Indiana Republicans have won a battle over voter ID with the Supreme Court, now Alabama Republicans want to do the same with the legislature. The question is will it work?
Republicans in Alabama now want stronger voter ID laws somewhat like that of Indiana's.
The renewed push for a photo ID law comes after Monday's 6-3 ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court upholding an Indiana law.
Republican Attorney General Troy King says he plans to push voter identification legislation in next year's regular session or possibly in a special session. Democratic state Rep. Alvin Holmes of Montgomery says requiring voters to have a photo ID would disenfranchise elderly, poor and black voters.
Some people are already speaking out saying a ID only bill would disenfranchise black voters and mostly the residents of the Alabama black belt area. Alabama's current voter ID law allows voters to show a wide range of identification including utility bills.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Majority of you said Yes
After reading an article in the Mobile Register in regards to a former candidate for Mobile County Public Schools District 3 seat who has filed a complaint with the Democratic National Committee over allegations of illegal candidate qualifying, I posted a poll right here on the Political Beacon to get your imput. Well the poll as been closed for now 3 days and here are the results.
53% of you said "Yes" you believe that political parties do unfairly qualify candidates of their choice in elections.
19% of you said "No" you do not believe that political parties unfairly qualify candidates in elections.
7% of you said "Maybe or you are Not Sure".
53% of you said "Yes" you believe that political parties do unfairly qualify candidates of their choice in elections.
19% of you said "No" you do not believe that political parties unfairly qualify candidates in elections.
7% of you said "Maybe or you are Not Sure".
Another run by Tim James
He believes 2010 maybe his yearBusinessman Tim James is looking at running again for the office his father, former Gov. Fob James, held for two terms and that’s Governor of Alabama. James, 46 who is now 46 said “I think we are in the right race at the right time.” James has already filed paperwork with the secretary of state to run in 2010 because, he said, he has started spending money on polling. It is clear that Tim would run as a republican and maybe under the “NO NEW TAXES PLEDGE.”
For any candidate to be competitive they must start early and this is what Mr. James is doing, he is out there crossing the State organizing a base.
For any candidate to be competitive they must start early and this is what Mr. James is doing, he is out there crossing the State organizing a base.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Democratic lawmaker admits voting for absent House members
Rep. Randy Hinshaw admits he voted for absent House members to give a bill to remove the state sales tax on food the margin it needed to pass.Representative Randy Hinshaw of Meridianville said Wednesday he was only doing what was best for his House district when he cast the votes on Tuesday.Republicans in the Alabama House claimed that some Democrats cheated by casting votes for members who were not present when a measure to remove the state sales tax on groceries was approved. "I voted some members' machines around me." He says he was simply following House rules that allow members to vote the machines of other representatives
The bill passed the House 63-38, receiving the exact number of votes needed to pass a constitutional amendment.
500 plus jobs to be cut
They can't seem to get the number rightThey first said they would cut 200 jobs, then came 259 and now its 500 plus jobs.
The Mobile County School System has proposed to cut $36 million dollars worth of jobs in the upcoming school year. Many of the programs that have garnered the system local and national attention, including the transformation-schools plan, would be significantly cut. Superintendent Roy Nichols said he plans to go to Tuesday's school board meeting with lists of names of employees who will not be invited back next year or will be transferred to other positions. The school system has proposed to cut non-tenure and central office positions. If the proposal is approved by the school board, jobs to be lost include 173.5 classroom teachers, 86 special-education teachers, 107.5 special education aides and 32.5 assistant principals.
What’s happen to all this money and why the school system of Mobile County, Alabama the largest system in the State keep coming up with these budget shortages? Where is the citizen tax dollars going? We I have one simple answer to both of those questions, and that is the Board and the system officials keep mismanaging the citizens tax dollars and spending like crazy. They are not managing the money where it needs to be managed, instead spending the money on unneeded items of the annual budget.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Skippy education-budget passes house committee
Is it enough to funds our schools
An Alabama House committee approved a bare-bones education budget Wednesday that provides almost $375 million less for schools and colleges than is being spent in the current fiscal year. The $6.3 billion budget approved by the House Education Appropriations Committee cuts spending for buses, textbooks, school libraries, classroom computers and for popular programs to improve performance in reading, math and science. It also provides less money for a distance learning program that allows students in poor rural areas to receive the same academic classes offered in prosperous suburban school districts.
The budget does not account for a tax cut The committee instead added $25 million, but one committee member, Rep. John Rogers, D-Birmingham, said he and other lawmakers may use delaying tactics when the budget is considered on the House floor next week in an attempt to get more funding for four-year schools. Rogers is director of minority affairs at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. For Alabama residents making less than $100,000 a year that was proposed by Gov. Bob Riley. That was expected to reduce tax revenue by about $24 million.
The head of the state teacher's union, Paul Hubbert, said he has no major problems with the budget, even though it provides no money for a pay raise for teachers, who have gotten pay hikes the last two years. "There are no layoffs in this budget. There is funding for all state personnel," Hubbert said. He said because of the economy, it was impossible to ask for a pay raise this year. "As soon as the economy turns back around, we will be back and ask for a cost of living increase."
An Alabama House committee approved a bare-bones education budget Wednesday that provides almost $375 million less for schools and colleges than is being spent in the current fiscal year. The $6.3 billion budget approved by the House Education Appropriations Committee cuts spending for buses, textbooks, school libraries, classroom computers and for popular programs to improve performance in reading, math and science. It also provides less money for a distance learning program that allows students in poor rural areas to receive the same academic classes offered in prosperous suburban school districts.
The budget does not account for a tax cut The committee instead added $25 million, but one committee member, Rep. John Rogers, D-Birmingham, said he and other lawmakers may use delaying tactics when the budget is considered on the House floor next week in an attempt to get more funding for four-year schools. Rogers is director of minority affairs at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. For Alabama residents making less than $100,000 a year that was proposed by Gov. Bob Riley. That was expected to reduce tax revenue by about $24 million.
The head of the state teacher's union, Paul Hubbert, said he has no major problems with the budget, even though it provides no money for a pay raise for teachers, who have gotten pay hikes the last two years. "There are no layoffs in this budget. There is funding for all state personnel," Hubbert said. He said because of the economy, it was impossible to ask for a pay raise this year. "As soon as the economy turns back around, we will be back and ask for a cost of living increase."
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
House votes to remove state sales tax from groceries
The Alabama House approved a historic bill Tuesday that would remove the state sales tax from grocery sales. The House voted 63-38 to approve the proposed constitutional amendment that would lower the overall tax bill for low and middle income state residents, while increasing taxes for the more well-to-do taxpayers. If the measure receives final approval in the Senate, Alabama voters will decide the issue in the Nov. 4 general election. To make up for the lost grocery store tax revenue, the amendment would end the state income tax deduction for federal income taxes paid.
The bill received the exact number of "yes" votes needed — 63 — to pass a constitutional amendment.
The bill received the exact number of "yes" votes needed — 63 — to pass a constitutional amendment.
Judge creates $63 million hole in state budget
A Montgomery judge has sided with a lawsuit that creates a $63 million hole in the state General Fund budget. Circuit Judge William Shashy issued a preliminary injunction today against Gov. Bob Riley's transfer of $63 million to the state General Fund budget. The money came from Alabama's litigation with Exxon Mobil over natural gas royalties. Tuscaloosa businessman Stan Pate sued the governor over the transfer. Pate argued that Riley should have put the money into a state savings account known as the Alabama Trust Fund. Shashy issued an order today agreeing with Pate's arguments.
Is this the beginning of another run for the Governor’s office in 2010 by Stan Pate of Tuscaloosa, well it look like it to be. I strongly believe that Mr. Pate will use this on the campaign trail if he decides to run in 2010.
Is this the beginning of another run for the Governor’s office in 2010 by Stan Pate of Tuscaloosa, well it look like it to be. I strongly believe that Mr. Pate will use this on the campaign trail if he decides to run in 2010.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Another candidate withdraws his name
This time its a GOP candidate for Mobile Co. Revenue Commissioner
Tony Dean, a Republican candidate for Mobile County revenue commissioner, dropped out of the race last week, saying he was troubled by rumors that had appeared since he entered the campaign.
"You hear this, that or the other," said Dean. " Dean declined to discuss the nature of the rumors, but said he did not want to put his wife through them. Incumbent Marilyn Wood and Phil Benson is the only two left for the GOP nomination in the June 3 party primary.
Tony Dean, a Republican candidate for Mobile County revenue commissioner, dropped out of the race last week, saying he was troubled by rumors that had appeared since he entered the campaign.
"You hear this, that or the other," said Dean. " Dean declined to discuss the nature of the rumors, but said he did not want to put his wife through them. Incumbent Marilyn Wood and Phil Benson is the only two left for the GOP nomination in the June 3 party primary.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Could a New State House be in the Works?
A legislative panel favors it
A legislative committee studying the future of the Alabama Statehouse agrees the leaking structure should be abandoned by the Legislature and a new building constructed. What they don't agree about is the location — near the current site or, in a dramatic leap, at the far end of Dexter Avenue, creating a National Mall-type environment like Washington. "The question is whether we build it behind the Capitol or in downtown Montgomery," Senate President Pro Tem Hinton Mitchem, D-Albertville, said.
An architect's study said renovating the 45-year-old Statehouse would cost more than erecting a new building. The architect's study also pointed out design flaws that no one considered during construction in 1963 but that are now major problems in these security-conscious times.
"It's pretty substandard," said House Minority Leader Mike Hubbard, R-Auburn, who serves on the Legislative Building Authority and supports a new Statehouse. The committee is looking at building a 220,000-square-foot Statehouse and parking deck for about $170 million.
At Thursday's meeting, a majority of the members said they were leaning toward the downtown proposal, but they didn't take a vote. That's because there is more negotiating to do over financing before making a decision — possibly by next month. The state pension program, the Retirement Systems of Alabama, has offered to provide financing for the Capitol wing idea, while the city of Montgomery and Montgomery County are offering to finance the downtown proposal. In both cases, the Legislature would have to repay the money.
A legislative committee studying the future of the Alabama Statehouse agrees the leaking structure should be abandoned by the Legislature and a new building constructed. What they don't agree about is the location — near the current site or, in a dramatic leap, at the far end of Dexter Avenue, creating a National Mall-type environment like Washington. "The question is whether we build it behind the Capitol or in downtown Montgomery," Senate President Pro Tem Hinton Mitchem, D-Albertville, said.
An architect's study said renovating the 45-year-old Statehouse would cost more than erecting a new building. The architect's study also pointed out design flaws that no one considered during construction in 1963 but that are now major problems in these security-conscious times.
"It's pretty substandard," said House Minority Leader Mike Hubbard, R-Auburn, who serves on the Legislative Building Authority and supports a new Statehouse. The committee is looking at building a 220,000-square-foot Statehouse and parking deck for about $170 million.
At Thursday's meeting, a majority of the members said they were leaning toward the downtown proposal, but they didn't take a vote. That's because there is more negotiating to do over financing before making a decision — possibly by next month. The state pension program, the Retirement Systems of Alabama, has offered to provide financing for the Capitol wing idea, while the city of Montgomery and Montgomery County are offering to finance the downtown proposal. In both cases, the Legislature would have to repay the money.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Edwards running for License Commissioner
Elizabeth Edwards said she has plans
A data analyst with the Mobile County License Commissioner office has announced her candidacy to be the next Mobile Co. License Commissioner. Peoples-Edwards, 57, is running as a Democrat. She is a 32-year employee in the license commissioner's office.
Peoples-Edwards said her goal is "to provide the citizens of Mobile with good customer service, making the customer's visit to the license commissioner's office as effective, expedient and pleasant as possible, to continually educate and inform the public concerning changes within the license commissioner's office and to provide continual faithfulness, diligence and accountability in managing, generating and distributing county funds."
Peoples-Edwards is a graduate of Blount High School, holds a bachelor's degree in business management and marketing from the University of South Alabama and a bachelor's degree in computer programming from the Southeast College of Technology, now known as Remington College. Edwards is a member of Mt. Hebron Church Ministries in Mobile, AL.
A data analyst with the Mobile County License Commissioner office has announced her candidacy to be the next Mobile Co. License Commissioner. Peoples-Edwards, 57, is running as a Democrat. She is a 32-year employee in the license commissioner's office.
Peoples-Edwards said her goal is "to provide the citizens of Mobile with good customer service, making the customer's visit to the license commissioner's office as effective, expedient and pleasant as possible, to continually educate and inform the public concerning changes within the license commissioner's office and to provide continual faithfulness, diligence and accountability in managing, generating and distributing county funds."
Peoples-Edwards is a graduate of Blount High School, holds a bachelor's degree in business management and marketing from the University of South Alabama and a bachelor's degree in computer programming from the Southeast College of Technology, now known as Remington College. Edwards is a member of Mt. Hebron Church Ministries in Mobile, AL.
Matt Tew exits the race for County Commissioner
He qualified as a candidate now he withdrawing from the race???
Matt Tew a former democratic nominee candidate for Mobile County Sheriff in 2006, qualified to be a candidate for County Commissioner for District 2 against GOP incumbent Stephen Nodine. On Monday Tew released a statement saying that he has asked the Chairman of the Mobile County Democratic Executive Committee to withdraw his paperwork and to not certify him as a candidate. Tew claims that to many projects are going on in his district and community, so he and his family decided to stay out of the race.
If this is something a real candidate that paid the necessary qualifying fees to run for office that had interest in the race would do? I wonder what is the real reason for Matt Tew dropping out of this race. This is another failed attempt by democrats in Mobile County. As I get more information I will bring it to you.
Matt Tew a former democratic nominee candidate for Mobile County Sheriff in 2006, qualified to be a candidate for County Commissioner for District 2 against GOP incumbent Stephen Nodine. On Monday Tew released a statement saying that he has asked the Chairman of the Mobile County Democratic Executive Committee to withdraw his paperwork and to not certify him as a candidate. Tew claims that to many projects are going on in his district and community, so he and his family decided to stay out of the race.
If this is something a real candidate that paid the necessary qualifying fees to run for office that had interest in the race would do? I wonder what is the real reason for Matt Tew dropping out of this race. This is another failed attempt by democrats in Mobile County. As I get more information I will bring it to you.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Warren qualifies for Commission District 3 seat
Is he capable of pulling it off?
Mobile County Democratic Party Chairman Brad Warren has qualified as a democratic candidate for Mobile County Commissioner District 3, currently held by republican Commissioner Mike Dean. District 3 covers all of south Mobile County, Alabama. Previously Brad Warren has announced his candidacy for Mobile County Treasurer.
Incumbent Mike Dean who is a republican is currently opposed in the republican primary set for June 3rd by Mobile businessman and former sheriff candidate John Graham. Warren is the only democrat to qualify for that race and is preparing to face whomever win the republican primary.
Mobile County Democratic Party Chairman Brad Warren has qualified as a democratic candidate for Mobile County Commissioner District 3, currently held by republican Commissioner Mike Dean. District 3 covers all of south Mobile County, Alabama. Previously Brad Warren has announced his candidacy for Mobile County Treasurer.
Incumbent Mike Dean who is a republican is currently opposed in the republican primary set for June 3rd by Mobile businessman and former sheriff candidate John Graham. Warren is the only democrat to qualify for that race and is preparing to face whomever win the republican primary.
Ala. insurance executive claims political retaliation
He has been indicted and now he claims it on politics
A Montgomery insurance executive indicted by a federal grand jury is blaming his legal problems on political retaliation by Republicans, including the governor, a politician the executive once supported but later sued.
Franklin announced last week that a federal grand jury indicted Goff on 26 counts of mail fraud, conspiracy and embezzlement. The charges accuse Goff of fraudulently collecting worker compensation insurance premiums for two companies and not sending about $3 million to them. Goff's company, the Goff Group, was once a major supplier of worker compensation insurance to businesses statewide and had more than 200 employees in a large office building along Interstate 85 in east Montgomery. Goff's fortunes changed in 2004, when the state Insurance Department filed an administrative complaint against it involving some of the same issues covered by the federal charges. Goff's statement Monday said he thought he had settled the matter by admitting to one count in the administrative complaint in 2005. In March 2007, Goff sued Riley, the governor's insurance commissioner, Walter Bell, former Republican Lt. Gov. Steve Windom and others, accusing them of working together to wreck Goff's insurance business. Goff's suit is still in the early stages.
The relationship between Riley and Goff was once different. Riley used Goff's plane twice during the former congressman's 2002 campaign for governor. Riley's campaign said they were in-kind contributions, but at Goff's insistence, the Riley campaign paid him $25,000 last year for the flights.
A Montgomery insurance executive indicted by a federal grand jury is blaming his legal problems on political retaliation by Republicans, including the governor, a politician the executive once supported but later sued.
Franklin announced last week that a federal grand jury indicted Goff on 26 counts of mail fraud, conspiracy and embezzlement. The charges accuse Goff of fraudulently collecting worker compensation insurance premiums for two companies and not sending about $3 million to them. Goff's company, the Goff Group, was once a major supplier of worker compensation insurance to businesses statewide and had more than 200 employees in a large office building along Interstate 85 in east Montgomery. Goff's fortunes changed in 2004, when the state Insurance Department filed an administrative complaint against it involving some of the same issues covered by the federal charges. Goff's statement Monday said he thought he had settled the matter by admitting to one count in the administrative complaint in 2005. In March 2007, Goff sued Riley, the governor's insurance commissioner, Walter Bell, former Republican Lt. Gov. Steve Windom and others, accusing them of working together to wreck Goff's insurance business. Goff's suit is still in the early stages.
The relationship between Riley and Goff was once different. Riley used Goff's plane twice during the former congressman's 2002 campaign for governor. Riley's campaign said they were in-kind contributions, but at Goff's insistence, the Riley campaign paid him $25,000 last year for the flights.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Democratic Caucus is coming to Mobile
Alabama Democratic Party officials said they expect the meeting to receive national media coverage and possibly visits by the party's two presidential contenders, Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton. The caucus could be the last major gathering of superdelegates prior to the party's national convention, scheduled for Aug. 25-28 in Denver. Superdelegates are governors, congressmen and other high-ranking party officials who are free to vote independent of their state's primary results. In this year's close election, they ultimately may swing the nomination to Obama or Clinton.
Turnham said the event is expected to draw about 100 participants to the Riverview Plaza Hotel from June 19-21. The southern caucus is one of four regional groups organized by the Democratic National Party. The caucus includes Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia. The previous meeting of the southern caucus was in Charlotte, N.C., in the fall.
Turnham said the event is expected to draw about 100 participants to the Riverview Plaza Hotel from June 19-21. The southern caucus is one of four regional groups organized by the Democratic National Party. The caucus includes Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia. The previous meeting of the southern caucus was in Charlotte, N.C., in the fall.
Matt Tew challenges Stephen Nodine for District 2
Mobile Co. Commission District 2 now has a contest in 08
Former Mobile County Democratic Sheriff Candidate Matt Tew of Semmes, is officially running as a democratic candidate against republican County Commissioner Matt Tew for the District 2 seat.
This is Matt Tew second run for public office in Mobile County as a democrat. He previously ran for Mobile County sheriff in 2006 lost the primary, and was replaced as the democratic nominee after the Mobile Co. Democratic Executive Committee removed Mr. Devon Grey from the ballot. District 2 is a republican district.
Matt Tew is hoping for a strong turnout this election due to the presidential election.
Former Mobile County Democratic Sheriff Candidate Matt Tew of Semmes, is officially running as a democratic candidate against republican County Commissioner Matt Tew for the District 2 seat.
This is Matt Tew second run for public office in Mobile County as a democrat. He previously ran for Mobile County sheriff in 2006 lost the primary, and was replaced as the democratic nominee after the Mobile Co. Democratic Executive Committee removed Mr. Devon Grey from the ballot. District 2 is a republican district.
Matt Tew is hoping for a strong turnout this election due to the presidential election.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Fuller & Bonner nominees for Alabama 1st Congressional District race
The political beacon says not in 08 but yes to 2010
Thomas H. Fuller of Chatom, Alabama qualified as the only democrat on Friday April 4, 2008 with the State Democratic Party to run against Jo Bonner the republican incumbent for the 1st Congressional District of Alabama which covers Mobile, Baldwin, Escambia, Washington, Monroe and parts of Clarke Counties.
The political beacon will not be a candidate in this election for congress as previously mentioned as a write-in. I gave it some thought, however I decided to wait until 2010 to make my official run for congress as a democrat.
Thomas H. Fuller of Chatom, Alabama qualified as the only democrat on Friday April 4, 2008 with the State Democratic Party to run against Jo Bonner the republican incumbent for the 1st Congressional District of Alabama which covers Mobile, Baldwin, Escambia, Washington, Monroe and parts of Clarke Counties.
The political beacon will not be a candidate in this election for congress as previously mentioned as a write-in. I gave it some thought, however I decided to wait until 2010 to make my official run for congress as a democrat.
Figures, Swanson and Townsend all to run for US Senate
The Democratic race for US Senate includes three
A State Senator, Attorney and Carpenter all enters the race for United States Senate for the democratic nomination on June 3rd. Sen. Vivian Figures of Mobile were the first democrat to announce her candidacy for the US Senate followed by Johnny Swanson an attorney from Birmingham and now Mark Townsend a carpenter from Haleyville, Alabama. All three democrats will have put their names and platforms before the voters within the next couple of months and make their case known on why they should be the democratic nominee. Figures has been hosting fundraiser across the State and campaigning in various areas since she has announced, but still have little name recognition across the State. Swanson ran for the US Senate as an independent write-in in 2002 against Sen. Sessions, and Townsend is a frequent candidate.
Sessions and Gavin will square off
Earl Mack Gavin of Lee County who ran for several other races as a democrat has qualified to face off with US Senator Jeff Session in the June 3rd primary. Sen. Session of Mobile is expected to win his primary election with a campaign bank account with over $5 mill on hand. Session will face one of the Democratic candidates in November.
A State Senator, Attorney and Carpenter all enters the race for United States Senate for the democratic nomination on June 3rd. Sen. Vivian Figures of Mobile were the first democrat to announce her candidacy for the US Senate followed by Johnny Swanson an attorney from Birmingham and now Mark Townsend a carpenter from Haleyville, Alabama. All three democrats will have put their names and platforms before the voters within the next couple of months and make their case known on why they should be the democratic nominee. Figures has been hosting fundraiser across the State and campaigning in various areas since she has announced, but still have little name recognition across the State. Swanson ran for the US Senate as an independent write-in in 2002 against Sen. Sessions, and Townsend is a frequent candidate.
Sessions and Gavin will square off
Earl Mack Gavin of Lee County who ran for several other races as a democrat has qualified to face off with US Senator Jeff Session in the June 3rd primary. Sen. Session of Mobile is expected to win his primary election with a campaign bank account with over $5 mill on hand. Session will face one of the Democratic candidates in November.
After all McKinney has some primary challenge, Berry is the lone democratic nominee
On the last day of qualifying Mr. Paul H. Christopher of Mobile qualified as a republican candidate for the State School Board District 1 primary against Randy McKinney of Baldwin County. This will be an interesting race to follow as this race move forward. Whoever wins the republican primary will then face Rev. Kenyon Berry of Mobile a democrat in the general election this fall. Rev. Berry has no democratic opposition during the primary automatically makes him the democratic nominee.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Lodmell officially drops his bid for congress
Leaves the democrats without a candidate so far
Ben Lodmell of Mobile officially dropped his bid for congress against Republican Congressman Jo Bonner Thursday, leaving the Democrats . In a one-sentence e-mail early Thursday evening, Lodmell said he had decided to withdraw from the race against three-term U.S. Rep. Jo Bonner, R-Mobile.
Ben Lodmell of Mobile officially dropped his bid for congress against Republican Congressman Jo Bonner Thursday, leaving the Democrats . In a one-sentence e-mail early Thursday evening, Lodmell said he had decided to withdraw from the race against three-term U.S. Rep. Jo Bonner, R-Mobile.
The results are in
Last week poll asked; Who do you think will win the Democratic Party primary for President?
Barack Obama - 54%
Hillary Clinton – 14%
Not Sure – 12%
Deadlock Tie – 18%
Alabamians have already had their say in the presidential primaries back in February; they chose Barak Obama on the democratic side of the ballot. But this past week I have post a poll online to see what’s on the voters mind in regards to the remaining 10 primaries to be held before the conventions. The republicans choose Sen. John McCain as their nominee, but the democrats are still battling it out. Here are the results of this week past polling here on the South Alabama Political Beacon, you’ll said that you think Sen. Obama would win the Democratic primary over Sen. Clinton by 54% to her devastating 14%. And 12% of you said you are not sure with 18% saying it will be a deadlock. Well over the next couple of months we will watch the Democratic Primaries to see if you all are right with your prediction of the 2008 Democratic presidential primaries. Stay tuned as we provide continuing coverage to this national race.
Barack Obama - 54%
Hillary Clinton – 14%
Not Sure – 12%
Deadlock Tie – 18%
Alabamians have already had their say in the presidential primaries back in February; they chose Barak Obama on the democratic side of the ballot. But this past week I have post a poll online to see what’s on the voters mind in regards to the remaining 10 primaries to be held before the conventions. The republicans choose Sen. John McCain as their nominee, but the democrats are still battling it out. Here are the results of this week past polling here on the South Alabama Political Beacon, you’ll said that you think Sen. Obama would win the Democratic primary over Sen. Clinton by 54% to her devastating 14%. And 12% of you said you are not sure with 18% saying it will be a deadlock. Well over the next couple of months we will watch the Democratic Primaries to see if you all are right with your prediction of the 2008 Democratic presidential primaries. Stay tuned as we provide continuing coverage to this national race.
Chancey & Hornady enters race for Alabama PSC president
The Republican race up to three candidates now for PSC President
Matt Chancey, who has worked behind the scenes on political issues and campaigns in Montgomery and Washington, entered his first political race Thursday when he signed up to run as a Republican for president of the Alabama Public Service Commission. "My goal is to put 'the public' back into the Public Service Commission," Chancey said. "The Public Service Commission has been asleep at the switch and primarily serves big utilities — no average consumers." Chancey is a native of Enterprise, who now lives in Chelsea and works in communications and marketing.
Former PSC staffer Jack Hornady of Montgomery and former republican candidate for PSC place 2 in 2006 has entered into the PSC president race also as a republican. His candidacy puts the race at three qualified candidates for the republican primary. Twinkle Andress Cavanaugh former State Republican Party chair is also running as a republican in the June 3rd primary.
Matt Chancey, who has worked behind the scenes on political issues and campaigns in Montgomery and Washington, entered his first political race Thursday when he signed up to run as a Republican for president of the Alabama Public Service Commission. "My goal is to put 'the public' back into the Public Service Commission," Chancey said. "The Public Service Commission has been asleep at the switch and primarily serves big utilities — no average consumers." Chancey is a native of Enterprise, who now lives in Chelsea and works in communications and marketing.
Former PSC staffer Jack Hornady of Montgomery and former republican candidate for PSC place 2 in 2006 has entered into the PSC president race also as a republican. His candidacy puts the race at three qualified candidates for the republican primary. Twinkle Andress Cavanaugh former State Republican Party chair is also running as a republican in the June 3rd primary.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
State School Board race for District 1 seems to be headed for the general election
Rev. Kenyon Berry who is an ordained Elder with the local A.O.H Church of God, Inc. in headquartered in Mobile, AL and the Asst. Director of Brokered Transportation has qualified as a democrat for the post, on Wednesday the State Republican Party has verified that current Board Representative Randy McKinney will seek re-election no other republican or democrat has express interest in this race as of today, it may change on tomorrow as qualifying comes to an end.We expect this to be a heated race on the local level between the two over the proposed oversight takeover attempt by the legislature, the double dipping ban and the handling of the Bishop State Community College situation. McKinney just lost a recent special election to fill a vacant Senate Seat 32 left open by Bradley Byrne of Montrose in 2007, in that race McKinney was back by the Gov. Riley but it didn’t pull any weight. We will watch to see if this race turns into a tossup.
Baschab and McMillan will not run for re-election this year for Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals
Candidates are j umping in at the last minute
Two judges on the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals, including the state's longest serving appellate court judge McMillan and Baschab, announced Wednesday they won't seek re-election this year. Lawyers and judges across the state are now taking a last-minute look at running for state Court of Criminal Appeals which qualifying ends tomorrow April 4, 2008 at 5pm for both political parties in Alabama.
"I think 24 years at one job is sufficient," McMillan said and "I want to travel. I want to have less stress in my life. I want to play with my new redheaded grandbaby," Baschab, 60, said Wednesday. As these two exits from the State Court in 2008, we will be bringing you in-depth coverage on the two nominees this fall that seeks to replace these two judges.
A brief look at candidates and potential candidates:
Beth Kellum, was the first republican to sign up for Baschab's Place 2 seat at the Republican Party. Attorney Chris Mixon of Birmingham has now added his name to the list as a republican. Former Montgomery County District Judge Lucie McLemore is the first Republican to sign up for McMillan's Place 1 seat, and she was followed quickly by Jefferson County Circuit Judge Teresa Petelos.
Mobile attorney Jim Zeigler, a former member of the Alabama Public Service Commission and a former candidate for the state Supreme Court, said Wednesday he is considering entering one of the appeals court races.
"I think 24 years at one job is sufficient," McMillan said and "I want to travel. I want to have less stress in my life. I want to play with my new redheaded grandbaby," Baschab, 60, said Wednesday. As these two exits from the State Court in 2008, we will be bringing you in-depth coverage on the two nominees this fall that seeks to replace these two judges.
A brief look at candidates and potential candidates:
Beth Kellum, was the first republican to sign up for Baschab's Place 2 seat at the Republican Party. Attorney Chris Mixon of Birmingham has now added his name to the list as a republican. Former Montgomery County District Judge Lucie McLemore is the first Republican to sign up for McMillan's Place 1 seat, and she was followed quickly by Jefferson County Circuit Judge Teresa Petelos.
Mobile attorney Jim Zeigler, a former member of the Alabama Public Service Commission and a former candidate for the state Supreme Court, said Wednesday he is considering entering one of the appeals court races.
On the Democratic Side:
Jefferson County Circuit Judge Clyde Jones has qualified for Place 1. Jones said he has spent 28 years as a prosecutor, criminal defense lawyer or trial judge handling criminal cases, and he is ready to take the next step in his career by moving to the Court of Criminal Appeals. "It's right up my alley," he said. No one has signed up yet for Place 2, but several people have indicated interest.
Could you soon stop paying State sales tax on food?
Both Senate and House Committees in Alabama Legislature passed similar bills to remove the 4 percent state sales tax from food on Wednesday, saving consumers an estimated $320 million a year. The bills would make up the revenue loss by ending taxpayers' ability to deduct federal taxes paid from their state income taxes, which would raise an estimated $345 million. The bills could go the full House and Senate as early as next week.
I personal think that the members of these committees are beginning to do something for the citizens of Alabama this legislative session. This really would help our families across the State of Alabama during an economic struggle.
I personal think that the members of these committees are beginning to do something for the citizens of Alabama this legislative session. This really would help our families across the State of Alabama during an economic struggle.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Probing Prichard
The City of Prichard is under the attack for hiring outside the system, other local municipalities may be included
The Mobile County Personnel Board has launched an investigation into the city of Prichard's practice of hiring outside the merit system and may open similar inquiries involving other municipalities.
Prichard Mayor Ron Davis said he authorizes department heads to hire outside the merit system because not enough qualified applicants come through the Personnel Board. If the city needs to go around the board to fill necessary positions, then so be it, he said. The board's director, Donald Dees, acknowledged that the board has a hard time filling positions in Prichard, due in large part to Prichard's lower wages. But that doesn't give Prichard the right to skirt the board, he said.
The Personnel Board's primary function is to make sure that municipalities choose their employees from a pool of qualified applicants, thereby preventing nepotism or favoritism.
The board's opening move in its investigation of Prichard hiring practices, according to Dees, has been to request a list of all employees "appointed" outside the board's authority.
Prichard City Attorney Willie Huntley Jr. supplied such a list to the board Tuesday. It shows 17 people working in positions ranging from police officer to office assistant who have been hired outside the merit system. The list does not include the eight corrections officers working in the jail, a group that includes Battiste's father and cousin. Battiste said Prichard has never filled those jobs through the board.
In this situation the Chief of Police hired his father, brother, cousin and sister. Ummmm, why he couldn't hire others that was looking for jobs outside his family? Dees described Prichard's omission of the corrections officers as "interesting." The next step in the investigation, Dees said, will be to see if the how many of the unilateral hires in the city should have been madethrough the board.
The Mobile County Personnel Board has launched an investigation into the city of Prichard's practice of hiring outside the merit system and may open similar inquiries involving other municipalities.
Prichard Mayor Ron Davis said he authorizes department heads to hire outside the merit system because not enough qualified applicants come through the Personnel Board. If the city needs to go around the board to fill necessary positions, then so be it, he said. The board's director, Donald Dees, acknowledged that the board has a hard time filling positions in Prichard, due in large part to Prichard's lower wages. But that doesn't give Prichard the right to skirt the board, he said.
The Personnel Board's primary function is to make sure that municipalities choose their employees from a pool of qualified applicants, thereby preventing nepotism or favoritism.
The board's opening move in its investigation of Prichard hiring practices, according to Dees, has been to request a list of all employees "appointed" outside the board's authority.
Prichard City Attorney Willie Huntley Jr. supplied such a list to the board Tuesday. It shows 17 people working in positions ranging from police officer to office assistant who have been hired outside the merit system. The list does not include the eight corrections officers working in the jail, a group that includes Battiste's father and cousin. Battiste said Prichard has never filled those jobs through the board.
In this situation the Chief of Police hired his father, brother, cousin and sister. Ummmm, why he couldn't hire others that was looking for jobs outside his family? Dees described Prichard's omission of the corrections officers as "interesting." The next step in the investigation, Dees said, will be to see if the how many of the unilateral hires in the city should have been madethrough the board.
Mitchell needs to find something better to do
What is he doing?Rep. Joseph Mitchell a democrat from Mobile, AL and represents House District 103 in the State House of Representatives has proposed a bill in the Alabama House to ban lawyers from serving in the legislature. Oh my God! He said he knows it will not pass but wants to highlight what he called unfair efforts to single out educators. "These things being proposed are kind of ridiculous," said Mitchell, a former Mobile County school board member.
Should Rep. Mitchell find better bills to introduce in the State House than this? We look at our educational system in Mobile County that is facing budget crisis and shortages, a board that he use to seat on before being elected to the State House. We look at the crime that is on the rise in Mobile area and his community for which he live, so should he be proposing legislation to block lawyers from serving in the Legislature or should he be proposing solutions to help our local schools, crime and build a better Mobile.
Sometime I wonder about these so called Representatives and individuals who say they have the will of the people at heart. And they are not doing anything but lying to their constituents that they are doing this and that to get a vote when their seat comes up for re-election. Mitchell is one of the applicants for the presidency of Bishop State Community College in Mobile, but said that he would leave the Legislature if awarded a multi-year contract to head the school.
Rep. Mitchell was also an instructor at Bishop State at one point, but since the State School Board banned lawmakers from being employed at two-year colleges in Alabama, he may not have that position any more. But now he wants to become the president of Bishop State. It shows that if he was really representing House District 103 in the State Legislature, he wouldn’t be worrying about being the president of Bishop State Community College. My say on this is “Get something done for Mobile and District 103 before moving on to a greater task of educating our children.”
Should Rep. Mitchell find better bills to introduce in the State House than this? We look at our educational system in Mobile County that is facing budget crisis and shortages, a board that he use to seat on before being elected to the State House. We look at the crime that is on the rise in Mobile area and his community for which he live, so should he be proposing legislation to block lawyers from serving in the Legislature or should he be proposing solutions to help our local schools, crime and build a better Mobile.
Sometime I wonder about these so called Representatives and individuals who say they have the will of the people at heart. And they are not doing anything but lying to their constituents that they are doing this and that to get a vote when their seat comes up for re-election. Mitchell is one of the applicants for the presidency of Bishop State Community College in Mobile, but said that he would leave the Legislature if awarded a multi-year contract to head the school.
Rep. Mitchell was also an instructor at Bishop State at one point, but since the State School Board banned lawmakers from being employed at two-year colleges in Alabama, he may not have that position any more. But now he wants to become the president of Bishop State. It shows that if he was really representing House District 103 in the State Legislature, he wouldn’t be worrying about being the president of Bishop State Community College. My say on this is “Get something done for Mobile and District 103 before moving on to a greater task of educating our children.”
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Mayberry seeks License Commissioner post
Michele McDermott Mayberry has announced her plans to run for Mobile County License Commissioner in the June 3rd primary. Michele is married to Michael Mayberry, an architect, who is employed at the University of South Alabama as Associate Director of Engineering, Design and Construction and the proud parents of Rachel 15, Bill 12, Suzanne 8. Michele is a member of St Pius X Catholic Church current Chairwoman of the Finance Council and former Treasurer of Ladies Sodality.
Michele is employed at the Alabama Department of Revenue, since May 1995 I have served as Revenue Manager of the Sales Use & Business Tax Division at the Mobile Taxpayer Service Center. I have held the positions of Revenue Examiner and Foreign Audit Specialist (based in Marietta, Georgia). We are responsible for the compliance, investigation and enforcement of state taxes in nine southwest Alabama Counties. The taxes include sales, consumer use, lodgings, rental, utility, and contractors gross receipts.
She is a graduate of McGill-Toolen High School, 1979 -University of Alabama, BS in Commerce & Business Administration with a major in Accounting, May 1983 and University of South Alabama, Master of Public Administration, 1989.
Mayberry is the only gop candidate to announce her candidacy this far, Lora Robert-Angelo and Elizebeth Edwards has so far announced their candidacy for the democratic primary. Deadline for both parties to file for election is Friday April 4, 2008 at 5:00pm.
Michele is employed at the Alabama Department of Revenue, since May 1995 I have served as Revenue Manager of the Sales Use & Business Tax Division at the Mobile Taxpayer Service Center. I have held the positions of Revenue Examiner and Foreign Audit Specialist (based in Marietta, Georgia). We are responsible for the compliance, investigation and enforcement of state taxes in nine southwest Alabama Counties. The taxes include sales, consumer use, lodgings, rental, utility, and contractors gross receipts.
She is a graduate of McGill-Toolen High School, 1979 -University of Alabama, BS in Commerce & Business Administration with a major in Accounting, May 1983 and University of South Alabama, Master of Public Administration, 1989.
Mayberry is the only gop candidate to announce her candidacy this far, Lora Robert-Angelo and Elizebeth Edwards has so far announced their candidacy for the democratic primary. Deadline for both parties to file for election is Friday April 4, 2008 at 5:00pm.
Will he run again in 2008?
Alabama's senior appellate judge considers retirementH.W. "Bucky" McMillan Alabama's longest serving appellate court judge, is considering retiring from the state Court of Criminal Appeals rather than seeking another term. McMillan said Monday there are several good reasons for him not to run again this year, and a few good reasons to run. The Republican judge said he will make up his mind quickly because Friday is the qualifying deadline for this year's judicial elections. The 53-year-old judge has served on the Court of Criminal Appeals for 24 years.
Mayor Jones to address MADA Saturday
Mayor Sam Jones the City of Mobile first Black mayor is schedule to speak to the Mobile Area Democratic Association (MADA) this Saturday April 5th at 10:00am. What will the mayor be discussing a year from his re-election, who knows lets stick around to see because I will be there with open ears.
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