over the weirdo.

Surf's up Linda. See you Friday at the beach.

You're right, I'm a nobody. I wouldn't even begin to think I could run for an office. At least I have enough sense to realize that.

But I'm a mom and an employee and raise lots of money for charities and sit on a city commission. And I'm awfully opinionated. That qualifies me for a blog, don't you think?

Look, I know you're sad about the election. You didn't win. Big deal. Try again. But MOVE ON, OK? And post under your own name.

And, hey! I like Laura. The one good thing that's come out of this blog is that I've gotten to know her a bit and she's pretty smart and savvy. And really funny.

Marie and I may disagree on candidates but she is a class act on this blog. That is more than can be said for you Chuck. Spare US your lectures please.

You know, I find this reaction really funny, and it happens all the time on this blog. Someone makes a provoking, antagonistic comment and someone responds in kind and then, all of a sudden, everyone comes out of the woodwork to defend the person who made the initial rude comment, with no regard for what was said intially. And, I know I'm gonna catch hell for this, but usually it involves a woman.

I actually like Marie too. Her and I have had some spirited exchanges in the past, no doubt, but I respect her opinions and I think she can stand up for herself just fine, thank you, without everyone running to her defense right away. I think she knows if you can't stand the heat you shouldn't be in the kitchen.

Regarding Mike Gibson though, who I consider a friend, he has taken a ton of heat on this blog (most of it undeserved) and hasn't responded once. He is not bitter or sad at all about losing the election. I think he's moved on just fine. Some of his supporters, including me at times, have gone over the top on a few occasions and I think Charlie has a bit here as well.

But, I would suggest we all take a breath, grab a turkey leg, and enjoy the holiday a little. That's all I would ask......

It is disingenous to imply that somehow issues such as abortion rights, or gay rights, are not issues a state legislator would have to deal with; nothing could be further from the truth. What if the BUSH COURT kicks the abortion issue back to the States? Where will Dantona be? We know where HBJ is.

A gay marriage bill has been introduced for the past few years but ARNOLD has refused to sign it. Will Dantona vote for it? We know HBJ will, cause she has voted to support gay marriage in the past.

Very real issues, impacting very real people. What say you Mr. Dantona?

It is disingenuous to ask others to speak for a candidate on a blog site or expect ANY candidate to talk issues with individuals named Mongo Lamo, ROTFLMAO, and the Marlboro Man or zealots crying "gopher alert!"

It is both divisive, and ridiculously cliche, for both sides to use abortion and gay rights as wedge issues by which to say "HAH! GOTCHA!"

It IS realistic for others to talk about their own opinions on the issues and hope all the candidates are listening.

Guess you and HBJ will have to lose sleep over Dantona unknown opinions. As for the rest of us - we'll sleep just fine thank you.

"Former Republican" is correct though- Dantona is only one ever required to answer - but I guess that's what happens when you are the favorite.

Sorry Heather.

Good question. Where does Dantona stand on abortion and gay marriage? It is clear where TS and HBJ stand, but Dantona hasn't established a real position as far as I know. I'm getting the impression that Dantona defines being a "centrist" as not telling anyone where he stands.

Bubba,

Please see above...

Hey Moondoggie, Happy Thanksgiving to you too!

I've yet to agree with Marie about a candidate, but always find her to be articulate and fair minded. I like her.

As to the overly defensive Charles and the heaps of praise that he lavishes on Gibson, it does seem a bit over the top. The guy finished 8th out of 9 candidates, with just over 1,900 votes. A single digit percentage showing. With all the bravado thrown around here, and his supposed insight into the complexities of how government works, he evidently forgot that little part about getting people to mark their ballots for him.

Even I got 4,000 votes when I ran for Central Committee the first time. I was listed 6th out of 7 candidates on the ballot. There were two incumbents running, and I finished 3rd in the race. 5 seats were open. The incumbents finished 1st & 2nd. Most people don't have a clue what a Central Committee is and why it's on their ballot. I made phone calls, knocked on doors, spoke at clubs. Zero budget, campaign strategy 101.

My point is that it seems to me that with minimal effort, Gibson should have been able to finish at least in 6th, if not 5th. That would have been a good showing for the first time out of the box. 8th? Eh, not so hot.

Thank you for the nice comments Laura and all. Maybe I was a little nasty earlier, but after being the favorite punching bag for Team Gibson since July, it was bound to happen.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.

Bubba,

At the supervisor's forum Dantona said he was against gay marriage but for some benefits for gay employees and Foy said he would vote against county government employees getting or keeping benefits for domestic partners. At least that's what is sounds like. Sorry for the poor audio.

Is that really an issue you care about or a nice wedge issue?

Here is a link:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=Ek6gv3i9z7A

From a "zeolot", this is an official gopher alert. Definition: a gopher alert is a slur to Bubba who never offers anything new and stays underground until an opportunity arises to throw mud at Jim Dantona. This has been Bubba's primary purpose on this blog since its inception. Communication with Bubba serves no purpose. Bubba continues to spew the same rhetoric time and time again no matter what facts are presented. For this reason, and because I am an avid trapper of gophers on our farm, I decided to refer to Bubba as a gopher. They share many similarities and offer just about the same degree of value to our society. Therefore, gopher alerts were formulated, refined and gave birth. From that day forth, any posting my Bubba receives a gopher alert. These alerts serve a far greater benefit to society than any utterance that may come out of Bubba's oral cavity.

Happy Thanksgiving to all. Warmest Holiday greetings to Barb, the Dantona family and supporters, Laura dearest, Brian and all other human bloggers. Remember, eat a turkey, but trap or poison a gopher.

I didn't hear in that video that Dantona is against gay marriage. It was even brought up that they weren't talking about gay marriage, only benefits. So we can't conclude one way or another.

I haven't seen anything that indicates that Dantona has taken a position on gay marriage one way or the other. I'm not interested in creating wedge issues, and IMO gay marriage and abortion aren't critical issues in this election. The only thing I'm trying to point out is that voters know very little about Dantona on a wide variety of issues. By contrast, both TS and HBJ have clear positions on most issues that are well established.

That is why I keep challenging this claim by Dantona and his supporters that he is a "centrist". The fact is that voters don't know what he is because he hasn't staked out a position on many issues. What we do know for sure is that HBJ is very liberal and TS is very conservative. Dantona simply hasn't defined himself, and I have a hard time believing that he can win a high-profile race by dodging the issues. Even several of his supporters on this blog have acknowledged that the timing is not right for Dantona to reveal some of his views. So if that is the case then fine, but I think it is ridiculous to declare that he is a "bi-partisan centrist" when he he still hasn't clearly defined himself to the public.

Laura, you're totally comparing apples to oranges on a Central Committee seat vs. a City Council seat (different voter base, different district boundaries, difference in the number of candidates, different election cycle, etc.). For example, you weren't running against 8 other candidates with significantly higher name recognition. You were only running against the 2 incumbents for a Central Committee seat, which no one knows squat about anyway, and you still finished 6th (not something to be that proud of).

Laura wrote:

"I was LISTED 6th out of 7 candidates on the ballot. There were two incumbents running, and I FINISHED 3rd in the race. 5 seats were open. The incumbents finished 1st & 2nd."

Still, a Central Committee election vs. a City Council election - a whole different ball of wax (i.e., nobody cares).

In case it has escaped your attention, Chuck, this is a thread about Jim Dantona. The Ventura council race is over and your candidate lost. Hopefully none of us will have to hear about him again for two more years. Get on with your life, please. You're getting as bad as Carroll Dean Williams with your irrelevant postings.

I think Charles just made Laura's point for her. I looked up the two races on the county election division website. There were 26,000 votes cast in the Central Committee race where Laura got 4,000 votes. There were 46,000 votes cast in the Ventura City Council race, where Gibson got 1,900. If he is a candidate that is worthy of consideration for a Senate race, he should have been able to do better than that. In his sleep.

Again, the Central Committee is a non-election. Nobody knows about them and nobody cares about them. Laura Winchester just picked up votes along the way. It's not like she had all these 4,000 die-hard voters who were adamant about her getting elected to the Central Committee. Get real, would you! The City Council race is an election that people actually care about. Gibson garnered 2,000 votes from people that were passionate about seeing him elected - big difference!!!

If you're tired of seeing posts about Mike Gibson, then stop responding and keeping the banter going - duh!!!

Following through with that train of thought, 44,000 votes were cast that passionately believed Gibson was an idiot and voted for someone else.

And Carroll Dean Williams got 2,444 "passionate" votes in the school board race, 500 more than Gibson got for council.

Did the elections division receive 2,000 little handwritten notes with the ballots that had votes for Gibson, swearing their undying, passionate loyalty to him? Did Christy's voters submit 9,700 little notes with their ballots?

I saw the ballots and they all had those notes swearing their allegiance to "Mikey Baby", including his honey bunch, Jill Dominique. "He's so cute!!!"

Did you see where Dennert set up a separate thread for Gibson because of all the attention he was getting on this one? The guy seems to draw supporters wherever he goes, I guess.

Yeah, he eventually had to set up Carroll Dean with one, too, so all his supporters could post there.

Well you know what a very famous journalist once said - "Give the people what they want'" And that's all that can be accomplished in the civil, democratic system we live in, right folks?

Don't worry Bubba Kidd, I support gay marriage because I believe you should be able to marry anyone you want! Don't let your GOP politics get in the way of love Bubba, you should not have to sneak around like Larry Craig, be who you really are Bubba!

Not Steve, Bubba has no love. Bubba lives underground in a dirt tunnel and only comes out for brief moments under darkness. Bubba is a gopher. Trap and poison them. Don't try to reason with them.

CAP-812 clearly doesn't have the character or intellectual capacity to engage in a rational discussion of the issues. That is why he has to rely on his childish gopher alerts, cause he has nothing else. Which only proves that he is irrelevant.

CAP-812 is Leslie Cornejo. We all know this. Stop the charade, Leslie, please,,,

Nice try - CAP-812 is not me. Nor have I ever issued a gopher alert. Brian can confirm.
Don't stay up too late obsessing Marlboro Man.

haha Marlboro Man! You try to expose CAP-812 as Leslie Cornejo when you are Gibson and we all know it.

haha Marlboro Man? What 3-year-old posted this? Yeah, I'm Gibson, you're right. Got it. Yeah, good job, Sherlock......

So many pseudonyms, so little time.

Stop that now, please. You're making false accusations against my honey bunch!!!

The gopher raised its ugly head and slurred CAP-812? A slur from a gopher. It came out from its tunnel,uttered a few grunts, and went back underground. The gopher doesn't think I have anything to say? The gopher grunts this and that about Dantona, then heads back underground. Yet the gopher says I have nothing to say. Boy, do I consider the source. That said, get your traps and poisons. This is an official gopher alert. Hit it with a shovel if you can. But never waste any time conversing with a gopher.

And yes, Leslie Cornejo could indeed be me. I'd be proud to turn over my gopher alerts to her. I trust Leslie. I'd never trust a gopher.

See, CAP-812 just confirmed she's Leslie Cornejo. I was always under the impression that Mongo was Bubba though. Now, I'm really confused.

I for one do not like people calling Bubba a gopher as I believe he is a much lower life form than a gopher. I could live with him being called a maggot for example.

Pardon my ignorance, but I don't even know what CAp-812 means. I'll leave the gopher alerts to others.
I do believe that Darling Chuck and Marlboro Man are trying to kill this thread, however.

OK....Just for the record, I DO know who CAP-812 is and I guarantee it is NOT Leslie.....

I'm well aware that CAP-812 is one of Barbra's cronies on the Landfill Task Farce who has been a regular on this blog, but is now trying to be clever by masquerading under a different name.

Gopher alert. Grab your poison and traps. This is an official gopher alert. Gopher out from under rock. This is an official gopher alert.

At the request of Not Steve, maggot alerts will be implemented in the near future. According to a scientific study conducted by Not Steve, maggot more closely reflects upon BK's morphology.

Aha! So, the plot thickens. Leslie has been vindicated, but, alas, another culprit has been revealed. Where will this lead? Who will be next to be revealed? Is Gibson really Jill Dominique in drag? Stay tuned for another episode of - "Days of Our Blog".

Barb, are you sure you are not confusing CAP-811 with CAP-812?

Is this juvenile sniping typical for political blogs in Ventura County? Very disturbing. name-calling? personal attacks?

Yes it's true, Perplexed. We engage in all the extreme, uncivil, jackass-like behavior you sophisticated folk up there in Santa Barbara find abhorrent. Sorry, but perhaps this was your first visit to a blog.

Sincerely,

Perplexed No More

Dear Perplexed,
There are people here who like to talk about the issues. Often this blog is really informative and compelling. But there are a fair amount of troublemakers who engage in kindergarten behavior. If you hang in here, you have to learn to ignore the trolls, as Brian says.

Blogs and politics: No place for sissies.

Well said, Marie. No place for sissies, indeed. BTW, Marie is one of the few of us who like to engage in serious dialogue on this blog. What was this thread supposed to be about again? Oh yeah, Dantona for Senate.

Marie, I know you are leaning towards Hannah Beth Jackson, but do you seriously think she can overcome the Ventura County support Dantona is going to get in this election? I know she has some support in West Ventura County and in Santa Barbara County, but she is going to have to attract a lot of voters in Ventura County as a whole to pull this off. Should be an interesting race though.

There are quite a few of us who like to engage in serious dialogue. It is possible the invectives of late have scared them off. I don't scare easily. But I am also sick of the personal attacks and the gopher hunts.

I enjoy listening to Bubba's opinions, even though I don't always agree with him. I have found Owen's postings very interesting, too. We can all learn from others who have another point of view.

With that being said, it's fine to have fun. I am not above the occasional anonymous silly post. But I am never mean.

I support Hannah-Beth for the personal reasons I detailed earlier. I don't know enough about Dantona yet to form an educated opinion about him. I look forward to receiving additional "official" information.

It is unfortunate that this blog has become a waste-land for nameless people to launch ridiculous attacks on people who just like to voice their opinion that they have every right to voice.

It is one thing to argue on the issues, it is another to attack people because they voiced opinions. The gopher attacks are pretty old, pretty stupid and really just sound like children in a school yard.

I, personally, enjoy the fact that now when someone dissents from the group's opinion, it is referred to as "Heatherspeak"...thanks.

That said, now that I am not in any political seat or capacity at all, I can say that I support Hannah Beth Jackson and I think it is funny to see that people on this blog think that Dantona has more Ventura County support than her. Just because the no-names on this blog like to smear people who don't support Dantona doesn't mean there are no supporters of HBJ. The no-names on this blog even smear the people that haven't decided either! I was undecided and asked a few questions and got lambasted for it -- if Dantona condones that kind of behavior, he doesn't deserve the nomination.

Anyway, I have been contacted by AT LEAST fifteen Ventura County Jackson supporters in the last few weeks. And these are not little volunteers, either. Not that this is an overwhelming stat that proves HBJ has VC support, just saying, I think it is overgeneralizing it to say that because people on this blog favor Dantona means that he has widespread VC support.

Who supports who, on the inside, doesn't much matter anyway-- who does the general public support and who can put words and actions behind issues that are district-wide is what ultimately matters. That's who I'll support.

Ready, set, attack guys...

Hi Heather, glad to see you back on the blog. I've always liked your dissenting viewpoints. You and I have a lot in common in that regard. I think it would serve the Dems well if they were able to unite behind one candidate in the primary. I know some have said it is healthy to have a little competition in the race, but I think that competition will actually hurt whoever the Democrat candidate ends up being in the general election - against the Republican victor, either Gibson or Strickland.

OK, calm down, Marie, I'm just having a little fun with you now.

Heather were you really an undecided voter? You threw plenty of hardballs at Jim Dantona and you might as well play teeball for HBJ.

I have a feeling you never liked his campaign because you are sick of Simi Valley and our "issues" like the dump expansion and field lab clean up. You also had a feud with Laura Winchester who supports Dantona and worked with you on the central committee.

Just admit it already. You have always liked HBJ and didn't much care for Dantona's candidacy.

I do agree with you that HBJ has many supporters as she served her district well for 6 years in the assembly. Do you think she is too liberal to win Thousand Oaks and Simi Valley? These two cities are more than 25% of the district if I am doing my math correctly. I don't know the answer to that question but I am curious to your opinion.

Lastly for the Santa Barbra person offended at the Ventura County blog level of discourse I blame you for part of it. Gibson and his supporters are some of the biggest bomb throwers around and last time I heard he was a Santa Barbra transplant.

Does all of this constitute an attack? Have you ever attacked anyone?

I sympathize with the Santa Barbran. Didn't we all learn in kindergarten that just because people behave poorly on other blogs doesn't mean that we have to emulate them?

Owen, c'mon my man! Remember Ronald Reagan's Eleventh Commandment now - "Thou shalt not dis a fellow Republican." Besides, I have been nothing but outspoken and provocative on this blog. Sorry, I don't throw softballs.

Heather was open minded and just recently became a HBJ supporter? What a bunch of Heather jibberish. Total nonsense. Heather has turned off dedicated political volunteers in every organization she has ever been a part of. Even the trade unions told her to take a hike. If Heather gets active in HBJ's campaign, Dantona has the primary in the bag. The support of Heather is about as good as having Steve Frank on your team.

Get real close to Mongo, Heather, that's how we can assure Strickland a victory. No Dantona supporter has 'smeared' HBJ... they question her ability to win in the end. Very different, sorry you can't see that. Hope you 15 voters vote often to defeat the conservatives down in Reaganland.

Maybe getting Gibson to run against Strickland would be a good strategy. Divide and conquer, like the Republicans hope to do with HBJ & Dantona.

The California GOP is so broke they do not even have enough money to keep a $260,000 voter outreach program going. Looks like the VCRCC will be begging for bucks to give Strickland against Dantona. People are tired of the GOP and they have closed their wallets big time to them!

The way I see it, Dantona has better name recognition in the East County and HBJ has better name recognition in the West County. Neither candidate has a clear advantage in the area of name recognition since voters in the West County haven't heard of Dantona and vice-versa. It will be critical for both candidates to introduce themselves to voters in these opposite sides of the county.

I would say that HBJ has the advantage and disadvantage of having previously held public office. The advantage is that she has a proven track record of winning elections (something Dantona has yet to accomplish). The disadvantage is that the voting records of public officials can expose them to more scrutiny than a candidate who is not burdened by the same baggage.

HBJ is clearly liberal. You can debate whether that hurts or helps her, but my guess is that it's a little of both. Dantona campaigns as a "centrist", but he has no real history having never held public office, and, so far, he has been very evasive on his positions on many issues.

Naturally, Dantona will seek to portray himself as a moderate in order to avoid the "liberal" stigma that hurts democrats running for public office in conservative areas. Of course he will try to avoid being too specific in his positions in order to avoid appearing too conservative to his democrat base, or too liberal to republicans and undecided voters. The danger with this strategy will be that Dantona may come off as not really standing for anything. Plus it will be hard to get liberals excited about supporting him if he avoids clearly aligning himself on issues they feel are important.

HBJ will need to be careful about being tagged as too liberal. She will need to draw a clear distinction between herself and Dantona, playing up her progressive credentials. She will need to challenge Dantona's claim of being a moderate and force him to define himself more clearly. If Dantona remains evasive she can portray him as lukewarm, or even a closet republican. She also will need to emphasize her passion on critical issues that energize democrats, while portraying Dantona as lukewarm and lacking commitment. Her strength is in appealing to her base.

I predict a tough primary campaign that is currently too close to call.

Since that district has a large DTS (decline to state, no party affiliation) registration, the candidate coming out of the primary will need to attract that large swing vote in order to win the General Election in November. The DTS voters are largely male, college educated, pro-environment, pro-choice, libertarian-leaning (fiscal conservative, social moderate), against changes to term limits, want enforcement of the border and are pro Prop 13.

The way republican voter registration is dropping in Ventura County it is very likely that by next November democrats will hold the edge in voter registration in this race. I predict Dantona will beat Strickland 51% to 47%, despite Strickland receiving big donations from Indian Gaming, tobacco companies and big oil companies. The wave that will be crashing nationally over republicans in 08 will also crash here in VC!

DTS voters are traditionally uninterested in primary elections. This will remain true for the '08 Primary.

In '06 out of 68,000 registered DTS, 500 DTS voters voted in the Democrat primary. That kind of turn out won't even make a ripple.

East SD 19--few Dems, West SD 19--many Dems, HBJ crushes JD.

Republicans will not let DTS's even vote in the primary! Why, because they have a small tent that is getting smaller! DTS's can vote in the democratic primary and they will and they will vote for Dantona. The rethuglicans are going the way of the dinosaurs.

Predicting the outcome of a Dantona-Strickland campaign is premature since there is that whole primary thing that needs to happen first. I agree with Ron that DTS voters will be a non-factor in the primary, though they will certainly carry some weight in the general election. I would consider HBJ to be a formidable opponent in a democratic primary, though her biggest weakness will be a lack of name recognition in the East County. It would be a mistake for Dantona to look past the primary and assume that he will be the party nominee, especially against a political veteran like HBJ. We still have a long way to go. Plus there may be more people to throw their names into the race before it is all over.

Predicting the outcome of a Dantona-Strickland campaign is premature since there is that whole primary thing that needs to happen first. I agree with Ron that DTS voters will be a non-factor in the primary, though they will certainly carry some weight in the general election. I would consider HBJ to be a formidable opponent in a democratic primary, though her biggest weakness will be a lack of name recognition in the East County. It would be a mistake for Dantona to look past the primary and assume that he will be the party nominee, especially against a political veteran like HBJ. We still have a long way to go. Plus there may be more people to throw their names into the race before it is all over.

I seem to remember that Bubba thought Dantona would come in 3rd in the Supervisors race. LOL! Instead it took thousands and thousands of last minute dollars from the VCRCC to save Foy's floundering campaign. The only reason Foy won on the absentee is because they voted before they watched the debate between Foy and Dantona. People saw in that debate that Foy could not put two words together and Dantona was a man with vision. I don't think Strickland will be saved the way Foy was.

Finally, BK said something that makes sense. Agree with it or not, it is a first comment that wasn't a negative attack on something. It was such an aberration that he posted it twice. Congrats!

As Osborn's nemesis accurately stated, BK isn't usually correct in its prognosis, but it is refreshing to see that its spots have temporarily faded.

No gopher alert will be issued. This is an official announcement from the Ventura County Goper Alert Commission.

I did not predict that Dantona would finish third. That is an absurd statement since it was a two-man race. I did, however, predict a Foy victory, though the race was closer than I thought it would be. Then again, many Dantona supporters predicted a Dantona victory, even as he kept slipping during the excruciatingly long vote count. So what does all of that prove? Only that local races can be unpredictable.

And I attended the Foy-Dantona debate and Foy was quite articulate, contrary to the statements by Not Osborn. Based on his statement I doubt he was even there.

But this isn't about Dantona-Foy since that is, as they say, history. This is about Dantona-Jackson. Beating up on the ghost of Peter Foy will not help Dantona in the SD19 race.

My discussion on the DTS voter was in regards to the General Election. What the Dems do not see is that they are falling into the same trap that the Republicans step in nearly every election. They beat each other up in the primary and then the most partisan will winn, thus opening the race to the swing vote's influence. If HBJ and Dantona fight to prove who is the most Democratic in June, the winner ("most Democratic") will not be in a very good position to win over the DTS vote, which is the only chance they have at a win. Look again at the registration numbers, even with a low DTS turnout.

Remember, in the special election in 2003, over 70% of Senate District 19 voted for a Republican for governor - 52.3% for Arnold, and 18.5% for McClintock. The "most Democratic" will not win.

Since it appears that Not Osborn has no grasp of how state elections work, and although I hate to wise up a chump, DTS voters can indeed vote in State Republican Primaries, and 600 did in '06.

Not, you might want to check up on your facts next time, you don't want to look any more lame than you actually are.

Wow, Arnold really kicked the living crap out of McClintock in his own Disrict in 2003, great factoid Leslie! This really shows how when given a choice they will vote for the better candidate, that is why Dantona will win over slick Tony. Bubba said during the primaries that Dantona would finish 3rd, of course now he would like to re-write history. I was at the Foy Dantona debate and I thought Foy came off as a guy who could not put two words together. The race changed at that point and the VCRCC knew they would have to dump a boat load of last minute dollars to save Foy from himself and to save the seat for the Christian Coalition. For Foy to have won by so few votes was a huge embarassment for the GOP and a harbinger of things to come!!!!!

Ron if you are a DTS you cannot vote in the Republican primary for President. Pull your head out of Bubba's butt and breath the fresh air once in awhile.

Not Osborn is correct and Ron is wrong. In fact, Ron Paul is asking DTS and Dems to register as republicans for a day in order to vote for him in the primary because the California GOP did not change their rules about DTS voting in their primary, even though the national GOP allows states to choose, California GOP voted not to. I think Ron should really check his facts as he looks quite foolish and should apologize to Not Osborn.

Not and Citizen,

You two should both take a breath and try reading before you comment. We are talking about DTS voters in a State Primary remember? HBJ v. JD in SD 19.

DTS voters can vote in State races, both Dem and Rep.

If we were talking about Federal races (i.e. President) they cannot.

Now kids. Behave yourselves. If Bubba is civil, you can all be civil. After all, BK usually sets the low tone of the debates and it has raised the bar slightly of late.

No question Jackson can win a primary. Sad thought that she will get her butt kicked later since she can't raise any significant money and runs a rather dull campaign. Dantona, on the other hand, is a great campaigner and can represent the entire District and not just the beach viewers. One day Jackson may actually come to this end of the District. I'm sure it will be a very short stop on the train, then back up to Neverland. Perhaps Heather can be her escort.

Surf's up, Not Osborn. Hope to catch a few waves with you, my friend.

Because rethuglicans do not allow DTS's to vote in the primary for federal races most will choose to vote strictly dem and as I said they will vote Dantona. The Ca GOP had a chance to change this at their last convention but it was blocked by the far far right of their party because they know if you make the tent bigger that you will get more moderate republicans winning in the primary and that would hurt the Christian Coalition and the VCRCC, but it would actually help the GOP to start winning some races in California.

Bubba Kidd and Ron live in total denial of the reality around them. Of course if I were part of the most corrupt party in history I too would put my head in the sand and deny the obvious. My prediction is that Dantona beats Jackson 51% to 49% and he then beats Tony by at least 5% points.

Hey Moondoggie, What is you prediction on Dantona versus Tony the PUSSYcat Strickland? Also do you think Bubba sightings should be called gopher alerts or maggot alerts?

Not Osborn, I thought BK has been fairly nice of late so I halted gopher alerts on the last couple of posts. When BK is a total hate monger I suggest we go with maggot alerts. When it is its usual nasty self we should stick with gopher alerts. Sort of the way the government ranks huricanes or earthquakes. We are slowly developing a BK scale.

With respect to the Senate race, my bet is Strickland running for Gallegly's slot. If he doesn't, and he sticks with the 19th Senate seat, I think Dantona can pull it off. Stickland has so much dirt that he leaves an oil slick in his back yard swimming pool. All the dirt on Dantona has been brought out and thrown against the wall already. Besides that, voters will get behind Dantona by a wide majority from Ventura on North. At the east end of the District, it will be Strickland by a bit. That said, this young at heart surfer sees it too close to call, but a win for Dantona is in the cards when he goes against the wounded tiger.

Let's catch a few, Not Osborn. See you on a wave one morning soon.

The sad thing is that the State Republican Party has chosen to carry on like Democrats and cut back funding for local government (translation: county central committees). What ever happened to local control?! Isn't that a mainstay of the GOP platform? The only thing the state GOP can hope for in this election is to have an impact in local races. What they should have done is cut funding for
themselves and boost funding for the county central committees.

Kidda forced to from what I see of the Rep's income in California. Appears that the funds have dried up as many major donors aren't going along with the right wing any longer.

MATT, I agree, the Republican Party should be focusing its efforts on local races, which will, in effect, create a new talent pool to run for higher office. The VCRCC didn't do this is the recent Ventura City Council election, which is totally mystifying. Poor leadership, or what?

Just got back from the National Women's Political Caucus dinner. Hannah-Beth Jackson spoke and we voted to endorse her.

I really just needed to listen to her again. I don't believe she is in favor of raising taxes, either, and she pointed out that in the six years she was in the Assembly, state taxes went down. She has a very strong law enforcement record and lots of endorsements already.

Hannah-Beth said she will be doing quite a bit of campaigning in Simi. She asked me to share with you East End bloggers that she has always taken a strong interest in the Rocketdyne issue. She authored a bill, which was signed into law, on perchlorates. This should be of great interest to the activists on the Rocketdyne issue. I attach the link to that piece of legislation.

This was just one of more than 60 bills she authored that was signed into law.

I asked her if she could recall what Strickland got through beyond that Reagan license plate bill. (They were never made, by the way) She said there was also one pushed by Arthur Murray Dance Studios which deleted the statutory price cap on dance studio contracts. Impressive.

I know I won't be popular here with the Dantona fans. But I still believe I'm supporting the right candidate.

Surprise, surprise. Who would have guessed. And even an endorsement from an organization that is not permitted to endorse a male candidate. What a surprise from Marie.

Yeah, that is quite interesting, yet predictable, Marie. Didn't HBJ have something to do with an anti-pesticide bill because your daughter got sprayed accidentally?

The NWPC endorsement was obviously not the major point I was trying to make. I just threw that in there.

The point was there were some questions I had for her and she answered them to my satisfaction. I also got some answers for the bloggers here.

She said quite a bit more than I've shared here and any doubts I had about her viability in this race were put to rest.

We'll have to agree to disagree on this one and move on, CAP-812.

Yes, Mongo, I've articulated my position on the pesticide issue several times. But it wasn't just my daughter, dear. It was an entire elementary school. After testing the school, they found it all over the campus, even on the desks inside. This particular chemical had been banned for use in homes by the EPA because of its toxic effects on children!

I am absolutely grateful to HBJ for passing legislation to keep something like this from happening again.

If I ever get a shiny new Reagan license plate, I'll be sure to thank Tony, too.

HBJ asked you to convey to east end bloggers? How nice. That goes right along with the comments she's made recently about Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, Moorpark and Camarillo. Looking down her nose "Why should I waste my time and go THERE, they'll never vote for me anyway". Typical arrogant, elitist, Santa Barbara bullshit. She's shown absolutely no respect for, or interest in the Democratic leaders and the communities they represent. She says to the few people she has talked to "I need you to bring me Simi Valley" or "I need you to bring me Thousand Oaks". Bring it to her? Get off your ass and get down here and ASK for it, WORK for it, BEG for it. She's lost a LOT of potential support. These people are solidly Dantona now. She blew it. And her attitude towards them will guarantee that even if she wins the primary, they'll sit on their hands and watch Strickland walk away with it. Good job at splitting the party HBJ. This is the same attitude she carried up to Sacramento too, which is why she was drawn out of a district and is still despised up there. Selectively showing numbers from polls, without the painting the whole picture, or the fact that hers was a push poll, isn't fooling anyone but herself. Good luck lady, you're going to need it.

By my count, HBJ has Marie, Heather and the 15 people interviewed by Heather who apparently believe the no taxes, lower taxes fabrication and are impressed that a group dedicated to endorsing a woman - endorsed the only woman running. 17 and growing...could give Dennis Kucinich a scare with those numbers. Maybe she should be campaigning in Iowa?

HBJ's best quote is "higher taxes are the backbone of good government". This woman is so far to the left she makes the old Soviet Union look like apple pie and ice cream. Dantona has my vote for sure, but if he is out, I'm going to Strickland over this nut any day of the week.

Nice try, folks. I haven't seen Dantona out here, either. Does that mean he hasn't been or doesn't plan to? Of course not. I know next to nothing about him. It's still really early. I'm willing to give your guy some time to get his message out. You should give me the same courtesy. We obviously have different allegiances based on personal knowledge and geographical separation.

I asked HBJ some questions the bloggers here had and she was kind enough to answer them for me. I also asked some questions of my own.

CAP-812, I've never seen that quote you threw out. Can you reference it for me?

"Supports...": Are you honestly asserting that the sum total of HBJ's support is the few tidbits a couple of bloggers have thrown out? That's a pretty weak argument. I've got her endorsement list sitting here and it includes Lois Capps, Sheila Kuehl, Julia Brownley, Steve Bennett, Chuck Weis, John Flynn, Salud Carbajal, Janet Wolf, plus the majority of the city councils of Santa Barbara, Goleta and Ventura and school board members from Ventura, Ojai and Santa Barbara, police chiefs, etc. The list will grow.

Sorry Marie, but HBJ cannot win this one, she is just too liberal and not the right fit for this Senate seat. She should really get out of the race and maybe think about running for Mayor of Santa Barbara or something like that. We need Dantona becuase he can whip Tony the Slimebag Strickland in November and that would be for the greater good.

In this thread you have Dantona supporters who complain about attacks against their candidate:

“State your positives if you'd like about your candidate without attacking Jim. I have known Jim for over 30 years and he has done a great deal for alot for working class people, seniors and kids. I live in Santa Barbara and have first hand knowledge of what I say. “
Posted by: Former Santa Barbara Elected at November 18, 2007 01:15 AM

----------------------------------------------------------------
They even claim that Dantona and his supporters have not attacked Jackson:

“No Dantona supporter has 'smeared' HBJ�
Posted by: Ms. Independence at November 25, 2007 08:50 PM

-----------------------------------------------------------------
But the truth is that they have viciously attacked Jackson in the same way that they attack anybody who doesn't support Dantona:

“Jackson was born with a silver spoon and does not see herself as part of society outside of Montecito. She parties with the rich and has never been a candidate who has a close bond with the working stiff… The problem has always been that her convictions are what she can see from her hilltop home down the block from Oprah. One has to wonder if the woman has ever been through Moorpark or Simi Valley? She views this end of the 19th District as 200,000 day laborers.�
Posted by: CAP-812 at November 17, 2007 03:12 PM

“Taxin Jackson has never come to Simi Valley. She thinks of us as nothing but dirt beneath her Santa Barbara liberal feet. “
Posted by: simi voter at November 17, 2007 10:00 PM

“Looking down her nose… Typical arrogant, elitist, Santa Barbara bullshit. She's shown absolutely no respect for, or interest in the Democratic leaders and the communities they represent.�
Posted by: HBJ needs a reality check at November 28, 2007 01:22 AM

“This woman is so far to the left she makes the old Soviet Union look like apple pie and ice cream. “
Posted by: CAP-812 at November 28, 2007 07:35 AM

“One day Jackson may actually come to this end of the District. I'm sure it will be a very short stop on the train, then back up to Neverland.�
Posted by: Moondoggie at November 26, 2007 02:59 PM

“Strickland appears incredibly unethical and Jackson seems like just another career politician.�
Posted by: Citizen at November 16, 2007 08:31 AM
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Why is it that so many Dantona supporters seem unable or unwilling to engage in a real discussion of the issues, but instead repeatedly resort to gutter attacks against others, including other democrats? I don't see the Jackson supporters on this blog making cheap attacks against Dantona, they are simply speaking out in favor of their candidate.

Bubba, like all Strickland supporters, wants HBJ to win because it'll be easier to run against her in November. Bubba pretends he hasn't decided who he supports, just to help Tony on the blogs.

MAGGOT ALERT, Moondoggie I am calling this one on BK as a MAGGOT ALERT! Like a maggot he lives in the garbage eating the trash until he becomes a housefly waiting to be swatted! So tell us Bubba, do you find it democratic that your buddy Strickland has cut deals with people so that they will not run in the republican primary? Unlike gutless rethuglicans, dems are willing to fight it out in a primary and give the voters options, unlike rethuglicans who operate like the old U.S.S.R. in only offering one candidate! Elton Gallegly was a great case in point, when Tennenbaum refused to drop out he was savagely attacked by people like you and the Osborn goons threw out poor Leslie Cornejo! Now get back in the trash can and finish your lunch!

You haven't answered the questions. Why is it that Dantona supporters complain about attacks against their candidates while they are by far the worst offenders when it comes to attacking others? Why do Dantona supporters find it necessary to make gutter attacks against others instead of simply speaking in favor of their candidate? Is it really that hard to come up with good things to say about Dantona?

I certainly don't see HBJ supporters behaving this way. IMO a candidate has to be judged in part based on the company they keep, and in Dantona's case that is not a good thing. The Dantona smear machine knows no bounds and attacks anyone who gets in their way, whether liberal, conservative, or independent. The attacks against Jackson and her supporters on this blog only prove my point.

Good call "not voter". This post indeed demands a Maggot Alert! Nothing new said, just the same old grunts.

This is an official Maggot Alert. Maggot out from rotten garbage at dump. Grab your maggot spray. This is an official Maggot Alert!

You won't catch me making one derogatory statement about Dantona. But if I were inclined to do so, it would be rather hard as I can't find out much about him. I've read a few articles. I've listened to other bloggers and a Dantona supporter friend. But I can't find anything official on his website or anywhere else. The endorsement section is under construction. There is no "issues" section at all. Where else can I go?

I realize it's still early. But you've criticized HBJ for not yet spreading the word out on the East End. At least she has a website with reams of position statements, like them or not.

The silly "alerts" are making me feel some sympathy for our Republican Bubba. This is perhaps not the best way to bring authenticity to your claims of the superior candidate.

I believe if I were Jim Dantona I would tell you people to quit blogging on my behalf.

"Not voter", please establish a another level of our rating system to cover "fly". I'm not sure which comes first, the fly or the maggot. I suggest "fly" be above "gopher" and "maggot" above "fly". This will put us on a three point scale. This is how accurate scales are advanced. It worked for earthquakes and hurricanes. It will serve society well as we further develop the BK grunt scale. Thanks for all the help, partner. Welcome aboard.

Hey - someone earlier posted something about "poor Leslie."
I'm doing speaker appearances, a weekly political radio spot and have been elected to a couple boards - all since the VCRCC decided (in their infinite wisdom) they didn't need a bilingual businesswoman as their spokesperson. No pity parties for me!

Geez, Leslie, nothing like a little self-promotion, huh? I told your mother you were getting too big for your britches girl and here's more proof of it!

Cut the crap boys and girls and let's talk.

To my knowledge, HBJ has had no website and her legislative record contradicts Marie's current statements (on her behalf) on taxes. Dantona ran a campaign here in East County so east county voters (including Bubba) are familiar with where he stands on local issues and larger county-wide issues like SSFL and WM - despite rhetoric suggesting otherwise.

Despite HBJ supporters feelings to the contrary, she is known (in East VC) only by a small group of insiders on both sides of the aisle. Just as Dantona's exposure north of VC is minimal. They both have tasks to accomplish in defining their stance to the voters (not the angry bloggers) AS THE CAMPAIGN PROGRESSES, since neither HBJ, JD or Tony the Tiger have defined ANY State issues at this early date. If you target one folks, you must target them all. Anything to the contrary is "disingenuous," as a few of you are fond of saying.

I too am tired of gopher and maggot alerts. I am sick of the accusations that one candidate's supporters are meaner than another. That is also "disingenuous." I've seen immature provocative behavior from both HBJ (can you say Heather?) and JD (CAP812) and I have seen very personal attacks on Dantona - and even his family members - dating back to the Supervisors race.

This is the reason many of us stay away from blogs. They should be an area for democratic discourse, not anonymous flaming - but everything from "My Space" to "Brain Dennert Here" has become a haven and breeding ground for angry flamers. That is why so many of us stay anonymous or stay silent while the "I know you are but what am I" crowd has their way.

HBJ and Dantona bloggers better make nice and neither of them should mistake Strickland supporters as allies. That is not "disingenuous," just stupid. You want to win? Fight Strickland! You wanna lose, keep sending the kids out here to fight.

This is the reason there are many of us out here, who are generally aware of all candidates, support no one...yet.

The maggot alerts will not stop until BubbaK explains why republicans like Tony Strickland cut deals with potential candidates to not run! By doing that it makes republican primaries resemble elections in the old U.S.S.R. Ronald Reagan toppled the U.S.S.R. and now Bubba and Osborn are bringing back the one candidate policies of the U.S.S.R. and dishonoring Ronald Reagan. Why do they hate Reagan?! Leslie, I was only pointing out how Bubba and Osborn visciously attacked Tennenbaum and yourself because you were trying to bring democracy to republicans in VC and how you were trying to honor the memory of Reagan against the attacks of Osborn and Bubba. Gopher level 1, Fly level 2, Maggot level 3, Dick Cheney love child level 4.

To: Let's - all get real:
You are a breath of fresh air.

P. S. My uncles don't blog, but I am lucky to have a husband who keeps me grounded!

What's the unknown "Let's all get real please"? Strickland's policies, voting record, financing games and consulting are all well known. Jackson's far left liberal views, causes, legislation and Party alienation are all well known. Dantona's entire life has been an open book. His clients, charities, his pro-labor stance and his political views have all be published and reported on. All that is left is the politics. YOu want to sanitize it, to bias it toward your candidate, to make it sweet and peachy and fun to chit-chat? What planet are you from. You sound like Rodney King. Strickland, Jackson and Dantona are all tough as nails. We don't have a lightweight in the group. If you don't like gopher or maggot alerts, play somewhere else or just skip over them and get on with your chatter. Otherwise, stuff it! I for one enjoy reading the dribble as well as the ALERTS. Keep it coming.

not voter-
You are quite right. I believe that many people do not participate in politics because they feel they have no control over the process anymore - parties run by candidates rather than the members, districts gerrymandered to guarantee safe districts, unwritten "law" about not challenging incumbents - we are feeling less and less like a democracy.
Small case in point - did you see how Sen. Trent Lott promised to consult with Bush about his successor? I found that offensive. How about consulting with the people?!

Way to go DumpKnowledge! You will notice that BubbaK, like all rethuglicans (not to be confused with RINO'S who are real republicans) can never defend his candidate, he can only attack the other guy or gal and when attacked he cries like a little baby! boohoo.

Leslie, that's been the way of politics in America for over 225 years. The difference now is that the little guys have a few more tools to challenge the glorified marketing firms that are the Dems & Repubs.

gs-
Not so naive as to think it hasn't been this way - even George Washington warned about the dangers of special interests and control mongers to the new government in his farewell address. For Lott to have said it confirms that's the way things have been done for a long time. I'm sure he would be surprised if he knew people questioned his approach to democracy.

Lott, now there is a true leader. One of the great racists of the Senate. He played the game right to the end. Get a new Rep. appointed by the Governor who couldn't have gotten elected dog catcher. Leaves office the last day before the new law that would have precluded him from lobbying for two years instead of one. Lott is the ultimate player. Too bad he is playing in our game room. I'm sure he could have been a great appointed leader in Iraq. A lot better than the jerk we put in office this time around.

Funny how all the Dantona goons get so worked up and concerned about one little blogger. I guess they can't handle the truth and are frightened at the idea of people openly and freely expressing their opinions and ideas. If they had any real confidence in their candidate then they wouldn't have to rely on cheap attacks and insults against anyone who doesn't join their little cult.

It's true that Hannah-Beth doesn't have a "campaign" website up now, but she's president of Speak Out California and it's her vision. I think you can get an accurate feeling for her positions on many issues from browsing that for awhile.

I like to hear THOUGHTFUL opposing views on this blog. I learn from them. (Even Mongo can be thoughtful when he wants to be) It's beneficial to go outside your box once in awhile. But I was trained as a journalist in listening to all sides of a story.

Let's not let the flamers take over. Time Magazine had an article on blogging recently in which they said, "The masked ball has become a hooded mob." I hope not.

This is an official maggot alert. Grab your poisons. Maggots are out. This is an official alert from the BK Vector Control Center.

Same old maggot grunts. Absolutely nothing new.

What about the Republican side for a moment? Is there anyone out there that would possibly challenge Tony the Tiger? There's got to be some viable, more moderate Republicans out there. This can't be our only choice.

I think it is becoming apparent to everyone that Dantona isn't capable of campaigning on the issues because Jim Dantona is a fraud and an empty suit. Team Dantona keeps making excuses for the failure of their candidate to take a clear stand on numerous issues. This claim that Dantona will come clean on where he stands "as the campaign progresses" is a complete farce. Dantona already ran for County Supervisor and dodged the issues for the entire campaign. How is it that after already running for public office nobody seems to be able to say where Dantona stands on numerous important issues?

Dantona is masquerading as a "centrist", but the way he operates is to send out his goon squad to initiate smear campaigns against all who oppose him. Witness the smear job done against Judy Mikels, Peter Foy, Tony Strickland, and now Hannah Beth Jackson. Nobody is immune, whether democrat, republican, independent, or even bloggers asking simple questions. They will go after anybody who doesn't accept their propaganda at face value and join their little cult.

Don't forget that it was supporters of Jim Dantona that received the first ever fine from the Ventura County Campaign Finance Ethics Commission for ethics violations. That is a fact.

Bubba you are such a cry baby and loser! You make me laugh with all your stupid little comments! So, Dantona has sent out all these bloggers? What a stupid thing to say! Just because you blog on a topic doesn't mean you know the person beyond reading articles, seeing a debate, etc. In terms of Tony Strickland no one needs to do a smear job on him, he has done that to himself with all of his unethical behavior, Foy smeared himself by losing the debate to Dantona and proving he could not put two words together which is why he lost on election day and had to be saved by absentee ballots from people who voted before the debate! Now if you want to act like a big boy (or girl as the case may be) quit attacking Dantona and start telling us why you are supporting Strickland given all his unethical behavior. In terms of a "cult", the only "cult" in VC is you and your friends on the VCRCC.

I'd elevate that alert to a high level Fly Alert. One maggot hatched. BK speaks of an empty suit? The fly eats garbage, lays eggs, hatches maggots and grunts about hating Dantona. Grab your insecticide. This is an official high level Fly alert.

BK quotes your own words, and your only response is to call him a maggot. That pretty much sums it all up right there.

I tried to give it some time, see what develops, but seriously, the Dantona supporters pretty much do nothing but attack other people. They don't talk about why their candidate is good for the role, other than that he's a "centrist." They don't talk about the issues, just spew hatred at others.

"I know you are but what am I?" Sorry to see Owen stoop to this level. You all spew hate for all the people you claim to support. Don't kid yourself. You all sound like adolescent punks hiding behind your keyboards. Enjoy your playground fight and the Democratic loss that results from it.

What about Mike Gibson for Senate. I think he'd be a reasonable alternative to Strickland. Not sure if he'd get the VCRCC support though. What say you, Bubba Blimp?

No attack Owen, just lack of interest in hearing nonfactual Dantona bashing for nearly two years by this individual. I call Peter Foy a friend, I respect Hannah-Beth Jackson, I don't believe in the dogma that Strickland spews and I like Dantona as a kind individual who would be an attribute to State government. But I have no respect for a hate monger like BK and support gopher alerts as a sign of that lack of respect. Don't take a gopher alert as an attack, young man. A gopher alert is simply a way of showing a total lack of respect to a hate monger who has been on Dantona's behind for more than a decade.

Jinsing, the best candidate to run against Strickland is Mike Bradbury from Ojai. Now that would be a campaign. Strickland would go down in flames.

Owen let me ask you a serious question. How do you and Bubba breath when you have each others heads stuck up your butts? Are you wearing scuba gear or something? I've yet to hear either of you two hatemongers say anything positive about Strickland or heard you defend his unethical behavior. Word of advice, pull your heads out and breath in the air............ :)

Thanks once again for proving my point. Owen made a single post stating his opinion that Dantona supporters seem to be attacking others instead of explaining why their candidate is the best person for the job. He didn't say anything good or bad about Dantona himself.

In response he is labelled by the Dantona gang as a "hatemonger" and told that he has his head up his butt.

Very nice. I guess that says it all about Team Dantona.

Grab your poison and traps. Gopher is out from under a rock venting his usual nothing about Dantona. This is an official gopher alert. Grab your poison and traps.

When is Team Dantona going to learn that it is not me that is your enemy, it is you who incriminate yourselves. Every nasty, mean-spirited post you make further erodes the credibility of your candidate. I’m just a facilitator.

Case in point, Heather Schmidt, a fellow democrat, made two innocuous posts early in this thread discussing the LNG issue:

“What candidate has spoken out in regards to the LNG situation off the coasts of Oxnard and Santa Barbara...that would directly affect a huge portion, if not the entire, district?�
Posted by: Heather Schmidt at November 16, 2007 02:24 PM

“I agree that Rocketdyne and landfill is important to discuss, but I have never heard anyone outside of Simi Valley say that is THEIR ISSUE, if that makes sense. LNG is a pretty predominant issue and not just for the environmentalist or enviro-aesthetics...the Lands Commissions hearings in March brought THOUSANDS of local CITIZENS (not activists) who were concerned with their lives. Perhaps it is environmental for the Sierra Club, but the issue is framed as an issue of health and public safety.�
Posted by: Heather Schmidt at November 16, 2007 03:25 PM

------------------------------------------------------------------

These are the responses that Heather received from Team Dantona to the posts above:

“…you truly are out of touch and care little for important environmenmental issues as you claim.�
Posted by: Not Sheila Kuehl at November 16, 2007 03:27 PM

“Heather is the big expert on the issues in the district. Isn't there some big Democrat meeting this weekend that you should be at protesting to save the whales?�
Posted by: poor heather at November 16, 2007 08:15 PM

“Wah Wah....Poor Heather, she sets herself up so well for these beat downs, doesn't she? I think she may be out there bravely fighting global warming in Ventura, like the lame Mayor, or perhaps hugging a tree, like Christy Weird.�
Posted by: Wah Wah at November 16, 2007 09:46 PM

“Heather, One question: does the callous, parochial and/or empty-headed position you stated here regarding SSFL as it impacts the lives of people living in the south end of the senatorial district represent the position of your candidate (Jackson) or is it strictly your own point of view?�
Posted by: Mr. Thwackum at November 17, 2007 11:41 AM

“Heather's unawareness and insensitivity to the fears we "locals" have lived with for decades, is the issue that should be critiqued here. However, if this is the best Jackson has to offer to lead her campaign, then she suffers by association.�
Posted by: Not Sheila Kuehl at November 17, 2007 06:47 PM

“Your attacks on Jim Dantona only fuel the fire of the Republicans who at this time are agreeing with you but after the primary will be attacking you and HBJ if she is the nominee. “
Posted by: Former Santa Barbara Elected at November 18, 2007 01:15 AM

“Hey -I've got nothing against HBJ (except that she cannot win) or Marie (whose opinions are expressed considerably better than spoiled child-politico Heather).�
Posted by: ROTFLMAO at November 18, 2007 08:40 PM

“Heather were you really an undecided voter? You threw plenty of hardballs at Jim Dantona and you might as well play teeball for HBJ… I have a feeling you never liked his campaign because you are sick of Simi Valley and our "issues" like the dump expansion and field lab clean up. You also had a feud with Laura Winchester who supports Dantona and worked with you on the central committee. “
Posted by: No Name at November 25, 2007 04:48 PM

“Heather was open minded and just recently became a HBJ supporter? What a bunch of Heather jibberish. Total nonsense. Heather has turned off dedicated political volunteers in every organization she has ever been a part of. Even the trade unions told her to take a hike. If Heather gets active in HBJ's campaign, Dantona has the primary in the bag. The support of Heather is about as good as having Steve Frank on your team.�
Posted by: Dumpknowledge at November 25, 2007 06:34 PM

“ One day Jackson may actually come to this end of the District. I'm sure it will be a very short stop on the train, then back up to Neverland. Perhaps Heather can be her escort.�
Posted by: Moondoggie at November 26, 2007 02:59 PM

-----------------------------------------------------------------

There was nothing in Heather’s above posts that could even remotely be considered an attack against Dantona, but because it is known that she is a Hannah Beth Jackson supporter she is given the usual smear treatment by Team Dantona.

This is not just an issue about a couple of rougue bloggers, since many of the regulars on this blog have been actively involved in Dantona’s campaign. Dantona’s campaign for County Supervisor relied primariliy on slimy campaign tactics that are really not that different than what we read here on this blog. Don’t forget that it was a group of Jim Dantona supporters who were fined by the Ventura County Campaign Finance Ethics Commission for campaign ethics violations involving a smear ad directed at Judy Mikels.

You can judge a lot about a person by the company they keep. The posts here by the friends of Jim Dantona say it all.

Okay let's get out our tissues for BubbaK as he is crying again, boohoo. Now let's talk about Strickland. Tony Strickland wrote a letter to the Star saying he supports Mitt Romney. Last night in the debate we found out that Mitt had hired illegal immigrants and basically runs and illegal immigrant refuge at his mansion. Strickland claims to be anti-illegal immigrant but here he is supporting Romney who hired illegals and is encouraging illegal immigration to this country. Why does your boy Strickland now support illegal immigration Bubba? The voters want to know!

Actually, Bubba - you were labeled as the hate monger, not Owen.

You all have more fun with the bashing going on from all 3 camps no matter how much you claim not to.

THIS POST SAID IT ALL BUT WAS VIRTUALLY IGNORED...

It's amazing how Heather attacks Jim Dantona on only caring about Simi Valley issues. Nothing could be further, from the truth Dantona has supported clean up of the SSFL for years an issue which affects Ventura County, Los Angeles County and Thousands of people for many years to come. Heather seems to think that issue is only a Simi Valley issue, sorry Heather you're very wrong. As far as Waste Management Dantona is opposing tripling the size of the landfill and the back room deal that was making it possible. Without Dantona Waste would have skipped through the process unchecked. That issue is very important to everyone who cares about our enviroment and the back room politics that we have to stop. Also if you check Dantona's past Heather you will find he fought the Oil Companies from any off shore oil drilling long before it was part of SD 19, he worked with then Senators Omar Reins and Gary Hart in an effort to stop Oil Companies from any more drilling off the Santa Barbara Cost. He also stopped developers during that same time period from building on the Santa Barbara Coast and even helped stop the Fess Parker Doubletree (Than Red Lyons) from building a much larger and 4 story hotel on Cabrillo blvd. In addition he has supported the efforts of Richard Francis and SOAR to stop uncontrolled development throughout all of Ventura County and opposed developments in the cities of Ventura and Oxnard just to name a few.

You might also do some research to find out Jim Dantona was a teacher for many years and has worked to try and make public schools better thoughout the state. He has been a big supporter of teachers and believes they deserve more support, since they are working with our children.

Jim Dantona also was the first public appointee to the Ventura County Transportation Committee by a Unanmious vote of the Ventura County Board of Supervisors.

Jim Dantona has over 30 years of working for all the people of California and that includes all who reside in SD 19. So don't be so quick to criticize him on the issues. I can assure you he has not said anything negative about your candidate HBJ. Your attacks on Jim Dantona only fuel the fire of the Republicans who at this time are agreeing with you but after the primary will be attacking you and HBJ if she is the nominee.

Jim Dantona who has always loved baseball and kids founded a non profit organization with his own money that has worked with thousands of kids to keep them off drugs, out of gangs and in school. He has held clinics across the United States with Major and Minor League Baseball, and for the record clinics for kids in Santa Barbara and every city in Ventura County.

In closing I think you and all who are critizing Jim Dantona know little about all his past accomplishments and work for the people of California. State your positives if you'd like about your candidate without attacking Jim. I have known Jim for over 30 years and he has done a great deal for alot for working class people, seniors and kids. I live in Santa Barbara and have first hand knowledge of what I say.

Thanks and lets remember Tony Stickland is the man we need to go after.

Posted by: Former Santa Barbara Elected at November 18, 2007 01:15 AM

Former Santa Barbra Elected was a great man when he served in Sacto. He was loved my nearly everyone who ever came in contact with him. His words of support to his friend Dantona ring so true. Strickland will indeed be an easy target.

At this point in time toying with BK is mere sport. Speaking of which, this is a maggot alert. Grab your poisons. A maggot has surfaced from the garbage heap. This is an official maggot alert from the Vector Control Division.

I don't answer for Tony Strickland and I have repeatedly stated that I support Tom McClintock. Furthermore, if you scroll up and look at the heading of this thread it reads, "Jim Dantona on the issues". We're all on to Team Dantona's game of dodging the issues and smearing the other guy, so your tactic of shifting the conversation to Tony Strickland simply won't work.

It is telling that not a single Dantona supporter (except for Former Republican now Proudly Independent ) can seem to articulate an intelligent, rational argument why we should support Dantona without relying on attacks against his opponents or going off into un-related tangents.

BK, aka maggot per recent alert, always refers to proDantona bloggers as Dantona supporters and Team Dantona. Apparently, according to BK, Dantona has some pretty loyal friends. One has to wonder if BK has any friends or supporters. Perhaps the lonely underground life just doesn't foster long term friendships.

Good point, Fresh Air. BK tried to lump itself with Owen to no avail. Owen is a dedicated Republican who is working hard for the candidate of his choice. Agree with him or not, this young man is making us all proud. Owen was never referred to as a hate monger. To do so would be cruel and unfounded. BK, on the other hand, harbors a long hatred for Jim Dantona that goes back many, many years. BK is indeed a hate monger.

And I previously thought gophers didn't have feelings.

Face it goph. No one is trying to get you to "support Dantona". Dantona is far better off with you not supporting him. He would be soiled and it would serve him no purpose. You are a speck, a smudge, an inhuman mass of protoplasm in which the DNA has gone haywire.

I just broke the golden rule. Don't communicate with a gopher. My sincere apology.

Team Dantona says:

"Actually, Bubba - you were labeled as the hate monger, not Owen."
==>Posted by: A breath of fresh air at November 29, 2007 10:11 AM

"Owen was never referred to as a hate monger."
==>Posted by: CAP-812 at November 29, 2007 10:32 AM

--------------------------------------------------------------

But the facts say otherwise:

"Owen let me ask you a serious question. How do you and Bubba breath when you have each others heads stuck up your butts? Are you wearing scuba gear or something? I've yet to hear either of you two hatemongers say anything positive about Strickland or heard you defend his unethical behavior. Word of advice, pull your heads out and breath in the air............ :)"
==>Posted by: not voter at November 28, 2007 10:43 PM

----------------------------------------------------------------

Team Dantona spews its hatred in all directions, but when called on it they deny to your face what is right in front for all to see. It is like a child claiming they didn't eat from the cookie jar while their face has a chocolate mustache and their hands are covered with crumbs.

Hate no one; hate their vices, not themselves.
J. G. C. Brainard

If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar. (I John 4:20)

or a gopher

Now we have Team Dantona quoting the Book of John. I love it!! As I said before, you incriminate yourselves with your own words.

Consider the following series of recent posts:

"I tried to give it some time, see what develops, but seriously, the Dantona supporters pretty much do nothing but attack other people."
==>Posted by: Owen at November 28, 2007 09:55 PM

"Owen let me ask you a serious question. How do you and Bubba breath when you have each others heads stuck up your butts? Are you wearing scuba gear or something? I've yet to hear either of you two hatemongers say anything positive about Strickland or heard you defend his unethical behavior. Word of advice, pull your heads out and breath in the air............ :)"
==>Posted by: not voter at November 28, 2007 10:43 PM

"Owen made a single post stating his opinion that Dantona supporters seem to be attacking others instead of explaining why their candidate is the best person for the job... In response he is labelled by the Dantona gang as a 'hatemonger'"
==>Posted by: Bubba Kidd at November 28, 2007 11:31 PM

"Actually, Bubba - you were labeled as the hate monger, not Owen."
==>Posted by: A breath of fresh air at November 29, 2007 10:11 AM

"Owen was never referred to as a hate monger. To do so would be cruel and unfounded."
==>Posted by: CAP-812 at November 29, 2007 10:32 AM

Sadly, the only people you have proven to be liars are yourselves.

This is an official gopher alert. Grab your traps and poison. Gopher out from under rock. This alert is broadcast from the Vector Control Division.

Actually this was the quote referring to Owen:

"Sorry to see Owen stoop to this level. You ALL spew hate for all the people you claim to support."

It shows respect for Owen and contrasts it with the level at which the rest of you are operating. (ALL means ALL camps Bubba) Don't flatter yourself by trying to place yourself in the same class as Owen.

I'm supporting Leslie Cornejo for SD19. She doesn't argue about arguments.

To get real,

I never compared myself to Owen, all I did was stand up for him when he was referred to as a "hatemonger". I also never quoted any of your comments. Next time read the post before you reply.

This is an official gopher alert. Grab your traps and poison. Gopher out from under rock. This alert is broadcast from the Vector Control Division.

Still didn't read the quote did you Bubba? Owen was not referred to as a hate monger. He was being acknowledged as being better than the rest of this sorry lot. I know because I said it. Though we disagree on issues, I respect him and the man he works for. I know that's a tough concept to swallow in the partisan pig sty.

I, for one, take little of what you, CAP, Heather, not voter (or their various incarnations) has to say seriously because you are ALL far more interested in having a pissing contest. Neither CAP, not voter, Heather or you accurately represent the individuals you support. You all inaccurately attack the other because, as DumpKnowledge said...

"I for one enjoy reading the dribble as well as the ALERTS. Keep it coming."

You guys make pronouncements here as if the world is reading and watching. This isn't CNN or Fox. This is a dozen people, changing their names, yelling at each other and running for cover while they giggle.

If what DumpKnowledge says is accurate, then you deserve each other and should not expect any real discussions to develop. A few of us have tried to no avail.

Dennert deserves better. Your candidates deserve better. Democracy deserves better.

This is the quote that I have repeatedly referred to where Owen was called a "hatemonger":

"Owen let me ask you a serious question. How do you and Bubba breath when you have each others heads stuck up your butts? Are you wearing scuba gear or something? I've yet to hear either of you two hatemongers say anything positive about Strickland or heard you defend his unethical behavior. Word of advice, pull your heads out and breath in the air............ :)"
==>Posted by: not voter at November 28, 2007 10:43 PM

This post wasn't from you it was from "not voter". Learn to read before you post. I'll spell it out for you, the post is directed at Owen and specifically refers to both him and me as hatemongers. The other post is entirely different and something that I never quoted or referred to in any way. Get your facts straight.

Also, I am not representing any candidates. My opinions are mine alone. And while you may not like the opinions of some others that IS part of democracy. Digest that before you lecture others on Democracy.

This is an official gopher alert. Grab your traps and poison. Gopher out from under rock. This alert is broadcast from the Vector Control Division.

Much as I'm flattered that my name came up here, we must deal in reality. I don't live in SD19, and unlike running for Congress, you need to reside in the Senate district to run for the seat.
I'm in Sheila Kuehl's district. It's quite a liberal district that runs from Santa Monica through Malibu and a chunk of Oxnard. As a centrist, I'm probably too conservative for the district.

Oh come on Leslie, where is the spirit for some good fun. When there is a serious subject raised, you will hear some serious debate. When all we have going is the usual hate thrown at Dantona by a couple of Osborn lackies and Osborn in disguise, then the fun takes center stage. You've dealt with these people before. You know how it gets distorted. Now suddenly you are taking the "high road"? Chill out. Life is too short Whould you rather have someone try to enter into an adult dialogue with Bubba? Believe me when I say it was tried over the years until it quickly became clear who it is and what the motivation is. Please girl, if you are looking for deep thought, develop the subject line yourself. You're not going to see it start or finish with ongoing dialogue between you and BK.

Gopher alerts didn't always exist. They were started out of frustration and serve to not dignify the hate that spews from BK's mouth.

I was wrong and I stand corrected on the use of the use of the term hate monger.

As you clearly can see, I included "not voter" in my "lecture" and also indicated that he does NOT represent Dantona's Team.

In the future, I promise to take a closer look at the 260+ posts before lecturing if you'll promise to take a closer look in the mirror when you identify a "lecturer." You've made it a lowly art form on this blog.

Bubba, I admit that you and Owen are hatemongers and that you have your heads up your butts, I never denied that was true, so there, now we agree on something. Why are you hatemongers? First of all BubbaK supports Tony Strickland who supports Romney who employed illegals and thereby encouraged illegal immigration to our Country. Owen and Bubba support Bush who lied to the American people about Iraq and now, according to Scott McClellan, told his press guy to lie about Valerie Plame. Bubba and Owen also will not denounce Bush and McCain for supporting Big Government intrusion in the lives of Americans. Bubba and Owen will also not say that it is wrong for Strickland to cut deals with republicans to not run against him which makes the republican primary look like an old U.S.S.R. elelction and Reagan fought the U.S.S.R. and now Bubba and Owen disrespect Reagan! If supporting liars who sent thousands of American kids to their deaths is not hatemongering I don't what is. So stop your crying and blubbering Bubba and act like a big boy for a change, the time to put away your childish ways is at hand!

Just to clarify, I am not "Cornejo "08."
This is getting really confusing...

I have researched all three of these canididates and it seems to me that Mr. Dantona is the best qualified and the person I want representing me in Sacramento.

What about this Mike Gibson guy? Not totally sure about his politics, but I take it by previous posts by some of his fans that he's pretty much a conservative Republican. Does he have the juice to knock out Strickland in the primary though?

Yeah, yeah, I get it. According to Team Dantona Strickland is the anti-Christ and Dantona is the Messiah, and anybody who doesn't support Dantona is an infidel that must be destroyed. That means that even fellow democrats will be burned at the stake if they dare to speak out against their cult leader. However, be careful about drinking the kool-aid of a cult.

This is an official gopher alert. Grab your traps and poison. Gopher out from under rock. This alert is broadcast from the Vector Control Division.

To clarify: Cornejo '08 is NOT Leslie. It is one who admires her politics and independence.

Leslie, please run for office somewhere and bring some order to this madness.

As for "no voter" - it is an anti-Dantona plant posing as a Democrat posing as a Dantona supporter and thus inflaming the flamable anti-Dantona folks.

What a tangled web we weave.

For the record... NONE of these flamers are part of the Dantona "Team."

Misguided loyalty is apparently an equal opportunity vice and therefore not limited to one political party or another.

Leslie Cornejo for Senate? Are you kidding me, or something? After she totally burned her bridges with the County Republican Party? Do you think she'd get one tidbit of support from her party? She'd be better off running as a Democrat.

Hell, I'm not even sure her uncle would vote for her. Go Gibson!!!

Well, I tend to agree on the Gibson candidacy. He's our only hope to knock off Strickland at this point.

After reading the different comments I see that people have given many reasons why they support Jim Dantona. In terms of Mr. Strickland I find it very odd that Bubba Kidd and Owen both seem to support him, yet they do not answer any of the unethical things to which Mr. Strickland is linked. Perhaps Mr. Dennert should start a strand on Mr. Strickland and then we will see if Bubba Kidd and Owen continue to dodge the tough questions about their candidate. While I believe not voter goes a little too far I do find it curious that none of his direct points are denied. I am voting for Mr. Dantona because he supports fiscal responsibility and he is against a mega dump in Simi, he supports public education, he supports firefighters and police officers and he believes the government should stay out of the lives of people. In terms of Strickland I do not think he did anything for this area when he was in the assembly and I do not like the fact most of his campaign money came from outside special interests.

So, Dakota, would you support a Gibson candidacy?

What support can the Republican Party give anyone right now? They have lost their financial support from the state party and nobody local will go near them.
They have no credibility, and have shrunk to a little angry white men's club and a couple woman enablers who work hard to make the menfolk look good.

Go Dakota West. You said it kid! Dantona has been fighting for the working stiff all his adult life. He battles Walmarts all across the State for higher wages and health insurance benefits for its workers. He fights the dump expansion to protect the economic vitality of our Community. He is against offshore natural gas plants that haven't been proven safe. He fights for our free flowing rivers and clean State Parks. He is in the trenches every day for our fire fighters, police officers, nurses and teachers. Locally, he was one of the first to come out against the Gorian development project in the Knolls and for the clean-up of Rocketdyne and Runkle Canyon. It is because of these lifetime achievements in public service that Dantona is, and will be, supported by leadership in Sacto and D.C.

Gibson? Who the heck is he?

If no one in Ventura will support Gibson why would I? I would consider supporting someone like Glen Becerra or Donna Prenta or Andy Fox if they ran because they are real republicans. But at this point I support Dantona. I find it interesting that Tony Strickland supports Romney considering that Romney supported abortion rights and now claims he does not. Isn't that a classic flip flop? I also think it is great that Huckabee is about to win Iowa and send Mitt packing, it really seems to show poor judgement that Strickland threw his support to someone like Romney who appears headed for certain defeat. I would be interested to see if the Romney people send Strickland a big campaign check.

DumpKnowledge, Mike Gibson ran for Ventura City Council in this past November election. It was his first run for public office, so he only garnered about 2,000 votes, not bad for a first time candidate though.

He did focus a lot of attention on economic development issues in the City of Ventura and the City Council's lack of foresight or a plan for the future economic vitality of the City. He also highlighted the City's extremely cumbersome development review process, which hinders new businesses coming into town to provide new tax dollars for public safety and other vital City services.

Sounds like Gibson didn't come up with anything new and instead expounded the same old rhetoric as we always here from the VCRCC. Suddently Ventura doesn't have enough police or revenue? Come off it. The City has been run just fine for a long time. Cumbersome development review process? More garbage. The review process is cumbersome everwhere and development runs out of control unless the economy takes a dive. If you follow the Building Industry Association's hype you would think there is no development anywhere. They cry the same song in Orange County, Los Angeles County and Ventura County, to name just three. Gibson needs to come up with something new or we might as well elect Osborn and you know how well he has done.

Where is my friend "not voter"? As a favor to Marie on the Mary Pallant thread I agreed to lay off gopher alerts because BK was crying again. Take a look if you get a chance and mind the store.

CAP, Keep those alerts coming! People are seeing that BubbaK only attacks Danotona, he never tries to defend his pal Strickland or his heartthrob Tommy Boy McClintock who thinks it should be legal to close all the windows in a car and smoke two packs of cigs while blowing the smoke into a baby's face, of course the fact Tommy Boy got big bucks from the tobacco lobby real means that Tommy Boy is blowing smoke up Bubba's arse and Bubba is loving it!

DumpKnowledge, it sounds like you're from East County and have no knowledge about what's going on in Ventura (although you appear to know something about dumps - according to your moniker).

FYI, the City is in dire need of increased police and fire staffing - proven by data related to crime indidents, response times, population growth, police/fire staff per capita ratios, etc., etc. It is well-documented and well-proven and nobody on either side of the development issue disputes this fact. The problem, of course, is there is no new revenue to pay for it. That is where the slow and unwieldy development review process comes into play. Businesses don't even want to consider Ventura to relocate or expand in because of its horrendous reputation in this regard. This is not the case in other cities, such as Simi Valley, Oxnard & Camarillo.

During the recent campaign for City Council, the incumbents argued that eveything was fine with the development review process and, in fact, that it was an intentionally slow process to keep rapid growth at bay (huh???). Well, now the real estate market has tanked, the economy is slowing, and Ventura is going to be in a world of hurt financially if it can't speed up its development review process, improve its reputation with the business community, and entice new businesses to town. No plan - no problem, according to the current City Council.

The people of Ventura spoke and they did not want Gibson or any other VCRCC cronies in the City Council or School Board so give it a rest already, the people have spoken!

Save a cow, eat a gopher!

Eat me!

We have the makings of a new restaurant on Main St.

Clearly Bubba doesn't want to be a menu item in a science fiction flick on the SciFi channel at 2:00 A.M.

Okay let's get back to being serious. What do you guys think of the fact that Mr. Strickland is supporting Mitt Romney and now things are coming out about Romney like the fact he hired illegal aliens, he flip flopped on abortion rights and he is about to lose Iowa to Huckabee. Do you think Mr. Strickland made a tactical error in doing so, or do you think Romney's camp has promised campaign money to Mr. Strickland, in other words, did Strickland sell out to Romney for a handful of magic beans?

Hey Vinnie Baby, I don't believe the vast majority of voters had any real knowledge, or cared for that matter, who belonged to the VCRCC when they cast their ballots in the Ventura election. If you think that's the reason Gibson lost, you're deluding yourself. You know it's usually about name recognition in local elections and I think he'll do much better next time in that regard.

No I think he lost because he was a bad candidate, had he been a good candidate he would have won. I don't think he lost because of the VCRCC, but I do think he is a crony of the VCRCC. I seem to remember that Osborn was boasting how he would support Gibson and how Gibson would win. Instead Gibson came in almost dead last. The only name recognition Gibson has now is that of a loser. The voters have spoken and your pony did not cross the finish line.

I don't see you running for anything, Vinnie. Haven't seen your name on a ballot recently. It's easy to criticize someone while standing on the sidelines, pounding your pud. I bet you couldn't muster 100 votes. Talk about lack of name recognition, I've never once heard your name involved in anything in the City besides making cowardly comments from the safety of your keyboard.

I'm not committed at this point to any candidate, unlike the various Dantona and HBJ folks. Though I've been trying to catch up these past few months, I'm still woefully ignorant on local politics. That's one of the reasons I was hoping to hear about peoples' positions. As for all the "scandals" around Strickland, I don't even know what you're talking about. The only one I'm aware of is the hundred-something thousand dollar transfer, and I've already written about how I think it's a non-issue. I've asked in the past for more specifics, but never received them. We haven't dodged any "tough questions," none have been posed.

Jinsing, good comments. Who in the hell does this "Vinnie" character think he is, anyway? He's never been involved in the community, never been on the campaign trail, never reached into his own pockets to pay for campaign expenses. Just a bunch of hot air and hooey as near as I can tell.

All the garbage thrown out against Strickland is the same junk rhetoric repeated around here against every republican politician. Nothing of substance, just the same old hate talk recycled over and over again by the usual individuals. They love to dish it out, but when it comes to Team Dantona they sure can't take it.

Team Dantona can take anything BK dishes out. It just never dishes out anything of value.

If that is the case then stop acting like such a crybaby all the time.

If that is the case then stop acting like such a crybaby all the time.

Like I said...

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